Absolutely loved this feminist triumph! The diversity in world building was especially fantastic. Thanks so much for the ARC!

I received an electronic copy of this book to review in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.

I was intrigued by the synopsis of the book and how beautiful the cover is! I’ve been reading and researching more so than practicing Wicca for over a year now and have really grown a strong connection to it and those that follow the Craft, so that was another draw to this book. I wanted to read about true and real and even if it’s fabricated, realistic stories about real people who have similar interests to me. This book was wonderful! I really enjoyed each individual story for many different reasons and of course as you read each story and follow the writing style of each author, some are better described and illustrated than others, but I appreciated each story within. I absolutely adored the fact that terminology and practices that I have grown to become familiar with were used in these stories and explored in a real-world application so that it wasn’t something that I was just reading about, but that a lot of other people were participating in. I actually would love to go back through and read the book in its entirety again. There are stories for every kind of witch and non-witch that people can draw some inspiration from as well as the pain, happiness, light, and darkness from each story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this advanced copy.

**Thank you to Harlequin Teen for sending me this book in exchange for an honest review**

I hadn’t read an anthology in a while so when I saw this one up on NetGalley I knew I had to try to get an ARC. If you couldn’t tell by my Goodreads I adore anything supernatural, paranormal, or fantasy related. Witches are right up my alley.

This anthology has 15 short stories so I will give brief review along with a rating for each story!

1. Starsong by Tehlor Kay Mejia *4 stars *
This was the best story to start off this anthology. It’s so sweet. This short story follows a Latinx (own voices) sixteen-year old named Luna who is obsessed with makeup, fashion, and reading charts and horoscopes for people. She has a huge social media presence which allows her to show people things they aren’t able to see (such as their true horoscopes) since she is an actual bruja (a witch). Meanwhile, Luna is also trying to gain back her mother’s trust after making some poor life choices a year ago. (Trigger warning for substance and alcohol abuse). As a result of all of this Luna feels rather lonely. All she seems to do now is hang out in her room reading horoscopes for her clients online and posting new photos on her social media. However, this all changes one night when a cute girl messages her on her social media. The two girls begin to banter and argue about whether astrology is an actual science, while Luna wonders if the girl is flirting with her. I adored this story. It’s such a sweet and relatable story.

2. Afterbirth by Andrea Cremer *2.5 stars*
This story is a classic witch trial story set in New England in the 1600’s. The story begins with a difficult childbirth scene (trigger warning for complications during childbirth) that results in the midwife being accused of witchcraft. This story consists of a traditional witch trial (meaning the woman has absolutely 0 chance of winning) and some mysterious spell books which means you’re in for a creepy, spooky, fun ride.

3. The Heart in Her Hands by Tess Sharpe *3.5 stars*
This story is full of generational witches, tea lovers, kitchen and garden witches, and angry deities-- so basically everything you could ever ask for in a witch anthology. The main theme of this story is soulmates. It explores the idea of soulmates being predetermined and following your heart. I loved this story so much. It’s just a heartwarmingly beautiful story.

4. Death in the Sawtooths by Lindsay Smith *4 stars *
This story follows Mattie who is in service to Lady Xosia who is also known as the Lady of Slumber aka Death. Naturally, the town carries extreme prejudices against Mattie because her patron is Death. The main theme of this story is of being stereotyped and judged for the actions of others rather than on your own actions.
P.S. There’s also a cool witch and wizard hierarchy in this story which is really fun and intriguing.

5. The Truth About Queenie by Brandy Colbert *5 stars*
This story is perfect. I actually forgot that I was reading a short story in an anthology. I need more. This story has such a diverse cast of characters; I believe the whole cast is African American. Queenie, our main character, is a witch but she is denying her powers because she believes that when she was young her powers accidentally hurt a friend. While that may be the premise of this story, the story contains so much more. It’s a beautiful story about accepting and believing in who you are, making your own choices, and letting yourself and your own actions define you. This was by far my favorite story in this anthology. The themes, the writing, the characters are all crafted perfectly.

6. The Moonapple Menagerie by Shveta Thakrar *2 stars*
This story was entertaining, but I just didn’t fall in love with it. It’s a cool story about teenage shapeshifters that are putting on a play. Shalini, our main character, asks a churel (demon) to help her create the perfect ending for the play, but as per usual the demon is not willing to do this for free. Demons aside this core of this story is about friendship...and not making deals with demons--just don’t do that.

