What do you think?
Rate this book
The Libra Witch #1
Blossom and Bone
Experience true love, and discover hidden heart desires, but beware of the allure of illusion.
Amé is a vegetation witch with a knack for soil cultivation and plant genetics.
She develops flower mates that mimic true love.
Amé is a dreamer and finds it difficult to say no, even when common sense dictates she should. After her life's work is stolen, she must go on a quest to recover her magic seeds.
Xephriel is a bone witch with a magic condition that causes empathic dissonance.
It's torture because one touch might mean his death.
Now, he's been forced into proximity with his crush to clear her name of murder.
Xephriel is put through the ultimate test of valor. Can he overcome his affliction, or is he doomed to lurk in the shadows forever?
*Standalone within a series. Blossom and Bone is the debut, introductory novel to the Libra Witch Series. All books in this series are standalone and will have a hfn or hea at the end.*
Amé is a vegetation witch with a knack for soil cultivation and plant genetics.
She develops flower mates that mimic true love.
Amé is a dreamer and finds it difficult to say no, even when common sense dictates she should. After her life's work is stolen, she must go on a quest to recover her magic seeds.
Xephriel is a bone witch with a magic condition that causes empathic dissonance.
It's torture because one touch might mean his death.
Now, he's been forced into proximity with his crush to clear her name of murder.
Xephriel is put through the ultimate test of valor. Can he overcome his affliction, or is he doomed to lurk in the shadows forever?
*Standalone within a series. Blossom and Bone is the debut, introductory novel to the Libra Witch Series. All books in this series are standalone and will have a hfn or hea at the end.*
250 pages, ebook
First published June 29, 2022
161 people are currently reading
6131 people want to read
About the author
Mary E. Jung
11 books52 followersMary E. Jung is the worldwide author and publisher of the Etrucian Royals and The Libra Witch Series and the Socrates. Mary lives with her two sons and husband in Pennsylvania. She received her bachelor’s degree in Arts Studies with an emphasis in Arts Management and Opera from Shenandoah University.
She's a Publishers Weekly spotlight author for Queen of Light and Ashes.
Join her on Instagram @peninhandmej and Facebook Author Mary E. Jung.
She's a Publishers Weekly spotlight author for Queen of Light and Ashes.
Join her on Instagram @peninhandmej and Facebook Author Mary E. Jung.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
September 15, 2022
Reading this book was like being enclosed within a walled secret flower shop.
The story follows our FMC, Amé is a vegetation witch who has a flower shop and a natural affinity for plants. An affinity that makes them grow at super speed and talk to her as if she's their best friend. Her shop has a wide collection of plants each with a unique set of traits that fits every personality which led to an abundance of customers/ visitors seeking her remedies on a daily basis. She has created a rare plant species called the "Flower Mate" that can grow into a human for one full moon and mimic your desired mate if only you took enough care of it. Until one day, a purchase has gone completely wrong and made Amé a suspect in a crime.
There's a lot to love in this book; starting from the beautiful descriptions of plants, the bone magic of Xephriel and the gothic vibes that surrounded the book. I loved the concept of ceating a flower that turns into a human for a short time and it felt so original and interesting! The writing almost mirrored the power the magic plants possessed and it delivered a driving sense of pacing that kept me turning the pages so quick. The love interest was developed more gradually and there was a lot of "will they/ won't they" moments before they finally get together.
You should definitely give "Blossom and Bone" a read if you like:
🌱Strangers to lovers
🌱Slowburn love interest
🌱Plant based magic
🌱YA Murder mystery
🌱Untouchable and mysterious mmc
🌱Fated mates
🌱Gothic vibes & bone magic
🌱Happy ever after
Huge thanks to author @peninhandmej for gifting me a copy to read! I enjoyed this book so much!
The story follows our FMC, Amé is a vegetation witch who has a flower shop and a natural affinity for plants. An affinity that makes them grow at super speed and talk to her as if she's their best friend. Her shop has a wide collection of plants each with a unique set of traits that fits every personality which led to an abundance of customers/ visitors seeking her remedies on a daily basis. She has created a rare plant species called the "Flower Mate" that can grow into a human for one full moon and mimic your desired mate if only you took enough care of it. Until one day, a purchase has gone completely wrong and made Amé a suspect in a crime.
There's a lot to love in this book; starting from the beautiful descriptions of plants, the bone magic of Xephriel and the gothic vibes that surrounded the book. I loved the concept of ceating a flower that turns into a human for a short time and it felt so original and interesting! The writing almost mirrored the power the magic plants possessed and it delivered a driving sense of pacing that kept me turning the pages so quick. The love interest was developed more gradually and there was a lot of "will they/ won't they" moments before they finally get together.
You should definitely give "Blossom and Bone" a read if you like:
🌱Strangers to lovers
🌱Slowburn love interest
🌱Plant based magic
🌱YA Murder mystery
🌱Untouchable and mysterious mmc
🌱Fated mates
🌱Gothic vibes & bone magic
🌱Happy ever after
Huge thanks to author @peninhandmej for gifting me a copy to read! I enjoyed this book so much!
