Thanks to NetGalley for providing the eARC of 'A Dark and Secret Magic' by Wallis Kiney in exchange for my honest review 💫

'𝐻𝑒𝑑𝑔𝑒𝑔𝑟𝑎𝑓𝑡, 𝑓𝑖𝑟𝑠𝑡 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑚𝑜𝑠𝑡, 𝑖𝑠 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑏𝑎𝑙𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑏𝑒𝑡𝑤𝑒𝑒𝑛 𝑙𝑖𝑓𝑒 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑑𝑒𝑎𝑡ℎ 𝑒𝑛𝑒𝑟𝑔𝑦. 𝐴 ℎ𝑒𝑑𝑔𝑒 𝑤𝑖𝑡𝑐ℎ 𝑖𝑠 𝑔𝑢𝑎𝑟𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑛 𝑡𝑜 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑙𝑖𝑣𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝑑𝑒𝑎𝑑 𝑎𝑙𝑖𝑘𝑒.'

Are you looking for the perfect autumn witchy read? Get your pumpkin spice latte, light the candles, pick up your blanket and let me present you 'A Dark and Secret Magic'!

Hectate has always lived her perfect life just like her mother intented. Practicing hedgegraft and never leaving Ipswich. But now her mother is gone, and her 31st birthday is getting close, all she believed was true is crumbling away. It all starts when Matthew, a hexan who practises forbidden magic, asks for sanctuary. Hectate learns of forbidden dark magic and needs to reevaluate whom she can trust.

A Dark and Secret Magic was a really fun and quick read, and matched the weather perfectly (it may be spring, but I would believe you if it was autumn)! Combined with a lighted candle and a Hazelnut coffee, I imagined myself in the world of Hectate. When reading trough all of the delicious foods, I couldn't help myself, but get hungry.
The romance felt a little short for me (too quick, too soon). The book would be, in my opinion, better when certain parts would be more detailed. But all in all, it was a quick and cozy read, perfect for a rainy day! 🧡

Tropes:
🍂 Fall & witchy vibes
🧙🏼‍♀️ Evil witch
🎃 Halloween
☠️ Necromancy
🖤 (very loosely) based on Hades & Persephone

Rating:
3.5/5 🎃
2/5 🌶

𝐸𝑥𝑝𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝑟𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑎𝑠𝑒 𝑑𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝑜𝑐𝑡𝑜𝑏𝑒𝑟 2024!

I cannot say enough good things about this book. I absolutely fell in love with the story, characters, and atmosphere. This book felt like stepping directly into autumn, regardless of the time of year I read it. Even though I read it at the beginning of a hot summer, I felt like I was transported by the words on the page to chilly Fall time and spooky Halloween. Reading this book felt so warm and cozy, and it really felt like all five senses were ignited. There was such amazing description woven in with the story about autumnal recipes, smells, Halloween decor, and even tiny details that romanticized the fall season.
The story was addicting and had me hooked from the beginning. I was so invested in the mystery and secrets Kate was trying to unveil. I felt so much empathy for her as she navigated the grief from losing her mother and learning more about the secrets she never told her while she was alive. The characters were so well developed and easy to fall in love with. I also loved how the romance between Kate and Matthew was weaved in so seamlessly with the rest of the story. It felt natural, but also swoon-worthy and romantic at the same time.
I can honestly say that I can see myself wanting to pick this one back up each year as Halloween nears, or even other times during the year when I need the comfort of my favorite holiday.

This book was such a warm & cozy, yet exciting read.

I really enjoyed it from beginning to end. I felt like each part of the plot all came together for a satisfying and meaningful end. I also loved the little details the author included throughout - the setting description, the ingredients, the touches of magic and so on.

The characters are all enjoyable in their own way & I would happily read more books from this world. Whether it was a different character or short stories about the MC.

Thank you NetGalley and Alcove Press for my ARC.

This was a really unique concept in the now trendy Romantasy space — a hedge witch who recently lost her mother and suddenly has an unexpected and unwelcome (did I mention attractive?) male visitor she must host. This a story of that witch’s journey of self discovery (and some world saving too).

The romance didn’t really grip me and I found the saga a bit underwhelming, but this would be a cozy October spooky season read!

