3.75/5

A Simple Twist of Fate is a cozy paranormal romantic comedy with lots of tongue-in-cheek humor (looking at you, chapter titles) and lovable characters. I'd say this would make for a nice beach read, as it did not take me too long to get through. Nothing was too surprising in the storyline to the point of almost being cliché, but setting of Fates Haven was very charming, and the characters made you want to root for them. The "fated mates" trope was executed just a bit differently than other times I've read it, which was fun. I will say that the summary made it seem a bit more high-stakes than it actually was, but I suppose there's only so much one can do when you are working with a standalone novel, as it's hard to get into the full magic system of the world.

Harry is our FMC who finds herself the temporary guardian of her friend's teenage daughter, whose magic is getting difficult to control. In an effort to find some answers, she returns to the home and friends that she left behind 13 years ago. It's a sweet reckoning of facing your past and finding your place. She is the sunshine to our grumpy and broody MMC Jax, who of course goes soft for the right people. There is a "touch her and d!e" trope moment which I wasn't expecting but I thought was pretty well done, if short. Full disclosure, the "second-chance romance" trope is actually not a favorite of mine, but I did find the interactions between the two pretty entertaining.

While there were plenty of background characters who had their own vibrant personalities, my favorites would have to be the mother figures, Patricia and Nora. I would have LOVED to see more of them both as I found them sharp, witty, caring, and no-nonsense. I thought it was great how they used their "mom powers" to nudge things along.

Overall a lighthearted read that I quite enjoyed. Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for a digital ARC copy!

Harlow “Harry” Pierce attended her first Fates Haven Finding Ceremony at age eighteen, certain her cougar shifter boyfriend Jaxon Atwood would be her Fated match. When her best friend matches to him instead, Harry left town. Though she didn't intend to return, her goddaughter, Grace, is half human and half shifter, with powers she can't control. Harry hopes that the local Alpha of the Rocky Mountain Pack could help, and discovers it's none other than Jaxon Atwood. He never knew why Harry had disappeared, but since then, Fates Haven’s magic has gone wrong. There hasn’t been a Fated Match made in thirteen years, and the town needs its magic back.

In a world of witches, demons, angels, shifters of various kinds, vampires, and fae, magic is very real and lives alongside ordinary humans. After Harry ran from her hometown, she lived in New York City and helped her human friend Cassie raise her daughter, Grace. They assumed Grace was fully human, but now strong emotions have her lighting things on fire, and she can't control it. Harry doesn't like being back where she grew up, but she needs help with Grace and controlling the shifting. She manages to rekindle a friendship with her former best friends and is constantly in Jax's orbit because of Grace and the festival games that her aunt planned. It's funny, and the competition brings out different aspects of Grace's shifter side, as well as the relationship between Harry and Jax.

April Asher is really good at supernatural romcom novels, and this is no exception. The fated mate concept is less of a growly "you are mine and no one can have you" trope (which I don't like) and more of "you're the other half of me and I'm better with you" (which I really do like). They get over fears of the past and of being left behind, and work together to build a better future. There are glimpses of at least three other potential couples, so it will be fun to see those stories, too.

A cozy, cute, whimsical second chance romance.

A couple of pages in and it’s already hilarious! The cast of characters made it a fun read. It’s a small town with magical shenanigans.

Harry “Harlow” and Jax are meant to be though the journey to being together is curved. There is such a way of writing that feels like a warm hug and April Asher achieves that mystical feeling but still feeling home.

This story the right recipes for a supernatural rom-com full of magic, love, laughs, and a little spice

A cozy fantasy with all the rom-com feels and the sweetest atmosphere. I enjoyed this one so much more than I expected it was a great light second chance love story with all the supernatural elements I’m obsessed with. While there was some predictability in the twists and revelations for me I didn’t mind because of how the mysteries unraveled within the story. The diverse character types and relationship between Jaxon and Harlow were cute and the spice fit the story well but wasn’t necessary and easily could be skipped over if you choose. I wish the reasoning of their past relationship ending was done differently but it didn’t matter enough to take away from the fun and whimsy I found in this story and all the supernatural elements I loved.

