Recieved an e-arc on NetGalley and loved it! It had demons, witches, and a New Orleans setting—what’s not to love? Though NOLA is already known for its sorcery and spells, Blake introduces even more magic and mystery to this supernatural city. It's perfect for fans of The Originals and other adult urban fantasy series!

"Don't be ashamed. All of those bitten by life's teeth and survived to live an- other day bear the marks on their soul."⠀
⠀
Autumn Blake, Bewitched Shadows ⠀
⠀
⠀
Bewitched Shadows by Autumn Blake is a sexy Romantasy featuring Witches, Vampires, Demons, and Werewolves all set in the mystical New Orleans. This story was an entertaining read that definitely played on the enemies to lovers trope. ⠀
⠀
Ember was a free spirited femme fatale with a heart of gold and I adored her relationship with her sisters and grandmother. She was a spit fire and didn't let anyone hold her back from her goal of rooting out the evil that took her parents from her. ⠀
⠀
Killian is moody, broody, and seggsy as hell! Quite literally, since he's the demon heir to the throne of the underworld. He thinks his attraction to Ember is the result of a spell but that doesn't stop him from falling for her and her haphazard antics. ⠀
⠀
I enjoyed the contemporary magical realism and liked how the world building used New Orleans reputation for all things occult. The family bond of Embers clan and the Good versus evil battle made this murder mystery/ magical whodunnit a unique, exciting read. I'd love to get more stories from this world!

Bewitched Shadows (The Wicked Belles #1)
by Autumn Blake

*Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC!

Pub Date: April 4, 2023

~ A fiery witch...
Ember Belle is a total mess. When she's not partying with the local shifter pack or causing mayhem around New Orleans with her three sisters, she does anything to avoid confronting her out-of-control fire magick and the grief from losing her parents. However, when an opportunity arises to obtain a magical item that could solve all her problems, she decides to take her life into her own hands.

A cold-as-ice demon...
Killian Inferno's only desire is to spend his final weeks of freedom in New Orleans, away from his duties as the future Lord of Pride. What he doesn't expect, is to be summoned by the amateur witch who has been haunting his dreams. A seductress who needs his expertise to solve a recent murder by any means necessary. Even sorcery. ~
—
I was initially stoked to get my hands on a mythical/fantasy book of witches, demons, werewolves, and vampires co-existing amongst mortals in New Orleans. I also loved that this book is intended to be the first of a series centered around sisters. Who doesn’t love a good fantasy series?

The brightest spots in this novel centered around the sisters and their antics together. I do wish that there had been a deeper development of their relationships because there was so much potential! They were believable and charming and I wanted more, yet sadly it fell flat. I’m hopeful that this will be expanded upon in the rest of the series. *hint hint*

The romance between the two main characters started off too hot and heavy, too early for me. Like, where in the smut did this come from?! I struggled to feel a connection to them and their love story but overtime their banter became more enjoyable, as did their spice. 😅

If you’re looking for an easy read that brings some mystery, romance, and some chapters that make ya question if you need Jesus - this may just be the book for you.

I wasn’t blown away and it isn’t high on my recommendations for fantasy romance reads, but will I likely read the next book in the series? If not for the wild smut alone, probably.

⭐️⭐️.5/5

This would've been a stronger story if there was more lore-building. It was still a really good read, but I wish there was more information about the witches/gatherings. It was still good information, but it would've been a lot better with just a little more.

It was quick to get through, but kind of weird to decipher. The vocabulary kept switching from older style to today and it was a little difficult to bounce between the two.

The murder investigation is my favorite part of this story (I have a soft spot for "crime" stories). It had all the right elements, with some unexpected ones as well. Who doesn't love a hot demon/bad boy trying to "do good"?

(It does have werewolves and vampires, not in a Twilight way, so don't let that deter you.)

I received an advanced review copy free with the expectation of an unbiased review, which is being left voluntarily.

I was so excited when my request got approved for this book. If you read the synopsis you’ll know why. I was not disappointed, it was such a quick and fun read. This is one of those interconnected standalone series, and was just so well-done. I thought the plot could actually do better with an extra chapter or two to really develop the romance a little more but ultimately it was just a really enjoyable read. The characters and plot were fleshed out and so well-done.

Ember is reckless and rebellious. She has trauma and just doesn’t know how to cope with it, but she is desperate to have control. She was a really fiery and sassy character that I enjoyed reading about. I loved how much she adored her family, she protected them and would do anything for them. It rooted her with purpose.

Killian was such an interesting character, and I think he was a great companion. He had his own story and development, and issues. I loved his growth and how they supported each other in the end, they pushed each other to be the best.

This was definitely a romance book more than fantasy, but it had a really cool aesthetic. I loved the fantasy setting though, it was super cool and vivid, the fairytale setting was so well-done. I really enjoyed the short novel, it didn’t feel like a full length novel, I finished it so quick.

This book follows a witch who summons a demon to help solve the murders in her community. The only issue is that her magick is unstable and she accidentally hexes him into thinking he has feelings for her. He makes her a deal that he’ll help her solve the murders and in turn, she has to release him from her spell or else her soul will be taken to Hell. Will they be able to solve the murder? And break the spell that feels a lot like love?

This book was magick, vampires, witches, demons, and a murder mystery all rolled into one book! I found myself suspicious of everyone and still not having a clue who did it, which I loved. I hate when you can figure it out early on and have to read the whole book just to confirm what you already know.

I loved Ember’s fiery spirit and her perseverance to do the right thing. She had a lot of personal growth throughout the book, which was fun to follow. Killian was a character I could root for and enjoyed watching him realize what really mattered in life.

My only drawback was that the vocab of the book would have drawn me in more had it been a little more…modern? I can read older style of writing as well as modern but this kind of had a weird mix that made it a bit hard to get into. If that even makes any sense.

This books was amazing fun. Maybe it’s too character driven instead of plot driven but I enjoyed Ember and Kylian’s feelings, struggles and thoughts. The bond between them was amazing and they had the most pure of chemistries. Also, the belle family itself, I love them all, they feel cozy and loving.
Overall it was very enjoyable. It has its flaws but I think there’s room for improvement as the series goes on.
I can’t wait to read about Jade’s life and possible romance with the vampire prince.

This was a full on romantasy with a dash of murder. While youre gonna be focusing on the who-dunnit that’s happening, the true focus is on the witchy and demoniac main characters. It turns reluctant allies into blossoming lovers, that turns into fated mates.

The perfect example of a New Orleans themed book with all the demons, witches, and more. Perfect for other adult urban fantasy fanatics out there looking for a New Orleans themed setting! Thanks Netgalley!

I was pleasantly surprised by this book! I wasn't sure what to expect as I made it through the first chapter but as I went the small flashbacks and story came together beautifully. Blake built everyday believable characters and added a little bit of magic which made getting to know them even better. I could easily see myself being friends with the Belle sisters. It was also extremely interesting getting a different view of the "devil" and how their realm exists. I look forward to more books by this author-- hopefully following the rest of the Belle sisters!

Overall I thought this was a fun book. Nothing super special, a little fast in the world building so I got confused sometimes but nothing major. I thought the way it was written at some points was trying a bit too hard but hey, what can you do. The plot was a bit broad and I definitely think at least one thing could have been expanded on. Definitely should have been a longer book.

I loved this so much, a spicy romance with a mix of magic and mystery, it has everything you would want in a book. I also loved the fast pace, although it jumps right in you do get an explanation behind all the supernatural creatures so you aren't confused and left guessing. I also loved Ember who was a messy yet strong female protagonist, who made the book really fun. I'm looking forward to reading the next book and learning more about her sister the journey she will go on too.

This was exactly what I was looking for , described as for fans of A court of thorns and roses, crescent city and kingdom of the wicked I was definitely drawn in by that and I’m so glad I was I absolutely adored and was addicted to this book. Autumn Blake is a great writer , her world building and character development is beautiful. Our leading characters are just fantastic, the chemistry is off the charts. Ember is a great lead, a bit wild, strong and a whole lot of fun, but with issues and you can’t help but feel for her and connect. Then we have Killian, another leading man than it going to join the ranks of my favourite book boyfriends I think, he’s enigmatic , irresistible , brooding and full of mystery, the dark and demonish love interest we want. if you love witches, demons, werewolves, vampires and a romance full of burning chemistry this book is an definitely one you won’t want to miss , I’m dying to see where Ember and Killian's story goes and what is going to happen next

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

𝐄𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝐁𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐞, 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐝𝐚𝐮𝐠𝐡𝐭𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐢𝐠𝐡 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐬𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐧. 𝐒𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐚𝐬 𝐧𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐥 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐩𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐟𝐞𝐞𝐥𝐬 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐟𝐚𝐦𝐢𝐥𝐲.

𝐊𝐢𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧, 𝐬𝐨𝐧 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐚𝐭𝐚𝐧 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐢𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐨𝐞𝐬 𝐧𝐨𝐭 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭. 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐬𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐆𝐚𝐢𝐚 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫.

𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐚𝐧 𝐮𝐧𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫, 𝐚 𝐝𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐩𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐚 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐡𝐞𝐱 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲 𝐦𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫 𝐭𝐨 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐰𝐡𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐮𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐬.

This book had everything in one, it was sexy, witty and mysterious all in one. It was really fast paced so perfect for anyone looking for something to get them out of a slump. I was able to full immerse into the world and understand everything that was going on.

I enjoyed the idea of the different witch events, but did wish their was a bit more story to these. However I still thoroughly enjoyed it regardless.

There are also werewolves and vampires in this story which wasn't done in a cheesy way either, they were brought in as key elements to the story through the murder investigation.

Over all I really enjoyed this one, and after reading the extra chapter I look forward to reading about the next Belle sister.

Well placed and well written spicy book that includes demons, shifters, vampires and witches. Settings include a plane of hell and earth. Tension, mystery, twists and turns and plenty of action and family moments round out this book.

One of my favorite review copy reads of the year and that's my honest review. Highly recommend to all fantasy action romance lovers.

This book was neither bad nor good and I believe it just wasn’t for me. I had such a hard time with the main character and the supposed romance between her and Killian. I wish there was more action with the Ember and Killian when they were trying to uncover the killer. It seemed every time they went out to go find the supposed killer they would be too late and nothing really happened. Ember is a witch that has issues with her power and she wants nothing to do with it till later in the story. It would have been cool to see if she tried to harness her powers more in the beginning of the story while she investigated in the murders.

I loved the idea of the story but I don’t think it was accomplished well. Nothing really happens and if something did happen there wasn’t any action. I wanted the MC to be a badass, but instead got a whiny, spoiled girl.

Spice : 🌶️/5
Genre: Fantasy, YA, romance
Tropes: Fated Mates, reluctant allies

really tried to get into this book but it fell flat for me. It’s a good concept, but it’s eerily similar to the Kingdom of the Wicked books, which in my opinion are way better written. The writing is boring, the characters are dull and even the descriptions of nola were bland. This book was just not for me.

This was a really fun, quick read! I think the dual POV worked really well and I loved Killian and Ember's interactions, I can't wait to read more about the Belle sisters!

This book was really just "meh," for me. However, I will say this book is for fans of Kingdom of the Wicked. If you loved Kingdom of the Wicked, and like rebellious main characters who are healing from trauma this is the book for you.

I loved the concept of the book, and I loved the concept of the female main character. However, about 10 chapters in she fell a bit flat. The whole plot revolves around the female main character desperate to solve mysterious murders, and she forced a demon into an agreement to help her. As soon as the demon (male main character) agreed to help her, the FMC stopped being interesting. It felt more like the MMC was dragging her along, forcing her to help solve the murders. A lot of the plot point kind of seemed to fizzle out as well.

The actual ending did have my jaw on the floor. I was not expecting the plot twist. This series and world has a lot of potential. I hope the author does develop more in their future books.

This book was such a fun read and different than most of my fantasy/paranormal/romance reads. The added element of a mystery made it so hard to put down and I felt like I was watching a movie and hitting pause every time that I had to walk away. I appreciated that even with some added spice (not a lot - in case that is what you are looking for), and the tension between our MCs, the plot remained the primary focus.

If you are a fan of The Kingdom of the Wicked and A Court of Thorns and Roses, this is the book for you. Autumn Blake does a wonderful job of world building and character development, as well as relationship development. There were times where I found myself stuck at certain parts, but other than that, I loved this book! Ember is a very interesting character who struggles with using alcohol and s*x as a coping mechanism and following along her journey was eye opening.