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American Witch
From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Thea Harrison comes a novel that is pure magic.Power can change a person…For months Molly Sullivan endures the electrical surges, car breakdowns, visions. She even wonders if she might be the cause… and wonders if she might be crazy. Then she discovers her husband has cheated on her. Again. Now Molly realizes she is a newly awakening witch and a woman pushed over the edge.Revenge can shape a person…Josiah Mason is a Powerful witch and the leader of a secret coven with a shared to destroy an ancient enemy who has ruined many lives. Josiah lost years to this man, and his sole focus is revenge. He’s prepared for every contingency—except encountering a beautiful new witch who understands nothing of the immense Power building within her or the attraction she wields over him.Danger can bring them together…When divorcing her husband, Molly uncovers a dangerous secret he’s willing to kill to protect. She turns to Josiah for help, and they discover a connection between Molly’s husband and Josiah’s enemy.As they work together, a spark ignites between them that threatens to become an inferno. But Molly is done compromising herself for any man, and Josiah’s mission is his top priority. And the enemy is cunning, cruel, and drawing ever closer.As the danger escalates, so does the tension between them. Is a lasting relationship possible? Will either of them live long enough to try?
383 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 29, 2019
619 people are currently reading
2628 people want to read
About the author
Thea Harrison
63 books5,490 followersI write paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and other stuff. I taught myself to read when I was four. That was around the time I tried to ride my tricycle to work. I wasn't sure where work was, but I knew it had to be interesting if people went there every day. Now I combine my love of books with work, and I don't have to ride my tricycle to get there. My Elder Races series began May, 2011. You can also find me on Twitter and Facebook!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 448 reviews
October 16, 2019
One of the strongest beginnings I have read in a book where a contemporary story turns suddenly paranormal or
How a heartbroken middle-age housewife with a cheating sly disgusting husband becomes a witch.
Literally...
“I have no earthly idea what you’re talking about,” she enunciated to the calm, sane-looking lunatic who sat beside her. “You have me confused with someone else. Please excuse me.”
Swiveling with a speed that took her by surprise, he stared at her as if she were the lunatic. The dark slants of his eyebrows rose, and he began to smile, making him look more dangerous than ever.
“You have no idea?” he repeated. “You. Have. No. Idea.”
Molly Sullivan (after being pushed over the edge) is a newly awakening witch and Josiah Mason is a powerful witch who discovers her. Josiah is after a very strong enemy and apparently a clueless new witch in his area does not help his cause.
Josiah will become her mentor, her friend, her lover.
The story of Josiah and Molly is an awesome start in this new series that takes place in the Elder Races world.
How a heartbroken middle-age housewife with a cheating sly disgusting husband becomes a witch.
Literally...
“I have no earthly idea what you’re talking about,” she enunciated to the calm, sane-looking lunatic who sat beside her. “You have me confused with someone else. Please excuse me.”
Swiveling with a speed that took her by surprise, he stared at her as if she were the lunatic. The dark slants of his eyebrows rose, and he began to smile, making him look more dangerous than ever.
“You have no idea?” he repeated. “You. Have. No. Idea.”
Molly Sullivan (after being pushed over the edge) is a newly awakening witch and Josiah Mason is a powerful witch who discovers her. Josiah is after a very strong enemy and apparently a clueless new witch in his area does not help his cause.
Josiah will become her mentor, her friend, her lover.
The story of Josiah and Molly is an awesome start in this new series that takes place in the Elder Races world.
May 2, 2019
TITLE: American Witch
AUTHOR: Thea Harrison
SERIES: American Witch Trilogy
GENRE: Paranormal Romance
RATING: 4.5 Stars
CLIFFHANGER: No
READ MY REVIEW ON THE BLOG
Dragos, Pia and The Elder Races will always have a special place in this reader's heart. The universe Thea Harrison has created with these stories is vast, complex and still expanding so it goes without saying that I was totally ready for another book set in this world.
I have come to love this author's female leads that have a quiet strength and an intrinsic kindness yet sass and spunk that I find incredibly endearing. Molly totally fits that bill. She has been a trophy wife for almost two decades when her husband's last episode of stepping out on her is the final straw in her marriage. Right after she outs the dickwad at a party where she feels anger and an undefined power (that makes an expensive vase crash to the floor), she packs and, to my utter delight, takes EVERYTHING with her that she can find in their safe and leaves.
Unbeknownst to her, the new DA Josiah Mason watches the scene and feels the power radiating from Molly, a power the like he's never felt before, but it's raw, untrained and volatile, a complication that may distract him from his end goal - finding an evil, powerful witch who held Josiah captive for years, draining him of his power.
Driven by vengeance but also by a desire to keep his word to his coven he single-mindedly goes after the villain, so a woman like Molly, pure and good at heart is an inconvenience he didn't see coming. This charismatic man tries to manipulate her but bright and smart Molly totally cuts him down at his knees, every single time. I was so happy that she didn't let Josiah roll over her like a bulldozer.
“What do people call you?” she asked. “Are you a witch or a warlock?”
He shrugged, finished his beer, and took a second bottle.
“Either or both. Sometimes sorcerer. Occasionally asshole. Personally, I’m not in love with labels.”
Josiah isn't a likable character in the beginning - or let me rephrase: from Molly's point of view he isn't. He is jaded, sneaky, manipulative and runs hot and cold at the best of times but when you get to see his thoughts about this strong woman, his admiration, it's when the author makes you fall in love with his character. His conflict with his feelings for her and his need to make her safe on one hand and his desire to bring down the man who caused so much grief on the other hand make him a fascinating man. By the end of the story Molly has changed him fundamentally into a softer but not weaker man. Any ambivalence I had in the beginning was erased in the end.
Molly, Molly, he thought. What a spectacular inconvenience you’ve turned out to be.
The villain's name is introduced halfway through the story - if you know a little Russian history you'll be able to guess it. Only one prominent character just before the Russian Revolution (cue Anastasia, Tsar Nicholas) had the mystic reputation to fit into this story. I'm deliberately vague - if you're not familiar with the history this may spark your interest. Let me tell you, it's fascinating.
If I have one quibble it's that Molly and Josiah don't have a lot to build on their relationship with them being separated for a long time, so I would have liked to see them getting a little more meat on it after the big showdown. Still, I loved them together because they were the Ying to the other one's Yang.
Molly had destroyed his sovereignty of solitude. Laid waste to his cold purpose.
There is a lot of mystery and suspense along the way that will keep you invested in the story because you really want to see how this all pans out.
AMERICAN WITCH is the perfect example for a sequel series that is set into an existing very much alive universe that still can be read as a standalone. So if you haven't read this author yet this is your chance! Now I'm totally curious who the next book in this series will be about!
“Goddamn you.” He leaned his forehead against hers, eyes closed.
“Well, goddamn you,” she told him.
April 9, 2019
Oh my this author really got my attention with purple panties served in a cocktail glass ! Yes this story about Molly and her transformation from perfect wife to amazing Witch hits the ground running and totally surprised me. Molly isn't the typical heroine either as she's a mature woman and not some girl who acquires Powers at puberty. The traumatic event sees her weathering her own personal storm but can she trust the only person who seems to be offering help ?
Josiah is the new hot shot district attorney but he's so much more than just the jaded, cold arrogant male he first seems. On a mission of his own the last thing he needs is the complication of a local Witch and if I'm honest I really didn't like him. However there's so much more to discover about Josiah and he just as much as Molly has to make hard choices but alas to say more would ruin the glorious surprises and revelations in store for readers.
So this starts what seems to be a trilogy set within the Elder Races world and if you pay attention a firm favourite of fans just might appear ! However this story is primarily about Molly and Josiah as they both embrace a completely different outlook. A lot does happen but I certainly wouldn't describe this as action packed although as we reach the end the big bad that Josiah has been hunting makes his play and yes it's a violent confrontation . The scene is set for at some point an epic battle with interesting supporting characters and yes I'm definitely left thirsty for more.
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
Josiah is the new hot shot district attorney but he's so much more than just the jaded, cold arrogant male he first seems. On a mission of his own the last thing he needs is the complication of a local Witch and if I'm honest I really didn't like him. However there's so much more to discover about Josiah and he just as much as Molly has to make hard choices but alas to say more would ruin the glorious surprises and revelations in store for readers.
So this starts what seems to be a trilogy set within the Elder Races world and if you pay attention a firm favourite of fans just might appear ! However this story is primarily about Molly and Josiah as they both embrace a completely different outlook. A lot does happen but I certainly wouldn't describe this as action packed although as we reach the end the big bad that Josiah has been hunting makes his play and yes it's a violent confrontation . The scene is set for at some point an epic battle with interesting supporting characters and yes I'm definitely left thirsty for more.
