Book Review: Hex Appeal by Kate Johnson

Hex Appeal by Kate Johnson was release on October 1st 2022. Essie Winterscale lives in a huge and ever-changing house in the village of Good Winter, in deepest, darkest Essex. She lives with various witches of various ages, one of whom is still a bit salty about having been burned at the stake in 1635, one who keeps accidentally casting fertility spells, and one who knits things that create the future. All Essie ever wanted was to have a normal life but in the end she found herself drawn back to Beldam House because she just can’t stop her witchiness (although the ability to instantly chill wine is pretty awesome, even she has to admit). Into this coven of chaos stumbles gorgeous, clueless Josh, their new landlord – and he’s just discovered his tenants haven’t paid rent since the 1700s! As Josh is drawn further into the lives of the inhabitants of Beldam House, Essie is determined to keep him at broomstick’s length. That is, until a family secret, lying hidden for centuries, puts Josh firmly under her spell.

Hex Appeal has a lot to it, much more than I expected to be honest. I thought the character work on Essie, Josh, and the whole town was very well done, as was the world and story building surrounding the witchiness of Essie's home and family. I liked the balance of romance, mystery, and danger that is woven through the story, and even when I expected a twist I rarely anticipated all of the pieces before the story revealed them. I thought that magical aspects of this book were my favorite, and would enjoy a book just about how Bedlam house came to be, and how the magical combinations and shifts were started and how they continue- the house and its residents fascinated me and I want more. I think there is room for more to be told here, beyond my personal desire for more history. There is plenty of room for sequels or campion books, despite the very satisfying ending this book provided. I would love to revisit the characters and world that was created here. 

Hex Appeal is a solid witchy romance, with solid world and character building.

Book Review: Shattered Bonds (Jane Yellowrock) by Faith Hunter

Shattered Bonds is the thirteenth book in the Jane Yellowrock series by Faith Hunter. I strongly recommend reading this series in order. Newcomers to the series will not have a good frame of reference for what is happening. Even as a fan of the series, I have missed some of the novella between the novels and either missed or did not remember some of the events referred to in the story. Someone without the backstory is likely to be lost. 

Jane Yellowrock is vampire-killer-for-hire, but her last battle with an ancient arcane enemy has brought her low. She seeks retreat in the Appalachian Mountains to grieve the loss of her friends, and to heal—or to die—from the disease brought on by her magic. But malevolent elements in the paranormal community still seek to destroy Jane, and a terrifying foe stalks her, even into the safety of the hills. With nowhere to run and her body failing, the rogue-vampire hunter and her inner Beast must discover a way to defeat this new threat, and find a form that gives her a chance to fight another day.

Shattered Bonds is a challenging read. Everything is on the line- again- and a happy ever after seems near impossible to find. Jane, Eli, Alex, and George are all still growing and changing as characters in ways consistent with what readers know about them and their pasts. Her friends and not so friendly allies make their appearances and make their own growth and changes. I loved seeing Jane's continued growth and her devotion to those she considers hers, as well as the innocent. There is a great deal going on in this story, and many references to past struggles and relationships. I honestly did not get all of the references, but I know I have not read all of the short stories and in between novellas in the series- and it has been a few years since I read some of the books so I am not shocked that I missed some. As I got close to the end I admit to taking my time with the story- stalling before picking it back up. THis was not because it was bad, but because there was so much to unpack, and so many possibilities, that I was almost afraid to find out which way each fight, discovery, or realization would go. I really enjoyed seeing this many characters return or at least have a voice- and the introduction of a few more. I am terrified, hopeful, and way to eager to see where this series goes next.

Shattered Bonds is a solid addition to Jane's story. I am interested to see where the series goes from here- and if the danger will keep ramping up or if Jane ca find some sort of peace.