Such a cozy, witchy, fall book. As someone who loves the spooky season, this book definitely hit the spot with all the wonderful descriptions of the world surrounding this book. From the charming little cottage our main character lives in, to the adorable town, all the way down to the wonderfully spooky Halloween decorations. The characters in the story were also great. As a sister of three I loved the sisterly relationship and how different each one was. I also really loved all of the witchy elements tied into the story; they did not feel overwhelming or hard to understand. Can't wait for everyone else to be able to read it!

I wanted to love this, but this story seems to not really know what it wants to be. There are some serious pacing issues. So many things were rushed while others were overly drawn out. We spend a lot of time reading descriptions of recipes (the names started out cute but I quickly grew tired of them) and outfits, and hardly any learning new information about the antagonist or time to build out the love story. Even the dialogue seems to be inconsistent. Sometimes it reads as being very modern, and others it reads like we’re in the 20’s. I really loved the magic system at the start, where each witch chooses their magic and dedicates themselves to it, but even that seemed to not be fully fleshed out. What would seem like the main plot (the king below) is more of an afterthought. Most of the time spent learning about him is brushed off as a dream or rushed. Overall, this was entertaining enough, but I do think the author needed to commit to either a cozy witchy story or a dark romantasy instead of flirting with both and not really hitting the mark on either.

Thank you Alcove Press and NetGalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest review

Take me to Ipswich! This was such a welcome and refreshing witchy romance! Perfect for fans of Practical Magic and The Ex Hex, A Dark and Secret Magic will be the book you need during this spooky season. Not only was the story enchanting, but all of the food, recipes, scenery, and autumnal fun had me counting down the days until fall!
I enjoyed the plot being more than just a romance. It is a story focused on family ties, grief, and discovering what it means to be bold in your own story.

Thank you, NetGalley and Alcove Press, for and ARC of A Dark and Secret Magic! The opinions expressed in this review are my own. Expected Pub Date: October 8, 2024.

4.25! I truly LOVED this book. It is such an ode to Halloween. This is the perfect read for anyone who is a fan of the Practical Magic movie and Emily Henry romance books. Grab a cup of tea or hot cocoa and dive into a mystical world full of witchy atmosphere, and the right amount of plot and romance. This book left me feeling so happy. :)

This was described as a love letter to Halloween and it is! This was a super cute, fun, fall story that I just really enjoyed drinking coffee and reading. If you're looking for a solid witchy story that feels like a mug of warm coffee, this is pretty great.

Hecate Goodwin is the first hedgewitch in her coven in decades and lives in a cottage by herself with her beloved cat, Merlin. A strange dream and a visit from an old acquaintance begins a sequence of events that sees Hecate struggling to unravel a mystery. Her mother named her a hedgewitch, but she doesn't know why and to make matters worse, she's uncovered a book that belonged to her mother-protected by blood magic, it holds secrets that will hold the key to her survival.

Hecate Goodwin is truly a very lovable character. I really liked her and particularly enjoyed her inner monologue as it just felt really genuine and comfortable. Matthew is also top notch. He's sweet and the relationship between the two of them was really quite lovely.

Overall, I am so glad I requested an e-ARC of this on a whim and I definitely recommend this one for anyone who loves the fall season and witchy vibes. Pair this read with a big heaping mug of apple cider and warm butter drenched bread.


* Easy read with Practical Magic vibes in abundance
* Witches and an interesting magic system
* Hidden powers
* Animal companion
* Tender romance (sort of enemies to lovers, but not in an intense way)
* Plot twists
* Satisfying, but slightly bittersweet ending

ARC Review: Thank you to Net Galley for advance access.

A Dark and Secret Magic is the perfect spooky season romantasy. It is fun, witty, and spooky. I love the world-building and the society of witches Kinney has crafted.

The story follows Kate, a hedgewitch, dealing with the loss of her mother as well as turbulent relationships with her sisters. When a shadowy figure from her past shows up on her door a week before Halloween, Kate's solitary life as well as the rules she believes about magic are challenged.

A Dark and Secret Magic was a cozy dark cottagecore story about a Hedge Witch reluctant to embrace the dark side of her magic.

I really enjoyed this story with its autumnal descriptions and homage to all things October and Halloween. I loved the nods and winks to classic Halloween popular culture and it reminded me of Halloweentown in all the best possible ways. The magic was enchanting and the recipes were mouth watering. The writing was a sensory Samhain feast and it made me feel excited for the fall season.