7. The Legend of Stone Mary by Robin Talley *3 stars*
I’m not quite sure why, but I just could not connect with this story. The writing was great; Talley created a spooky atmosphere that we all expect when witches are mentioned. Wendy, our main character, has always been warned away from the woods (naturally) where a statue of her great great great great (i’m not sure how many greats, honestly) grandmother’s statue remains. The statue is meant to remind the town of a witch who was killed in the town which leads us to the central theme of this story: to always remember the past and in turn not repeat history.

8. The One Who Stayed by Nova Ren Suma *5 stars*
Wow. Just wow. I was on the edge of my seat with my heart slowly breaking into a million little pieces. This story was so powerful. The heart of this story is feminist and empowering. It’s about women coming together to support each other during their darkest times. (Trigger warning: sexual assault and rape.)

9. Divine are the Stars by Zoraida Cordova *4 stars*
First off, I love Zoraida Cordova. I couldn’t wait to read her story in this anthology and she did not disappoint. This story is full of magical realism and Cordova’s beautiful prose. At its core, this story is about what all families go through behind closed doors; the messy parts that we don’t like to advertise to the public. In typical Cordova fashion, she weaves a beautiful tale centered upon family.

10. Daughters of Baba Yaya by Brenna Yovanoff *3.5 stars*
My first thought while reading this story was of The Craft. If you are a fan of The Craft then this story is made for you. This story is essentially about 3 girls who want things to change. They are tired of sitting back and letting bad things happen instead they want to punish those who have hurt them. These girls find their power and agency in this story and it’s AMAZING.

11. The Well Witch by Kate Hart *2 stars*
This story is centered around a girl living all alone in the rugged outback of Texas in 1875. Her mom is dead, and her father left three years ago and has yet to return. Then, three men show up seeking shelter. I was enthralled with the first half of this story but the second half was a let-down. I didn’t like the ending.

12. Beware of Girls with Crooked Mouths by Jessica Spotswood *5 stars*
This definitely has Three Dark Crowns vibes. This story is about three sisters who are aware that one of them will go crazy and murder the other two. How do we know this? It’s a family curse/prophecy. Beware of Girls with Crooked Mouths could honestly be a full-blown novel, actually can Jessica Spotswood make that happen? I would LOVE to read it.

13. Love Spell by Anna-Marie McLemore *4.5 stars*
Lovespell is about a bruja who is living with her aunt so that she can learn her craft as they both share the magic of curing other people’s heartbreak. This story is ownvoices Latinx fiction about a girl who is struggling to hold on to her faith and first-love because she knows he can never truly be hers. Full of heartbreak and hope, this story is a must-read.

14. The Gherin Girls by Emery Lord *5 stars*
I adored this tale of sisterhood and the unconditional love shared between sisters. At its heart, this story is about abuse. Emery Lord captures the cycle of abuse perfectly. She shows how it’s not always easy to realize you are in an abusive relationship and how your abuser will always want to put the blame on you rather than on themselves. This story is heart-wrenching but so incredibly realistic.

N/A The Only Way Back by Tristina Wright *N/A*
I’m skipping this story because it will not be in the finished version after sexual assault allegations were brought against the author.

15. Why They Watch Us Burn by Elizabeth May *5 stars*
THIS STORY WAS THE PERFECT ENDING TO THIS ANTHOLOGY. I cried. This story made me feel every single emotion possible. (Trigger warning: rape/sexual assault though it’s only implied rather than described.) This story is about Night and 12 other women who are taken into the woods to repent. It’s haunting and heartbreaking how accurate this story is in regards for how survivors of sexual assault and rape are treated in society. At its core, this story is about finding your voice and reclaiming your true identity. It’s about sisterhood and supporting one another through the most treacherous times in life. It’s about love.

Overall, I enjoyed this anthology. It's full of meaningful stories that are incredibly relevant to our current society. I also think it's important to mention that you don't need to be a fan of witchcraft to enjoy this collection of stories.

A stunning collection of short stories. Each story showed depth and strength, peaking into a fully completed world. There were many stories where I felt sharp disappointment to reach the end. Every reader will find at least one story that speaks to them--most will find several. Additionally, each story serves as a high recommendation for readers to check out that author's other work. A masterful example of an anthology.

