Everything written in this book felt like it was designed specifically to my taste. The paranormal academy romance that has some urban fantasy vibes with all different magics is my own personal brand of book crack. I'm obsessed with the family secrets, mystery of her and broody love interest's past, and just the broody love interest in general. I will be raving about this one for a while!

The vibes were vibin in this book guys ✨ not only is this cover stunning but this story surprised me in the best way possible! I was not expecting this book to get intense and that cliffhanger tho! Getting me more excited for the next book ✨

The tropes were amazing as I love a good enemies to lovers with some magic system and this is a college setting but a witch college setting. This vibe for sure gave me zodiac academy, city of gods and monsters and Harry Potter for sure. It gave all the right feelings as I was reading. I was picturing it in my head as I was reading which is a plus for me and knew from there I was going to like this book.

4.25 Stars

I really enjoyed this book and I was hooked from the prologue. I think the world and magic system is very intriguing and the suspense and tension built within the plot as the story went on helped keep me interested until the end. I really like the relationship between Paisley and Logan, and I can see this shaping up to be a nice emotional slow burn.

A few issues I had with the book was that the timeline of events was a little weird. Time passed in a nonlinear fashion so a lot of key development in Paisley’s friendships and in her training her newfound power was not explored as much as it could have. I also think that because of this all the reveals happen in the very last chapter, and besides the actual major revelation at the end, I wasn’t too shocked by everything that was revealed. The author leaves very obvious clues about the reveals and I think the foreshadowing could have been a bit subtler.

I was really immersed in the world and I’m looking forward to reading more of Paisley’s story. There are a lot of mysteries in the book that l’m curious about, and I can’t wait to read the next installment!

Thank you to NetGalley for an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.

Jaymin has crafted an extremely addictive and thoroughly entertaining adventure into the world of witchcraft. From the moment you open its pages until the very last word is read you will be immersed in this world filled with unimaginable power and terrifying creatures beyond your imagination. Jaymin is a master at creating universes that you get completely lost within, not wanting to come up from air until you’re done. And this book is no different. From the second I opened this story I was mesmerized with the world she created and the characters within. I sped through it cover to cover in one sitting completely zealous in my need to finish the story. I was physically unable to put it down, I had to know what was going to happen next. Food? What’s that. Water? Who needs it. This story though, I could not survive without finishing.

And once I was done, once that last word was read, I was bereft. Jaymin chucks you right over the edge of a cliffhanger that will leave your jaw on the floor, and your mind reeling. Was I aware this was more than likely a duet if not a trilogy? No. Should I have considering Jaymin does not write anything that’s not? Yes. Am I still annoyed with myself that I now must wait who knows how long for the next book? Yes, yes, I am. Even knowing that I must wait for the next installment I would not have missed out on reading this. This story is categorically my favorite read of 2025, and I wouldn’t have overlooked it for anything. Now please excuse me while I rock in the corner waiting for book 2 to be released because I MUST KNOW WHAT HAPPENS. Dang you Jaymin for being such an amazing writer and producing the most gratifying reads.

The story follows the journey of a young woman named Aria, who discovers her magical abilities at the age of twenty-two and receives an acceptance letter to the prestigious Weatherstone College. However, her magic is unpredictable and she struggles to meet the high expectations set by her family legacy.
Aria is a relatable and likable protagonist. The supporting characters are also well-developed and add depth to the story. In particular, the relationship between Aria and Logan, the son of her father's enemy, is complex and intriguing. The tension between them is palpable and the chemistry is undeniable, making for a compelling romantic subplot.
The magical system in "Spellcaster" is unique and well thought out. The idea of unpredictable magic adds an element of unpredictability to the story and keeps the reader guessing. The dark energy that stalks Aria's footsteps adds an element of danger and suspense, building to a thrilling climax.
Overall, I really recommend this book, the world-building, character development, and magical system make for an engaging and entertaining read.

I have recently been in a romantasy mood and can atest that Spellcaster by Jaymin Eve needs to be on your list! There are so many wonderful subtopics addressed throughout the story that you really need to pay close attention for. The characters themselves are also very compelling in their own way that, despite their trials and tribulations, you cannot help but to cheer for them till the very end. I will say though, the romance in this story did not completely sell me. The chemistry between the main characters felt a little flat and not all-around convincing. I felt like they needed something more added to their attraction of one another to immerse me in their relationship. Otherwise, the plot itself will keep you hooked across every chapter. I will definitely be reading the continuation of this series and hope the romance elevates a bit more.

