The Hex Next Door

Witches of Moondale #1

by Lou Wilham

What’s a little necromancy between family?

For the Crow Witch, Icarus "Rus" Ashthorne, Moondale seemed the perfect hiding place. But like they always say, you can't go home again, and Rus finds out quickly that nothing is how she remembered, while at the same time very little has changed. Then she comes face to face with the only woman she's ever loved, Az Elwood, and... well, things get messier than she thought they ever could.

The Elwoods are a staple of Moondale, respected, feared, powerful, and Azure Elwood was always happy with her place amongst them. Happy to play the part of the good little witch, until Rus Ashthorne. Eleven years ago, Rus got on a bus and left Azure behind, but she's back, with two little girls trailing her like ducklings, and enough unspoken things between them to drown the town.

Now witch hunters are knocking at their proverbial door, the council of magic is being a real pain in the ass, and Rus wonders how much magic it’ll take to protect the people she loves from herself and the danger following her.

Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal, Magic, Lesbian, LGBT, Romance, Urban Fantasy

314 pages, Kindle Edition

First published October 19, 2022

About the author

Born and raised in a small town near the Chesapeake Bay, Lou Wilham grew up on a steady diet of fiction, arts and crafts, and Old Bay. After years of absorbing everything, there was to absorb of fiction, fantasy, and sci-fi she's left with a serious writing/drawing habit that just won't quit. These days, she spends much of her time writing, drawing, and chasing a very short Basset Hound named Sherlock.

When not, daydreaming up new characters to write and draw she can be found crocheting, making cute bookmarks, and binge-watching whatever happens to catch her eye.

Learn more about Lou and her future projects on her website: https://louinprogress.com

Or follow her on social media @lou.wilham on Instagram or @louwilham on Facebook.

Reviews

[Tiffany aka Chai Tea And Books · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being the first book in witchy series, I really appreciated the rosters of the covens attached, along with their speciality. The author also included a glossary and pronunciation guide for terms that might be unfamiliar. I’m trying to think of a genre to throw this book in. It’s a cozy witch book, but not a mystery. There’s a hint of romance, but not enough to be classified as such. If I had to call it anything, maybe a cozy witchy suspense, with a dash of romance. I dunno. But it worked, and I liked it! I also liked the LGBTQ+ representation in this. I liked that it wasn’t waved, but stated as fact, because it was. Overall, a good book!

Rus is moving back to her hometown, Moondale, with her daughters. Pros: Her best friend found the perfect magical house for her (even if it is a bit sassy) and her coffee shop sprung up downtown (perks of living in a magical town). Cons: her ex-girlfriend lives here, the one she ran away from when the board demanded that Azure marry Greer (who just now happens to be the sheriff). But she can put up with all of that if it keeps her and her girls safe from who is hunting them.

[Savannah L. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book: The Hex Next Door
.
Author: Lou Wilham
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Genre: Adult Urban Fantasy
.
Tropes/Themes: LGTBQ+, Adoptive Family, Multiple POV, Ex-Lovers,
.
Spice Level: 0/5
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Romance Level: 1/5
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Pacing: Low
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Star Rating: 4/5
.

This was such a wholesome read. The characters were close and even though they weren’t blood, they reminded me of a close knit family, especially with their banter back and forth. They were like a bunch of siblings who cared so fiercely for each other and annoyed each other just cause that’s what siblings do.

This book takes place in a small town where Rus and her two adoptive daughters are on the run from witch hunters. Rus’s hometown of Moondale is her last resort of escaping the hunters that are after her daughter. Will the people Rus grew up with help protect her family after years of not seeing her or will they turn their back on her?

I loved that this is a witchy book and that right in the beginning there was a reference to the Addams Family.

The magic that Wilham implemented in her book was different than your usual magical read. There are different kinds of witches who each have their own special power and then what I thought was pretty cool was how the houses have a mind of their own.

And the humor of this book had me laughing by page 14. It reminded me so much of one of my friends that I was able to be more immersed in the story in a nostalgic kind of way.

Okay, now to the nitty gritty and the reason why I gave this book four stars instead of five because, who doesn’t love a wholesome urban fantasy book?

I really wish there was only one POV because then it’d be more of a mystery with how the other MC feels. Like we got Rus’s POV and then her ex-girlfriends POV Azure. They’re both totally still in love with each other and I just wished that it remained a mystery with how one of them felt.

I personally like my books fast paced and to me this book was not. I thought it was really slow with only shit hitting the fan about 60% through the book. Then I was like, fuck yeah! Let’s go!

I also wish that when it came to action that there was more detail. The book had great detail but when it came down to actual scenes where shit happened, there was very little detail. Like when Rus got possessed or tried to ask the land for help, I wanted to see more detail of that instead of only having a page of it.

And speaking of Rus getting possessed
‼️‼️‼️
That legit gave me the chills. Like I’m still spazzing out just thinking about it.

BUT, 62% through when things started to pick up Wilham did put in that good attention to detail and made the scenes worthwhile

Now, onto my favorite line
👇🏼👇🏼👇🏼
“Foolish, beautiful and brilliant”
That was said by one of the MC’s, Azure when she was describing her ex-girlfriend, Rus.

Ugh my heart can’t handle these two. Please, 🙏🏼please🙏🏼 have them get together.

Guys, this is not a romance book. It is a story about adoptive family who face hardships together and still pull through and find laughter on the other side but I am still rooting for the MC’s to get together because, they deserve each other, damnit!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Whitney McGruder · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really like Wilham’s take on “cozy hometown” fiction. I’m sure this book is going to really speak to folks who love shows like Gilmore Girls—the local gossip or busybodies are annoying but it’s hard to consider any other place home.

Wilham also does it again by creating realistic characters and relationships. Rus, Az, and other adult characters talk and act like people I know in real life. They felt real and so easy to root for.

The worldbuilding is also incredible. The town is divided into covens; readers can find the list of covens, as well as their functions, in the back. It was delightful to find witches, druids, necromancers, and other types of roles in Moondale.

If you need a cozy novel with some action and inclusive representation, I’d recommend this read. There is some action and some potentially triggering moments (kidnapping) but Wilham guides us to a cute ending. The main “fault” of this book is that it ended a bit too soon for me. I know a sequel’s coming but I hoped a bit more would find resolutions at the end of the story.

[Cozy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! The characters, setting, storyline are all intriguing.

I love the house. It's sassy, hilarious and knows things that you don't 🤣.

The characters are wonderful (minus 1) -you know who you are 😒😒😒-

I enjoyed the found family aspect, the fabulous house, Darcy (hehehe), so many things.

Lou Wilham does a great job mixing magic and urban settings. It's magical urban fantasy that will leave you hooked.

Can't wait to see what comes next


*I recieved a gifted beta copy from the author which I voluntarily read and reviewed*

[Justin Arnold · Rating 5 out of 5]

If The Ex-Hex and Practical Magic had a sapphic baby, it would be The Hex Next Door. A wickedly charming second chance HFN romance wrapped in a snarky, Cozy Witch package.

I’d been excited to read this book since I first heard about it a while ago. It’s basically a Justin Arnold summoning circle— Witchcraft? Check. Snark? Check. LGBTQ+ Cast? Check. Plus, it had enough Halloween atmosphere to warrant this book coming with a dry ice machine and a bag of plastic spiders.

In short…it lived up to all of those things. This was my 5th book by Lou Wilham and quickly skyrocketed to my favorite. From the setting to the magic system, to the play on romance and Cozy Witch tropes, there is so much going on here that works, and it’s Wilham at her finest.

The leading characters of Rus and Azure are well-done. Their personalities compliment each other so well and watching how they dance around each other— and the past— is refreshing. It’s cute, healthy, and doesn’t overdo it on the steam (But has just enough so I don’t feel cheated). I’m excited to watch them grow as a couple as the series progresses.

I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Gemma Best · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hex Next Door is a wonderfully witchy new series set in the magical community of Moondale. It is full of intriguing and captivating characters like Rus and Azure whose love story is subtly and beautifully written. There are lots of other characters in the background who are equally fascinating like the druid Cagney, Sheriff Greer and special little Aihuan.