I don’t typically enjoy short story collections, mostly because I get TOO attached to characters or a world and the short story format isn’t enough time for me to be satisfied with the bitty chunk I get. And Toil & Trouble was no different; most is the stories I wanted to sink into and live in.

However, most of them made sense as a short story. I was pleased with their resolutions and they didn’t feel rushed. Unfortunately, while many of the stories featured strong writing, a few were incredibly juvenile and I had to skip them, bringing down the overall strength of the collection

Toil & Trouble is everything I dreamed it could and would be and then some. I was not only gripped by each of the stories, but I often forgot that I was reading a collection--always a good sign. I found myself wholly invested in each of these women's stories, wanting to know how their lives turned out. This is the perfect summer read to give to anyone who is looking for a quick, magical and fun read.

Recommend this one far and wide!

I really enjoyed some of the stories and some fell short, of course. I always get that when it comes to a book like this- different authors, different voices. I did find a few authors I plan to research and try a full length from. There were some f/f stories in this book as well, so be warned if that is a thing you don't like. I just don't prefer to read those kinds of relationships personally. Big props to the authors that are willing to do that though, and reach young people. Over all, I enjoyed this book.

Not bad, wasn’t quite as engaging as I had hoped. I am coming to realize anthologies are not for me. I would have enjoyed this more if it had been one story, rather than multiple. You are drawn into the world and then suddenly it’s over.

Much like any collection of short stories, there are hits and misses in this volume.

My favorite story came from author Zoraida Cordova (Labyrinth Lost, Bruja Born). It had just the right amount of mystery, mysticism, and magical realism for me. But I may be biased because I have loved both books in the Brooklyn Brujas series so far.

This is a good fit for anyone looking for stories of feminism, witchcraft, love and mystery.

I really enjoyed this collection! I loved how many different genres and types of stories were included, as well as the diversity of the characters and contributors. My favorite stories were "The One Who Stayed," "Daughters of Baba Yaga," "The Gherin Girls," and "Why They Watch Us Burn," but I think there's something here for every reader. A really beautifully crafted collection.

Short story collections are one of my favorite forms of reading, to start with. Old witchy tales with a modern spin on them, this book is sure to please anyone that enjoys short stories, young adult, and fantasies. Also, with its late-August release, this will make the perfect book to get in the spooky mood before/during Halloween month!!

No need to get your cauldron bubbling to work a love spell on this anthology because readers won't be able to resist the temptation of these authors! This was a wonderfully creepy collection of witchy stories that ensnared me. Getting to visit with characters of different cultures and sexual identities in one novel was a marvel. Sure, some books were better than others, but the anthology as a whole is a wonderful success.

This was a fantastic anthology of witchcraft-related short stories. I've read a few other YA anthologies, and none of them had stories that consistently kept me engaged like this one did. These stories also encompass narrators and characters of different cultures and sexual identities, which was really refreshing to read!

A few stories dragged a bit, but I was definitely drawn by each story's premise, narrator(s), and how the writing kept me guessing. I was never bored; I just wanted to keep reading. Some stories really drive home what it means to be a woman - to be marked as the other in a male-dominated society and to be persecuted for not being a "proper" kind of woman. And all the women in this anthology find ways to rebel, to fight fate or expectations or restrictions, to gain what they desire.

A truly well-written collection of stories anyone should read because of the women's ferocity and determination. The witchcraft is a bonus of creativity and magic that complements and completes each story.

Like many short story anthologies, Toil & Trouble is a mix of good and bad stories. I do think that this one was a bit better than the average YA collection, with the focus on witchcraft and feminism helping keep things interesting. I will definitely be purchasing this for my library's YA collection.

As with any anthology, you get stories that change your whole life and you also get stories that seem a little - meh. It is my belief that it is totally okay because not everyone is going to feel the same way about every story. I will just mention my favorites and what I loved about them after my overall anthology impressions.

As a whole, this is an impressive collection with diversity, vision, and power. What I am so excited about is how many different patrons I can recommend this anthology to based on the variety of stories. Not only will your general witchy readers dig the new takes on the genre, there are so many other reasons for reading it that three-fourths of my patrons would enjoy something out of this collection. The short story format also makes it very accessible to reluctant readers, although the language is more mature.

My favorites:
Starsong by Tehlor Kay Mejia - Luna being a teen Latinx internet-savvy protagonist keeps her interesting. She also has to deal with the consequences of making poor choices in her past. This story explores a lot of issues including substance abuse, polygamy, and sexuality.
The Heart in Her Hands by Tesse Sharpe - I love the whole idea of a kitchen witch. This book challenges many of the conventional stereotypes of magical stories: soul mates and fate for example.
Death in the Sawtooths by Lindsay Smith - So dark! So dark and it made my heart happy. It reminded me of "Young Goodman Brown" by Hawthorne - just by tone alone. (That's one of my favorite short stories, and anything I compare to that story, it's a good thing.) Plus, living in a small town, I like when authors get small town vibes correct.
The One Who Stayed by Nova Ren Suma - I almost can't even talk about this one. I loved it but in that way that you love watching a scary movie. This one is also pretty dark due to the sexual assault aspect. I just - well, it kept my heart-pounding.
Daughters of Baba Yaga by Brenna Yovanoff - I love anything with Baba Yaga folklore in it. This story did NOT disappoint. These girls have had ENOUGH and they are ready to take the power back in their lives. EEEEE!
Beware of Girls with Crooked Mouths by Jessica Spotswood - This is the second thing I've read by Spotswood this summer, and both times, she made me a fan for life. Also, her books couldn't be more different. I hope she continues to explore this genre.
The Gherin Girls by Emery Lord- In true Emery Lord fashion, this story features strong relationships as a way to get out of unhealthy situations. It's written in a way that makes you slow down. You want to catch everything that the author is saying - the subtext was really important for me in understanding and appreciating this story.
Why They Watch Us Burn by Elizabeth May - What a way to end! OMG. I felt this was a very "Handmaid's Tale"-esque story. Women are blamed for "making" men sexually assault them. Sound familiar? This is one of those stories that brings a social injustice to the forefront and then shows how strong female relationships overcome so much. It's a hauntingly beautiful story that gives me hope, despite all of the darkness it contains.

Finally, I just want to give credit where it is due: Harlequin dropped one of the authors and her story after sexual assault allegations against the author came out. Thank you, Harlequin, for holding true to your readers.

When I first saw that this was an anthology about witches I knew I had to get my hands on this book. Overall this book did not disappoint. The stories started off really good. The middle of the book dragged just a little for me and I wasn’t as crazy about the stories. The end redeemed the book for me and made up for the couple of boring stories. I rated each individual story:
Star Song 5
After Birth 5
The Heart in their Hands 4
Death in the Sawtooths 4
The Truth About Queenie 5
The Moon Apple Menagerie 3
The Legend of Stone Mary 3
The One who Stayed 2
Divine Are the Stars 1
Daughters of Baba Yaga 3
The Well Witch 2
Beware of the Girl with Crooked Mouths 3
Love spell 4
The Gherin Girls 5
The only Way Back 3
Why they Watch Us Burn 4

So overall for a book of short stories this was pretty good. I only thought a couple were boring. I ended up enjoying 80% of the book. The stories were all pretty different looks into witchcraft and the characters in these stories were well developed. I gave this book 4 stars because I thought it was a unique compilation.

A great collection of witchy stories that include a variety of cultures and sexualities.

My Favourite Stories:
The Heart in Her Hands by Tess Sharpe
The One Who Stayed by Nova Ren Suma
Divine Are the Stars by Zoraida Córdova
The Well Witch by Kate Hart
The Gherin Girls by Emery Lord
Why They Watch Us Burn by Elizabeth May

As with most short story anthologies this one comes with the good, the bad and the just okay. I enjoyed most of the stories though and it was really nice to read a quick story when I only had a few moments to read. If you like short stories and witches this is definitely worth checking out!

Toil &Trouble, was an ok read, some of the short stories did leave me wanting a bit more of them, I didn’t really find one that I disliked.
It wasn’t a grab you and keep you reading type of book, but an easy read to pick up and put down without feeling lost.
I received an Arc from Harlequin Teen for an honest review of the book.

I really loved this anthology. Not every story was perfect, there were definitely a couple that I didn’t really love but as a whole, this collection is fantastic and I’m so glad it exists. I’ve always been a fan of witches and everything to do with them so this collection was always going to be right up my alley but these stories are also so wonderfully diverse and I love that a lot of the magic exists in our world and it isn’t just fantasy magic. It felt so real and pretty much every story was about relationships and friendships and connections that just happened to exist between people who are magical. Wonderful magical ladies full of love and discovering their own strengths, what is not to like?!