I also liked the plot and characters and the magical world the author created. It was original and witchy and I hope the author will write some more books set in this world.

A Dark and Secret Magic had the best of all things Autumn, witchy, and Halloween, full of tricks and treats, and forbidden magic, that will charm its way into your heart.

LOVED IT! Magic, drama, and a bit of romance thrown in! This book radiates "Autumn vibes" and the recipes in the back were a fun touch! I'm not a witch like Hecate, but I can already see my future this Fall— I'm snuggled up in a cozy sweater with a hot drink in one hand and this book in the other!

I cannot wait to pick this up physical copy for the fall. The cover drew me in and the cute Halloween vibes

Hecate was such a strong witch who just needed to be shown how good she can be
But I stayed for the Practical Magic and love.
This was great. I was so thankful to be approved for this arc
It’s so cute there are some predictables but it’s okay with this one.


I also wish there was a working index for the types of witches

Thank you NetGalley, the publishers, and the author for an early copy in exchange for an honest review 4.75/5⭐️

I absolutely adored this book and will be buying a physical copy to reread every fall from here on out. It was so cozy with the perfect autumn in New England, Halloween nostalgia, and practical magic vibes. The characters were lovable and relatable. The different types of witch craft were well researched and explained and we got to see many witches practicing their chosen type of magic. This novel does a fantastic job of dealing with the grief of loss, and realizing those you lost may not have been who you originally thought they were. As someone currently dealing with this I just want to commend the author for how she had the FMC deal with this.

While certain “twists” were predictable for the type of novel this is, others truly shocked me. Even though some aspects were predictable, I still enjoyed my time reading it and wish I didn’t read it in two sittings. Which leads me into really my only complaint, I wish the apex of the novel was longer and flushed out more. I think if the scenes with the King Below or the clash between “good” and “evil” were longer and/or more thorough the pacing would have been better. I also think this book could benefit from an epilogue showing more of the relationship between everyone after the ending of the story (leaving this pretty vague to avoid spoilers). However, I know many people prefer an open ended ending.

Overall this book made my Halloween loving, New England heart right at home and I highly recommend you get a copy for spooky season when it rolls around!

3,5 stars. Witchy, cozy and whimsical. I’m always drawn to media about ghosts passing on to the other side for some reason and this book was no exception. I really enjoyed reading about the magic system and the way different witches specialize in different types of magic. The plot was fairly simple and straightforward, but it had enough tension to keep me interested. Despite how cozy the book feels, there was some pretty high stakes action at the end, which I thought was very well done.

The author really commits to the spooky autumnal vibes. Yes, it’s Halloween themed but if you’re thinking dark gothic horror, you’re thinking wrong. There’s plenty of ghosts but this is essentially a pumpkin spice latte in a book lol. But like, a homemade version, since the main character is constantly home cooking delicious sounding food. I loved the inclusion of the recipes at the end, and I’ll definitely try a couple of them out.

The romance was cute. Despite finding Hecate (what a cool name) and Matthew a bit forgettable, I liked their dynamic very much. Maybe it was all a bit rushed, but I was okay with that because they weren’t total strangers. Matthew was always supportive of Kate and consistently encouraged her growth. They just kind of made sense together. The side characters were definitely forgettable as well. I had a moment in the middle where Kate's sisters (two of the most important characters in the book) visited and it really caught me off guard because I completely forgot that she wasn't an only child. My favourites were probably Ginny the book witch and Merlin the cat.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read the book early in exchange for an honest review.

Title: A Dark and Secret Magic by Wallis Kinney

Release Date: October, 8th, 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stars

"A Dark and Secret Magic" by Wallis Kinney is a captivating novel that weaves together elements of witchcraft, romance, and mystery into a tapestry that is as enchanting as it is unsettling.

Set against the backdrop of a secluded cottage in Ipswich forest, the story of Hecate Goodwin, or Kate, as she's known to her friends, unfolds like a spell being cast, drawing readers into a world where magic is as real as the emotions it evokes.

Kate's life as a hedge witch is one of solitude and contentment, until her sister Miranda's request to host the coven's Halloween gathering disrupts her peaceful existence. This event, which coincides with Kate's birthday, is not just a celebration but a reminder of the deeper connections and responsibilities that come with her heritage.

The arrival of Matthew Cypher, a man from Kate's past with a shadowy reputation, adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. His presence forces Kate to confront not only her feelings for him but also the secrets that have been kept from her, including those involving her late mother.

The discovery of a tome filled with dark magic and written in her mother's handwriting is a pivotal moment that sets the stage for a journey of self-discovery and confrontation with the unknown.

The relationship between Kate and Matthew is a highlight of the book, beautifully crafted and filled with tension and tenderness. Their interactions are charged with a sense of inevitability, as if their fates are intertwined by forces beyond their control. The development of their relationship is one of the most satisfying aspects of the story, offering a blend of romance and suspense that is hard to resist.

The novel's exploration of different kinds of witchcraft is both fascinating and immersive, providing a rich backdrop for the unfolding drama. Kinney's world-building is impressive, creating a setting that feels both real and otherworldly, a place where the boundaries between the mundane and the magical are blurred.

The twist in the story is masterfully executed, catching me off guard and propelling the narrative towards a climax of suspense.

"A Dark and Secret Magic" is a perfect read for those who love stories about witches, especially during the fall season. It combines elements of cozy fantasy with the thrill of a Halloween tale, creating a reading experience that is both comforting and exhilarating.

The book explores themes of family, trust, and the power of magic, all while delivering a swoon-worthy romance and a plot filled with mystery and intrigue.

A must-read for fans of witchy stories with a touch of romance. Wallis Kinney has crafted a novel that is both enchanting and thought-provoking, a tale that will linger in the minds of readers long after the last page is turned. For those who love a good witchy story with depth, this book is an absolute gem.

Thank you to The Publisher Alcove Press ,The Author Wallis Kinney & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.

What a wonderful story about Hecate and her learning about what it truly means to be a hedge witch. Overall the setting and magick lore was entertaining. Hecate is a relatable character because yes I too stick to the exact same schedule every single day.

I will say that the writing is clunky at times and sometimes the dialogue felt off which led to me having to reread a couple sections to forgive out what was happening. The pacing also seemed off at times. There was so much build up to Halloween night, that I felt like when it did become Halloween, everything felt rushed and skimmed over.

A Dark and Secret Magic reminds me a little bit of A Discovery of Witches, only a little bit more 'down to earth' and not quite as literary. It's the story of Kate, a 'hedge witch' who is reaching an important milestone in her life as a witch. She lives a fairly solitary life. That all changes with the coming of Halloween and Samhain, when a stranger at her door starts a sequence of events that will change her life. I like stories when witchcraft is connected to real life, without a lot of hocus pocus, and I enjoyed how this book handled that. I am not a huge romance fan and this was probably a bit too romance-y for me, but that's ok. I liked the relationship between Kate and her two sisters. All in all, a good read and I'd read a sequel.

I absolutely adored this novel. The diverse forms of witchcraft were captivating, and I would definitely opt to be a book witch if given the chance!

The concept and setting of this tale are truly original and meticulously crafted. It strikes the perfect balance between a cozy autumn fantasy and an exciting Halloween narrative! I was completely engrossed in uncovering Kate's past, exploring the potential of her magic, understanding why her mother only taught her half of her abilities, and deciphering Matthew's true motives. I found myself trying to piece it all together before reaching the conclusion.

While the story does involve a battle against a dark witch from the underworld using shadow magic and touches on blood magic, I found it to be more cozy than dark overall. The pacing was consistent, character development was superb, and the plot kept me on my toes until the very end. This book encompassed all the enchanting elements of witchcraft... an intelligent feline companion, magical potions, spells, Halloween festivities, the clash between good and evil magic, and rival covens.

The dynamic between Kate and Matthew was enthralling, and I was taken aback by the unexpected twist! The final section of the book kept me guessing, unsure of how things would ultimately unfold.

Hecate emerged as a clever and resilient hedge witch, and I relished her character development throughout the story. Matthew, a charismatic and powerful witch, was portrayed exceptionally well. The array of supporting characters added depth to the narrative and each played a significant role.

The conclusion was simply exquisite, fulfilling my hopes for a satisfying ending!

Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc!