Love Bites by Cynthia St. Aubin was an absolute delight! I actually picked it up because Ilona Andrews recommended it in their newsletter, promising “a funny, light paranormal romantic comedy with medium heat and very little angst.” And that’s exactly what it delivered.

Hanna, freshly divorced and in debt, lands a job at an art gallery with the swoony and mysterious Mark Abernathy. Their banter and dynamic reminded me a little of Barrons and Mac from the Fever series—only far more lighthearted and cheeky. Of course, there’s also Detective James Morrison, who’s investigating a string of murders tied to the gallery…which may or may not point directly to Hanna’s enigmatic new boss.

The book is equal parts paranormal rom-com and cozy murder mystery, with plenty of humor, a bit of adventure, and a quirky cast of side characters (including Hanna’s cats, who just about stole the show). Hanna herself is sharp, witty, and instantly lovable, and the supporting characters all brought their own charm and chaos to the story.

The pacing was fast, the writing clever, and I flew through it in one sitting. It’s exactly the kind of low-angst, funny paranormal romp you want when you need a breather between heavier reads. I’m definitely continuing this series!

Recommended for: fans of Practical Magic, light paranormal mysteries, and anyone who loves their romance with a side of murder and sass.