July 7, 2023
Review coming soon
June 21, 2025
3.5 stars
I enjoyed the disability representation in this book and the world building. The beginning of the book dragged quite a bit and the dialogue to catch the reader up to speed on current events was awkward. The two main characters were cute together and I thought he was just precious AF. Like he needs to be protected.
Spice: 0/5
Triggers: body horror, murder (off page), death, grief, loneliness, chronic illness
I enjoyed the disability representation in this book and the world building. The beginning of the book dragged quite a bit and the dialogue to catch the reader up to speed on current events was awkward. The two main characters were cute together and I thought he was just precious AF. Like he needs to be protected.
Spice: 0/5
Triggers: body horror, murder (off page), death, grief, loneliness, chronic illness
May 27, 2023
Thank you to Brey’s Book Tours and Mary E Jung for providing me with a digital copy of this book. This is my honest review.
-
Love, love, love! Blossom and Bone, though a small read in comparison to the fantasy tomes that have become the norm, was still an absolute win for me. It’s unlike anything I’ve read before! Though my favorite blend of fantasy, romance, and mystery, Jung delievered a story and a world wholly it’s own.
-
I think my favorite aspect of Blossom and Bone was the world building. From the magic system to the setting to the glimpses of our growing cast, everything was well thought out. You can tell that Jung was meticulous when building this world and her appreciation for it and her characters really shines through. I want to learn more about everything ASAP. Also consider this to be my formal request to become a bone witch. Please and thank you 😂
-
I also really loved the romance between Amé and Xephriel! Their abilities and personalities compliment each other so well. I like that they can be vulnerable with each other and respect each other’s boundaries and experiences. I love a good slow burn 🤌🏽 I also really enjoyed the mystery aspect! It added a layer of excitement and intrigue to the story.
-
Overall, I really enjoyed Blossom and Bone! It was an exciting blend of fantasy, romance, and mystery. If you’re a fantasy reader and you’re looking for a fantasy read that switches things up, give Blossom and Bone a shot! I know I will for sure be reading the next book in the series.
-
Love, love, love! Blossom and Bone, though a small read in comparison to the fantasy tomes that have become the norm, was still an absolute win for me. It’s unlike anything I’ve read before! Though my favorite blend of fantasy, romance, and mystery, Jung delievered a story and a world wholly it’s own.
-
I think my favorite aspect of Blossom and Bone was the world building. From the magic system to the setting to the glimpses of our growing cast, everything was well thought out. You can tell that Jung was meticulous when building this world and her appreciation for it and her characters really shines through. I want to learn more about everything ASAP. Also consider this to be my formal request to become a bone witch. Please and thank you 😂
-
I also really loved the romance between Amé and Xephriel! Their abilities and personalities compliment each other so well. I like that they can be vulnerable with each other and respect each other’s boundaries and experiences. I love a good slow burn 🤌🏽 I also really enjoyed the mystery aspect! It added a layer of excitement and intrigue to the story.
-
Overall, I really enjoyed Blossom and Bone! It was an exciting blend of fantasy, romance, and mystery. If you’re a fantasy reader and you’re looking for a fantasy read that switches things up, give Blossom and Bone a shot! I know I will for sure be reading the next book in the series.
March 24, 2023
A vegetation witch with a knack for soil cultivation and plant genetics. In her lab, she develops flower mates, a sentient humanoid plant that mimics true love.
A bone witch with a magic condition that causes empathic dissonance. He hides in his house of bones to avoid the world. Blossom and Bone is a true forbidden love story of an Untouchable MMC and a Plus size FMC.
The book is a fantasy romance read. It's the first book in the Libra Witch series. The book establishes an unique magic system. It's a original magic system with Bone Magic and Plant Magic. I loved the fact how in this beautiful world Mary E. Jung created, different flowers are made for different personalities. The book contains elements of gothic world. I love the characterisation of the book. The characters are not shallow in this read. They are well developed. The relationship of the two protagonists developed gradually. I enjoyed every bit of it. The pace of the plot is really interesting. It contains mystery elements. It keeps you hooked until the very end. A strangers to Lover slow burn love story dipped in magic, Blossom and Bone is a must read for all fantasy romance readers. I highly recommend this book.
A bone witch with a magic condition that causes empathic dissonance. He hides in his house of bones to avoid the world. Blossom and Bone is a true forbidden love story of an Untouchable MMC and a Plus size FMC.
The book is a fantasy romance read. It's the first book in the Libra Witch series. The book establishes an unique magic system. It's a original magic system with Bone Magic and Plant Magic. I loved the fact how in this beautiful world Mary E. Jung created, different flowers are made for different personalities. The book contains elements of gothic world. I love the characterisation of the book. The characters are not shallow in this read. They are well developed. The relationship of the two protagonists developed gradually. I enjoyed every bit of it. The pace of the plot is really interesting. It contains mystery elements. It keeps you hooked until the very end. A strangers to Lover slow burn love story dipped in magic, Blossom and Bone is a must read for all fantasy romance readers. I highly recommend this book.
