Walking in a Witchy Wonderland

Stay a Spell, Holiday Anthology

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Pub Date 05 Oct 2021 | Archive Date 30 Sep 2021

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Description

Getting hexy for the holidays!

Mischief and mayhem dominate the holiday season for the Savoie sisters of New Orleans. Five sexy stories set in the STAY A SPELL world you don’t want to miss.

Bewitch You A Merry Christmas: Always the peacemaker, Evie conjures Christmas magic between a hexed hottie and his witchy neighbor, while Mateo and Alpha plan to do whatever it takes to get some alone time with their girl.

Rockin’ Around The Hexmas Tree: A Dirty Santa gift with a very special hex boosts Devraj and Isadora’s sex life from sizzling hot to scorching.

Jingle Bell Jock: On New Year’s Eve, a new man puts the moves on Charlie. Tired of pining for his best friend, he’s ready to move on. Fortunately, JJ’s jealousy is just the right ingredient to move them well out of the friend zone.

You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grim: Her first glimpse of grim reaper Gareth Blackwater evokes a major case of insta-hate in Lavinia. In that same moment, Gareth is hit with insta-lust. Fate is playing with them both, and neither one is happy about it.

Jingle Spells: Nico and Violet laugh their way through their first babysitting adventure. But laughter turns to lust when Nico’s “dad” vibes tug on Violet’s maternal heartstrings.

Getting hexy for the holidays!

Mischief and mayhem dominate the holiday season for the Savoie sisters of New Orleans. Five sexy stories set in the STAY A SPELL world you don’t want to miss.

Bewitch You...


Available Editions

ISBN 7719395133754
PRICE $3.99 (USD)

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Average rating from 161 members


Featured Reviews

Juliette Cross has created such a delightful paranormal world with in our own that is peopled with characters that are wonderfully dimensional and lovingly crafted. These short stories are such a lovely treat and the perfect winter weather escape. Juliette's writing is so accessible being set in our world, in is engaging because it is enriched with paranormal beings and it is so wonderfully paced as we explore moments with beloved characters.

This novels is comprised of 5 short stories in which we get to see three with couples we know and love from the first three novels, a delicious male/male romance with two of our favorite side characters, and insight into the next couple we will see get their HEA! Juliette has such care for these characters and the world she created. She brings them to life and lets us see how they are growing and thriving in their relationships and it is so much fun. I love that these couples are sensual in their own ways, have bold and interesting personalities, and feel so real that I long to be their friends.

I highly recommend this short story collection especially if you have read and loved the three other books in this series. I am so excited for the expansion of this world and I long for every Savoie sister to get their HEA.

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Essentially a collection of extra epilogues ranging from spicy to adorably sweet, this anthology was a super fun peek in to the lives of the Savoie sisters and their friends. If you haven’t read the Stay A Spell series, you’re missing out on major awesomeness! Wolves, witches, vamps, and a few Grims, Cross has created a wonderful series that keeps me coming back for more!

Bewitch You A Merry Christmas—(December, right after Wolf Gone Wild) This spicy number features Evie, Mateo, and hot diggity—ALPHA!! 🤣 What can I say, the wolf is hard not to like! With Evie wrapped up with breaking hexes and attending family celebrations, Mateo/Alpha is hoping to squeeze some time in with just him and Evie. Smexy and highly enjoyable read!

Rockin’ Around the Hexmas Tree—(December after Hex and Drive) Dev and Isadora’s love life gets an unexpectedly frenzied boost from a gift at a Dirty Santa exchange. This one was smoking hot, with tongue-in-cheek smiles, as Dev and Isa finally clued in to what was happening.

Jingle Bell Jock (Takes place during Witches Get Stitches)—M/M romance
I was thrilled Charlie and JJ finally came to their senses! This story was sensitively smexy and had some unexpectedly tender moments.

You’re A Mean One, Mr. Grim (Takes place during the same time as Witches Get Stitches) Lavinia and Gareth’s chemistry was five star, sing-worthy guys! Who knew the buttoned-up Grim could be so naughty?! I can’t wait for their full length story!

Jingle Spells (Takes place almost two years following Witches Get Stitches)—this was the cutest, ovary-melting story of the group, lol! Nico and Violet babysitting gig had comedy, Star Wars cuteness, and some adorably heart-melting moments💗

I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book from Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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What a great set of short stories to keep you going until the next book comes out!

The beginning three stories are extensions of the three books out now and I loved getting the extra insight into those couples. Also, you get just a little tidbit into Ruben and Jules’s situation, not to mention having some background about Tia and her “neighbor/boyfriend”, and a look into the future that is just too cute for words and I’m so excited about that!!! Oh, baby Joaquin…eyes on you!!

The best by far for me was JJ and Charlie’s story. I was dying to know how they finally got together, and it does not disappoint! The chemistry between these two was downright dirty and just so dang hot!!!

The last little bit was a tremendous tease regarding Livy and Gareth’s story… I can’t wait to find out how their story goes.

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*Thank you to the author for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.*

Well, what can I say? This little anthology is so delightful! I would only recommend it if you are already a fan, because there are spoilers up the whazoo! But if you love 2nd epilogues or getting a peek into the lives of your beloved characters later on, this is going to be a treat. It is very quick and you will want more right away but it is so perfect.

The Savioe Sisters are deep in my heart, and full disclosure I am good friends with the author, but I also feel like these characters are just so likeable, you will feel the same way I do. They are just so fun and sweet and warm. I was smiling all the way through these short stories.

This also includes a tiny peek into the next couple in the series and I am SO EXCITED for that book to get written, that pairing is so adorable and intriguing. I want to know more about that freaking Grim!!!!

Also included is Juliette's first MM short story and I was so into it. This couple has been hinted at and I wanted to see them together so badly. I am so happy that she took the leap and showed us some of their HEA that has been happening behind the scenes. I loved it so much. It was so heartwarming and steamy to experience.

Honestly, if you are going to read this anthology, you are already in love with this setting and these characters, but I am always so thrilled to read anything from Juliette Cross and I will continue to be a fan of whatever she puts out.

5/5 stars

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What can I say about this book? Juliette always delivers with just the right amount of spice, laughter, and family when it comes to the Stay A Spell series.

I loved getting to catch up with three of the couples! The Savoie sisters are such an amazing representation of family dynamics. We have some inadvertent cock-blocking, misdirected pranks, and babysitting hi-jinks.

Then we get to read Charlie and JJ’s story. 🥺 FINALLY!

And last, but not least, a taste of Livvy and Gareth’s story! Burn it down; those two have chemistry! I am very much looking forward to seeing Gareth’s dominant side and getting our first inside look at a Grimm.

I recommend this series ever chance I get! This anthology of Christmas shorts was the perfect addition!

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This was so good! Loved seeing all the glimpses of characters, the holiday setting, and the smoldering sexy scenes. Of course no one can beat Isadora and Dev because damn, those two have got it going on. All loved Evie and Mateo's triplets. Can not wait for the other sisters books!!!

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- 5 stars !!

I’m excited to share with you guys my review of “Walking in a Witchy Wonderland” by @juliettecrossauthor !! This book is a collection of short stories, based in the Stay a Spell Universe 🔮

If you’ve read any of the book prior in this series, then this anthology is perfect for you! Based around the holiday season, each story follows a different Savoie sister and friends 👀 (The story about JJ and Charlie was just perfect 💘💘). This collection allows a little in-depth peek into the lives of our favorite characters filled with just interesting interactions and just pure fun ✨ Along with this, the reader got a little peek into the story line involving Livvy and Gareth ‼️ (which is who the next installment of the stay a spell series will be based on ) I seriously can’t wait guys 😩This book is just perfect for a swoon worthy read to get you in gear for the holiday season. Juliette Cross does not disappoint !!

Thank You to the author and net galley for providing me an advanced readers copy to read and review !!✨🔮

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This was such a FUN and sexy group of 5 short stories set in the Stay a Spell Series at the Holidays.

Bewitch you a Merry Christmas:
“It was like Christmas spirit. An intangible force you couldn’t touch or hold in your hand. But it was a bone-deep feeling you knew and felt in the air every December.”

Gah. What a lovely start to this series of short stories. Mateo/Alpha is hands down one of my favorite heroes. The sweetness mixed with the dirty dangerous. He and Evie just work and I enjoyed this holiday short. Any little snippets of Henry and Clara make my heart palpate. 💙

Rockin’ around the Hexmas Tree:
“There is always hope, my heart.”

Also. Snippets of Jules and Ruben. Yes. Please, I’ll take the second chance romance, please and thank you!
Oh my gosh Clara and Henry gold! I mean I know this short is about Devraj and Isadora- but can you see where my heart is at?! 😂
But seriously- this one was so much fun!

Jingle Bell Jock:
“He liked to plan. I knew that about him. I knew everything about him….
Life slips by fast, Charlie. I think it’s time”
Oh my goodness. I laughed and smiled so much in this one. JJ… was a mess for Charlie and I am absolutely here for it. It was cheesy sweetness and I cannot wait to see more peeks into their relationship.

You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grim:
Whoa.
My.
Gosh.
I CANNOT WAIT for these two! And that is all I’m going to say about THAT.

Jingle Spells:
Gah. What a sweet story! Lots of little insights into what’s to come for the Savoie family, and I cannot wait.

I’m so excited for what is to come in this series!

ARC provided by netgalley, all opinions are my own.

Will add Amazon/bookbub review link at release.

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I absolutely loved this collection of short stories. The Stay a Spell series has been one of my favorites to read! These short stories will get you in the holiday spirit and also leave you anxiously awaiting the next book! My person favorite was “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grim”. I’m as excited to read Livvy and Garett’s book as I am to read Jules and Ruben’s! This is a delightful series that has been a fun and exciting escape!
Thank you to Juliette Cross for this arc ebook in exchange for an honest review! I will be posting my review on my bookstagram (@ash.reads.a.bunch) this weekend!

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I am so in love with this series — there's truly nothing like this specific blend of contemporary romance and witch-y, magical elements. It's hard to find supernatural books that keep a light, romcom tone and this entire series perfectly balances that line. Not to mention the peak spice in this books. It's next-level good.

For this collection of stories, I think you'll need to have read at least one previous book in the series to have your bearings, but if you have read them, it is SUCH A DELIGHT. I loved getting to revisit these characters in different settings and situations. I had thought that each story would take place after the end of Witches Get Stitches (the last book released in the main series, book 3 of 6) but I was pleasantly surprised that each story took place at a different timeline throughout the three books that have already been released. It gave the whole collection a nice flow and let us check in on the characters at different points that we might have missed seeing in the main books.

Not to mention I adored the story for Charlie and JJ — I loved glimpsing their story arc as supporting characters throughout the main books, so it was so nice to see them get to shine and damn it was some incredible *steam*. I also loved the peek at who I think will be the couple for the next main book. We haven't gotten a lot of Livia in the other main books in the series so it was nice to dive into her head in this one. And I am just on the literal edge of my seat waiting for Jules and Ruben. GIMMIE.

Anyways I could gush all day but I just think this is the perfect holiday collection - I was grinning so big throughout. I'm hoping we get a second collection of stories once the next three books drop so we can further check in on the characters who I love more and more the more time I spend with them.

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When a novella gives you a bit more than bonus scenes! If I couldn't love a series even more. I'm beyond happy that Juliette gave us something to tide us over until next year, when the next book comes out. Walking in a Witchy Wonderland is not a standalone... kinda, maybe? Just read the books in order, that's all I ask.

As much as I loved visiting the Savoies and their counterparts, I enjoyed seeing everyone's perspective about each couple. It was something that I didn't know I needed. There's really no getting past any of the sisters, they see everything.

If you were curious if we'd be getting any steam, pshhhhh, Juliette would never do us the disservice. The steam is here and my goodness, it's HOT. But not surprised ;-)

Such a fun read and probably something I'll re-read until next year. We do get a glimpse of of what's to come in the next books and my goodness, all the damn intrigue. I'm not sure how I'll be able to wait because I'm beyond ready for those books.

A delightlful treat for Stay a Spell fans!

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Walking in a Witchy Wonderland is filled with perfectly wrapped packages you'll be eager to plunder and pillage this holiday season ((smirky-grin))


Mateo and Evie have that sexy all-consuming kind of love.

Isadora and Devraj giving you delectable debauchery.

JJ and Charlie serving up besties in all ways.

Gareth and Livvy... Well, hello. (gulp) May I speak, Sir?

Nico and Violet... just....damn.

Juliette Cross has given us five thoroughly sexy reads that will have you in search of some mistletoe or a man to unwrap. I loved everything!

~Tanja

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When Juliette Cross announced she was going to be releasing a Christmas anthology set in the Stay a Spell universe I was ridiculously excited – these books, the Savoie sisters and the various paranormal races are some of my favourite in the genre at the moment. I was even more excited when I was approved for an arc on Netgalley.

These short stories take place in and around the previous three books in the series, revisiting the couples we’ve already met, setting the stage for the next couple and giving us the story of how one of the side-couples finally find their way to each other. And I loved all of them. There’s enough magic – both Christmas magic and witchy magic – to make this a special holiday anthology. It’s full of humour, steamy scenes and fun.

While I loved all the stories, I’m going to highlight two of them:

In Jingle Bell Rock we finally get JJ and Charlie’s HFN as the two of them finally work out that they both want more a friendship. It doesn’t all go to plan, obviously, and the two have to battle pining and jealousy, but it was so nice spend time with these characters who have been on the periphery of the other stories. This one is set during book three (Witches Get Stitches) in the timeline.

And perhaps my favourite – possibly surprisingly so, given that it’s only the start of this couple’s story – was You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grim. This also takes place during Witches Get Stitches and sets the scene for what will be the book focused on Lavinia “Livvy” Savoie and Gareth Blackwater, a grim and her rival for a huge job opportunity. The grim reapers are some of my favourite characters in this world, and Livvy and Gareth’s enemies (to-hopefully-soon-lovers) story was so much fun and I can’t wait to see how the rest of it plays out.

If you’re after enjoyable holiday stories with a paranormal flair, keep an eye out for this anthology, releasing on October 5th, 2021.

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This collection features five new sexy and fun holiday short stories and was such a fun glimpse into the wonderful paranormal world and cast of characters Juliette Cross has created. I adored revisiting couples from the series and getting an introduction/more info on new characters. Heartwarming and steamy! Definitely best for those who have read all the previous books in the Stay A Spell series as a lot of the stories read like an epilogue. Highly recommended for fans who, like me, jump at the chance for any new Savoie Sisters content and need something to hold them over until the next book!

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I didn’t realise that four of the five short stories are actually epilogues, with the fifth introducing a new couple. I haven’t come across this author before so had a bit of catching up to do. Despite this, I really enjoyed getting a sense of this new to me author’s work and it definitely ticked all the boxes - rom com, paranormal, humour and sizzling chemistry in spades ! It was heartwarming without being cheeesy and left me smiling. I’m excited to discover such a great author and can’t wait to read more of her books!

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I wrote a mini-review slash my hectic thoughts for each story as I read it. As a whole, I cannot find a single fault with it. Except I want more 😂

Bewitch you a Merry Christmas

Evie and Mateo’s story

Evie and Mateo are my favourite couple, followed closely by Violet and Nico with a potential to be knocked off first spot for Jules and Ruben in the future, but who knows.

Anyway, I digress. This little story takes place in the December following Wolf Gone Wild. We meet some new characters, visit old besties and of course get into the mind of Mateo for some delicious Alpha monologues.

Plot: Evie wants to help a grumpy man who’s been hexed for Christmas, only to find out that there might be more to it than meets the eye (good stuff, don’t worry!)

While trying to get to the bottom of the hex, she also has to help prepare for Violet and Clara’s birthday which is all time that she’d much rather spend with her yummy man.

Enter the world of Savoie sister chaos and you get puns, karaoke, hot romance and of course magic.

PS: Clara’s favourite Historical Romances are brilliant and my TBR is now that much longer! Oops.

Rockin’ Around the Hexmas Tree

Isabella and Devraj’s story.

Plot: After a fun night of exchanging presents for Christmas, Izzy and Devraj realise something strange is going on. They have lots of fun as they try to figure it out.

This story was hot, hot, hot. Devraj’s dirty talk is just something else. Yum. 🔥🔥🔥

Jingle Bell Jock

JJ and Charlie’s story

This story takes place during Witches Get Stitches and gives us an insight into the snippets we’d caught about JJ and Charlie’s relationship.

Plot: Done waiting for JJ to notice him romantically, Charlie starts to date other guys again. He’s unaware that JJ is fuming from jealousy and would do anything to win his heart.

This is a lovely M/M, friends to lovers short story.

You’re a Mean One, Mr Grim

Livvy and Gareth’s story

Oh. My. God.

I was not expecting that. The sexual tension between Livvy and Gareth was simply off the charts. By Chapter 2, I was head over heels in love with the Grim and all he’d done was get madly jealous of a man wanting to shake Livvy’s hand. The man was jealous because he didn’t want anyone to shake Livvy’s hand, people. Why was that so hot?! Oh maybe because Gareth has BDSM thoughts about Livvy? Maybe? Oh my God, I can’t wait for their whole story.

Plot: Livvy is desperate to win the PR competition which means everything to her. The only thing standing in her way? Gareth Blackwater, a grim she can’t stand especially because she finds herself attracted to him on levels she can’t deny.

Jingle Spells

Violet and Nico’s story

I just love Violet and Nico. That werewolf is everything a girl could ask for, honestly.

Plot: Evie has finally managed to convince Mateo/Alpha to go out on a date and let Violet and Nico babysit. Things aren’t easy as they seem however, as the triplets show their growing powers and cause total chaos. Can Violet and Nico make it through the night? And more importantly, can Alpha let control go long enough to enjoy a date with his wife?

Overall, this has been one of my favourite collection of short stories. I have to put up my hand and admit, I enjoyed Livvy and Gareth’s story the most and can’t wait to see where they go.

This collection is absolutely brilliant and I can’t recommend it enough.

Thank you to NetGalley and Juliette Cross for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.

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4.5/5 ⭐️

I absolutely freaking loved that, wow! I read the whole thing in one sitting and I’m pretty sure I had a smile plastered to my face the entire time.

I saw this ARC on NetGalley (thank you, NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op) and thought “wow, seems like a cute lil holiday romance read with a dash of paranormal” - and that is exactly what this is.

I will preface will the fact that I had no clue it was a series and had not read the other Stay A Spell books. Whoops 😅 but it was fine because this author is fantastic and succinctly explained what I needed to know about each sister, their powers, personalities etc and I didn’t feel like I was lost at all! Obviously there was indication of back stories but it wasn’t absolutely required for me to know that in order to enjoy this book.

It was seriously STEAMY, freaking hilarious and soooo cute. After each ‘story/section’ I kept saying “ok that one was my favorite.” And then the next section would come up and I’d be like, “wait no THATS my favorite.” It was all so good, I couldn’t decide! I absolutely neeeeed more of Clara & the grim reapers story though. And I’m for sure going back to read about Violet & Nico and the others because I loved them. Mateo at the end with his grumpy doting self? Please, friggin adorable.

“Because that right there, what I just watched, that about made my ovaries explode.” - Violet Savoie.
SAME VIOLET, SAME.

Usually I like my fantasy based in older times because modern day fantasy with cellphones and Instagram is just weird to me. But this was so well done, no complaints there. Also, the fact that the sisters are romance readers & love bookish items?! JULIETTE CROSS you made this book for us. Seriously such a nice steamy rom com with a twist, and the Christmas setting made it all the more ✨ magical ✨

________

My review will be posted here on NetGalley, Goodreads, Amazon, Barnes & Noble, my Bookstagram page (@angiesalwaysreading) on 09/08/2021
and on my BookTok (closer to the release date), also @angieslwaysreading.

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I ABSOLUTELY ADORED THIS BOOK! I cannot wait for it to be published because I will be buying myself a copy! This story is so much fun and I love the title. Highly reccomend

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Walking in a Winter Wonderland by Juliette Cross is a delightful selection of short stories from Ms. Cross' Stay a Spell series. The reader gets fun glimpses into the lives of the Savoie sisters and their mates at Christmastime. I enjoyed all the stories in this collection but have to say that Jingle Spells was my favorite. In this story Violet and Nico babysit Evie and Mateo's triplet toddlers. What a fun story! The whole collection is a must-read!

I received an ARC and am happy to provide a honest review.

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Ummm ok I loved this so so much!!! It just made my heart happy with all the extra stories we get of favourite characters and then we get a glimpse of what is to come!

Definitely is a must if you’ve read this series! You get nothing, but feel good warm fuzzies and heart melty goodness!
And also the sweet build up anticipation of the next book!!! I’m so ridiculously excited!

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Listen. I loved this. It gave me such a serotonin boost, like holy cannoli this is exactly what I needed! Am I biased because I love Christmas and this series? Possibly, but I don't care! I feel like this whole review is just me gushing, but this is the Stay a Spell Christmas Special that we all wanted and needed! Simply delightful, it made me so happy!

This is exactly what you expect it to be. These are sweet and spicy holiday shorts that give us a glance back at some of our favorite couples (I didn't realize how much I missed Mateo/Alpha until I was reading!) and new ones! I loved that we finally got to see how JJ and Charlie came together, and got a little taste of what's to come with Livvy and Gareth. I may have let out a frustrated cry when I realized how short You're a Mean One, Mr. Grim was! I seriously cannot wait for their book!

This definitely feels like it's for fans of the series, and this is not a place to start if you haven't read the other books! Luckily, there's plenty of time to read the first three books and then treat yourself to this one by the time December rolls around!

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