Heart bounding, vicious hunt of one of the most dangerous, legendary, mystical creature with magical alchemy touches and slow burn- sweet romance between reserved, tough, neglected heroine and sweet, chevalier, good hearted, talented hero! I’m sold! Actually I was already sold when I saw Allison Saft’s name and this vivid cover which is definition of pure magic! Isn’t it so fabulous?

Margaret Welty is lone fighter, outcast of town, mostly spending her time alone in Welty Manor located in Wickdon. She already lost her father, brother and her mother dedicated herself to her researches, spending most of her time out of town, leaving her daughter by herself in the manor full of ghosts, trembling in cold, befriending her bloodhound Trouble, compelling living conditions for her own age.

Every child on Wickdon raised on legends of the hala. As Katharist church painted it as a demon, Margaret’s father has second thoughts. That’s the first time she realized her family’s different approach against church’s doctrines. She’s daughter of Yu ‘adir and they believe the Hala is sacred creature, carrier of divine knowledge.

As soon as she meets the legendary creature in front of her house when she is all alone, trying to protect herself along with her bloodhound she’s responsible of, she realizes Halfmoon Hunt will follow sooner. Killing the hala means earning high reputation, fame and it also means to unlock an ancient magical secret.

Margaret can join the hunt with her excellent shooting skills but she cannot get too far with an accomplice who must be an alchemist!

But luckily her prayers are already answered. Young Weston Winters appears in front of the mansion door, requesting to be apprentice of her mother after being fired each apprenticeship he’s landed lately. He has to take care of his mother and his sister. Working with Margaret’s mother is his last chance. Wes knows he possesses some innate magic.

He has a quiet powerful effect on people. When he speaks people always listen. He’s not alchemist yet. He doesn’t come from wealthy family and he’s undereducated but he is talented enough to fight for his last chance even though Margaret is too stubborn let him pass the mansion’s threshold.

Wes’ honest talk about his family situation warms her heart and she finally let him wait for her mother’s return but as soon as she realizes he has enough talent to help her join the hunt, she finally asks for his help.

They’re definitely unlikely team: Margaret is quiet fighter, survivor who endured to live in the outskirts for a long time. Wes already impressed by her bravery. And even though Margaret was quiet anxious to spend more time with him at the same place, she finds herself drawn into his kindness, genuineness.

But the high tension, dangerous hunt in the woods may result with unleashing dark magic! Whether they survive from the merciless conditions of nature, could they defeat the dangerous effects of dark magic which will risk their lives?

It’s action packed, exciting, well executed survival- enchanted alchemy story with sweet romance vibes! I truly enjoyed it! I’m looking forward to read next works of Ms. Saft!

Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press and Wednesday Books for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange my honest opinions.

A compelling and beautiful fantasy read with two main characters who will steal you heart.

Margaret is desperate to earn her mother’s love. Despite the fact the only thing Evelyn Welty seems to care about is alchemy. Alone, Margaret tries to keep her crumbling home and heart together.

Westin Winters is the son of immigrants and could charm you out of your socks. He’s a failed alchemist apprentice, but he’s not giving up. Despite his family’s indigent circumstances. He shows up at Margaret’s door and wants to be her mom’s apprentice. Wes struggles with reading, but it very smart.

The religion, nationalities, ethnicities of Albion are a part of the unique world-building; but still feel relevant to our society today. The time period felt 1920-ish to me with plenty of fantasy thrown in; and a glittery condom. The hunt for the mythological fox is intense, but it’s ultimately the character development that is the main aim. I also adored Wes’s family and the romance.

This book really sets your heart pounding with its sweet romance. I loved the main characters and there journey together. The book was entertaining and heart stopping. Overall great book!