This voluntary take is of an advance copy and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair
April 14, 2019
Thea Harrison is known for her paranormal badness and the Heroes that she can create. Dragon Bound is one of my favourite reads of all time.
When going into this I should have checked my expectations at the door, word of advice here, leave the Elder Races & the Moonlight Trilogy behind as this is something completely different.
I also can’t quite say if I am on board with this series or not, it has everything to make it a fantastic paranormal series as one can tell by the high ratings but I am in the minority here with some of the other very few here.
I felt no connection with the main characters of the book and neither what these two really had with one another, the plot was interesting but in a way also drawn out too long for my liking.
This is just me so take my review with a pinch of salt.
When going into this I should have checked my expectations at the door, word of advice here, leave the Elder Races & the Moonlight Trilogy behind as this is something completely different.
I also can’t quite say if I am on board with this series or not, it has everything to make it a fantastic paranormal series as one can tell by the high ratings but I am in the minority here with some of the other very few here.
I felt no connection with the main characters of the book and neither what these two really had with one another, the plot was interesting but in a way also drawn out too long for my liking.
This is just me so take my review with a pinch of salt.
May 1, 2019
Title: American Witch
Author: Thea Harrison
Release date: April 29, 2019
Cliffhanger: No
Genre: paranormal romance
I'm a huge Thea Harrison fan, so when I saw she had a book coming out centered around witches that's tied to her Elder Races universe I was giddy with excitement. I read the entire Moonshadow series and several of the Elder Races books, many of which were five star reads. There are some authors you click with, and she's one of them. She's one of my top favorite paranormal authors for her amazing world building, attention to detail, and addictive stories. I enjoyed the fact that while she kept supernatural elements with her main characters, they are human, living in the setting of the human world which is a departure from her norm.
Molly isn't even aware that she has latent witch powers waiting to surface until her philandering husband loosens her control over her emotions which in turn, releases her hidden abilities. Her rage is a powder keg that unleashes all of the fury of a woman scorned and it's a glorious thing to see. You want to give her the biggest high five for how she smartly turns the situation to her advantage and humiliates him in the process. I absolutely loved the beginning chapters and I was immediately invested in how she would reinvent herself in her new life.
She was almost forty years old and childless, with a patchwork history of working part-time at various socially acceptable jobs and volunteering at socially acceptable charities. She had spent all her adult life trying to fit into the right-sized box.
Josiah Mason is the new DA in town, witness to her embarrassing scene when her marriage imploded, and he just happens to have ancient and powerful abilities of his own. He may have a squeaky clean image and ambition to get elected governor, but he has a secret agenda that he and his coven have been working towards for decades. He's been fueled by revenge for longer than he can remember, and nothing will stop him from finally making it happen. Not even the complication in the form of a fledging witch who may or may not be tangled up in something she isn't prepared to defend herself against. As much as he tries to keep his distance, he just can't stay away from the beautiful woman on the brink of coming into unimaginable power.
I must admit, I wasn't the Josiah's biggest fan in the beginning. He's very self-serving, abrasive, and difficult to warm up to. I was worried for a little while there that he wouldn't be redeemable in the end. He tries to manipulate the heroine every chance he gets, but the good news is that she puts him in his place every single time. Although she is at a very difficult time in her life, no one could ever call her weak. In fact, she's more empowered than she's ever been in her life. Not only was she bullied by her pathetic excuse for a mother, she was used by her husband to complete his perfect cookie cutter image. Now she's ready to take charge of her life, and she isn't allowing anyone to take that away from her.
She was the most dangerous woman he had ever met, and she didn’t yet know a fraction of what she was truly capable of.
Once you learn about Josiah's past and what he suffered, you can empathize with his need to bring down the mysterious witch who wreaked havoc in so many people's lives. It's not just about getting revenge, he's trying to prevent others from needlessly suffering or losing loved ones. Shortly after the halfway point you really see him softening up towards Molly. He lost his selfishness, going above and beyond to show her that she was now his top priority. Making sure she's safe, happy, and attempting to find a way for them to merge their lives so that they could have a future together.
There is an underlying mystery in the plot regarding Molly's ex and if the shady business he's involved in could be tied to the man Josiah has been hunting. It held my interest throughout the book and kept me turning the pages to see the confrontation that would undoubtedly happen at the end. There was one issue related to the final climax that bothered me a little, but that may not be the case for others.
In the end, Molly showed her strength and courage, though the scene was a bit anticlimactic as it was pretty brief and left unresolved for future books. Overall, I was really happy with the romance. I wasn't sure if I liked these two together at first, but Thea Harrison brought me around like she always does. I'm really looking forward to reading more installments in the series in the future! I'm hoping Steven, geeky tech genius gets a book because he's the character that intrigued me the most out of all of the secondary characters. This was a solid start to a new series filled with magic, mystery, and plenty of potential to grow.
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April 22, 2019
Discovery. Empowerment. Coming Into Your Own.
Harrison is an author I enjoy. I like her Elder Race series and American Witch is in the same world. Their were things I loved and things not so much, but the author did enough to keep me engaged and spellbound in the story.
“She was the most dangerous woman he had ever met, and she didn’t yet know a fraction of what she was truly capable of.”
Molly, our awakening witch, is not your typical heroine. She’s in her 40’s which makes her a mature women who knows what she wants and doesn’t want. I like that the author gave us an older heroine. Yet, we soon learn that she gave up who she was to be a wife, socialite, and homemaker for her husband. The perfect wife! Things soon unfold and Molly discovers that her husband has been less then faithful, again. This kicks off a chain of unexpected events; leading her to a man who tests both her patience and resolve.
With Molly I had this sense of self discovery and empowerment. She’s coming into her Power’s, finding her voice and strength, and finally; become who she was meant to be.
“Josiah. But he was too magnetic and powerful in a way she had never known before, both personally and magically. His dark, polished essence frightened as much as it enticed her.”
Our lead and hero is kinda a jerk. He’s out for revenge and will use any means, people or otherwise to complete his goal. He’s focused, he’s determined, and he put his coven together for one purpose only. It took me a while to warm up to Josiah. I liked seeing his focus shift and him finally seeing/discovering that this one event in his life has consumed him, but with Molly coming into his life things change.
The Romance: Molly and Josiah’s romance is bumpy. I did like that Molly stood up for herself and stood up against him. Josiah needs a strong woman.
One thing I could have done without and it’s cliché in my mind,
The other thing that bothered me was
Secondary Characters: I liked several of the secondary characters, some more then others, but that’s due to what’s happened to them and how they act. I do hope we get to come back into this world and dig deeper into some of the other characters introduced.
The suspense was enticing on who the bad person or persons are that are hunting and hurting people. This evil we briefly meet and realizes it’s bigger then what’s first implied.
Last, the author did a great job giving the reader and characters this feeling of peace, love, and home, but also the knowledge that it’s not over.
Overall, American Witch was an enchanting and alluring read full of magic, action, suspense, and romance.
Rated: 4 Stars
*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy provided by Thea Harrison with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
Harrison is an author I enjoy. I like her Elder Race series and American Witch is in the same world. Their were things I loved and things not so much, but the author did enough to keep me engaged and spellbound in the story.
“She was the most dangerous woman he had ever met, and she didn’t yet know a fraction of what she was truly capable of.”
Molly, our awakening witch, is not your typical heroine. She’s in her 40’s which makes her a mature women who knows what she wants and doesn’t want. I like that the author gave us an older heroine. Yet, we soon learn that she gave up who she was to be a wife, socialite, and homemaker for her husband. The perfect wife! Things soon unfold and Molly discovers that her husband has been less then faithful, again. This kicks off a chain of unexpected events; leading her to a man who tests both her patience and resolve.
With Molly I had this sense of self discovery and empowerment. She’s coming into her Power’s, finding her voice and strength, and finally; become who she was meant to be.
“Josiah. But he was too magnetic and powerful in a way she had never known before, both personally and magically. His dark, polished essence frightened as much as it enticed her.”
Our lead and hero is kinda a jerk. He’s out for revenge and will use any means, people or otherwise to complete his goal. He’s focused, he’s determined, and he put his coven together for one purpose only. It took me a while to warm up to Josiah. I liked seeing his focus shift and him finally seeing/discovering that this one event in his life has consumed him, but with Molly coming into his life things change.
The Romance: Molly and Josiah’s romance is bumpy. I did like that Molly stood up for herself and stood up against him. Josiah needs a strong woman.
One thing I could have done without and it’s cliché in my mind,
The other thing that bothered me was
Secondary Characters: I liked several of the secondary characters, some more then others, but that’s due to what’s happened to them and how they act. I do hope we get to come back into this world and dig deeper into some of the other characters introduced.
The suspense was enticing on who the bad person or persons are that are hunting and hurting people. This evil we briefly meet and realizes it’s bigger then what’s first implied.