This story builds slowly, and I especially loved learning all about Rus’ powers of necromancy and cleansing of the spirits. I would highly recommend reading this series and I can’t wait for Book Two.

I received an ARC of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and is written voluntarily.

[Brindi Quinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ahhh, I'm so excited for the rest of this series!! This is THE PERFECT autumn read. (I felt like I was outside bundled in a scarf, sipping hot chocolate, and listening to leaves scuttling along the pavement several times while I was reading this book.)

The magic system and world of Moondale/Ironport are robust, and that world comes alive from the first moments where Rus and Nesta are house hunting through to the last page. This is truly effortless worldbuilding at its best where there's no info dumping or obvious strings of explanation; the world simply exists, you've stepped into it, and you slowly digest the mythos of it all through observation. I love, love, loved this element. I loved all the witchy vibes that were just woven into the real world so perfectly.

This story is third person, dual POV -- two elements I don't usually go for, and I have to say, I loved them both! The dual POV between Az and Rus was so well done. I loved seeing a scene on one of their shoulders, only to walk away from that scene and get a completely different take on what just happened from the other. Az and Rus are both fabulous characters on their own, but what I was most drawn to was this sort of (again) effortless introspection on how the internal narrative differs from the external. It was smart. And it made them both so multi-dimensional. I loved that both were seasoned in their magic (along with the rest of the adult cast) and that there were no training wheels required. It was a refreshing change to a typical fantasy/paranormal novel where the characters are just learning their magic.

BUT THE PINING. Poor, poor Az, haha. No, I loved the emotion-driven romance between these two women. So much history, such deep roots, and a love beyond physical romance as is proven by the way Az strives to be there for Rus even if they're no longer what she wants them to be. Book 1 sets us up for a great romantic payoff, and I can't wait to see what happens in Book 2.

The other characters were equally solid and DIVERSE, and though it's a large cast, I had no problem keeping up with them. I think my favorite was Cagney. I adored her and her druid awesomeness. And the girls!! Huaner was SO adorable. I could just hear her giggles rolling of the page, and it made me want to fight for her too! Love the found family aspect and Rus's selfless love for her adopted children.

If the characters and world don't hook you, there was enough mystery built into this plot to make me keep coming back and eating up chapters. 100% recommend for fans of witchy media like Practical Magic and Sabrina or those looking for seamless, positive LGBTQ+ rep. Can't wait to see what happens next!

[Nagma (Take A Look At My Bookshelf) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really good read. This magical world of witches had so many amazing characters. My favorite thing was that the characters came together as family despite not being blood related. The bond between these characters was strong and I admired that.

This book had so much and it had a love story that felt almost perfect. Rus and Azure were perfectly matched and I loved how the story builds slowly. They were so cute and there was a bit of steam which added to the vibes of the book.

I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait for book 2!

Rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐

[aliteraryarchivist · Rating 5 out of 5]

Are you looking for a witchy read? How about a sapphic witchy read? If you have answered yes to any of these questions The Hex Next Door is for you.

This book was everything I wanted a in a witchy read and then some.

The story is told in a dual perspective, Rus and Azure, who happen to be ex lovers. The tension between Rus and Azure. The mutal pinning. It was everything. I do not read a lot of second chance romances, but this hit different. This book screamed cozy and slice of life vibes. It was refereshing to read.

Lou Wilham's writing is absolutely gorgeous. The world building and characters were beautiful. I am looking forward to reading more of Lou Wilham's other books. The sequel cannot come fast
enough.

A huge thank you to @midnight_booktours, @midnighttidepublishing, and @lou.wilham for allowing me to read this book!!

[Nancy O'Toole · Rating 5 out of 5]

They say you can’t go home again, but Rus Ashthrone is going to test that theory. After spending years away, she returns to the small town of Moondale, a haven for magical folk. But the problems that drove her from home persist, complicated by a pair of adopted children with a secret. Rus’s return also brings her face-to-face with her first love, Az, who continues to carry a torch for the woman who got away.

We seem to be in the middle of a rising interest in lower-stakes fantasy, where things are less about saving the world and more about quieter, more personal problems. But just because said problems may be smaller, doesn’t mean that they must feel unimportant. This is something that The Hex Next Door handles well. Whether it be Az and Rus’s unresolved feelings for each other, or Rus’s desire to protect her children from harm, the emotions presented here come with a lot of power, and you’ll find it easy to route for our heroes and many of the side characters.

The Hex Next Door is very much a series stater, merely opening the door for what looks like a fascinating journey. Not everything is resolved by the end, from the tension with the town council to the second chance sapphic romance between Rus and Az, meaning you’ll end the book hungry for book two. The Hex Next Door is a great fit if you enjoy witchy vibes, found families, or stories centered mainly around queer characters. I really enjoyed reading this one and will be picking up book two once it’s released.

Full disclosure- The author, Lou Wilham, is a friend of mine. The book is also published under Midnight Tide Publishing, who I’ve worked with for several of my own releases. I received an advance copy of this book for free.

[Meg Dailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to be a beta reader for this awesome book, and I can't wait for more readers to get to see it!

Rus is a witch on the run. After years away from her home of Moondale, she's returned to take advantage of the town's powerful magic, which she hopes will be enough to protect her and her family: her business partner and her two adopted daughters. And if hiding a magical family from the forces of evil in a magic house in a magic-steeped town wasn't difficult enough, Rus also has to face her past in the form of her very beautiful long-lost love.

Azure is part of the powerful Elwood family who have led one of the biggest covens in Moondale for generations. Usually stable and rule-abiding, the return of the love she thought had left forever throws her life into disarray. Why did Rus leave? Why is she back? Who are these kids she brought with her? Does she still have *GULP* feelings for Az???

There are many things in this book that I absolutely adore, so here's a brief list:
- Magic adapted for the modern world, into laws, jobs, and apps
- Found family and newfound home
- It's all about the PINING
- Sassy magical house

Super fun, shoots straight for my heart, would die for these characters (some of them, they know who they are).

[Susanne Schmidt]

A witchy romance with an intriguing small town setting. Loved both Rus and Az, but the side characters are just as interesting and well-written.

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

MOAR!!!!!!!!! I demand more chapters, more books, more of this town!

A plot I have never seen, richly developed characters, the start of a serial that neatly starts up, but also ties up the initial story, but still makes you hunger for what happens next to the characters.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Nite0wl29 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a dual-POV set in a cozy, small town with witches and I absolutely adored it! I have such a soft spot for second chance romances and this one in particular landed a spot on my list of faves. And because the main characters are over the age of 20 there were certain aspects that made me relate more with them than most younger heroines. The world-building was richly described enough for my mind’s eye which is something I always crave in books with modern settings.

[Bec · Rating 3 out of 5]

First off... that cover kicks butt!

I will say that I enjoyed the ex-girlfriends (main characters Az and Rus) dancing around the fact that they still love each other, but can’t bring themselves to own up to it. The storyline about a young witchling who is/will be a future seer, and is being hunted by a witch coven who wants the toddler’s magic for themselves is engaging and I can see this story easily working itself into future book releases.

As a reviewer it can be hard to be negative since I don’t want to hurt anyone’s feelings, but then this is an opportunity to present a reader’s feedback that may indeed strengthen future books by the author.

Now, I’m no prude, and have been reading books for the last 60+ years, so I’m no stranger to foul language. Hell, I can belt out a line of expletives that would make my sailor daddy proud! But The Hex Next Door uses them where none are needed.

Trying to see how many foul words you can stick into one sentence or paragraph does not bring out the character’s anger over something, but rather diminishes the character into being “trashy”. Rus doesn’t strike me as someone who would be this foul mouthed (verbally or mentally) just for the sake of using a dirty word. She’s highly opinionated, yes, and a strong necromancer, and she loves her little girls as fiercely as most mothers love their children. Someone this powerful and intelligent doesn’t need foul language beyond its occasional, and appropriate, usage.

Oh, and while there aren’t a lot of typos or sentence structure issues there are enough that it could use some tidying up (and possibly the deletion of a fuc* or twenty while you’re at it).

This was the first book I’ve read by this author. For the first few chapters I honestly thought that this was her first book and all the swearing nearly had me stop reading it. It interrupts the flow and actually irritated me to the point that it distracted me from the story. But then the later chapters smoothed out and the book took on some serious energy. So on a hunch I went and looked her up on Amazon and I see quite a few book titles already out and a number of them being released between now and the early part of next year (2023). Ah, so not a virgin author after all. So, WTF Lou??

I would like to see the necromancy and spirit connections expanded upon, as well as a clearer understanding of how the toddler’s future sight will impact Moondale and its citizens. Hopefully those topics will be offered up in the next book in this series.

Oh, ummm… speaking of the toddler … IMHO her sentence structure and perceptions have her come across more like a five or six year old, not three, unless being a medium and a seer are contributing to her advanced level of clear speech and observations?

BTW: I do like the sample chapters of “Of Loyalties & Wreckage” at the end of the book, and it is there that I see Lou doesn’t cuss through every book she writes and I may just track “Loyalties” down and give it a go!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Carey P.W. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I truly meant to read this one over Halloween, but other priorities came first. But I think it is a fun read for the Halloween season. This book had many good qualities. It describes a world of magic in which witches own and operate their own towns. There are systems of order and law for the witches, but of course, the novel wouldn’t be any fun unless the main character, Icarus “Rus” Ashthorne, didn’t rebel against all of them. She likely gets away with it because all the witches in Moondale seem to recognize the greatness in her powers. Rus practices necromancy, a form of magic banned in Moondale. While it gives her a bad reputation, it may be just the thing that saves her family and perhaps the entire town.

Throughout the novel, we learn about the life of witches and the rules of magic. The author is able to keep the reader engaged consistently here. There are also a lot of arrogant characters who like to push each other’s buttons. Even the ones who are family or the closest friends seem to enjoy getting snotty with one another. At the same time, the reader witnesses the way that even old enemies, such as Rus and the town sheriff, are still devoted to protecting all witches and Moondale at any cost. Thus, there is a strong camaraderie among witches in the story.

This novel is also a love story. Rus is reunited with her old love, Azure Elwood, and the reader can see immediately that old feelings are alive and well with these two. Likewise, the reader can find amusement in the ways that the two women refuse to admit their feelings for each other. Regardless, Az is determined to protect Rus and her daughters who are in danger from other witches who seek to exploit the girls’ powers.

Rus’ dismissal of rules and traditions makes her a likeable character. While others do not condone her magic, her magic constantly saves her and her daughters. However, she does also place herself at risk, which is the reason others attempt to sway her against it. It is a delicate line that she must walk to use the powers she knows will defend against threats while also not killing herself in the process.

I wish I could have been more in Rus’ and Az’s heads. I felt that their emotions were described, but I wasn’t in the experience with them. I wanted more deeper exploration there. I’m bias because I like books with more angst. For my preference, it was lacking here. However, the story is plot-driven, and if that is its purpose, then it works.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Alix Neyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! It’s the perfect cozy fantasy that I live for! It’s definitely going to be one that I revisit in September or October when I am wanting to get into the cozy fall vibes. Lou writing is fantastic! Very easy and real, her characters dialog is not drowning in paranormal lore that I am confused 🫤 but she is building a world and lore that I want to be apart of. Her character dialogue (internal and banter) is on point, i love it!

Okay let’s run though some more points that this book checks off in my “must read” list:
✅ relatable main and supporting characters.
✅ great representation of LGBTQ characters.
✅ crating a small town that I want to live in! Seriously I need to find this place now! And the house, that house is a must!
✅ A great start to a series.
✅ perfect ending that wraps up nicely, but leaves something’s that could be explored on the next book.
✅ Cute kid characters (I am not usually a fan of them, but Lou writing has won me over…this time).

Tv/movie comparison (in my opinion):
Movie: Practical Magic
TV Shows: The Librarians, Warehouse 13, and Murder She Wrote (now I know I am aging myself and probably lost about 1/2 if not all of you on this one) hear me out.

This book is just so good and cozy, it’s written well and is focus with the problem being address at the half way mark on the first act, second act the characters try some things they don’t work, they get discouraged but by the end of the second act they have a plan in place. Third act is all about the final battle and conclusion to wrap it up nicely in the end. Perfect for a serialize hour show once a week, preferably on Tuesday as I don’t really have anything to watch on that day 😉.

Overall it’s a 5/5⭐️ for me with a 3/5😱👻 scary/paranormal vibes.

[Stephanie E. Donohue · Rating 5 out of 5]

A romance between two sassy witches. A snarky magic house that conjures some kickass coffee mugs (and occasionally plays matchmaker). Found Family vibes.

Need I say more???

I was fortunate enough to read an early copy of the Hex Next Door, and I had an absolute blast with it. Az is my new best friend. Rus is the most loveable bullhead in the world. And I would literally die to protect her family.

This is one of those books that just gets everything right. The magic/witch lore was so well done and blended perfectly with our modern/contemporary society. There’s a lot of comedy to be found within these pages, as well as drama and some spooky vibes. The character development is *chef’s kiss* absolute perfection. They were real people. With real flaws. And yes, sometimes you wanted to smack some sense into them (I’m looking at you, Rus), but that’s part of what makes them so damn enjoyable. Give me all the imperfect/stubborn/snarky characters please!!!!

And the ANGST between Az and Rus… oh my lord. I won’t spoil it. But let me just say, these two women have a history. A history marred by broken hearts and bad decisions. But they still love each other. And watching the two of them pine, and fight and find that love again… *chef’s kiss.*

This whole book is a chef’s kiss, lol.

I literally can’t recommend it enough. And I can’t wait to see how these characters grow and progress through the rest of the series.

(Also, this releases in October... just in time for the witchy season. And this is the *perfect* story to read on a cold Halloween night. Just saying).

[Melissa Lee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given an ARC copy for an honest opinion review.

I would like to start off saying that witchy books are kind of my thing! I absolutely love reading all stories about witches and seeing how each author describes what they believe is a witch. The hex next door is set in the fall time in a small town called Moondale. It follows the lives of two witches Rus and Az with the story being narrated by both sides. I think my favorite part of this book is watching the different types of witches that Lou Wilham brought to life. It had me wondering which type of witch I could be if I was in this story.
This story starts out with Rus running from witch hunters and she ends up back in her home town where her ex still lives. This is a beautiful story that follows a LGBT+ community and I absolutely love to see it!! Throughout the whole book it shows the love that Az and Rus still have for one another.
My only complaint is that this book starts off kind of slow for my pace of reading but once you get towards the end you don’t ever want the book to end! I still need so much more to this story!! Can not wait for book two.
Overall, this book was beautifully written and it definitely will put you in the mood for Halloween. This is now one of my favorite series about witches! My rating for this book will be a 4.2 only because the story started off really slow, but then it turned into a masterpiece!!

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The full review is available on my blog: Wine Cellar Library

First, I would like to thank the author and Book Sirens for providing me with a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

The Hex Next Door by Lou Wilham is a perfect combination of queer, cozy, and witchy. While not a romance in this first book of the Witches of Moondale series, it is clear that Rus and Az’s relationship will be a focal point later–whenever they can overcome their reservations and insecurities. The world-building is exceptional, and I loved the sassy house and its antics.

While possibly a turn-off for some readers, I thoroughly enjoyed the plethora of colorful curse words. This is how I speak most of the time, so I felt right at home. Azure’s rant about Darcy, Rus’s crow familiar, is one of the best things I have ever read. I read it over and over again, and I even read it out loud to my husband.

The pacing was a little slow, but I really enjoyed The Hex Next Door and I am looking forward to reading the next book, The Ghost of Hexes Past . I can’t wait to see what finally breaks down the walls that Rus and Az have built around their hearts.

[Merrit Townsend (always1morebook) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Want a great witchy read filled with magic and a bit of a creepy vibe to get lost in? Look no further than The Hex Next Door by Lou Wilham.

This story follows Icarus or Rus for short. She returns to her hometown under less than desirable circumstances. She needs help from her family and the towns coven to protect something so valuable to her that she would risk her own life to save them. The problem is that she left the town and her ex girlfriend, Az and never looked back. Rus is going to have to do some serious magic of her own if she is going to win over the coven and maybe.....just maybe she can become friends with Az again.

Oh man did I love this book and to be honest, I was truly surprised by how much I loved it. The story was fast paced and super easy to get into. The mystery surrounding Rus's return to Moondale was a fun extra surprise. I loved the family that she created when she was not the run and the heartbreak that she feels is so strong. I truly felt every bit of pain with Rus. I enjoyed all of the side characters..and I loved Rus's Aunt. She was a crack up! This book is a perfect witchy and magic filled book that I adored. Go give this one a try because you will love it!

[Adriana | nannersreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Midnight Book Tours, Midnight Tide Publishing and Lou Wilham for providing me with a copy of this book. This is my honest review.
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I was so excited to read the Hex Next Door! And rightfully so! It was so much more than I expected. It was brimming with heart and warmth and so much love. 🖤
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The magic in this book was so cool, but the relationships, both romantic and not, stole the show. The love between Rus and Az was palpable. I could feel it on every single page. On top of that, the found family love was enough to have me sobbing. This was more than a sapphic witch romance. This was about finding your home personified and doing whatever it takes to protect that purest of loves. Be still my beating heart. 😭🖤
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I read Villainous by Lou Wilham earlier this year and I can say with certainty that she just has a way of delivering gut punches disguised in fantasy 😂 This was my second Lou Wilham read, but it definitely won’t be my last.
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If you’re looking for a witchy read that’ll tug at your heart strings, pick this book up. I promise you won’t regret it. 🖤
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The Hex Next Door is the first book in the Witches of Moondale series. It is available for purchase NOW in ebook and paperback format.

[Marcia - itsabookthing2021 · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off this is the perfect novel for the spooky season. It has practical magic vibes but with it's own uniqueness.
I loved Hex next door from the first chapter, Rus is the best straight talking bad ass female character going. I loved her attitude, she's sassy and she's not about to let the magic board push her around.
I loved that about her, even when desperate she didn't lower her morals or what she stood for, she held her own... With the help of others.
Azure pleasantly surprised me, I thought at first she was going to be a love sick push over but I was totally wrong, yes she has a soft side but by no means does that mean she's a push over.
Indigo, I loved his character and I would have loved more of him.
In fact I loved all the characters, I think Darcy didn't get enough page time - I'm sure there's more that crow could do 😂
The plot was incredible, without giving away anything, I'm just blown away. It's cleverly done and incorporated - I didn't expect it at all and I'm sure if there's a second book we'll be up against more threats against the family.
I felt the full novel had it all, the writing, the character developments and the world building was fantastic. It grabbed you in from the first page and didn't let go. I felt part of that world I was rooting for all of our characters and our unlikely allies.
I absolutely loved this take on witches, in my opinion this type of storyline isn't often seen, if at all ever seen... I know I haven't read a similar plot line. It's refreshing, new and bloody brilliant.

I really am hyped for more of this series, i need more!

[Kübra Demir · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5/5

This book comes out at the perfect time bcz it's a great witchy and cozy book for October! I love most of the characters even tho we do not see their lives and personalities deeply. Like Greer, I'm not sure but I absolutely loved his character but was expecting to hate him bcz our main character does so. I absolutely adore how Rus acts around her children and how their children act around her. Oh, and we shouldn't forget the house which is both a bit grumpy and thoughtful at the same time. I love them all YET I wished to know their personality and how their magical abilities/educations/covens work a bit better. Still, I don't think that's a problem since this book is the first one in the Witches of Moondale series and there will be a couple more books to understand how that specific world works better. However, one part did not satisfy me fully and prevented me from giving it five stars and that one is the feeling of rush in the action scenes in the last few chapters. I did not even get who does who and how does it (that is partially bcz the system of their magical abilities didn't explained well in the previous chapters). Also, it felt like it happened so quickly. Overall it was such a heart-warming fall read for me and loved it so much.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Hannah Rae · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an unexpected find! I downloaded the first book (this one) as well as the second one as I cannot stop my obsession with witches and witchcraft and novels about this! In the beginning I did find the story a bit slow to get into it, and the names a bit jarring to pronounce but it was only for the first few chapters until I got well and truly into it all and it all started to flow nicely. I really liked this book and the characters! And Rus is so kickass and awesome that we all aspire to unleash our hidden goth necromancer self. I’m so looking forward to learning more about Moondale and if Rus and Azure will move forward with their what if and maybe relationship. The whole different sections of the magic within Moondale and the different covens are wonderful to read about and I can’t wait to see more of this moving forward. And don’t get me started on the house! That house is as sassy as anything and I can’t wait what mischief comes from it.
Thank you so much for having me read and review this book! I’m going to start the second one straight away!

[fruitbatwoman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cozy urban fantasy with witchcraft, a pinch of romance, and dark magic. I especially liked the diverse and loveable characters, be it the two main characters between whose POV we switch, or the various side characters. The mystery surrounding (Ica-)Rus and her family kept me turning the pages, and was heartwrenching when it was revealed. There wasn't so much romance in this story, rather mutual pining, which was sweet in its own way - and the double POV worked really well for that.
I only felt that there was a little bit missing from the ending. The big fight and action sequences felt a bit short compared to the other parts, and I would have liked more of an explanation about the bad guys and some aspects of the magic in this world. Overall it was an enjoyable urban fantasy read, that I would recommend to anyone who is into sassy witches and doesn't mind a bit of a dark twist.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

📚Delightful Review📚

Thank you #LouWilham and #MidnightTidePublishing for the Advanced Reader Copy for my honest review!

⭐️5

I loved this book so much! The character building was thoughtful and fit the characters perfectly! In the beginning it was easy to see the reason why Rus didn’t want to come back and I would have loved a prologue with a little more detail with how Rus’ family came to be but it was still good! We do find out more in the story so it wasn’t a big loss. Az and Rus really seemed to care for each other but let the emotions of each other get the best of them. The inclusion of a same-sex relationship was great and I felt was pushed on the back burner to tell the full story but you could still feel the angst throughout the whole book. Definitely a book to read when it comes out in October!

[Jessica Rush · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🔮🕯💀🏠🌈

REP: sapphic fmc x 2, non-binary side character, Trans man.

The Hex Next Door is the perfect book for Halloween Month.

Magic, Seers, Necromancy, Druids, Cupids, Covens and LGBT characters. This book has it all.

I really enjoyed the storyline, and all the characters involved. I mean even the house was a character. They worked together to save the girl, despite one not being part of their Coven. They were family through and through.

Rus and Azure love each other but don't have time to say it to each other, considering what happened over the course of the book. I love how everyone could see it though, even the house.

The girls were so cute and I just wanted to protect Aihuan with my life 😔. That girl is going to become a firecracker as she grows.

I can't wait to read book 2. 😍 I would love to see Rus and Az work everything out and become the family Az pictures.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Mandy Kell · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Hex Next Door was a great witchy read to start my September off. I immediately fell in love with the main character Rus and her spunky direct attitude. She has a fierce love for her adopted girls and as you read the story you discover more of how she is fighting to protect them. The romance between Rus and Az is emotional and fiery but also very tender. I loved the old romance rekindled trope as well as the side characters relationships with Rus and Az. The descriptions of the town and the home as well as all of the magical creatures and spells was fun and interesting. This book kept my attention and I read it all in one sitting. Five stars from me for great world building, excellent characters, and an intriguing story that I'd love to read more of.

[Stacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to Booksirens and Lou Wilham for letting me read The Hex Next Door.

I was so excited to read a The Hex Next Door , I knew as soon as I read the blurb it was a novel I'd really enjoy.
And boy did I enjoy it, actually no I LOVED it!!

I loved every minute of it. The story had me reeled in from the first page. I really liked all of the characters and felt they all gelled fantatsically. The events that happened made you want to continue reading to find out what happens.
I didn't expect Aihuan's back story, so I was pleasantly surprised!
I really liked that it alternated between Rus and Az.

And the writing style lured you in and wrapped you up like a blanket, it felt like a real story! I want to be friends with Rus and Az!!

Everything about this novel is perfect.

If you love Practical magic, Halloween Town and Ex-Hex and I mean who doesn't!?! Then you will love this novel.

I 1000% recommend this novel

I can't wait for book 2, I do think this is going to be one of my favourite series.