This was a really cute Book. It was well worth the read. Thank you for letting me read it. The author did amazing with this story.

Okay, so I ate this book up. There were so many tropes that had me curious as to what this book may be about. And it did not disappoint.

The story definitely starts off a little slow, but it becomes more charming and interesting as you read further on. I'll admit that in the beginning the characters speak and act younger than they are (their twenties), but I feel like we saw glimpses of their maturity and character growth throughout the book which was nice as the reader to see!

Thank you NetGalley for an eARC!

Love the eff it moments and the consent. I do agree that consent is sexy. A romantasy I loved to read.

I loved it! I have a new favorite author! This book is so good. It gave me the same vibes I remember getting while reading Harry Potter way back when. Paisley is accepted into an adult magic school to develop skills for her future but danger seems to follow her everywhere. Her family, friends, and professors are supportive yet someone is hiding important secrets from her. After work each day I looked forward to picking up where I left off with Paisley and her friends and I can already feel my anticipation building for the next in the series. Excellent author!

almost 4 stars. I had to sit on this review for a while, largely because I had no idea what to rate Spellcaster. When I first got into reading, I was a big Jaymin Eve fan. I've binged a ton of her backlist, and she really was a go-to for me when it came to PNR that was also available on Kindle Unlimited. To my knowledge, Spellcaster is Eve's first traditionally published book,but in my opinion, it still reads like a book published via Kindle Unlimited, and not with the editing you'd expect from a traditional publisher. For long-term fans of Eve's, I actually think that's a good thing, because this reads very much like other books in her backlist. When it comes to the plot, I am absolutely feral for magical academy books. And it is especially the case when there's an enemies to lovers romance at play. So after reading the blurb, I immediately requested this bad boy on Netgalley. Here's where it becomes difficult for me to review... I flew through this book. I was invested in the main character, wanted to know what was going on with her, and also with the academy itself, and gobbled up all of the steamy scenes. The problem is that although I found this highly entertaining, it wasn't the most original or well written. Outside of the main character, most of the other characters felt very one-dimensional-- for example, one character's entire personality was that they liked to read books. And the female main character had almost zero conversations with the male lead. Sure, he saved her butt a ton, but actual conversation? Not really. So it was hard for me to buy into their connection. Now I say all of this, having flown through the book with a smile on my face the entire time. Was I entertained? Hell yes. Will I read book 2? Hell yes. So because of that, I'm putting this at 3.5-3.75 stars, rounded up. Because at the end of the day, I read books because I wanted to be entertained. And Spellcaster delivered just that. Fans of Eves and also fans of academy settings will probably really enjoy this one.

Thanks so much to Eve, The Hive, and netgalley for the ARC.

4.25 stars!

THAT is how it ends?? UGH!!!

I went into this book knowing nothing more than the description on Netgalley. This book reminded me a lot/gave me the vibes of the first Zodiac Academy, just an introduction and set up to the college, the magic, etc!

The writing and cadence also gave me the same nostalgia as Harry Potter. Like an adult version (language, some spice) of the two mashed together. So basically, I didn’t want to put it down. It was definitely fast paced in parts with some predictability but quite a few curve balls in others!

As I mentioned, if you liked ZA I think you’ll like this book!! It’s pretty character dialogue heavy if you’re into that. I think I would have preferred a tad more of a mix of plot & dialogue but again I was still so drawn into what was going to happen next or how something was going to unfold even if it was predicted.
The ending has me ANGRY though because I want the next book now!! I need to know what happens next with Logan & Paisley!

Gahhh!!! That ending!!!! Whaaaa?!?!? I need more!!!

I loved seeing Paisley grow as a witch at Weatherstone College! Even with shy powers and chaos making her freshman year more difficult, she finds her connection. I loved her relationship with her family - the Hallistars are the type of family many would wish for - and her friends.
I read this book over a vacation, and it was a perfect read for escaping and relaxing!
I still want to learn a little more of the world of Weatherstone and definitely need more information about what was happening at the end!!

I can't say too much without getting into spoiler territory, but this was a fun read and I am looking forward to the next book to find out what is going on with Paisley!! I had some inklings things were going the way they were going, but I have questions!!!

3.5 ⭐️ rounded up

i can definitely get behind the description of “Harry Potter meets Zodiac Academy”.

overall this was a fun read, not too serious but definitely had me wanting to know more about the story and characters in general.
i need as many answers as Paisley does about DEMON-WITCHES (????????) and the mysterious (and super hot) Logan. childhood ceremonies, familial secrets, elder warlocks on a power trip? I NEED TO KNOW

thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc!

From the very first page. This book sweeps readers into a vividly imagined world where magic pulses beneath every shadow and destiny hangs in the balance. With a rich tapestry of lore and an unforgettable cast of characters, this fantasy tale offers everything fans of the genre crave: adventure, heart, and high stakes.

At the center of the story is [Protagonist's Name], a compelling hero grappling with inner demons and outer threats alike. Their journey from humble beginnings to a confrontation with fate is as thrilling as it is emotionally resonant. Along the way, a diverse ensemble of allies and enemies deepens the narrative, each one distinct and integral to the story’s unfolding.

Loved everything about this book!! The magic system, suspense and the dark academia was so well done. This was a new new author, definitely will not be the least one I read by her. The plot twist at the end though!! I couldn’t get enough.

This book was incredibly enjoyable! I appreciated the academic environment and the intricate magic system featuring various types of powers. It was fascinating to explore the diverse ways in which magic operates within this universe. The college backdrop was delightful, and the characters exhibited significant potential. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and eagerly anticipate the next installment in the series!

This was so much fun! I wasn’t 100 percent sure if this would entirely be my thing but I had such a beautiful time with this!!

Rating: 4.5 ⭐️ (rounded up)
Spice: 2 🌶️

Tropes:
- Dark Academia
- Magic College
- Witches & Warlocks
- Elemental Magic
- Enemies(ish) to Lovers
- Lost/Locked Memories
- "Who hurt you?"
- Slow Burn
- "F*ck it"

Thank you to NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing, and Jaymin Eve for the ARC! I was dying to get my hands on this book, and the scream I scrumpt when I got the email saying I was approved for it. Now that I'm salivating to continue this story, I realize that I just set myself up for an even longer wait for book 2. Totally worth it!

I've said it before, and I'll say it again. Jaymin Eve could write the phonebook, and I would read it. The way she weaves her stories never fails to draw me in, and Spellcaster was no exception. I devoured this book. The beginning was a bit slow for me, but I understand that there was a world that needed building, and things started to pick up within a few chapters.

Spellcaster centers around 22 year old Paisley Hallistar, the youngest in a family of witches and warlocks, as she begins her freshman year at Weatherstone College, an elite magical college. When she arrives, she is horrified to learn that Logan Kingston, the son of her family's enemy, has transferred to Weatherstone and will be beginning classes as well. But she and Logan weren't always enemies, even if she can't remember her former childhood friend, and now it's hard to tell if he just wants her or wants her dead. He is broody and dangerous but oddly obsessive and protective, and the pull she feels toward him is undeniable. The tension and chemistry between these two is delicious, and the mystery surrounding Logan, their connection, and his true intentions is intriguing. They have that push and pull that I love to see. I couldn't get enough.

Two of the things that Jaymin Eve excels at are family/found family and strong female friendships, and that was evident again in this book. Paisley's dynamic with her family is so sweet and fun. They are so loving and supportive, while, in true sibling fashion, trading barbs and knowing just what buttons to push. I adore their relationship. And it wouldn't be a Jaymin Eve book without a supporting cast of ride-or-die girlfriends. Their banter and conversations were often times hilarious, other times sweet, but almost always relatable (at least to my former 22 year old self). Given one of the revelations at the end of the book, which I had to admit I saw coming, I'm curious to find out what happens to their friend group in the aftermath.

Add in the interesting magical system, suspense, dark vibes, bizarre monster attacks, scheming & intrigue, and the questions surrounding Paisley's magic, and Spellcaster is as addictive as it is entertaining. The plot-twist at the end left me reeling and counting the days until the next book is out. Another hit by Jaymin Eve, who continues to cast her spell on me.

The way I was HOOKED FROM THE START?! This is everything I want in a romantasy and I’m so excited to share it on social media!!