Last, the author did a great job giving the reader and characters this feeling of peace, love, and home, but also the knowledge that it’s not over.
Overall, American Witch was an enchanting and alluring read full of magic, action, suspense, and romance.
Rated: 4 Stars
*Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy provided by Thea Harrison with the sole purpose of an honest review. All thoughts, comments and ratings are my own.
April 9, 2019
3.5 Stars
Thea Harrison is a name I’ve seen pop up on my feed a fair few times over the past couple of years and with plenty of positive reviews, so what better opportunity to dive in and test the waters for myself than with the first in a brand new series.
It’s not every day one runs into an awakening witch.”
This was a bit of a mixed bag for me with aspects I loved and those less so, but the author did more than enough to keep me invested in the characters, story and series. And it all begins when Molly discovers a pair of panties in her bed, the bed she shares with her husband and which kick off a chain of unexpected events which lead her to a man who tests both her patience and her resolve.
Nobody else can teach you what I can teach you. Nobody else will encourage you to be whoever you want the way I would. To shed your inhibitions and explore everything you’re capable of being.”
The demise of Molly’s marriage and subsequent events shows us how strong she is and she takes nothing lying down as she discovers just how much power she wields...literally. And it wasn’t just her patience that Josiah tests—arrogant and overbearing, he’s like that annoying mixer tap that always runs that bit too hot or too cold and there were points when I could have happily throttled him—but he has a softer side and the tidbits we’re fed of that do help redeem him.
I don’t understand how we got to this place. I didn’t even like you when I first met you.”
Throw in action and suspense amongst the romance and magic and American Witch was an enjoyable introduction to Thea Harrison’s writing. I’ll be checking out the rest of the series for sure.
No matter what anybody else does, or what happens in the world around you, that Power is yours, completely and forever.”
Copy received courtesy of NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Thea Harrison is a name I’ve seen pop up on my feed a fair few times over the past couple of years and with plenty of positive reviews, so what better opportunity to dive in and test the waters for myself than with the first in a brand new series.
It’s not every day one runs into an awakening witch.”
This was a bit of a mixed bag for me with aspects I loved and those less so, but the author did more than enough to keep me invested in the characters, story and series. And it all begins when Molly discovers a pair of panties in her bed, the bed she shares with her husband and which kick off a chain of unexpected events which lead her to a man who tests both her patience and her resolve.
Nobody else can teach you what I can teach you. Nobody else will encourage you to be whoever you want the way I would. To shed your inhibitions and explore everything you’re capable of being.”
The demise of Molly’s marriage and subsequent events shows us how strong she is and she takes nothing lying down as she discovers just how much power she wields...literally. And it wasn’t just her patience that Josiah tests—arrogant and overbearing, he’s like that annoying mixer tap that always runs that bit too hot or too cold and there were points when I could have happily throttled him—but he has a softer side and the tidbits we’re fed of that do help redeem him.
I don’t understand how we got to this place. I didn’t even like you when I first met you.”
Throw in action and suspense amongst the romance and magic and American Witch was an enjoyable introduction to Thea Harrison’s writing. I’ll be checking out the rest of the series for sure.
No matter what anybody else does, or what happens in the world around you, that Power is yours, completely and forever.”
Copy received courtesy of NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
April 19, 2019
POWER CAN CHANGE A PERSON.
REVENGE CAN SHAPE A PERSON.
DANGER CAN BRING THEM TOGETHER.
"5 - Your Power Lies Within You STARS!"
This was such a good read and a great start to a new series!
The story is about Molly Sullivan coming into her power and her transcendence into becoming a powerful witch.
One of the major themes of this story is that Molly's power (not only as a witch, but as a person) lies within her.
No matter what anybody says to her, or does to her, or whatever else is happening in the world...this power is Hers, and Hers alone.
Completely and forever, all she has to do is
claim it.
Josiah Mason is a powerful witch and leader of a secret coven.
He has focused all his time, energy and money for many years on a literal "witch hunt".
He's also the one person who can help Molly.
I loved the complicated characters and their different backgrounds.
Thea Harrison did a wonderful job of developing the characters and bringing the story beautifully together at the end.
I found this book to be a much darker, edgier story than I'm used to reading by Ms Harrison, and I loved it.
I found the emotions between the characters raw which made them more likeable (in my opinion).
I really enjoyed this book, and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading paranormal-urban fantasy romance.
"I voluntarily read an ARC of this book which was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review."
REVENGE CAN SHAPE A PERSON.
DANGER CAN BRING THEM TOGETHER.
"5 - Your Power Lies Within You STARS!"
This was such a good read and a great start to a new series!
The story is about Molly Sullivan coming into her power and her transcendence into becoming a powerful witch.
One of the major themes of this story is that Molly's power (not only as a witch, but as a person) lies within her.
No matter what anybody says to her, or does to her, or whatever else is happening in the world...this power is Hers, and Hers alone.
Completely and forever, all she has to do is
claim it.
Josiah Mason is a powerful witch and leader of a secret coven.
He has focused all his time, energy and money for many years on a literal "witch hunt".
He's also the one person who can help Molly.
I loved the complicated characters and their different backgrounds.
Thea Harrison did a wonderful job of developing the characters and bringing the story beautifully together at the end.
I found this book to be a much darker, edgier story than I'm used to reading by Ms Harrison, and I loved it.
I found the emotions between the characters raw which made them more likeable (in my opinion).
I really enjoyed this book, and highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys reading paranormal-urban fantasy romance.
"I voluntarily read an ARC of this book which was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review."
July 8, 2019
3.75
I don't know what's wrong with me.. I quite liked it and it's set in the Elder Races world. The heroine and her powers were kickass but some things just didn't quite digest proper for me.
Like, the love card got pulled way too quick for me, though I loved the whole hate to love thing. I felt like it was missing something. I can't pinpoint it either. It felt like I didn't get enough info on the witch powers at points. Why is hers particularly so badass(was the author hinting and I missed it?) and what does it mean that her powers like the Moon etc.. If the powers and connections are explained in an Elder Races book, I wouldn't know as I haven't read all of them yet.
Little things like that. It's a good solid book and I'm just a grumpy ass. The heat isn't helping and the fact that the holidays are so close and yet so far doesn't either.
I don't know what's wrong with me.. I quite liked it and it's set in the Elder Races world. The heroine and her powers were kickass but some things just didn't quite digest proper for me.
Like, the love card got pulled way too quick for me, though I loved the whole hate to love thing. I felt like it was missing something. I can't pinpoint it either. It felt like I didn't get enough info on the witch powers at points. Why is hers particularly so badass(was the author hinting and I missed it?) and what does it mean that her powers like the Moon etc.. If the powers and connections are explained in an Elder Races book, I wouldn't know as I haven't read all of them yet.
Little things like that. It's a good solid book and I'm just a grumpy ass. The heat isn't helping and the fact that the holidays are so close and yet so far doesn't either.
April 26, 2019
This was a great start to a new series. It wasn't what I was expecting, but it sucked me right in. It did have one small portion of the book that felt a little slow. It's one of those things that I think was needed to help set up background.
I felt this was a unique take on witches. I'll let you experience their secrets but I will say that the witches can live a longer life. So our couple Molly and Josiah, are an older couple.
Josiah is a hard man full of the need for revenge. That does get in his way a bit in this book. Molly is coming off a really bad marriage and had every right to be bitter but she wasn't and I loved that. I really liked her outlook on life and she was just what Josiah needed.
I do feel like we got closure with Josiah and Molly but their isn't full closure in the book. I won't spoil but I'll just say that there is not a huge cliffhanger either. Readers who like standalone books will be satisfied.
I didn't feel like there were any hints to who would be our next couple in the series. I kind of like that we are left guessing as to what direction the author will take this in. I'll be ready to read whoever she decides is next!
I felt this was a unique take on witches. I'll let you experience their secrets but I will say that the witches can live a longer life. So our couple Molly and Josiah, are an older couple.
Josiah is a hard man full of the need for revenge. That does get in his way a bit in this book. Molly is coming off a really bad marriage and had every right to be bitter but she wasn't and I loved that. I really liked her outlook on life and she was just what Josiah needed.
I do feel like we got closure with Josiah and Molly but their isn't full closure in the book. I won't spoil but I'll just say that there is not a huge cliffhanger either. Readers who like standalone books will be satisfied.
I didn't feel like there were any hints to who would be our next couple in the series. I kind of like that we are left guessing as to what direction the author will take this in. I'll be ready to read whoever she decides is next!
November 16, 2025
Fast-moving, light entertainment. I liked that the two main characters were older, more mature people who both had integrity. There is a HEA, but there is also clearly more to come with this story.
The sequel, Rogue Charms, does not currently have a release date, although it was originally going to be released a few years ago. I hope Ms Harrison finds her way to getting this sequel published.
Edit: Apparently Ms Harrison has decided not to continue the series. So this one will just remain standalone. A shame......
The sequel, Rogue Charms, does not currently have a release date, although it was originally going to be released a few years ago. I hope Ms Harrison finds her way to getting this sequel published.
Edit: Apparently Ms Harrison has decided not to continue the series. So this one will just remain standalone. A shame......
May 11, 2019
This was an amazing find. The world-building was interesting, though we are constrained a bit because of the narrow territorialism of the various, uh, demesnes? We're told that night folk are in San Francisco and witches in Saint Louis and, uh, others I don't remember but included demons and angels and stuff. So magic is "out" but recent enough that some areas are "anti-magic" whatever that means. At any rate, our focal point is Molly as the anger of finally deciding she's had enough of her husband cheating on her again prompts an awakening of magic in her. We're told this isn't uncommon and that people's power can come on them at any point so her being 40 isn't that big a surprise. That's confirmed by a cast of characters who trend towards the older side of the spectrum, age-wise and I kind of liked how that was more than mere lip-service in the story.
Anyway. Josiah is near ground-zero of her magical breakthrough and decides to tutor her at least enough that she doesn't bring a lot of scrutiny in his neck of the woods because he has plans in Atlanta (which is politically anti-magic) that would be disrupted if people start sniffing around if a new witch with uncontrolled power crops up. And then plot things happen and they clash and reconcile and ally and I loved how Molly does her best to cope and understand and learn and how Josiah gets to show that protective alpha thing I love so well.
The two elements of this story (the romance vs. the magical goings-on) are entwined, but still separate and its the plot that dances them around by throwing them together and then keeping them apart. This hurts a bit as the middle of the story bogs down somewhat and the pace was kind of mono-toned (on the unrelenting side) and I very nearly stalled out. Since that's also where their romantic relationship kicks in, though, I reattached very quickly. And ho-boy is this a great romantic story. The dynamic between putting themselves at risk by pursuing the noble goal of ridding the world of a huge magical menace vs. providing safety for those you love is front and center and I just loved how Molly and Josiah talked things through and acknowledged the conflict and worked together to find compromises that work. So even though they are compelled to be apart for lots of that last half, they're still very much together, or at least working together.
Add that one of my very favorite crypto-personalities shows up as the villain (revealed around 45% in but I'll spoiler tag, anyway), and I was just super engaged.
Anyway, the pacing issues that bogged me down sometimes rubs the perfect off of the story enough that I'm setting this at a really strong four stars. I just loved these two together and seeing them develop devotion and caring was outstanding.
A note about Steamy: There are three and a half explicit sex scenes that put this at the high side of my steam tolerance, but only just. The last and the half are completely gratuitous, but the first couple are outstanding.
Anyway. Josiah is near ground-zero of her magical breakthrough and decides to tutor her at least enough that she doesn't bring a lot of scrutiny in his neck of the woods because he has plans in Atlanta (which is politically anti-magic) that would be disrupted if people start sniffing around if a new witch with uncontrolled power crops up. And then plot things happen and they clash and reconcile and ally and I loved how Molly does her best to cope and understand and learn and how Josiah gets to show that protective alpha thing I love so well.
The two elements of this story (the romance vs. the magical goings-on) are entwined, but still separate and its the plot that dances them around by throwing them together and then keeping them apart. This hurts a bit as the middle of the story bogs down somewhat and the pace was kind of mono-toned (on the unrelenting side) and I very nearly stalled out. Since that's also where their romantic relationship kicks in, though, I reattached very quickly. And ho-boy is this a great romantic story. The dynamic between putting themselves at risk by pursuing the noble goal of ridding the world of a huge magical menace vs. providing safety for those you love is front and center and I just loved how Molly and Josiah talked things through and acknowledged the conflict and worked together to find compromises that work. So even though they are compelled to be apart for lots of that last half, they're still very much together, or at least working together.
Add that one of my very favorite crypto-personalities shows up as the villain (revealed around 45% in but I'll spoiler tag, anyway), and I was just super engaged.
Anyway, the pacing issues that bogged me down sometimes rubs the perfect off of the story enough that I'm setting this at a really strong four stars. I just loved these two together and seeing them develop devotion and caring was outstanding.
A note about Steamy: There are three and a half explicit sex scenes that put this at the high side of my steam tolerance, but only just. The last and the half are completely gratuitous, but the first couple are outstanding.
November 1, 2021
4 1/2 "Power" Stars!
This book started off with a bang and never really stopped. Molly and Josiah were volital in the best way! I loved them both! This book was all about coming into your power and purpose no matter how you do it. No matter how late it may come in life.
The story is set in The Elder Races world, but it is all brand new. None of the Domains or usually powerful beings play a part. So lovers of the Elder Races series may miss seeing them, but you won't miss them. It actually reads like a Contemporary Romance with magic wielding witches. This was a complete spinoff; and a great place to tryout Thea Harrison if you never have. I loved it! Molly is going on the Favorite Leading Ladies List. Happy reading!
This book started off with a bang and never really stopped. Molly and Josiah were volital in the best way! I loved them both! This book was all about coming into your power and purpose no matter how you do it. No matter how late it may come in life.
The story is set in The Elder Races world, but it is all brand new. None of the Domains or usually powerful beings play a part. So lovers of the Elder Races series may miss seeing them, but you won't miss them. It actually reads like a Contemporary Romance with magic wielding witches. This was a complete spinoff; and a great place to tryout Thea Harrison if you never have. I loved it! Molly is going on the Favorite Leading Ladies List. Happy reading!
July 1, 2020
This is a weird 3 star review because I loved the heroine and the writing style so much. I really did. I wanted to give them 10 stars. I even found the hero intriguing. The story was so engrossing. If you're a Thea Harrison fan, this book is guaranteed to be a good read. I think Molly might actually be my favorite Elder Races heroine to date. But in the end, I couldn't justify giving it 4 or 4.5 stars for the following reasons:
1) Midway through the book, a plot point emerged and (through no fault of the book) is just a plot point that I personally dislike. I'll discuss this later under spoiler tags.
2) Even though I liked the main couple together, I was dissatisfied by how their romantic arc ended (it was happily, that isn't my complaint). Again, this is extremely spoilery so I'll discuss under spoiler tags.
THE PREMISE
Molly Sullivan's dirtbag of a husband is cheating on her. And she finds out by discovering another woman's panties on their bed. Filled with rage, she storms into their dinner party and causes such a scene that I wanted to stand up and cheer. She destroys her husband's reputation in front of all his colleagues, packs up the essential items (including the financial documents), and leaves the house. Oh, and she manages to shatter a vase across the room without touching it. It's unclear what exactly is happening to her, but her latent magic is awakening and her power is infinite.
“You broke my heart the first time you cheated on me,” she told him. “Broke it into a million pieces. I was only twenty-one and a junior in college. You were twenty-two and had just graduated, and we’d only been together for a year. But you were so sorry, and oh Lord, my mother was so damn insistent. So I stayed and gave you another chance.” She turned to Russell and the powerful-looking stranger who stood beside him. “He can be persuasive, can’t he?”
One of the men at the dinner party is the newly-elected District Attorney. Josiah Mason is nothing like he appears and has secrets of his own. He's a witch and recognizes Molly for exactly what she is - an incredibly powerful witch with immense power. Josiah's primary goal in life is to kill the unnamed powerful witch in Atlanta. He's been waiting for decades for this opportunity, and has been plotting out the logistics with members of his coven, who also despise the unnamed villain and are committed to their destruction. Molly is a sore distraction for Josiah - he has to teach her to control her burgeoning powers and also keep her out of danger. It turns out that Molly's husband has ties to Josiah's nemesis and that Molly's decision to divorce her husband has put her in imminent danger.
No amount of words can fully convey how much I love Molly. She's so strong and I wanted to cry at all the pain and misery thrown at her. She always puts herself first: regardless of this strange attraction to this dangerous man, she doesn't put up with his arrogant-asshole act and tells him off at every opportunity.
"A younger, softer Molly might have listened. She would have been eager to please and anxious to smooth things over. But she wasn’t that younger, softer Molly anymore. She felt no need to contort herself into another shape just to fit other people’s desires or expectations."
This might not be a popular opinion, but the romantic arc felt secondary to Molly's journey to find herself. Don't get me wrong - Josiah is there a lot and we see his POV equally. But this book is about Molly learning how to deal with her powers and to make herself into a new woman after her husband's betrayal.
So, there is obviously a lot I loved about the book and I couldn't put it down for the four hours that I was reading it. But there were also some negatives, which I'll discuss now.
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
The two reasons why I disliked the book are *extremely* spoilery and spoil the entire book. Seriously, don't read the spoiler tags if you don't want to know what happens at the end.
Disclaimer: I received a free e-ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
1) Midway through the book, a plot point emerged and (through no fault of the book) is just a plot point that I personally dislike. I'll discuss this later under spoiler tags.
2) Even though I liked the main couple together, I was dissatisfied by how their romantic arc ended (it was happily, that isn't my complaint). Again, this is extremely spoilery so I'll discuss under spoiler tags.
THE PREMISE
Molly Sullivan's dirtbag of a husband is cheating on her. And she finds out by discovering another woman's panties on their bed. Filled with rage, she storms into their dinner party and causes such a scene that I wanted to stand up and cheer. She destroys her husband's reputation in front of all his colleagues, packs up the essential items (including the financial documents), and leaves the house. Oh, and she manages to shatter a vase across the room without touching it. It's unclear what exactly is happening to her, but her latent magic is awakening and her power is infinite.
“You broke my heart the first time you cheated on me,” she told him. “Broke it into a million pieces. I was only twenty-one and a junior in college. You were twenty-two and had just graduated, and we’d only been together for a year. But you were so sorry, and oh Lord, my mother was so damn insistent. So I stayed and gave you another chance.” She turned to Russell and the powerful-looking stranger who stood beside him. “He can be persuasive, can’t he?”
One of the men at the dinner party is the newly-elected District Attorney. Josiah Mason is nothing like he appears and has secrets of his own. He's a witch and recognizes Molly for exactly what she is - an incredibly powerful witch with immense power. Josiah's primary goal in life is to kill the unnamed powerful witch in Atlanta. He's been waiting for decades for this opportunity, and has been plotting out the logistics with members of his coven, who also despise the unnamed villain and are committed to their destruction. Molly is a sore distraction for Josiah - he has to teach her to control her burgeoning powers and also keep her out of danger. It turns out that Molly's husband has ties to Josiah's nemesis and that Molly's decision to divorce her husband has put her in imminent danger.
No amount of words can fully convey how much I love Molly. She's so strong and I wanted to cry at all the pain and misery thrown at her. She always puts herself first: regardless of this strange attraction to this dangerous man, she doesn't put up with his arrogant-asshole act and tells him off at every opportunity.
"A younger, softer Molly might have listened. She would have been eager to please and anxious to smooth things over. But she wasn’t that younger, softer Molly anymore. She felt no need to contort herself into another shape just to fit other people’s desires or expectations."
This might not be a popular opinion, but the romantic arc felt secondary to Molly's journey to find herself. Don't get me wrong - Josiah is there a lot and we see his POV equally. But this book is about Molly learning how to deal with her powers and to make herself into a new woman after her husband's betrayal.
So, there is obviously a lot I loved about the book and I couldn't put it down for the four hours that I was reading it. But there were also some negatives, which I'll discuss now.
WHAT I DIDN'T LIKE
The two reasons why I disliked the book are *extremely* spoilery and spoil the entire book. Seriously, don't read the spoiler tags if you don't want to know what happens at the end.
Disclaimer: I received a free e-ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2019
At the start of this book we see Molly’s ‘picture perfect life’ truly unravel, as she realises how skivvy her worm of a husband is, something she refuses to take laying down (anymore) - the depiction of this drew me in and I found myself eager to read on. When she crosses paths with powerful witch Josiah Mason, who witnessed the awakening of her powers, things take an interesting turn in both their lives, especially as whilst they clash, they find themselves attracted to one another. However, Josiah is a man who with this coven is focused on gaining revenge, and it is this focus that could destroy any chances he has for a future with Molly.
When Josiah kisses Molly in order to get a rise out of her and make her access her power, I was hoping she would make the beer bottle whiz past his head, just to remind him not to mess with her, that didn’t happen but I really liked how she wasn’t afraid to call him up on his manipulative and ass-ish tendencies. When it comes to the main characters, she is by far my favourite.
Whilst this was a nice enough read – light and easy, it was a tad disappointing, as it lacked the energy I have come to expect from Thea Harrison’s books and characters (Dragon Bound is one of my favourite books). The tension and attraction between the main characters did not manifest well, it didn’t sizzle off the page. The different components of this book (magic, action, romance, empowerment and danger) didn’t meld together in a way that ensured a multi-dimensional and absorbing plot/tale.
I am super glad I didn’t pay full price for this. 99p on Amazon 4th August 2019.
Potential Triggers:
When Josiah kisses Molly in order to get a rise out of her and make her access her power, I was hoping she would make the beer bottle whiz past his head, just to remind him not to mess with her, that didn’t happen but I really liked how she wasn’t afraid to call him up on his manipulative and ass-ish tendencies. When it comes to the main characters, she is by far my favourite.
Whilst this was a nice enough read – light and easy, it was a tad disappointing, as it lacked the energy I have come to expect from Thea Harrison’s books and characters (Dragon Bound is one of my favourite books). The tension and attraction between the main characters did not manifest well, it didn’t sizzle off the page. The different components of this book (magic, action, romance, empowerment and danger) didn’t meld together in a way that ensured a multi-dimensional and absorbing plot/tale.
I am super glad I didn’t pay full price for this. 99p on Amazon 4th August 2019.
Potential Triggers:
June 8, 2019
4.5 Hocus Pocus Stars!!
I’m not going to write a long review since there are so many glowing reviews for this book. As always Thea Harrison did not disappoint. American Witch is the first book in TH’s new Trilogy set in her Elder Races world (you don’t need to have read the Elder Races Series to read this book since they’re not connected in any other way).
Molly Sullivan is our heroine and has just discovered her attorney husbands latest affair. She has reached her breaking point and confronts her husband at a dinner party they’re hosting for the newly appointed DA. Her rage brings out her powers that have remained (mostly) dormant till now. I have to say, I loved Molly. Her strength and self respect had me cheering her on.
Josiah Mason is the DA and a century’s old powerful Warlock who is looking for an old enemy (I have to say TH’s historical character choice for the enemy is brilliant!). Josiah has tracked his enemy back to Molly’s (soon to be ex) husbands law firm. While at the disastrous dinner party held in his honor he recognizes Molly’s power and makes the decision to help her see her potential as a witch and at the same time find out more about her husband and his associates. Molly turns out to be very powerful. Now she just needs to learn how to use and control her powers. I can’t wait to read more of this new series!!
*Audiobook narration by Sophie Eastlake is as always superb!!
April 25, 2019
This review was originally posted on Books of My Heart
Review copy was received from Author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I'm a big fan of the Elder Races series. It has many 5 star reads. This new series with witches in the United States is just my kind of thing because magic is my favorite. The world is just beginning and even now, there is much yet to be developed.
Molly is a competent woman who is just coming into power as a witch and as a person. Her personal life implodes and has to be rebuilt from scratch. She is strong and it's good, because she has so much to handle. However, I do find she was a bit naive about her situation, or a bit TSTL. Being a new witch, she could be hurt or drained easily and there are others to consider besides herself.
Josiah has been focused on revenge for so long but Molly is a hurricane coming into his life. He is attracted to her, but does not need the distraction or imbalance of her new power. Frankly, since she doesn't understand the witch world, she's a bit of a loose cannon. To some extent, he needs to protect her from herself as well as others. The romance feels a bit rushed.
Sarah is great as a new friend and mentor for Molly. Somehow, I am unsure of how Molly is able to trust Sarah is a safe choice at the very beginning, as another witch with more knowledge could drain her for her power. It turns out well and her development is wonderful. There is still much for the readers, as well as Molly, to learn about the magical world.
American Witch builds a new world with interesting characters and plenty of action. The final battle feels realistic because things don't go perfectly and there will be more fights in the future. So I am looking forward to more books in this world.
Review copy was received from Author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I'm a big fan of the Elder Races series. It has many 5 star reads. This new series with witches in the United States is just my kind of thing because magic is my favorite. The world is just beginning and even now, there is much yet to be developed.
Molly is a competent woman who is just coming into power as a witch and as a person. Her personal life implodes and has to be rebuilt from scratch. She is strong and it's good, because she has so much to handle. However, I do find she was a bit naive about her situation, or a bit TSTL. Being a new witch, she could be hurt or drained easily and there are others to consider besides herself.
Josiah has been focused on revenge for so long but Molly is a hurricane coming into his life. He is attracted to her, but does not need the distraction or imbalance of her new power. Frankly, since she doesn't understand the witch world, she's a bit of a loose cannon. To some extent, he needs to protect her from herself as well as others. The romance feels a bit rushed.
Sarah is great as a new friend and mentor for Molly. Somehow, I am unsure of how Molly is able to trust Sarah is a safe choice at the very beginning, as another witch with more knowledge could drain her for her power. It turns out well and her development is wonderful. There is still much for the readers, as well as Molly, to learn about the magical world.
American Witch builds a new world with interesting characters and plenty of action. The final battle feels realistic because things don't go perfectly and there will be more fights in the future. So I am looking forward to more books in this world.
January 25, 2020
I am such a big fan of Thea Harrison and her Elder Races series. This is the first book in a new trilogy set in that world and even if you’ve never read one of Harrison‘s books before, you can easily jump in here. As made obvious by the title, this trilogy focuses on witches, particularly one who is just coming into her powers.
First of all, I love that Molly is an older heroine. She’s around 40 years old and her magical awakening comes due to a major disaster in her life rather than reaching a particular age. That being said, at the beginning, she is still a somewhat naïve and sheltered woman. She has essentially built her life around being the perfect wife for her husband and that made her a little difficult for me to relate to. I mean, I know women like this exist in the world, but in some ways, she was as much of a clean slate as a 21-year-old coming into her power.
The hero is Josiah, a seasoned witch who is in Atlanta under an assumed identity, working with the coven he has assembled to take down the man who imprisoned him many years ago and stole some of his power. Josiah comes upon Molly accidentally. He’s there when she comes into her magic, at a party where she confronts her husband, and realizes he needs to help her learn to control her gifts so his quarry is not aware of other witches around him.
These two start off as reluctant allies, with no desire to really even like each other, but it evolves into an attraction neither can ignore and eventually deeper feelings present themselves.
I had a hard time connecting to this book. Part of it was Molly, maybe. Or perhaps it’s more fair to say, early Molly, because she does grow into a stronger woman. I appreciate she comes to put her self and her needs first. But here’s the thing. I felt like this book was a lot more about Molly than about the romance between her and Josiah. He is definitely more like a supporting character than a co-lead, at least to me. She’s got to learn about her powers and she goes on a journey and finds a mentor. And honestly, so much of the book is spent with these two apart. They text each other. They think about each other. Time passes in chunks.
I guess what I’m trying to say is that I didn’t feel them falling in love. Things happen. Molly’s life changes. I guess, Josiah’s life changes in the end, too. But I never felt the need or angst or burn. The love scenes are good, of course, because Harrison is great at that. Generally, I think she’s pretty great at everything. But this book was just OK for me. I didn’t love the beginning and I didn’t love the end. Because while there is an ending, the main conflict is unresolved and the last chapter covered several months in something like a summary.
Am I being unfair? I don’t want to be, because I’m a fan of the author. I just wish I had more excitement for this one.
Rating: C
*ARC provided by author
First of all, I love that Molly is an older heroine. She’s around 40 years old and her magical awakening comes due to a major disaster in her life rather than reaching a particular age. That being said, at the beginning, she is still a somewhat naïve and sheltered woman. She has essentially built her life around being the perfect wife for her husband and that made her a little difficult for me to relate to. I mean, I know women like this exist in the world, but in some ways, she was as much of a clean slate as a 21-year-old coming into her power.
The hero is Josiah, a seasoned witch who is in Atlanta under an assumed identity, working with the coven he has assembled to take down the man who imprisoned him many years ago and stole some of his power. Josiah comes upon Molly accidentally. He’s there when she comes into her magic, at a party where she confronts her husband, and realizes he needs to help her learn to control her gifts so his quarry is not aware of other witches around him.
These two start off as reluctant allies, with no desire to really even like each other, but it evolves into an attraction neither can ignore and eventually deeper feelings present themselves.
I had a hard time connecting to this book. Part of it was Molly, maybe. Or perhaps it’s more fair to say, early Molly, because she does grow into a stronger woman. I appreciate she comes to put her self and her needs first. But here’s the thing. I felt like this book was a lot more about Molly than about the romance between her and Josiah. He is definitely more like a supporting character than a co-lead, at least to me. She’s got to learn about her powers and she goes on a journey and finds a mentor. And honestly, so much of the book is spent with these two apart. They text each other. They think about each other. Time passes in chunks.
I guess what I’m trying to say is that I didn’t feel them falling in love. Things happen. Molly’s life changes. I guess, Josiah’s life changes in the end, too. But I never felt the need or angst or burn. The love scenes are good, of course, because Harrison is great at that. Generally, I think she’s pretty great at everything. But this book was just OK for me. I didn’t love the beginning and I didn’t love the end. Because while there is an ending, the main conflict is unresolved and the last chapter covered several months in something like a summary.
Am I being unfair? I don’t want to be, because I’m a fan of the author. I just wish I had more excitement for this one.
Rating: C
*ARC provided by author
June 19, 2019
I remember when this author's first elder races book appeared on the scene. I remember reading a lot of praise for the book. People were out of their minds in love with it. The way people were talking about it, I expected someone who had really something new and different to say about PNR. But I was massively underwhelmed. I still don't get the hype for that book.
I decided to try again with this one. I read the blurb and it spoke to me. Also the audio is performed by one of my favorite voice performers, Sophie Eastlake (aka Julia Whelan).
This started off spectacularly! I loved the beginning. Molly in a rage over finding purple panties (not hers) in their bed was a thing of beauty. She was all id. I could totally dig it.
I was even enjoying her early clashes with Josiah, even if I didn't totally feel any real romantic chemistry.
But then somewhere about 1/3 of the way in the story lost its momentum for me. Molly's rage was almost over to be replaced by independence assertion. She went from angry to feisty. The storytelling and dialogue moves from intense to tedious. Josiah's story (he is on a quest for vengeance) starts to rise in prominence. And I rolled my eyes superhard at the reveal of the identity the super-villain he is after. Also, I realized that this is the first book in a series with other Josiah's coven all with their own reasons for hating this super-villain so s/he was going to be an energizer bunny villain, one that survives the end of this book and keeps going until this series decides to end them.
Since this storyline wasn't holding me and I wasn't feeling anything about these people anymore and the villain just gave me a 'really, girl, really?' reaction. I decided to cut my losses.
I decided to try again with this one. I read the blurb and it spoke to me. Also the audio is performed by one of my favorite voice performers, Sophie Eastlake (aka Julia Whelan).
This started off spectacularly! I loved the beginning. Molly in a rage over finding purple panties (not hers) in their bed was a thing of beauty. She was all id. I could totally dig it.
I was even enjoying her early clashes with Josiah, even if I didn't totally feel any real romantic chemistry.
But then somewhere about 1/3 of the way in the story lost its momentum for me. Molly's rage was almost over to be replaced by independence assertion. She went from angry to feisty. The storytelling and dialogue moves from intense to tedious. Josiah's story (he is on a quest for vengeance) starts to rise in prominence. And I rolled my eyes superhard at the reveal of the identity the super-villain he is after. Also, I realized that this is the first book in a series with other Josiah's coven all with their own reasons for hating this super-villain so s/he was going to be an energizer bunny villain, one that survives the end of this book and keeps going until this series decides to end them.
Since this storyline wasn't holding me and I wasn't feeling anything about these people anymore and the villain just gave me a 'really, girl, really?' reaction. I decided to cut my losses.
April 29, 2019
While the book ended with HEA, I knew this one is part of a trilogy.
So, I won’t say much but really love this new series.
I can’t wait to see what would happen next, the horrible villain still have his freedom and doing lots of nasty things! Molly really need to step up and learn faster about her own power! 😘
❤️❤️❤️
So, I won’t say much but really love this new series.
I can’t wait to see what would happen next, the horrible villain still have his freedom and doing lots of nasty things! Molly really need to step up and learn faster about her own power! 😘
❤️❤️❤️
May 29, 2019
I enjoyed this light and entertaining story of magic, romance, friendship. I like the Elder Races world and would have enjoyed seeing a bit more of the others we've met but a few flashes of Djinn was about the limit. The witches were interesting though so I'll read more when the series continues.
April 28, 2019
Prepare for all kinds of magic, action and a side of romance! Bestselling author Thea Harrison introduces readers to her new paranormal world of powerful witches. A spin-off of her popular Elder Races series, Book 1 in the American Witch Trilogy centers around broody witch Josiah and burgeoning witch Molly.
Discovering her husband has cheated on her, Molly Sullivan’s life nosedives. Coupled with the awakening of unknown powers, she’s struggling to keep up with the drastic changes in her life. But she quickly starts to suspect her soon to be ex-husband is involved in something illicit. Molly suddenly finds herself embroiled in a plot for revenge, grab for power and a sexy as sin Josiah Mason. Josiah is a distraction Molly can’t afford; however, she’ll soon find that there’s more to the self-centered man who calls himself a witch.
Consumed with hate, Josiah is obsessed with getting revenge on a witch who has brought nothing but suffering. Molly is an unwelcome unknown and linked to his investigation. He doesn’t want to be drawn to Molly but can’t seem to help his fascination.
"Nobody else can teach you what I can teach you. Nobody else will encourage you to be whoever you want the way I would. To shed your inhibitions and explore everything you’re capable of being.”
Against their better judgement they can’t resist each other. When Molly’s faced with the biggest shock of her life, she’s determined to get her powers under control and start the new life she deserves. Can it be that simple?
Not surprising given this is the first book, it’s heavy on plot development and introduction of secondary characters. I appreciated how well the foundation of the trilogy was laid. However, while the plot was well-defined the emotional element was weak. Given this is also a romance, I was expecting more spark and passion between the MCs. Molly and Josiah as individual characters were somewhat uneven and their romance took a back seat to the plot.
Don’t take that to heart though. This author is skilled at creating meaningful relationships as evidenced by her highly successful romances. So, while a bit disappointed, I’m anticipating much more in the next book.
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. This review is voluntary and all opinions and thoughts are my own.
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Discovering her husband has cheated on her, Molly Sullivan’s life nosedives. Coupled with the awakening of unknown powers, she’s struggling to keep up with the drastic changes in her life. But she quickly starts to suspect her soon to be ex-husband is involved in something illicit. Molly suddenly finds herself embroiled in a plot for revenge, grab for power and a sexy as sin Josiah Mason. Josiah is a distraction Molly can’t afford; however, she’ll soon find that there’s more to the self-centered man who calls himself a witch.
Consumed with hate, Josiah is obsessed with getting revenge on a witch who has brought nothing but suffering. Molly is an unwelcome unknown and linked to his investigation. He doesn’t want to be drawn to Molly but can’t seem to help his fascination.
"Nobody else can teach you what I can teach you. Nobody else will encourage you to be whoever you want the way I would. To shed your inhibitions and explore everything you’re capable of being.”
Against their better judgement they can’t resist each other. When Molly’s faced with the biggest shock of her life, she’s determined to get her powers under control and start the new life she deserves. Can it be that simple?
Not surprising given this is the first book, it’s heavy on plot development and introduction of secondary characters. I appreciated how well the foundation of the trilogy was laid. However, while the plot was well-defined the emotional element was weak. Given this is also a romance, I was expecting more spark and passion between the MCs. Molly and Josiah as individual characters were somewhat uneven and their romance took a back seat to the plot.
Don’t take that to heart though. This author is skilled at creating meaningful relationships as evidenced by her highly successful romances. So, while a bit disappointed, I’m anticipating much more in the next book.
I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via Netgalley. This review is voluntary and all opinions and thoughts are my own.
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May 31, 2019
+Digital ARC gently provided by publishers via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review+
3.8
Molly's life changes forever when she decides to divorce her unfaithful husband after 20 years of marriage. Somehow she finds a force in her that is unknown, in more than one sense, because she discovers in this way that she is a witch. But not everything is spells and herbs in that world, because there are powerful individuals willing to do everything to obtain more power.
The only one who seems to know what is happening to Molly with a sort of psychokinetic power is Josiah, so she makes a deal with him to help her control her power in a basic way, more than anything to cover herself and not attract the villain of the story, a warlock who steals magic/power from other witches.
Josiah Mason is the ultimate alpha with bad temper and with a grudge againts the villain. Revenge is his goal.
Molly is presented as a woman almost in her forties, practical and strong, who no longer wants to accept rubbish from anyone.
A younger, softer Molly might have listened. She would have been eager to please and anxious to smooth things over. But she wasn’t that younger, softer Molly anymore. She felt no need to contort herself into another shape just to fit other people’s desires or expectations.
So she interrupted. “I don’t care what you would like. I don’t want to hear from you. I don’t want to think about you. I don’t want to be manipulated by you anymore. If I have something to say to you, I’ll call. Otherwise, leave me the hell alone.”
They clash, fight, and end up in bed.
I like Molly , I like her interaction with Josiah.
quote:Don’t hang up.”
“Why? What are we trying to do here — sort of carry on a relationship but not really, while you get to be in danger and embrace a vendetta, or sometimes not, and I can’t know about any of it? I already told you once. I can’t be the mistress to your wife.”
quote:If she’d thought she’d seen Josiah angry before, it was nothing compared to the rage that transformed his face now. He snapped, “The hell you will!”
“Yes. I will.” She stopped to consider him. “Did you really think this was all about you — your coven, your needs, your enemy, your transformation, your timetable? Oh, bless.”
I like how she can make plans and stick with it .
I like even how is depicted Josiah. Poweful, and tormented for the past.
There are some things that remind me of Charmed, like the house, the powers, potions, pendulum, etc but it's ok.
I will read the next book of this series.
---------------------------------------------
A pesar de que se menciona aqui a los demesnes y las razas de Wyrd, elfos y djins, este libro tiene un sabor diferente. El inicio es como una novela muy moderna con la esposa perfecta del abogado ambicioso, en el dia que un hecho más se convierte en la proverbial 'gota que rebasó el vaso' cuando hay una fiesta en su casa y manda todo a la punta del cerro. Y , coincidencia, como uno de los testigos hay un hombre que es el nuevo fiscal de distrito: Josiah Mason, y resulta ser que sabe más de la fuerza que ha despertado en ella.
Aprendemos entonces que en este universo ficticio, las brujas y brujos (o hechiceros) despiertan a sus poderes a diferentes edades, por un hecho traumatico, un accidente, o por la menopausia (?) . Asi que deben aprender desde cero con ayuda de otros brujos o aquelarres.
La novela quiere presentar el crecimiento personal de Molly desde cuando decide divorciarse, y como enfrenta el desafio de quedarse sin amigos. Me gusta que ella luche por conseguir lo suyo, aunque parezca de repente que es bastante apegada al dinero, en el fondo es bastante practico todo lo que hace. Con excepcion de ponerse a limpiar la casa cuando va el agente de bienes raices y no buscar a alguien que lo haga por ella (incluso podria haberle pedido a la misma agente un servicio y pedirle que le buscara las fotos) . Por otra parte como ella separa su relacion con el fiscal y su ayuda magica con lo que necesita hacer para mantenerse a salvo, incluido alejarse de este tipo empecinado en una venganza peligrosa que desea encontrar y matar a su enemigo es bastante sensatopese a toda la lujuria que la embarga.
Eso del superpoder , bueno es asunto de novela de fantasia que presenta heroina superpoderosas. Es agradable la mentora que encuentra y el lugar que habla mucho y recuerda a las famosas "Charmed" o Encantadas de la serie de brujas hasta con casa victoriana incluida.
Josiah tiene un pasado que le hace perseguir una venganza y ha juntado a otros como él. Pero debe tomar una decision si seguir con eso o cambiar por una relacion.
Si tiene cliches, la apreja convence, hay sexo, no hay triangulo a la vista, pero igual entretiene, y me leeria la novela siguiente.
...
I have a separate comment: It strikes me is that I have recently found in books published recently, which still shows that the perfect happiness of couples is when a woman becomes pregnant ... even when she is forty or fifty years old. Excuse me, but WTF! (And I thought that I only could found this in fanfiction by teenagers who like to put that the couple has twins.)
3.8
Molly's life changes forever when she decides to divorce her unfaithful husband after 20 years of marriage. Somehow she finds a force in her that is unknown, in more than one sense, because she discovers in this way that she is a witch. But not everything is spells and herbs in that world, because there are powerful individuals willing to do everything to obtain more power.
The only one who seems to know what is happening to Molly with a sort of psychokinetic power is Josiah, so she makes a deal with him to help her control her power in a basic way, more than anything to cover herself and not attract the villain of the story, a warlock who steals magic/power from other witches.
Josiah Mason is the ultimate alpha with bad temper and with a grudge againts the villain. Revenge is his goal.
Molly is presented as a woman almost in her forties, practical and strong, who no longer wants to accept rubbish from anyone.
A younger, softer Molly might have listened. She would have been eager to please and anxious to smooth things over. But she wasn’t that younger, softer Molly anymore. She felt no need to contort herself into another shape just to fit other people’s desires or expectations.
So she interrupted. “I don’t care what you would like. I don’t want to hear from you. I don’t want to think about you. I don’t want to be manipulated by you anymore. If I have something to say to you, I’ll call. Otherwise, leave me the hell alone.”
They clash, fight, and end up in bed.
I like Molly , I like her interaction with Josiah.
quote:Don’t hang up.”
“Why? What are we trying to do here — sort of carry on a relationship but not really, while you get to be in danger and embrace a vendetta, or sometimes not, and I can’t know about any of it? I already told you once. I can’t be the mistress to your wife.”
quote:If she’d thought she’d seen Josiah angry before, it was nothing compared to the rage that transformed his face now. He snapped, “The hell you will!”
“Yes. I will.” She stopped to consider him. “Did you really think this was all about you — your coven, your needs, your enemy, your transformation, your timetable? Oh, bless.”
I like how she can make plans and stick with it .
I like even how is depicted Josiah. Poweful, and tormented for the past.
There are some things that remind me of Charmed, like the house, the powers, potions, pendulum, etc but it's ok.
I will read the next book of this series.
---------------------------------------------
A pesar de que se menciona aqui a los demesnes y las razas de Wyrd, elfos y djins, este libro tiene un sabor diferente. El inicio es como una novela muy moderna con la esposa perfecta del abogado ambicioso, en el dia que un hecho más se convierte en la proverbial 'gota que rebasó el vaso' cuando hay una fiesta en su casa y manda todo a la punta del cerro. Y , coincidencia, como uno de los testigos hay un hombre que es el nuevo fiscal de distrito: Josiah Mason, y resulta ser que sabe más de la fuerza que ha despertado en ella.
Aprendemos entonces que en este universo ficticio, las brujas y brujos (o hechiceros) despiertan a sus poderes a diferentes edades, por un hecho traumatico, un accidente, o por la menopausia (?) . Asi que deben aprender desde cero con ayuda de otros brujos o aquelarres.
La novela quiere presentar el crecimiento personal de Molly desde cuando decide divorciarse, y como enfrenta el desafio de quedarse sin amigos. Me gusta que ella luche por conseguir lo suyo, aunque parezca de repente que es bastante apegada al dinero, en el fondo es bastante practico todo lo que hace. Con excepcion de ponerse a limpiar la casa cuando va el agente de bienes raices y no buscar a alguien que lo haga por ella (incluso podria haberle pedido a la misma agente un servicio y pedirle que le buscara las fotos) . Por otra parte como ella separa su relacion con el fiscal y su ayuda magica con lo que necesita hacer para mantenerse a salvo, incluido alejarse de este tipo empecinado en una venganza peligrosa que desea encontrar y matar a su enemigo es bastante sensato
Eso del superpoder , bueno es asunto de novela de fantasia que presenta heroina superpoderosas. Es agradable la mentora que encuentra y el lugar que habla mucho y recuerda a las famosas "Charmed" o Encantadas de la serie de brujas hasta con casa victoriana incluida.
Josiah tiene un pasado que le hace perseguir una venganza y ha juntado a otros como él. Pero debe tomar una decision si seguir con eso o cambiar por una relacion.
Si tiene cliches, la apreja convence, hay sexo, no hay triangulo a la vista, pero igual entretiene, y me leeria la novela siguiente.
...
I have a separate comment: It strikes me is that I have recently found in books published recently, which still shows that the perfect happiness of couples is when a woman becomes pregnant ... even when she is forty or fifty years old. Excuse me, but WTF! (And I thought that I only could found this in fanfiction by teenagers who like to put that the couple has twins.)
July 14, 2019
4+
I didn't realize this "new series" was in the Elder Races world. It was a bit like getting handed a gift. Don't worry, though, it's definitely a stand alone story and references to the Elder Races only serve to let a new comer know there is more if they want to pursue it and to remind those of us that have read at least some of the Elder Races of fond memories and connection. I liked that.
I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would, not because of anything Harrison does but simply because of where my head has been regarding romance in general but especially paranormal romance in recent times. I've always been very picky about romance and needed for there to be at least as much non-relationship story as relationship story to get immersed. Fortunately Harrison is really pretty good at that, and she does write smokin' hot sex scenes.
One of the things I loved about this book was that most of the protagonists were grown adults who had been around the block a time or two. They weren't tweens and 20-somethings still trying to figure out who they are. They were adults still trying to figure out who they are due to drastic life changes but with a wealth of experience behind them. Most of them had some measure of grey hair or slight wrinkles (or more) and I adored it.
The mystery was good even it if was essentially a set up for future books. I suspect that we will see these "bad guys" again.
I'll read the next. This one was good.
I didn't realize this "new series" was in the Elder Races world. It was a bit like getting handed a gift. Don't worry, though, it's definitely a stand alone story and references to the Elder Races only serve to let a new comer know there is more if they want to pursue it and to remind those of us that have read at least some of the Elder Races of fond memories and connection. I liked that.
I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would, not because of anything Harrison does but simply because of where my head has been regarding romance in general but especially paranormal romance in recent times. I've always been very picky about romance and needed for there to be at least as much non-relationship story as relationship story to get immersed. Fortunately Harrison is really pretty good at that, and she does write smokin' hot sex scenes.
One of the things I loved about this book was that most of the protagonists were grown adults who had been around the block a time or two. They weren't tweens and 20-somethings still trying to figure out who they are. They were adults still trying to figure out who they are due to drastic life changes but with a wealth of experience behind them. Most of them had some measure of grey hair or slight wrinkles (or more) and I adored it.
The mystery was good even it if was essentially a set up for future books. I suspect that we will see these "bad guys" again.
I'll read the next. This one was good.
August 21, 2019
3.75 stars
April 23, 2019
Molly Sullivan has just met with one of the most upsetting life changes, she discovers her husband has cheated on her again. Fed up she confronts her husband, initiating an even bigger life change…her magical witchy power. She had no idea magic existed, but she is confronted by one of her husband’s co-workers, Josiah Mason, a powerful witch in his own right.
While divorcing her husband, she uncovers papers that put a target on her life but might actually lead to what Josiah has spent centuries trying to accomplish…REVENGE.
Romantic chemistry ignites between Josiah and Molly, but she is no push over, willing to take a back seat to his revenge. Molly is strong, resourceful and an emerging powerhouse in her own right. The clock is counting down as the evil that has plagued Josiah and his coven continue to hunt them down.
Its like Christmas morning when Thea Harrison releases another book! To say I’m a fan girl would be an understatement but there you go… I loved it.
I received this ARC copy of American Witch from Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op. This is my honest and voluntary review. American Witch is set for publication April 29, 2019.
My Rating: 5 stars
Written by: Thea Harrison
Print Length: 420 pages
Publisher: Teddy Harrison LLC
Publication Date: April 29, 2019
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/American-Witch...
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/amer...
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/mt/book/amer...
While divorcing her husband, she uncovers papers that put a target on her life but might actually lead to what Josiah has spent centuries trying to accomplish…REVENGE.
Romantic chemistry ignites between Josiah and Molly, but she is no push over, willing to take a back seat to his revenge. Molly is strong, resourceful and an emerging powerhouse in her own right. The clock is counting down as the evil that has plagued Josiah and his coven continue to hunt them down.
Its like Christmas morning when Thea Harrison releases another book! To say I’m a fan girl would be an understatement but there you go… I loved it.
I received this ARC copy of American Witch from Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op. This is my honest and voluntary review. American Witch is set for publication April 29, 2019.
My Rating: 5 stars
Written by: Thea Harrison
Print Length: 420 pages
Publisher: Teddy Harrison LLC
Publication Date: April 29, 2019
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/American-Witch...
Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/amer...
Itunes: https://itunes.apple.com/mt/book/amer...
April 6, 2019
Well I love books that start off with a bang and this one does it in spades. On page 1 Molly has just found out that her husband is cheating on her and things get really loud and noisy from there . Additionally, she is developing her witch powers a bit late in life but she has no clue what is happening for awhile and watching her evolution is part of what I found so entertaining about this book although at a point later in the book it seems to have moved on a lot faster than should have been expected but a minor thing.
Josiah Mason is a Powerful witch and the leader of a secret coven and they play into this story in a major way but there seems to be a bit of insta-love but not too badly since he does spend a bit of time pretty much detesting her so it is a romance not like most others.
There is a "Big Bad" that we don't get to see too much of yet but since I believe this is going to be another trilogy it will end up in some epic battle in book 3 but for book 1 of a trilogy a LOT happens and we are not left with a truckload of cliffhangers. It is more of a knowledge to the reader that "this ain't over yet". 4 Stars
Josiah Mason is a Powerful witch and the leader of a secret coven and they play into this story in a major way but there seems to be a bit of insta-love but not too badly since he does spend a bit of time pretty much detesting her so it is a romance not like most others.
There is a "Big Bad" that we don't get to see too much of yet but since I believe this is going to be another trilogy it will end up in some epic battle in book 3 but for book 1 of a trilogy a LOT happens and we are not left with a truckload of cliffhangers. It is more of a knowledge to the reader that "this ain't over yet". 4 Stars
August 21, 2019
3-1/2 *'s for this installment.
October 12, 2022
DNF. It started off SO GOOD! And then halfway through completely shifted from an exciting witchy drama with romance to a pregnancy story. Why does every romance book have to feature pregnancy? At least most books save it for the end of the story. But this? A one night stand with a broken condom resulting in pregnancy is absolutely not sexy to me, that’s a literal nightmare. This book is a horror story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2019
Pretty interesting, even if not totally gripping.
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