A Simple Twist of Fate is a shifter x witch romance featuring second chances, a quirky small town, found family, and a dash of steam! This rom-com was so much fun, the chaotic and cozy town was just adorable and the perfect balance to the mystery subplot. The magic and plotlines were bursting with personality and so much humor throughout; the town and surrounding characters made the story so bright. I loved how Harry and Jax found their way back to each other while so much was happening outside their relationship. The two were so perfect for each other, and while I would have loved if the romance was even more central, the tension and chemistry left me wholly satisfied. If you're looking for a vibrant and lighthearted romance full of magic, mischief, and charm, I cannot recommend this book enough!

Read if you like;
✨Eccentric Characters✨
✨Stars Hollow x Halloweentown✨
✨Fated Mates✨
✨Plus Size FMC✨
✨Dual POV✨
✨Festivities and Games✨

Asher brings together two likeable characters in this second chance romance. While she doesn't manage to do anything particularly unique in this work, it's a good time and there's minimal conflict. Asher isn't trying to revolutionize the field; she writes a solid supernatural romance to launch a series that I predict will be comforting and spicy.

I'm on the fence on this one.

Dubbed as a paranormal romance, I was expecting, well, more romance.

A Simple Twist of Fate focuses more on the town of Fates Haven--which is very Hallmark meets Halloweentown, with tons of found family goodness and friend shenanigans, more so than Harry and Jax's fated mate romance.

Which, overall, was fine, as I never really bought into their romance anyway, and was definitely more invested in finding Grace's dad and the friend group as a whole.

To put it bluntly, Harry and Jax lacked chemistry. Like a lot.

There wasn't enough angst and pining, and everyone seems to forgive Harry so easily (especially Jax) for pulling a runner and disappearing for the last thirteen years all because her feelings got hurt and she didn't wait around to learn the truth for herself. (I HATE THE MISCOMMUNICATION TROPE!!!!)

Honestly, I just wish everyone would have made her work for it (again, especially Jax) instead of ushering her back into town and their lives with arms wide open, but I digress.

A Simple Twist of Fate was cute, and does wrap up nicely with its eventual fairytale happy ending and conclusion to all the other shenanigans going on in Fates Haven... I just wanted (and expected) more.

What to expect:
- witch + alpha shifter
- kooky but close-knit small town
- found family
- second chance romance
- fated mates

This was such a fun book! I love April's other books, and this one was no different. I loved the cozy supernatural vibes of the town and characters. I'm usually not big on second chance romance, but this was cute! A charming and fresh take on witches and shifters. Kinda like Gilmore Girls meets Sweet Magnolias with some magic thrown in. 5 fun and bewitching stars!

Harlow “Harry” Pierce was stressed. She lost her job. She became the guardian of a cranky teenager with a controllable shifter tendencies and now she lost her apartment. Only option left was to go back home to Fate’s Haven - problem is she ran away 13 years ago after the boy she loved was fate matched to her best friend. From here we have the best cozy and hysterical paranormal romance I’ve read in years. This brought me back to the fantastically fun stories from Shelley Laurenston with all the shifters, witches and demons you can hope for. I cannot recommend this book more and I hope for more romance set in this crazy fun town.

Harlow (aka Harry) Pierce is a guardian to her friend's child Grace. Harry is a witch and Grace is an unknown magical. She has an out of control fire power. Harry is trying to help her control her powers but shes lost. Cassie, Grace's mom is trying to find her 8 day stand and get answers for Grace. When Grace accidentally sets fire to her school and apartment. Harry decides to return to Fates Haven, Colorado for some help from the magical community. Her Aunt Nora lives there.

I loved this book. The writing captivated me right away and I was hooked. I loved the magical town and the townsfolk. I'm hoping this is a new series and we get to know the rest of the Trouble Trio. It was the perfect amount of spicy, romance and magic.

Looking for a little magic, a little romance, and a whole lot of cozy charm? A Simple Twist of Fate delivers just that. Set in the whimsically witchy town of Fates Haven, this paranormal rom-com is the perfect comfort read for anyone craving low-stakes tension, second chances, and found family vibes with a spark of spellwork.

Harlowe and Jaxon’s chemistry crackles from the very first page. Their shared history adds depth to their banter and makes every stolen glance feel that much more meaningful. This is a second-chance romance that leans into its emotional roots without ever dragging the mood down. The heat level is just right—sweet with a bit of sizzle—and the pacing feels natural for a couple with unfinished business.

Grace, Harlowe’s goddaughter, brings a wonderful subplot to the story with her coming-of-age magical journey. Her struggles with her powers and identity add richness to the narrative without pulling focus from the central romance. And honestly? Her bond with Harlowe was just as heartwarming as the romantic arc.

The town itself feels like a character—full of magical hiccups, quirky locals, and just enough mystery to keep the plot moving. The missing Fate Witch storyline adds a touch of intrigue without ever turning this cozy tale into something too intense.

Is it groundbreaking? No. But it’s comforting, and sometimes that’s exactly what a book needs to be. If you love magical small towns, second-chance love, and stories where the emotional stakes are just high enough to make you care (but not stress), A Simple Twist of Fate is well worth the read.

Perfect for fans of:
The Ex Hex
Light paranormal romance
Small-town magic
Found family with a sprinkle of spice

This book had everything I love in a supernatural romance—small town charm, second chances, spicy chemistry, and a full cast of magical misfits I wish I could be friends with. From shifters and fae to vampires, demons, and seers, the supernatural world-building was rich and delightfully chaotic in the best way.

I absolutely adored the found family vibes and the fun, flirty dynamic between the characters. The second chance romance was swoony and sizzling—these two had chemistry that leapt off the page. Add in a town festival complete with challenges, competitions, and a hilarious boys vs. girls bet? I was hooked.

There’s mystery, mayhem, and moments that made me laugh out loud. The plot felt layered but never overwhelming—just full and engaging from start to finish. If you’re into magical towns, romance with heat and heart, and stories that balance humor, emotion, and just a touch of chaos, this one’s for you.

If you’re looking for a cozy escape filled with quirky characters and magical mishaps, look no further than April Asher’s latest gem, A Simple Twist of Fate. It is a delightful rollercoaster ride of fun, romance, and a sprinkle of chaos.

I love second chance romances and when it comes to Harry the witch and Jax the cougar shifter, it’s like watching a slow-motion trainwreck in the best way possible. Early on, the long-held misunderstanding between the two is laid out like a neon sign, and yet, they tiptoe around each other like they’re on a first date. The tension is palpable, and the humor? Don’t even get me started on how their flirty banter had me swooning and laughing out loud at the same time.

And if you thought the story couldn’t get any more entertaining, just wait until you meet the Fearsome Four. Their competition against the Big Bads is pure gold. It’s fierce but so much fun, like a playful rivalry that keeps you turning the pages while you root for your favorites to come out on top. As the undercurrent of a magical shift looms over the town, it feels like everything’s building toward something explosive and exciting.

The way Asher crafts these moments of both miscommunication and camaraderie is brilliant. It’s lighthearted enough to keep you giggling, yet there’s an undercurrent of depth that keeps you invested in the characters. As someone who loves a good mix of laughter and heart, this novel really hits the spot.

There are many supporting characters that flow together so well. Young Grace is a great addition and I loved her journey to find her shifter identity. Elodie the fierce angel and Silas the broody demon are a hot enemies team that I can’t wait to read more about. Lenny the tattooed seer and Gavin the librarian vampire will be a wild ride. And Harry’s delightful Aunt Nora is a very sneaky matchmaker who has many magical surprises up her sleeve.

So here’s hoping April Asher gives us a new book soon! I can’t wait to dive back into this magical world and see where the characters take us next. Well done, April! You’ve captured my heart once again. If you haven’t read this book yet, get on it! You won’t regret it!

Thank you to Ms. Asher for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.

I adored the Supernatural Singles series, so A Simple Twist of Fate, set in the same world, was an automatic addition to my tbr. I am pleased to report that this book exceeded my expectations!

When Harlow (Harry) returns to Fates Haven with her teenage ward Grace, thirteen years have passed since she ran away brokenhearted believing that her boyfriend was the Fated Mate of her best friend. But Harry will make any sacrifice for Grace, the girl she helped to raise, get a handle on her shifter nature and fire magic. Even if it means facing the love her life mated to someone else.

April Asher’s characters are loveably flawed, witty, and relatable. Jax and Harry are both strong MCs and the chemistry between them is sizzling. The secondary characters are just as engaging as Jax and Harry, and I am so excited to see where this series goes.


Here are a few of the things I loved in this book:
Chapter Titles: a hilarious foreshadowing
The Trouble Trio; a witch, a seer, and an angel with anger issues make an epic girl squad
Sugar Tits & Treats Bakery: the name says it all!
Klepto Gnomes: the garden statue never looked so good!
Aunt Nora: she’s life goals for my golden years.
Fates Festival: Fearsome Four vs. The Big Bads in three epic contests

Thank you St. Martin’s Griffin for the ARC.

A Simple Twist of Fate by April Asher
Rating: 4 stars
Steam: 2 chilis
Pub date: 5/13

Thank you so much to Netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for my advanced copy!

Set in the quirky town of Fates Haven, this story brings Harlow “Harry” Pierce back home after thirteen years away—along with her half-human, half-shifter goddaughter, a lot of emotional baggage, and no plans to see the guy who broke her heart. Spoiler: she sees him.

Jaxon Atwood, now the Alpha of the Rocky Mountain Pack, isn’t exactly thrilled to see Harry again either. But as old sparks fly and the town’s long-missing Fate Witch throws everyone’s destiny into chaos, the two are thrown back into each other’s orbit in the best kind of way.

If you're into second-chance romance with a magical twist, this book is an absolute must-read. Harry and Jax have amazing chemistry, and April Asher does a great job making their emotional journey feel real. The side characters are just as fun, especially the Trouble Trio. Also, major shoutout to the klepto garden gnomes, the hilariously named Sugar Tits & Treats Bakery, and Aunt Nora, who I fully aspire to become one day.

There’s heart, humor, magic, and just the right amount of angst to make the payoff feel worth it. A Simple Twist of Fate totally lived up to the hype and then some—I already can't wait to see what happens next in Fates Haven.

I enjoyed April Asher’s Supernatural Singles series, so to have an arc of her new paranormal romcom is exciting!

This book gave the same vibes as the Supernatural Singles-you got the small-town, colorful characters, the romance, and a sprinkle of spice. I thought it was interesting with the mention of other realms and the introduction of other supernatural beings beyond the usual witches, shifters, vampires, and the like. Asher is expanding the supernatural world in her books, for sure.

As for or MC’s Harlow and Jax, their romance was slow burn. Their relationship in the past did not end well so when they met again, it was not with open arms. It involved some grudge holding, banter, and denials of old feelings resurfacing.

I wasn’t sure how the story was going to wrap up but overall, the subplots were addressed in the end and left room for sequels. I’d be interested reading about the other fated couples.

✨ Second chance
✨ Found family
✨ Magic
✨ Friendly competition
✨ Fun chapter titles

A second chance paranormal rom com.. I"m not a huge fan of this genre but strip away the shape shifting and the witches and you've got a nice read about Harry and Jax. And young Grace. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. I know there's a big readership for this.

I liked the overall plot but the execution wasn't the best for me. I would label this a cozy fantasy with minimal world building, and being more character driven. With that being said a character driven book needs really good character development and that fell a little flat and underdeveloped. Some of the pacing was off, either slow or really fast. The pop references are ok if they aren't overly done but sadly they were in this book. I wanted to love it more then I did.

Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin’s Press, and the author for giving me the opportunity to read an advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

This was my first April Asher book, so I went into this book expecting a fluffy lighthearted romance. Guys! This is the type of romance book that we need more of. There is such a well-rounded cast of characters that we actually learn about and feel emotions for. There are actual plot lines that are deep and make you think to put things together. The ages of the characters are varied! Everything about this book came together so nicely. I really loved how this felt like an easy romance while at the same time, being so fleshed out that any other fluffy romance will now feel so bare bones. I loved the story, the conflict, the relationships, the mystery, and everything in between. I’ll be off to read all of April’s other books! 5/5!

This was a cozy paranormal and for me Cozy stories are usually not as gripping enough to keep me entertained. I did enjoy this one, but I felt myself slipping out of interest a bit often. I did like the magic and the characters were great.