June 6, 2023
I loved this book! The witchy goodness and amazing world building were amazing!
This book was great! I loved the overall aesthetic and world building of the book- I could imagine every scene so clearly! The magic system was intricate— I loved that there were so many types of witches! The story itself was great— I love a good murder mystery! The twists and turns made this such an intriguing read— I read this in one sitting because I wanted to see what would happen! The only thing I didn’t like was some of the writing style— it just wasn’t for me. But, it was barely a detriment to the overall experience. I would recommend this book to fans of witchy fiction and romantasy!
Blossom and Bone is available online now through Amazon and Barnes and Noble!
Rating: 4.5/5
This book was great! I loved the overall aesthetic and world building of the book- I could imagine every scene so clearly! The magic system was intricate— I loved that there were so many types of witches! The story itself was great— I love a good murder mystery! The twists and turns made this such an intriguing read— I read this in one sitting because I wanted to see what would happen! The only thing I didn’t like was some of the writing style— it just wasn’t for me. But, it was barely a detriment to the overall experience. I would recommend this book to fans of witchy fiction and romantasy!
Blossom and Bone is available online now through Amazon and Barnes and Noble!
Rating: 4.5/5
September 15, 2022
This was a great read. It has plenty if magic, witches and plants. I loved the idea of the story it was very intriguing. Ame is a vegetation witch and she is very talented with plants and the soil they grow in. She has a shop called Seeds Of Love. She has grown some magical plants called flower mates. Before she can perfect them they are stolen Ame is then thrown into the task of finding her seeds & helping with the investigation by the witch council to find the murderer. I really enjoyed this story.
May 24, 2023
I thought this story was so unique, and the magic this book had to offer sucked me in almost immediately. If you enjoy magic, plants, witches, and unique storylines, then this is a must read for you. Ame is a vegetation witch who has a shop called Seeds Of Love. Ame is very talented when it comes to all the plants, soil, and her magical plants that she calls flower mates. Before she can get the flower mates perfected, they are stolen. Now, Ame must help figure out who took the, and help with the investigation. Again, this book was so unique, and so much fun.
March 2, 2023
Pacing of the story is okay. Writing is okay. Plot is okay, characters are above okay but not excellent. Overall the read is easy, plot is good enough to keep interest.
This is not a book I would add to my physical bookshelf. It is also not one that I would read again. Once is enough, but it's not terrible. It was a good break from the dark fantasy and high fantasy books I've been reviewing lately.
I guess I just had hopes for more.
This is not a book I would add to my physical bookshelf. It is also not one that I would read again. Once is enough, but it's not terrible. It was a good break from the dark fantasy and high fantasy books I've been reviewing lately.
I guess I just had hopes for more.
December 23, 2022
This was so unique! I LOVED the world the author created. It was a mix of late 1800s attire, atmosphere (think horses and carriages, no technology), and modern science (genetically altering plants). Add in the murder mystery, some romance and comedic relief and this was a great read! The attention to detail was excellent. Everything was described so perfectly. The science and bone magic aspects were so fascinating.
I do wish we saw and learned more of the Taxidermist since he is partially a villian as well.
I loved how the romance in this wasn't rushed. There was obvious attraction instantly, but also thw conscious decision to see where their relationship goes. No insta-I love yous. It didn't feel forced and I loved the old school feel of asking for courtship before marriage.
Overall, I'd 100% recommend to lovers of fantasy/science novels with a touch of romance and mystery. I'm excited to see what the next book brings to this world.
I do wish we saw and learned more of the Taxidermist since he is partially a villian as well.
I loved how the romance in this wasn't rushed. There was obvious attraction instantly, but also thw conscious decision to see where their relationship goes. No insta-I love yous. It didn't feel forced and I loved the old school feel of asking for courtship before marriage.
Overall, I'd 100% recommend to lovers of fantasy/science novels with a touch of romance and mystery. I'm excited to see what the next book brings to this world.
June 21, 2025
Aw, this book felt like a warm hug while sitting outside in a field of flowers.
This is a cozy and witchy book with historical gothic vibes. I love the way the author describes everything with such detail that you feel you are seeing and smelling what the characters are. I particularly loved how the colors of everyone’s aura was described. The romance is an adorable slow burn. There’s some sweet side characters too. I loved Noble. As I have said before, I’m obsessed with The Taxidermist. I need more of him even though he’s a villain.
This was a sweet read.
If you’re looking for a cozy fantasy with a dash of murder mystery, look no further! 🦴🌹
This is a cozy and witchy book with historical gothic vibes. I love the way the author describes everything with such detail that you feel you are seeing and smelling what the characters are. I particularly loved how the colors of everyone’s aura was described. The romance is an adorable slow burn. There’s some sweet side characters too. I loved Noble. As I have said before, I’m obsessed with The Taxidermist. I need more of him even though he’s a villain.
This was a sweet read.
If you’re looking for a cozy fantasy with a dash of murder mystery, look no further! 🦴🌹
June 20, 2025
Mary E. Jung truly has a gift for building lush, enchanting fantasy worlds! As a fan of her Monsters of Medela series, I was thrilled to dive into her Libra Witch world—and it absolutely delivered 🖤✨
This story is cozy, witchy, and delightfully mysterious from page one. I completely fell for Amé and Xephriel—her sunlit little shop is so vibrant, while his is all cozy, broody gothic charm. The author’s vivid descriptions brought every scene to life, and the eerie string of murders added just the right amount of suspense. Plus, the slow-burn romance? So sweet.
If you're craving a cozy fantasy with a splash of Summerween vibes, 𝑩𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒔𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑩𝒐𝒏𝒆 deserves a spot on your TBR 💀 🌸
This story is cozy, witchy, and delightfully mysterious from page one. I completely fell for Amé and Xephriel—her sunlit little shop is so vibrant, while his is all cozy, broody gothic charm. The author’s vivid descriptions brought every scene to life, and the eerie string of murders added just the right amount of suspense. Plus, the slow-burn romance? So sweet.
If you're craving a cozy fantasy with a splash of Summerween vibes, 𝑩𝒍𝒐𝒔𝒔𝒐𝒎 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑩𝒐𝒏𝒆 deserves a spot on your TBR 💀 🌸
June 7, 2023
In "Blossom and Bone," Mary E. Jung crafted an extraordinary world of fantasy and combined it with fantastic slow-burn romance and suspense to keep any reader engaged until the very last page. I was astounded to realise how shiny the language is. I must start by saying that I am completely in love with the presentation. I was amazed by how beautifully the visuals complemented the narrative. She offers a plant witch with special magical abilities who can imitate every person's ideal partner. However, she quickly fell in love with a bone witch who possessed a sinister ability to instantly kill someone. It's rare to find a slow-burning romance that keeps the reader guessing until the very end, thus I enjoyed every moment of it.
I personally admired the excellent world creation and the carefully handled and unhurried love interest. It builds slowly but contains enough tension to keep you reading until the very end. It's enjoyable to see the main characters' affection and respect for one another. It's really fun to follow the blending of mystery, romance, and fantasy. The language and narrative style brilliantly support the plot to create a surreal fantasy world. The speed of the novel is excellent for a stranger-to-lover plotline to keep the reader wondering. I really enjoyed reading it, and I'd suggest it to anyone who enjoys slow-burning romance and fantastical scenes.
I personally admired the excellent world creation and the carefully handled and unhurried love interest. It builds slowly but contains enough tension to keep you reading until the very end. It's enjoyable to see the main characters' affection and respect for one another. It's really fun to follow the blending of mystery, romance, and fantasy. The language and narrative style brilliantly support the plot to create a surreal fantasy world. The speed of the novel is excellent for a stranger-to-lover plotline to keep the reader wondering. I really enjoyed reading it, and I'd suggest it to anyone who enjoys slow-burning romance and fantastical scenes.
March 11, 2023
I am not much of a fantasy girl, but this one might just changed my opinion.
Been a while since I picked up this kind of book and I can say I really enjoyed it. Right from the beginning, not to sound all too cliche but the world of Libra pulled me in, and I was sold. The unique world the author created. The story of a forbidden romance with the untouchable MMC and the sunshine but fiercy FMC. The slowly built romance between the two, and the magic touch made it all better. Highly recommend this for a fun getaway.
Been a while since I picked up this kind of book and I can say I really enjoyed it. Right from the beginning, not to sound all too cliche but the world of Libra pulled me in, and I was sold. The unique world the author created. The story of a forbidden romance with the untouchable MMC and the sunshine but fiercy FMC. The slowly built romance between the two, and the magic touch made it all better. Highly recommend this for a fun getaway.
May 15, 2023
Really liked the diversity and world building in this one. The magic system and the intricacies associated with the flowers. Similarly, the MMC’s bone magic was well thought out. I’d recommend this book to anyone who enjoys:
- Slow Burn
-Fated Mates
-Mystery
Thank you to the author and to @breysbooktours for a copy of the eBook. These opinions are my own and are being expressed without bias.
- Slow Burn
-Fated Mates
-Mystery
Thank you to the author and to @breysbooktours for a copy of the eBook. These opinions are my own and are being expressed without bias.
July 13, 2023
I loved this book. It had mystery, romance and so much more. I wanted to sit down and have a cup of tea with Ame she is such a great character. This book had great world building and I can’t wait to see if there’s more 😘
December 12, 2023
I absolutely loved this read and was enthralled by it
June 19, 2025
This book bloomed in my chest and ached in all the right ways.
Amé’s journey—from people-pleaser to fierce, self-claimed witch—was so tender and relatable. Her bond with Xephriel, the untouchable, aching bone witch with a heart full of storms, unraveled with such quiet power. Every scene felt like poetry laced with grief, hope, and blooming second chances.
The representation of neurodivergence, chronic illness, and sensory sensitivity was not just respectful—it was transformative. This isn’t a story driven by spice; it’s driven by soul.
No smut, no problem—this book kept me hooked with rich world-building, lush gothic-cottagecore aesthetics, and writing so vivid I could almost smell the flowers and bones.
If you crave magic that feels deeply human, Blossom and Bone will leave roots in your heart.
Amé’s journey—from people-pleaser to fierce, self-claimed witch—was so tender and relatable. Her bond with Xephriel, the untouchable, aching bone witch with a heart full of storms, unraveled with such quiet power. Every scene felt like poetry laced with grief, hope, and blooming second chances.
The representation of neurodivergence, chronic illness, and sensory sensitivity was not just respectful—it was transformative. This isn’t a story driven by spice; it’s driven by soul.
No smut, no problem—this book kept me hooked with rich world-building, lush gothic-cottagecore aesthetics, and writing so vivid I could almost smell the flowers and bones.
If you crave magic that feels deeply human, Blossom and Bone will leave roots in your heart.
June 7, 2023
Blossom and Bone is the first book in the Libra Witch Series by Mary E Jung. It's a fantasy romance book. The book creates a distinctive unique magic system with Bone Magic and Plant Magic. I adored the idea that different flowers were developed for various personalities in the lovely world Mary E. Jung created. The book has Gothic-style characteristics. I adore how the characters are drawn. They have developed well. The two main characters' bond grew over time. I relished every second of it. The plot moves along at a fairly fascinating speed. It has aspects of mystery. You are hooked through to the very end. Blossom and Bone is a must-read for all fantasy romance lovers. It is a strangers to Lover slow burn love story coated in magic. I highly recommend this book. I absolutely loved this book and it just made my day. Waiting to jump on the next in the series.
Thank you @magicalbooktour and author @peninhandmej for having me in this tour.
Thank you @magicalbooktour and author @peninhandmej for having me in this tour.
March 10, 2023
This was such an unique read! I loved how different the magic aspect was. We follow our main character who is a vegetarian witch. This is the first book I’ve read with magic that follows a specific type of witch, and one that is plant based specifically! I love this idea. The main character Ame can use her abilities to fast grow plants. I love that the author gives these plants their own personalities! We also throw in a murder that adds to some great adventure. Spice the story up with a love that isn’t rushed adds a cherry on top! This was overall a great read and had just the right amount of main character on an adventure with a little love and murder.
October 25, 2024
I liked this book a lot. I wasn’t sure I was going to at first but it quickly picked up the pace and had some good suspense and mystery with a love story involved too. No spice though.
August 31, 2022
This book is an amazing introduction into a very different kind of magic system. The very intricate ability to make flower mates was so origial and very interesting . I found it so fascinating how the flower could be made for different kinds of people and personalities. The bone magic was also very interesting. The romance and mystery surrounding the story was lovely to read and I found myself rooting for them throughout the story. I loved how the book ended and it was perfectly written.
The only issue that I had with the book was at times it did feel a little overwhelming with the descriptions. A bit much at times and I felt it took away from the main story. Having said that, I did truly enjoy the book and look forward to reading more from this author. I give this book 4 stars.
The only issue that I had with the book was at times it did feel a little overwhelming with the descriptions. A bit much at times and I felt it took away from the main story. Having said that, I did truly enjoy the book and look forward to reading more from this author. I give this book 4 stars.
June 18, 2025
So far I have loved everything this author writes. She has a way of painting a vivid picture with her words. i absolutely adore the build between the main characters, and the murder mystery is as amazing as if it was written by Agatha Christie herself! this book gives Agatha Christie's Tommy and Tuppence series meets Nightmare before Christmas vibes!
December 19, 2022
Original take on witches and magic!
I truly enjoyed this romantasy! It was such a cute love story mixed with a little bit of mystery. I love the writer's twist on magic and how it is used through out the world she creates!
I truly enjoyed this romantasy! It was such a cute love story mixed with a little bit of mystery. I love the writer's twist on magic and how it is used through out the world she creates!
September 24, 2023
If you told me that this book was an old children's fairytale, I'd believe you. It's soft and beautiful and the worldbuilding was the best part about the book. The earth is called a "world egg" and it truly gives old fairytale vibes. I was intrigued by the book because of the main character's powers, both being literally my favorite type of aesthetics/powers. I read the description, downloaded it on Stuff Your Kindle Day, and devoured it in two days. It's quite short, being 242 pages, and easy to read.
It's often rare to find main characters that are as balanced as Ame and Xephriel. Both are soft but strong. Ame is feminine but a powerful vegetation witch who ends up fighting like a warrior by the end. And Xephriel, despite having powers associated with 'darker' MMCs, was an absolute teddy bear and a breath of fresh air. Rather than most MMC's who are dark, calloused and distant, I got instant therapy by seeing both characters in touch with their feelings, communicating like adults, and seeing a really cute romance blossom without being insta-love, despite the book being so short (and it was one of my favorite parts of the book).
And this book is really like therapy. I honestly don't take this book as just a good story, but this is truly a comfort book that I can read again and again just to really give myself pep-talks and remind myself of the importance of self-love, self-acceptance, good friendships, and being honest with yourself. Each of the characters are incredibly self-aware, and genuinely describe their emotional predicaments clearly and obviously.
I will say, that despite being overall such a lovely book, it had some drawbacks. One of them being the fact that some of the dialogue was actually like talking to a therapist. I know I say that this is a good thing in this book particularly, and it helps this book be a literal form of therapy, but in the act of storytelling it felt like hand-holding or overexplaining. I think at some point I felt like I was actually getting tired of them saying the same things again and again, which felt like repetition more than reinforcement, and it felt like I was being scolded by my therapist.
The dialogue in the beginning was also choppy in some places, and I instantly felt like it was weird and unnatural. It got much better! However, despite the fact that the characters all swear to Khaos, the god in the book, and everyone speaks like it is a medieval fantasy, and they don't use the word earth, just 'world egg'- Ame exclaims "omg" at some point near the end, making the dialogue inconsistent.
Another part I did not like, was while the development or acceptance of their feelings took place over the course of the book, the main moment when they realize that they can both be together, it takes place in less than a page. I remember reading it and going "wait, that's it? THAT'S how they find out, it was THAT easy??" It felt like they added some sub-conflict but there was no true resolution, everything just magically ENDED UP being okay by itself. I know that more happens after, because that's not all the development their romance gets and more needs to be sorted out, but still, I think that particular moment deserves to go slower.
All in all, the characters were so refreshing to read and the book was just a beautiful short story about being true soulmates. I honestly think I'm going to turn this into a bedtime story for my future kids before they get old enough to read the actual book. This gave 100% Tangled vibes.
It's often rare to find main characters that are as balanced as Ame and Xephriel. Both are soft but strong. Ame is feminine but a powerful vegetation witch who ends up fighting like a warrior by the end. And Xephriel, despite having powers associated with 'darker' MMCs, was an absolute teddy bear and a breath of fresh air. Rather than most MMC's who are dark, calloused and distant, I got instant therapy by seeing both characters in touch with their feelings, communicating like adults, and seeing a really cute romance blossom without being insta-love, despite the book being so short (and it was one of my favorite parts of the book).
And this book is really like therapy. I honestly don't take this book as just a good story, but this is truly a comfort book that I can read again and again just to really give myself pep-talks and remind myself of the importance of self-love, self-acceptance, good friendships, and being honest with yourself. Each of the characters are incredibly self-aware, and genuinely describe their emotional predicaments clearly and obviously.
I will say, that despite being overall such a lovely book, it had some drawbacks. One of them being the fact that some of the dialogue was actually like talking to a therapist. I know I say that this is a good thing in this book particularly, and it helps this book be a literal form of therapy, but in the act of storytelling it felt like hand-holding or overexplaining. I think at some point I felt like I was actually getting tired of them saying the same things again and again, which felt like repetition more than reinforcement, and it felt like I was being scolded by my therapist.
The dialogue in the beginning was also choppy in some places, and I instantly felt like it was weird and unnatural. It got much better! However, despite the fact that the characters all swear to Khaos, the god in the book, and everyone speaks like it is a medieval fantasy, and they don't use the word earth, just 'world egg'- Ame exclaims "omg" at some point near the end, making the dialogue inconsistent.
Another part I did not like, was while the development or acceptance of their feelings took place over the course of the book, the main moment when they realize that they can both be together, it takes place in less than a page. I remember reading it and going "wait, that's it? THAT'S how they find out, it was THAT easy??" It felt like they added some sub-conflict but there was no true resolution, everything just magically ENDED UP being okay by itself. I know that more happens after, because that's not all the development their romance gets and more needs to be sorted out, but still, I think that particular moment deserves to go slower.
All in all, the characters were so refreshing to read and the book was just a beautiful short story about being true soulmates. I honestly think I'm going to turn this into a bedtime story for my future kids before they get old enough to read the actual book. This gave 100% Tangled vibes.
July 14, 2023
“My god. Where did this blood-thirsty witch come from? Where’s sweet, lovely Amé who prunes roses?” Amé stuffed the paper in her pocket, flipped her hair over a shoulder, and returned with, “She’s on vacation. She decided that there was too much insanity happening and left her alter ego in charge. That witch is saying, ‘Bye, Xephriel. I’m headed to Blood Street’.”
I absolutely enjoyed the characters in the books, the FMC and MMC are adorable and the slow burn is freaking amazing. Our FMC is Amé, she is a plant witch and our MMC, Xephriel, is a bone witch. They sound like total opposites but maybe they have more in common than meets the eye. When Amé’s life suddenly becomes involved in a murder mystery where she’s the main suspect, they are forced together. Xephriel finds himself in a desperate situation, he is closer to his crush but one touch could end everything for him. Can he maintain his distance or will he succumb to his desires? What happens when he does? Or is he doomed to forever be alone in the shadows? Blossom and Bone is a great book with a mix of mystery, magic, lovable character, and a dash of romance. I think Nobel made the book for me, I absolutely adore his character. He’s fun and quirky and really was a great addition to the story and a great contrast to Xephriel. I do love Xephriel and Amé, but Nobel was such a great addition that made the book that much better for me. The world-building is heavily detailed and entwined with the magic system, if that's not your thing I wouldn’t recommend this book as that is a huge part of it. But if you love an in-depth and unique magic system, this is the book for you. The details and nuances were perfect and made the story very unique and enjoyable. I found myself fully enthralled by the world created. I would also like to mention that this is a description-heavy book, so keep that in mind if you decide to read it.
Tropes:
Cozy Mystery
Deadly Forced Proximity
He Falls First
Fated Mates
Plus Sized FMC
Standalone
No spice
I absolutely enjoyed the characters in the books, the FMC and MMC are adorable and the slow burn is freaking amazing. Our FMC is Amé, she is a plant witch and our MMC, Xephriel, is a bone witch. They sound like total opposites but maybe they have more in common than meets the eye. When Amé’s life suddenly becomes involved in a murder mystery where she’s the main suspect, they are forced together. Xephriel finds himself in a desperate situation, he is closer to his crush but one touch could end everything for him. Can he maintain his distance or will he succumb to his desires? What happens when he does? Or is he doomed to forever be alone in the shadows? Blossom and Bone is a great book with a mix of mystery, magic, lovable character, and a dash of romance. I think Nobel made the book for me, I absolutely adore his character. He’s fun and quirky and really was a great addition to the story and a great contrast to Xephriel. I do love Xephriel and Amé, but Nobel was such a great addition that made the book that much better for me. The world-building is heavily detailed and entwined with the magic system, if that's not your thing I wouldn’t recommend this book as that is a huge part of it. But if you love an in-depth and unique magic system, this is the book for you. The details and nuances were perfect and made the story very unique and enjoyable. I found myself fully enthralled by the world created. I would also like to mention that this is a description-heavy book, so keep that in mind if you decide to read it.
Tropes:
Cozy Mystery
Deadly Forced Proximity
He Falls First
Fated Mates
Plus Sized FMC
Standalone
No spice
June 9, 2023
⭐ Book Name - Blossom and Bone
⭐ Author Name - Mary E Jung
⭐ Series Name - The Libra witch
⭐ Genre - Romance Fantasy
⭐ Pace - Slow burn
Guys I just discovered an awesome romance fantasy book and it's so so great that I can't imagine how it has taken so much time to come to me. 'Blossom and Bone' by Mary E Jung is an excellent creation by Mary E Jung not only for its unique setting but for the storyline, dialogues, ending, prose everything is just dazzlingly vibrant. I enjoy slowburn romance for a long time now and when it mixes with fanatsy set up, it offers me just the thing I want. Ame, a plant witch who has an unique power to create a mimic version of the desired mate of any, falls in love with a bone witch. But loves makes impossible to possible, right guys? And that happens here too. The magical world creation is intense and beautiful with the gorgeous prose of the author. The unique magic system is well supported with fantastic character creation and lovely dialogues. The book has some great bookish illustrations that I just loved. I loved this book for its great qualities and would recommend to any fantasy fan.
🗡️ You should read it if ~
1. You are a fantasy fan
2. You love alow burn romance
3. You enjoy unique magic systems
🗡️ Is this great to start romance fantasy genre?
~ for sure.
🗡️ prose and dialogue quality?
~ wonderful and relatable.
🗡️ Can this be buddy read?
~ absolutely.
Thank you @magicalbooktour and author @peninhandmej for having me in this tour.
⭐ Author Name - Mary E Jung
⭐ Series Name - The Libra witch
⭐ Genre - Romance Fantasy
⭐ Pace - Slow burn
Guys I just discovered an awesome romance fantasy book and it's so so great that I can't imagine how it has taken so much time to come to me. 'Blossom and Bone' by Mary E Jung is an excellent creation by Mary E Jung not only for its unique setting but for the storyline, dialogues, ending, prose everything is just dazzlingly vibrant. I enjoy slowburn romance for a long time now and when it mixes with fanatsy set up, it offers me just the thing I want. Ame, a plant witch who has an unique power to create a mimic version of the desired mate of any, falls in love with a bone witch. But loves makes impossible to possible, right guys? And that happens here too. The magical world creation is intense and beautiful with the gorgeous prose of the author. The unique magic system is well supported with fantastic character creation and lovely dialogues. The book has some great bookish illustrations that I just loved. I loved this book for its great qualities and would recommend to any fantasy fan.
🗡️ You should read it if ~
1. You are a fantasy fan
2. You love alow burn romance
3. You enjoy unique magic systems
🗡️ Is this great to start romance fantasy genre?
~ for sure.
🗡️ prose and dialogue quality?
~ wonderful and relatable.
🗡️ Can this be buddy read?
~ absolutely.
Thank you @magicalbooktour and author @peninhandmej for having me in this tour.
June 7, 2023
Mary E Jung created an extra ordinary world of fantasy blending it with great slow burn romance and suspense in 'Blossom and Bone' to hook any reader till last page. The language is so lustrous that I was stunned to notice. Completely in love with the book I must say about the presentation first. The illustrations were so beautiful and matching with the story that I was amazed. She presents a plant witch with unique magical powers to create mimic of anyone's desired lover. But soon she fell in love with a bone witch who has a mysterious power that affects him. A slow burn romance that keeps the reader guessing about the ending till the last, doesn't come everyday so I cherished every bit of it.
I have already told how beautiful the prose is, and now want to add that the world creation is equally magical. The magic system is completely unique from the popular fantasy trends. The character and dialogue sketching is of top notch quality. The gothic elements in the book go extraordinary well with the stranger to lover love story that mixes suspense and mystery to keep the reader guessing. The end is so so well, I was stunned and awed. The love between the two is respect full and has the capability to carry responsibility. I love this one so so much that I can't express in words. I am going to recommend this one to every fantasy reader who loves a great slow burn romance with a gothic vibe.
I have already told how beautiful the prose is, and now want to add that the world creation is equally magical. The magic system is completely unique from the popular fantasy trends. The character and dialogue sketching is of top notch quality. The gothic elements in the book go extraordinary well with the stranger to lover love story that mixes suspense and mystery to keep the reader guessing. The end is so so well, I was stunned and awed. The love between the two is respect full and has the capability to carry responsibility. I love this one so so much that I can't express in words. I am going to recommend this one to every fantasy reader who loves a great slow burn romance with a gothic vibe.
July 12, 2023
Blossom and Bone by Mary E Jung marks the enthralling debut of The Libra Witch Series, whisking readers away into a world brimming with magic, romance, and intricate mysteries. This enchanting novel delves into the dual perspectives of Amé, a lovable plant witch gifted in soil cultivation and plant genetics, and Xephriel, a bone witch grappling with a dangerous magical condition that imperils his chances of finding true love and forging connections with others.
Within the pages of Blossom and Bone, readers will be introduced to fated mates, captivating enigmas, and characters who undergo profound personal growth. Mary E Jung weaves a unique tapestry of magic, infusing the story with a delicate balance of heartbreak and love. As the first book in The Libra Witch Series, it lays a solid foundation for the adventures and discoveries awaiting readers in future installments.
Prepare to be mesmerized by the intricately crafted world-building, profound emotional depth, and unexpected plot twists that Blossom and Bone has to offer. Mary E Jung's exceptional talent for painting vivid settings and crafting compelling characters will leave you utterly enchanted. Whether you are a lover of Gothic romance, immersive magical realms, or simply seek an engaging series that keeps you enthralled until the final page, embarking on The Libra Witch Series with Blossom and Bone will be an extraordinary literary journey.
Within the pages of Blossom and Bone, readers will be introduced to fated mates, captivating enigmas, and characters who undergo profound personal growth. Mary E Jung weaves a unique tapestry of magic, infusing the story with a delicate balance of heartbreak and love. As the first book in The Libra Witch Series, it lays a solid foundation for the adventures and discoveries awaiting readers in future installments.
Prepare to be mesmerized by the intricately crafted world-building, profound emotional depth, and unexpected plot twists that Blossom and Bone has to offer. Mary E Jung's exceptional talent for painting vivid settings and crafting compelling characters will leave you utterly enchanted. Whether you are a lover of Gothic romance, immersive magical realms, or simply seek an engaging series that keeps you enthralled until the final page, embarking on The Libra Witch Series with Blossom and Bone will be an extraordinary literary journey.
June 6, 2023
Being a lover of fantasy I have read many fantasy worlds but Mary E Jung's fantasy world creation in the first book of the Libra Witch Series named 'Blossom and Bone' surprised me with complete uniqueness. Ame is a vegetarian witch who has magical powers to create flower mates who can mimic anyone's desired mate on certain conditions. She has a shop for selling her magical plants. But soon after having one certain customer everything is going to be changed forever. It's also the story of the bone witch, xephriel who will get himself sick with just one touch. Now imagine a fantastic love story with some great moments with such entertaining world creation.
I personally loved the superb world creation with maturely handled love interest that's not rushed into. It's a slow burn with some suspenseful moments to hook you till the last page. The love and respect between the central characters are nice to watch. The blend of fantasy, romance and mystery is super cool to follow. The language and story telling support the plotline amazingly to present a dreamy fantasy world. For a stranger to lover plotline the pace of the book is superb to hold the reader keep guessing. It was a great read for me and I would definitely recommend this one to any romance fantasy reader who loves slow burn moments.
I personally loved the superb world creation with maturely handled love interest that's not rushed into. It's a slow burn with some suspenseful moments to hook you till the last page. The love and respect between the central characters are nice to watch. The blend of fantasy, romance and mystery is super cool to follow. The language and story telling support the plotline amazingly to present a dreamy fantasy world. For a stranger to lover plotline the pace of the book is superb to hold the reader keep guessing. It was a great read for me and I would definitely recommend this one to any romance fantasy reader who loves slow burn moments.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews