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Strange Bedfellows #1
Hex and Candy
True love’s kiss can break the curse. But then what?
Cole Alpin runs a small-town candy store. He visits his grandmother twice a week. And sometimes he breaks curses.
Leo Ericson’s curse is obvious right away, spiderwebbing across his very nice body. Though something about it worries Cole, he agrees to help—with little idea of what he’s getting into.
Leo is a serial monogamist, but his vampire ex has taken dating off the table with his nasty spell, and Leo needs Cole’s companionship as much as his help. When the hex proves to be only the beginning of his problems, Leo seeks refuge at Cole’s place. Too bad magic prevents him from finding refuge in Cole’s arms.
Cole’s never had a boyfriend, so how can he recognize true love? And there’s still the matter of the one responsible for their troubles in the first place….
Cole Alpin runs a small-town candy store. He visits his grandmother twice a week. And sometimes he breaks curses.
Leo Ericson’s curse is obvious right away, spiderwebbing across his very nice body. Though something about it worries Cole, he agrees to help—with little idea of what he’s getting into.
Leo is a serial monogamist, but his vampire ex has taken dating off the table with his nasty spell, and Leo needs Cole’s companionship as much as his help. When the hex proves to be only the beginning of his problems, Leo seeks refuge at Cole’s place. Too bad magic prevents him from finding refuge in Cole’s arms.
Cole’s never had a boyfriend, so how can he recognize true love? And there’s still the matter of the one responsible for their troubles in the first place….
214 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 21, 2018
13 people are currently reading
158 people want to read
About the author
Ashlyn Kane
32 books490 followersAshlyn Kane is a thirtysomething writer, editor, procrastinator, and dog mom. She likes cheese, puns, and hockey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
January 3, 2020
4 Hearts - Buddy review with Sara!
A promising beginning to a charming series!
This starts off with Leo, newly introduced to the fact that there are things such as vampires that truly exist. Having just recently been in a relationship with one, Leo’s handling this new world view pretty well until what he thought was an amicable breakup is anything but, and he finds himself literally cockblocked by a curse courtesy of his ex. Desperate to find a solution, Leo lands himself in Cole’s candy shop hoping and doubting that a magical miracle can help him.
Cole doesn’t have active magic, but he’s particularly adept at seeing and unraveling curses. Leo’s predicament seems straightforward, but it soon becomes clear that the curse and the entire situation is rife with complications and could very well suck Cole down the proverbial rabbit hole, endangering his tender heart. What’s a nice guy like him to do? Follow it through, of course.
This was quirky and adorable, peppered with some cute funny as well as some heartfelt emotions and feels and little dollops of suspense. This kept me on my toes, and I was smiling and anxious and curious throughout. The premise was great. I loved that this blended magic and paganism plus paranormal and supernatural elements, to feature not only the aforementioned vampire, but witches and seers, talking animal familiars, and werewolves! To top it all off, it’s also wrapped up in a big pretty bow of fate and destiny.
Clearly, I enjoyed this story a lot to give it a 4 heart rating. However, having never read this author before, I’m not sure if it’s a me thing or just the author’s style, but I felt at times that the flow of the dialogue and prose was jarring or confusing, and it kicked me out enough for me to comment on.
Regardless, I obviously liked the torturous slow burn and the UST that is manufactured by Leo’s awful curse and the stipulations needed to break it. Once he and Cole are able to be together (around 65,% for those who need to know), it was very nicely sexy and sweetly sigh worthy. Again, this was a great start to a new series despite my reading stumbles and one that I'll definitely be coming back to for more!
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
A promising beginning to a charming series!
This starts off with Leo, newly introduced to the fact that there are things such as vampires that truly exist. Having just recently been in a relationship with one, Leo’s handling this new world view pretty well until what he thought was an amicable breakup is anything but, and he finds himself literally cockblocked by a curse courtesy of his ex. Desperate to find a solution, Leo lands himself in Cole’s candy shop hoping and doubting that a magical miracle can help him.
Cole doesn’t have active magic, but he’s particularly adept at seeing and unraveling curses. Leo’s predicament seems straightforward, but it soon becomes clear that the curse and the entire situation is rife with complications and could very well suck Cole down the proverbial rabbit hole, endangering his tender heart. What’s a nice guy like him to do? Follow it through, of course.
This was quirky and adorable, peppered with some cute funny as well as some heartfelt emotions and feels and little dollops of suspense. This kept me on my toes, and I was smiling and anxious and curious throughout. The premise was great. I loved that this blended magic and paganism plus paranormal and supernatural elements, to feature not only the aforementioned vampire, but witches and seers, talking animal familiars, and werewolves! To top it all off, it’s also wrapped up in a big pretty bow of fate and destiny.
Clearly, I enjoyed this story a lot to give it a 4 heart rating. However, having never read this author before, I’m not sure if it’s a me thing or just the author’s style, but I felt at times that the flow of the dialogue and prose was jarring or confusing, and it kicked me out enough for me to comment on.
Regardless, I obviously liked the torturous slow burn and the UST that is manufactured by Leo’s awful curse and the stipulations needed to break it. Once he and Cole are able to be together (around 65,% for those who need to know), it was very nicely sexy and sweetly sigh worthy. Again, this was a great start to a new series despite my reading stumbles and one that I'll definitely be coming back to for more!
Thank you to the author/publisher for a copy in exchange for a honest review
July 14, 2018
Three months ago Leo Ericson was living life happily unaware of the paranormal world around him, but when he gets involved with a vampire things go sideways and now he finds himself needing a holistic cursebreaker.
Cole Alpin is the only male witch in a very strong matriarchy. Cole's never had a boyfriend, but not for lack of desire. So when he meets Leo and realizes the way to break the curse that's covering Leo is with true love’s kiss, and that Cole is the one to bestow it, he needs time to settle into the idea.
But when trouble continues to follow Leo, Cole decides to do everything he can to help. But things aren't always what they seem and Cole and Leo have more obstacles than true love's kiss to get through to find their happily ever after.
Hex and Candy has a cute premise, with likable characters, is threaded with humor, and I liked the dual POV. I would definitely be interested in reading another book centering around Cole or Leo, or just set in this world.
3.5 Stars
Advanced Review Galley copy of Hex and Candy provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
“Boy did you piss someone off,” he said before he could help himself. “What’s the damage?” He could take a guess, but it would be easier if Leo told him.
Leo seemed to wilt with relief. “You don’t think I’m nuts?”
“Please.” Cole’s family were adepts going back generations. “I’ve known you for like thirty seconds. But witchcraft, yeah, that’s real, and so’s the curse you’re under.”
“And you can undo it?”
That was trickier. “Sometimes. But not during regular business hours. I don’t charge for that stuff. Gets too complicated on my taxes.”
Cole Alpin is the only male witch in a very strong matriarchy. Cole's never had a boyfriend, but not for lack of desire. So when he meets Leo and realizes the way to break the curse that's covering Leo is with true love’s kiss, and that Cole is the one to bestow it, he needs time to settle into the idea.
“I know it’s scary. I know it’s new territory for you. Okay? But even if it weren’t for this, even if Leo didn’t need you, I know you. And you have wanted to fall in love your whole life.”
Damn it. Closing his eyes, Cole concentrated on breathing in and out. His throat felt thick. Most days he put it out of his mind or made light of it as he had with Leo.
But sometimes he remembered he wasn’t allowed to have what others took for granted. The universe wouldn’t allow it.
But when trouble continues to follow Leo, Cole decides to do everything he can to help. But things aren't always what they seem and Cole and Leo have more obstacles than true love's kiss to get through to find their happily ever after.
Hex and Candy has a cute premise, with likable characters, is threaded with humor, and I liked the dual POV. I would definitely be interested in reading another book centering around Cole or Leo, or just set in this world.
3.5 Stars
Advanced Review Galley copy of Hex and Candy provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
January 28, 2021
3.5 Stars
Summed up in the punny title, Hex and Candy is a sweet, sexy and imaginative paranormal M/M romance, featuring an MC who makes candy for a living while being known around town—or at least the supernatural savvy parts of town—as the guy you go to if you need help breaking a pesky hex!
In helping and getting to know candy-maker Cole’s latest hexed client, spunky nurse Leo, the two find themselves growing closer and closer in the midst of a paranormal charged mystery, which reveals at every turn that the intentions of the people in their lives aren’t quite what they seem.
The story and supernatural world-building were fun and imaginative, and the romance between Cole and Leo was quite lovely, but I must admit that I struggled at times with the overall flow of the writing, with events and dialogues being a bit hard to comprehend a time or ten. This wasn’t so heavily an issue that I’d never read the author again, because I would, I just wish the little hiccups in the narrative hadn’t nudged me out of my reading flow like they did.
Overall, a decent paranormal themed story with decent characters.
Summed up in the punny title, Hex and Candy is a sweet, sexy and imaginative paranormal M/M romance, featuring an MC who makes candy for a living while being known around town—or at least the supernatural savvy parts of town—as the guy you go to if you need help breaking a pesky hex!
In helping and getting to know candy-maker Cole’s latest hexed client, spunky nurse Leo, the two find themselves growing closer and closer in the midst of a paranormal charged mystery, which reveals at every turn that the intentions of the people in their lives aren’t quite what they seem.
The story and supernatural world-building were fun and imaginative, and the romance between Cole and Leo was quite lovely, but I must admit that I struggled at times with the overall flow of the writing, with events and dialogues being a bit hard to comprehend a time or ten. This wasn’t so heavily an issue that I’d never read the author again, because I would, I just wish the little hiccups in the narrative hadn’t nudged me out of my reading flow like they did.
Overall, a decent paranormal themed story with decent characters.
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August 28, 2018 5 Hearts
A Tag Team Review with R * A Reader Obsessed *
My ginger senses tingled when I saw Ashlyn Kane was going to write in the Dreamspun Beyond line. If you didn’t know tingling ginger senses are a good thing; they’re nice and warm, giving you a pretty euphoric feeling of anticipated pleasure. My ginger sense rarely fail me and they were spot on with this story. Kane nailed exactly what I’ve come to love from the Beyond line with perfection. The balance of paranormal and fluff were exceptionally done and I am still smiling after having finished this book a day later.
It was that good.
I have to say, reading for me has been a struggle this year and I really can’t put my finger on the why of it all. I just know that I am not reading as much and find it hard to even pick up a book and start reading. So the books that I do read, when they hit me in the feels and make me sneak read all day at my desk instead of the pace I’d set to read? They are gold.
Told from the dual POV’s from our adorable couple we meet Cole Alpin, candy maker extraordinaire, first as he is working in his candy store when a stranger walks in needing his help. Cole isn’t just a candy maker, he’s also a witch and a curse breaker and when the tall drink of water that is Leo walks into his store needed to break a curse, Cole is ready to help. Sure, he finds Leo attractive, but it’s the work that comes first as the Alpins are family of witches, who hold their craft to a high level of importance.
Oh Cole. I adored him so damn much. He’s so loyal to his family and to his grandmother first and foremost. She’s the one that raised him when his mother left and she is the one who has always had faith in his abilities, even if that means Cole may always be alone. I won’t go into all of that because it’s layered into the story, but Cole is adorable and steadfast with a dry sense of humor and a love of punny shirts. He’s quite easy to fall in love with.
Now Leo Ericson. How can I not fall in love with a guy who takes home a one-night-stand only to find out the dude’s a vampire? Leo takes it all in stride until him and said vampire, Roman, part ways and Leo can’t get no satisfaction with anyone. He finds out he’s been cursed by his ex-lover with fangs and is pointed in the direction of Cole to break the curse. Leo is so much fun. I love how open he is to the idea of being tossed into a world where vampires and witches exist. He’s fascinated by it all while being slightly afraid and it’s that side of afraid that moves this story along and moves him in with Cole.
I am kinda getting ahead of myself here. Let me backtrack and sum this up. Cole can break Leo’s curse, but it’s a bit tricky to do once he sees all of it in person and realized what it would take to break it. *cough* (see above quote) *cough* When Leo starts to feel watched and starts getting mixed messages of curse and protection, he runs to Cole for help. Cole opens his home to Leo and his already sugary heart starts to melt. I can write about these two for days and not get tired of reliving their moments. I love how easy they are with each other and how at first, Leo isn’t attracted to Cole because he’s not “his usual type”, but gets that his usual type is pretty crappy. Leo knows he’s magically cockblcoked by the curse, but as Cole loosens the threads of the magic, the two grow closer and start to build some serious UST. Serious UST where I needed to just make my own voodoo dolls of them and force them to make out. Goodness. When the near misses of a kiss happen, I felt it. When they start admiring each other’s body parts, I felt it. When both men wanted the other, but Leo was afraid of the curse and Cole is afraid of getting what he wants could do to the balance of the universe… I. FELT. IT. The payoff of all this UST though, is so freaking fracking worth it.
This reminded me of Practical Magic. With the Alpin family living in a small town and having a strong history of witches with the townsfolk fearing them. I love Practical Magic, so this warmed my heart with the pagan celebrations (Psst… I was born on Beltane) the Alpins have and how Gran is the center of it all. Both this story and the story of the Owens women have lessons in them with meddling with magic and its consequences. And both stories have witches who fall in love with humans that are their destiny. This book was easy to see translated to the big or small screen and would be so much fun to watch.
If you can’t tell, I loved this romance something fierce. I get giddy thinking of apple pie, Monarch Butterflies, Gran’s special tea, Ella’s aura readings, tarot cards foretelling destiny and all the magic involved. From Leo and Cole, to Gran, to Kate, to Amy, to Nate, to Jimmy and even to Roman. I enjoyed being part of this world in every way possible. Seeing as this is listed as the first book in a series, I am hoping I get to be a part of this world for a long time. I wouldn’t mind Nate getting a story or Roman, maybe Jimmy or really anyone, who is adjacent to Leo and Cole.
A Tag Team Review with R * A Reader Obsessed *
My ginger senses tingled when I saw Ashlyn Kane was going to write in the Dreamspun Beyond line. If you didn’t know tingling ginger senses are a good thing; they’re nice and warm, giving you a pretty euphoric feeling of anticipated pleasure. My ginger sense rarely fail me and they were spot on with this story. Kane nailed exactly what I’ve come to love from the Beyond line with perfection. The balance of paranormal and fluff were exceptionally done and I am still smiling after having finished this book a day later.
It was that good.
I have to say, reading for me has been a struggle this year and I really can’t put my finger on the why of it all. I just know that I am not reading as much and find it hard to even pick up a book and start reading. So the books that I do read, when they hit me in the feels and make me sneak read all day at my desk instead of the pace I’d set to read? They are gold.
Told from the dual POV’s from our adorable couple we meet Cole Alpin, candy maker extraordinaire, first as he is working in his candy store when a stranger walks in needing his help. Cole isn’t just a candy maker, he’s also a witch and a curse breaker and when the tall drink of water that is Leo walks into his store needed to break a curse, Cole is ready to help. Sure, he finds Leo attractive, but it’s the work that comes first as the Alpins are family of witches, who hold their craft to a high level of importance.
Oh Cole. I adored him so damn much. He’s so loyal to his family and to his grandmother first and foremost. She’s the one that raised him when his mother left and she is the one who has always had faith in his abilities, even if that means Cole may always be alone. I won’t go into all of that because it’s layered into the story, but Cole is adorable and steadfast with a dry sense of humor and a love of punny shirts. He’s quite easy to fall in love with.
Now Leo Ericson. How can I not fall in love with a guy who takes home a one-night-stand only to find out the dude’s a vampire? Leo takes it all in stride until him and said vampire, Roman, part ways and Leo can’t get no satisfaction with anyone. He finds out he’s been cursed by his ex-lover with fangs and is pointed in the direction of Cole to break the curse. Leo is so much fun. I love how open he is to the idea of being tossed into a world where vampires and witches exist. He’s fascinated by it all while being slightly afraid and it’s that side of afraid that moves this story along and moves him in with Cole.
True love’s first kiss.
I am kinda getting ahead of myself here. Let me backtrack and sum this up. Cole can break Leo’s curse, but it’s a bit tricky to do once he sees all of it in person and realized what it would take to break it. *cough* (see above quote) *cough* When Leo starts to feel watched and starts getting mixed messages of curse and protection, he runs to Cole for help. Cole opens his home to Leo and his already sugary heart starts to melt. I can write about these two for days and not get tired of reliving their moments. I love how easy they are with each other and how at first, Leo isn’t attracted to Cole because he’s not “his usual type”, but gets that his usual type is pretty crappy. Leo knows he’s magically cockblcoked by the curse, but as Cole loosens the threads of the magic, the two grow closer and start to build some serious UST. Serious UST where I needed to just make my own voodoo dolls of them and force them to make out. Goodness. When the near misses of a kiss happen, I felt it. When they start admiring each other’s body parts, I felt it. When both men wanted the other, but Leo was afraid of the curse and Cole is afraid of getting what he wants could do to the balance of the universe… I. FELT. IT. The payoff of all this UST though, is so freaking fracking worth it.
This reminded me of Practical Magic. With the Alpin family living in a small town and having a strong history of witches with the townsfolk fearing them. I love Practical Magic, so this warmed my heart with the pagan celebrations (Psst… I was born on Beltane) the Alpins have and how Gran is the center of it all. Both this story and the story of the Owens women have lessons in them with meddling with magic and its consequences. And both stories have witches who fall in love with humans that are their destiny. This book was easy to see translated to the big or small screen and would be so much fun to watch.
If you can’t tell, I loved this romance something fierce. I get giddy thinking of apple pie, Monarch Butterflies, Gran’s special tea, Ella’s aura readings, tarot cards foretelling destiny and all the magic involved. From Leo and Cole, to Gran, to Kate, to Amy, to Nate, to Jimmy and even to Roman. I enjoyed being part of this world in every way possible. Seeing as this is listed as the first book in a series, I am hoping I get to be a part of this world for a long time. I wouldn’t mind Nate getting a story or Roman, maybe Jimmy or really anyone, who is adjacent to Leo and Cole.
July 24, 2022
Cute story! The MCs got together to resolve a curse, but just kind of sidled into a relationship and stayed there. The ending was definitely NOT expected, though it did make much more sense than what I thought it would be. Not too much angst or drama, but not too sugary either - perfect for relaxing :)
Ashlyn Kane's books seem to be my vibe lately 😅
Ashlyn Kane's books seem to be my vibe lately 😅
August 23, 2018
3.5 stars
Cole Alpin is the best curse-breaker in Southwestern Ontario, though he also owns a candy store. Then Leo walks into the store, asking for Cole’s help because apparently, he has been curse by an ex – who happens to be a vampire. Cole realizes that the curse can be broken by the ol’ true love’s kiss and he can give it to Leo. But of course, Cole doesn’t want to burden Leo like that, so he needs to figure out another way….
I know I can only describe this book as cute or sweet – and I’m sorry that I don’t have another term to use. But that’s how Hex and Candy feels for me. Both Cole and Leo are likable characters – even if Leo is described at first as a bit of player, which lands him the curse in the first place. However, after he is cursed, Leo sort of leaving the life behind. I enjoyed the progress of the relationship between Cole and Leo.
I admit, I am a bit annoyed when I found out what Cole’s grandmother did near the end of the book. However, it all works out, so I guess I can let that go.
Based on the title, I assume this will be a series? I think Hex and Candy is a good start then. I look forward to reading other characters.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Cole Alpin is the best curse-breaker in Southwestern Ontario, though he also owns a candy store. Then Leo walks into the store, asking for Cole’s help because apparently, he has been curse by an ex – who happens to be a vampire. Cole realizes that the curse can be broken by the ol’ true love’s kiss and he can give it to Leo. But of course, Cole doesn’t want to burden Leo like that, so he needs to figure out another way….
I know I can only describe this book as cute or sweet – and I’m sorry that I don’t have another term to use. But that’s how Hex and Candy feels for me. Both Cole and Leo are likable characters – even if Leo is described at first as a bit of player, which lands him the curse in the first place. However, after he is cursed, Leo sort of leaving the life behind. I enjoyed the progress of the relationship between Cole and Leo.
I admit, I am a bit annoyed when I found out what Cole’s grandmother did near the end of the book. However, it all works out, so I guess I can let that go.
Based on the title, I assume this will be a series? I think Hex and Candy is a good start then. I look forward to reading other characters.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
February 23, 2021
Well…that happened.
This is partially a case of this not being the book I expected it to be and partially this book being too darn short for everything the author tries to do.
The romance itself is sweet, if somewhat shallow - with one major caveat: Cole lies by omission about a pretty big thing. He never tells Leo how to break the curse. Cole knows how after studying it for half an hour. He tells Leo that he knows how to break the curse, but that he can't break it. But he never tells Leo HOW to break the curse. (Which, honestly, gives Cole an advantage once they have sex - something he admits to, but still never says 'hey, this is how your curse broke.' Though…suddenly at the end, Leo seems to know because he's making jokes about true love's kiss. Don't know how that happened.)
Also, Cole says he is going to try to weaken the cure. Wiggle it a bit. The curse does weaken…but not through anything he did. Because he doesn't do anything. It takes literal weeks after Leo shows up needing help for Cole to decide that 'hey, I should make a protection amulet for this guy. In fact, I should have done that weeks ago.' For a book about magic, there is surprisingly little magic in it - just talk about herbal candies and one scene where Cole basically makes his own mountain ash protective barrier. (Oh, and like three scenes where Cole harvests herbs.)
There is two scenes where if you have specialized knowledge, I can only imagine you'd understand a lot more than I did. One deals with tarot card readings (and all I know is that reversed means the opposite) and the other the meaning of flowers (and I know nothing at all about that).
Finally, there is no atmosphere. So, this book takes place in September and October. In Canada. In a small town. … It really could be any time and any place. There's a pie festival that our boys go to. … Minimal description. Pretty sure they never actually got pie while they were there. (Though Cole, apparently, got a caramel apple he's still running around with.)
There was no investigating around Leo's curse, no talk about breaking it. Nothing. Which, as it turns out, was good, because the 'reveal' was a major copout. Ugh.
I was expecting a cozy magical mystery, autumn romance. Instead I got…I book that I'm not even sure deserves two stars. … Actually, I'm pretty sure it doesn't.
This is partially a case of this not being the book I expected it to be and partially this book being too darn short for everything the author tries to do.
The romance itself is sweet, if somewhat shallow - with one major caveat: Cole lies by omission about a pretty big thing. He never tells Leo how to break the curse. Cole knows how after studying it for half an hour. He tells Leo that he knows how to break the curse, but that he can't break it. But he never tells Leo HOW to break the curse. (Which, honestly, gives Cole an advantage once they have sex - something he admits to, but still never says 'hey, this is how your curse broke.' Though…suddenly at the end, Leo seems to know because he's making jokes about true love's kiss. Don't know how that happened.)
Also, Cole says he is going to try to weaken the cure. Wiggle it a bit. The curse does weaken…but not through anything he did. Because he doesn't do anything. It takes literal weeks after Leo shows up needing help for Cole to decide that 'hey, I should make a protection amulet for this guy. In fact, I should have done that weeks ago.' For a book about magic, there is surprisingly little magic in it - just talk about herbal candies and one scene where Cole basically makes his own mountain ash protective barrier. (Oh, and like three scenes where Cole harvests herbs.)
There is two scenes where if you have specialized knowledge, I can only imagine you'd understand a lot more than I did. One deals with tarot card readings (and all I know is that reversed means the opposite) and the other the meaning of flowers (and I know nothing at all about that).
Finally, there is no atmosphere. So, this book takes place in September and October. In Canada. In a small town. … It really could be any time and any place. There's a pie festival that our boys go to. … Minimal description. Pretty sure they never actually got pie while they were there. (Though Cole, apparently, got a caramel apple he's still running around with.)
There was no investigating around Leo's curse, no talk about breaking it. Nothing. Which, as it turns out, was good, because the 'reveal' was a major copout. Ugh.
I was expecting a cozy magical mystery, autumn romance. Instead I got…I book that I'm not even sure deserves two stars. … Actually, I'm pretty sure it doesn't.
August 24, 2022
This was a perfectly fine, easy read but also one I probably won't remember much about in a few weeks. The world-building was light but interesting, and I liked the MC, but the character and relationship development never dipped past the surface, even though it was clear there was plenty down there to explore. I picked it up because I wanted something lightweight, and then ended up liking the little details enough that I started resenting the lightness a little bit!
October 5, 2024
This book was too nice to rate any lower, but it was really only a whisp of a story. The guys were nice and the writing was fine but there’s not much here. They were kind of lackadaisical about getting to the bottom of the curse (the better to keep them thrown together in the same house), never even confronted the ex, and then it was just wrapped up quickly at the end.
November 10, 2018
Full review available at: https://optimumm.blog/2018/08/21/revi...
Rating 3.5*s
Hex and Candy is the first book in the Strange Bedfellows series and the twenty-sixth book in the Dreamspun Beyond series. This is the first book that I’ve read by Ashlyn Kane. The book was well written, and I liked the plot. The characters and sub characters were interesting, but the editing could have been better, although it wasn’t too distracting. I liked that this was a book about Cole, a candy maker curse breaker who takes on a client, Leo, who believes he’s been cursed by his vampire ex-boyfriend, Roland. The curse doesn’t allow him to flirt, exchange numbers, or dance with anybody that he’s attracted to. Leo was referred to Cole by a friend.
I was sometimes confused by the main character Cole Alpin. Cole comes from a long line of witches, but while he was growing up he didn’t present a magical ability, so they thought he was a muggle—yes, they did start to call humans that after the Harry Potter books came out.
Up until that point, they were called mundane—so they had him learn a muggle job, and he choose candy making but not chocolate because he has a really bad hazelnut allergy. However, Cole did finally get his magical ability which is curse breaking. So now he has a candy shop where he makes some holistic magical candies in addition to regular candies and on the side he breaks curses. Cole's grandmother is clairvoyant, and he’s asked her before if he will ever find somebody to love, but she will never tell him yes or no. His cousin Kate also has a way with tarot cards and reads his cards whenever he has a question about what he should do. Now the part that confuses me is how Cole keeps having thoughts about not be able to do something or say something because it is too sexy which is the same problem that Leo has because of his curse. Which keeps making me think that he’s the one that’s cursed which is wrong. If he’s trying not to say or do these things because it would be unprofessional to hit on his client, then it wasn’t explained well enough cause I found it confusing.
I did like how true love’s kiss could break the curse.
I liked Leo Ericson. His first introduction into the paranormal world is when he takes home a one-night stand that turns out to be a vampire. After their relationship dissolves in what Leo thought was amicable terms, he finds that he’s been cursed. And he’s pretty sure it was by his ex-boyfriend. After nearly a year of living with the curse, he’s ready to be done with it and is recommended by a friend to Cole Alpin.
I liked that there were some twist and turns that I wasn’t expecting and that we still got a happily ever after ending.
Overall, a good book and a good addition to the Dreamspun beyond series.
I can’t wait for the next book in the Strange Bedfellows series to come out.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
Rating 3.5*s
Hex and Candy is the first book in the Strange Bedfellows series and the twenty-sixth book in the Dreamspun Beyond series. This is the first book that I’ve read by Ashlyn Kane. The book was well written, and I liked the plot. The characters and sub characters were interesting, but the editing could have been better, although it wasn’t too distracting. I liked that this was a book about Cole, a candy maker curse breaker who takes on a client, Leo, who believes he’s been cursed by his vampire ex-boyfriend, Roland. The curse doesn’t allow him to flirt, exchange numbers, or dance with anybody that he’s attracted to. Leo was referred to Cole by a friend.
I was sometimes confused by the main character Cole Alpin. Cole comes from a long line of witches, but while he was growing up he didn’t present a magical ability, so they thought he was a muggle—yes, they did start to call humans that after the Harry Potter books came out.
Up until that point, they were called mundane—so they had him learn a muggle job, and he choose candy making but not chocolate because he has a really bad hazelnut allergy. However, Cole did finally get his magical ability which is curse breaking. So now he has a candy shop where he makes some holistic magical candies in addition to regular candies and on the side he breaks curses. Cole's grandmother is clairvoyant, and he’s asked her before if he will ever find somebody to love, but she will never tell him yes or no. His cousin Kate also has a way with tarot cards and reads his cards whenever he has a question about what he should do. Now the part that confuses me is how Cole keeps having thoughts about not be able to do something or say something because it is too sexy which is the same problem that Leo has because of his curse. Which keeps making me think that he’s the one that’s cursed which is wrong. If he’s trying not to say or do these things because it would be unprofessional to hit on his client, then it wasn’t explained well enough cause I found it confusing.
I did like how true love’s kiss could break the curse.
I liked Leo Ericson. His first introduction into the paranormal world is when he takes home a one-night stand that turns out to be a vampire. After their relationship dissolves in what Leo thought was amicable terms, he finds that he’s been cursed. And he’s pretty sure it was by his ex-boyfriend. After nearly a year of living with the curse, he’s ready to be done with it and is recommended by a friend to Cole Alpin.
I liked that there were some twist and turns that I wasn’t expecting and that we still got a happily ever after ending.
Overall, a good book and a good addition to the Dreamspun beyond series.
I can’t wait for the next book in the Strange Bedfellows series to come out.
***The ARC was provided by Dreamspinner Press. My review is an honest opinion of the book ***
August 15, 2018
Leo comes into Cole's candy shop with a strange special request. He has been cursed and wants Cole, supposedly the best curse breaker around, to break the curse. It isn't as easy as it seems. The curse is an old complicated one and Cole has to figure out how to break it. They think it was put on him by an ex-boyfriend a vampire.
I love both of these men. Leo is hot and sexy and I felt sorry for him being cursed and finding out that there are things in the world he thought were all fiction.
Cole is sweet,(pun intended) He loves his candy shop, and some of the candy has magic in them. He slips them to customers to help small things like nerves, stress, stomach aches etc. I could use a lemon fizzy.
This book is chock full of awesome characters, there is Roman the vampire, Nate with a secret, A florist and coffee shop owner and these are just a few of the characters with other sides. I hope they all get stories soon!
The story line is exciting, twists and turns galore and exciting al the way to the very end. I wanted more!
I love both of these men. Leo is hot and sexy and I felt sorry for him being cursed and finding out that there are things in the world he thought were all fiction.
Cole is sweet,(pun intended) He loves his candy shop, and some of the candy has magic in them. He slips them to customers to help small things like nerves, stress, stomach aches etc. I could use a lemon fizzy.
This book is chock full of awesome characters, there is Roman the vampire, Nate with a secret, A florist and coffee shop owner and these are just a few of the characters with other sides. I hope they all get stories soon!
The story line is exciting, twists and turns galore and exciting al the way to the very end. I wanted more!
August 22, 2018
The curse-breaking ability of kisses is legendary, except that isn’t all that’s needed for Cole and Leo to figure out their future. Plus Leo’s curse comes from a jealous ex-lover who is also a vampire, there seems to be someone still after Leo even though the former lover is out of the picture, and there is more than one other obstacle in the way of love taking its course. With a great mix of humor, magic, and serious issues ‘Hex and Candy’ pulled me in and kept me entertained from the first page to the last.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
November 10, 2018
This was a cute story. I loved Cole and Leo, both of whom were good decent people, who were brought together because of a curse that had been placed on Leo. I loved the gentle way the two of them fell in love. It was definitely the type of story that I needed to read right now.
June 1, 2020
3.5 stars ⭐
cute and fun...
cute and fun...
June 24, 2023
Vapid.
I'll blame the label because others of Ashlyn Kane's books are pretty OK.
I'll blame the label because others of Ashlyn Kane's books are pretty OK.
August 21, 2018
Ashlyn Kane’s Hex and Candy marks my first five heart review given largely for wordplay. Everything about this novel’s presentation is unique, sharp and witty. It’s also as sweet as its candy store hero, exactly the kind of novel for a light pick-me-up.
Cole Alpin is a late-blooming witch, who is mildly embarrassed by his “inactive” magic powers. He merely breaks curses, but can’t create them, like his much loving, powerful, hex-wielding clairvoyant family. He supports himself as the town confectioner, creating treats with a little magic love added in. But that isn’t real power, is it?
Overcoming his doubts, Cole takes on a case, a spell that left “mundane” (non-magic) Leo unable to flirt. And anyone who tries to flirt with Leo, becomes tongue-tied. Their inability to speak easily explained. Leo is gorgeous, a nurse whose appearance allows him to score easily at clubs.
That’s where he met the vampire he unwittingly invited to snack on his neck. Leo frequently chooses the wrong kind of guy, someone who might finally agree their break-up was inevitable, but whose wounded pride seeks revenge after Leo moves on. Unfortunately, vampires know where to order vengeance spells.
Cole, a man who wears t-shirts with prank sayings, and seems all-too-earnest, would never have considered Leo approachable. But, forced to stay together in order to loosen the spell’s web… Too bad Leo’s hex specifically interferes with their growing attraction. And then there’s another problem. Cole’s clairvoyant family has implied he will remain single.
Hex and Candy” is a delightful look at power. If just a little bit often gives us muggles a sense of grandeur, imagine the power to yield spells. It can grant the delusion of control.
But what is the source of power? Family and friendship, responsibility to others and self? Is it love, which binds and cuts simultaneously? Because Hex and Candy is set in a magical world, once removed from reality, its messages are subtly rendered.
Ashlyn Kane also turns a variety of writing rules up-side-down. For example, she doesn’t introduce characters. Readers deduce who they are by how they interact. But it works perfectly.
My repeated disjointedness paralleled Leo’s shock as he learns more and more nougats of the paranormal world. I could picture Leo portrayed as Cary Grant, his stunned face registering shock, double-take after double-take, as he discovers secret upon secret.
Kane’s humor is front and center, sometimes overtaking her plot for prominence. I consider myself a harsh humor critic, and the wordplay was rarely laugh-aloud. Instead I wore a sly grin, as her witty shrewdness forced me to look at the world through a different lens. It was caramel for the mind, sentences I read and re-read to suck in their deliciousness!
And yet readers are also kept on our toes, knowing broken spells can often take a toll on victim and breaker, alike. Plus, there’s a prideful vampire and a very skilled spellmaker on the loose. Can these two hapless men survive, much less thrive together?
I don’t want to reveal more, but can promise surprises and succulent endings to Hex and Candy, a delightfully creative novel. Kudos Ms. Kane. I can’t wait to see what you bring us next in this delightful start to your Strange Bedfellows series.
Cole Alpin is a late-blooming witch, who is mildly embarrassed by his “inactive” magic powers. He merely breaks curses, but can’t create them, like his much loving, powerful, hex-wielding clairvoyant family. He supports himself as the town confectioner, creating treats with a little magic love added in. But that isn’t real power, is it?
Overcoming his doubts, Cole takes on a case, a spell that left “mundane” (non-magic) Leo unable to flirt. And anyone who tries to flirt with Leo, becomes tongue-tied. Their inability to speak easily explained. Leo is gorgeous, a nurse whose appearance allows him to score easily at clubs.
That’s where he met the vampire he unwittingly invited to snack on his neck. Leo frequently chooses the wrong kind of guy, someone who might finally agree their break-up was inevitable, but whose wounded pride seeks revenge after Leo moves on. Unfortunately, vampires know where to order vengeance spells.
Cole, a man who wears t-shirts with prank sayings, and seems all-too-earnest, would never have considered Leo approachable. But, forced to stay together in order to loosen the spell’s web… Too bad Leo’s hex specifically interferes with their growing attraction. And then there’s another problem. Cole’s clairvoyant family has implied he will remain single.
Hex and Candy” is a delightful look at power. If just a little bit often gives us muggles a sense of grandeur, imagine the power to yield spells. It can grant the delusion of control.
But what is the source of power? Family and friendship, responsibility to others and self? Is it love, which binds and cuts simultaneously? Because Hex and Candy is set in a magical world, once removed from reality, its messages are subtly rendered.
Ashlyn Kane also turns a variety of writing rules up-side-down. For example, she doesn’t introduce characters. Readers deduce who they are by how they interact. But it works perfectly.
My repeated disjointedness paralleled Leo’s shock as he learns more and more nougats of the paranormal world. I could picture Leo portrayed as Cary Grant, his stunned face registering shock, double-take after double-take, as he discovers secret upon secret.
Kane’s humor is front and center, sometimes overtaking her plot for prominence. I consider myself a harsh humor critic, and the wordplay was rarely laugh-aloud. Instead I wore a sly grin, as her witty shrewdness forced me to look at the world through a different lens. It was caramel for the mind, sentences I read and re-read to suck in their deliciousness!
And yet readers are also kept on our toes, knowing broken spells can often take a toll on victim and breaker, alike. Plus, there’s a prideful vampire and a very skilled spellmaker on the loose. Can these two hapless men survive, much less thrive together?
I don’t want to reveal more, but can promise surprises and succulent endings to Hex and Candy, a delightfully creative novel. Kudos Ms. Kane. I can’t wait to see what you bring us next in this delightful start to your Strange Bedfellows series.
September 8, 2018
Halloween with a touch of magic, witches, and things that go bump in the night is just around the corner. Hex and Candy is a perfect way to kick off the celebration.
This book is full of warmth, laughter, talking familiars, well meaning but over protective families, love and lots of candy. Treat yourself and give it a read.
This book is full of warmth, laughter, talking familiars, well meaning but over protective families, love and lots of candy. Treat yourself and give it a read.
September 6, 2019
Hex and Candy is the first book in the ‘Strange Bedfellows’ series. It stars Cole Alpin, a curse breaker who also happens to own a candy store, and Leo Ericson, a nurse, who needs a curse broken. This story is told in third person from both Cole and Leo’s pov.
September 4, 2019
This was a sweet little story, that manages to both put a spin on the classic fairy tail thing it has going on, as well as on magic and prophesy itself.
Cole is a witch who breaks curses. Having grown up in a strong family of witches he knows all about the magic world and its quirks. A big quirk is how the universe reacts to witches- by 'talking' to them. The universe tends to like to tell witches if what they are doing, who they are with, is right or wrong. So spontaneous fires, weeks long bouts of strep throat, interruptions for every kiss, those would be big 'no' signs. Cole has listened to all of these signs but it has left him lonely. Now in comes a man with a curse that has a classic break to it, but the universe seems to be saying it still isn't for him.
Leo just recently learned about the supernatural, and as far as he knew it only involved the bloodsuckers. His most recent boyfriend was a vampire and said vamp has now left him with a curse that leaves him painfully single. Lonely and a little desperate, Leo finds out about a curse breaker witch and goes for help. What surprises him is that not only will it take a bit to break the curse, but the Cole, the witch, is very involved in helping him remove it. Their time together makes Leo long more and more for the curse to break, but with Cole holding back the signals are all mixed.
These two has a very sweet romancing at the beginning in that it can't even really be romancing. The curse stops any of that so it starts with them becoming good friends. It is a soft and easy friendship that the two fall into naturally. As more weird and paranormal things start happening, from blood drainings to cursed flowers, they are driven closer and find more than friends in each other. It was a lovely little story that goes beyond the resolution of the curse. The cause of the curse is fascinating and unexpected, giving the story a neat twist that rounds it all off very well. A sweet and fun story of magic and love!
Cole is a witch who breaks curses. Having grown up in a strong family of witches he knows all about the magic world and its quirks. A big quirk is how the universe reacts to witches- by 'talking' to them. The universe tends to like to tell witches if what they are doing, who they are with, is right or wrong. So spontaneous fires, weeks long bouts of strep throat, interruptions for every kiss, those would be big 'no' signs. Cole has listened to all of these signs but it has left him lonely. Now in comes a man with a curse that has a classic break to it, but the universe seems to be saying it still isn't for him.
Leo just recently learned about the supernatural, and as far as he knew it only involved the bloodsuckers. His most recent boyfriend was a vampire and said vamp has now left him with a curse that leaves him painfully single. Lonely and a little desperate, Leo finds out about a curse breaker witch and goes for help. What surprises him is that not only will it take a bit to break the curse, but the Cole, the witch, is very involved in helping him remove it. Their time together makes Leo long more and more for the curse to break, but with Cole holding back the signals are all mixed.
These two has a very sweet romancing at the beginning in that it can't even really be romancing. The curse stops any of that so it starts with them becoming good friends. It is a soft and easy friendship that the two fall into naturally. As more weird and paranormal things start happening, from blood drainings to cursed flowers, they are driven closer and find more than friends in each other. It was a lovely little story that goes beyond the resolution of the curse. The cause of the curse is fascinating and unexpected, giving the story a neat twist that rounds it all off very well. A sweet and fun story of magic and love!
August 21, 2018
Wow, after reading this, I never want to upset a vampire!!! Leo used to date a vampire named Roman. Things was good between them at first but quickly went down hill. Leo thought that the two ended things on a good note but evidently he was wrong. Now Leo is cursed.
Leo is not able to meet, much less be attracted to or have sex with another man. The curse does not allow him to get close to a man without the curse kicking in and making him clam up and not be ablw to talk to hem much less anything else. So now Leo is seeking out a named Coke who owns a candy shop in hopes that he can help him.
Not only does Cole own a candy shop but he is also a cursebreaker witch. He comes from a family of witches and for the longest time no one bought he would have a witches power like the rest of the family but eventually he come into his power.
This is how Cole meets Leo. When Leo finally comes around to telling Cole what the real problem is, Cole agrees to help him. When Cole is able to see what the curse is. How it is affecting Leo and the lengths that the magic is composed of, he knows what it will take for the curse to be undone.
Is Cole willing to go to the lengths necessary to help Leo un-do this curse? Is he willing to go against what he has always been told the universe wants for him in order to help this virtually unknown stranger? What will happen to both men once the truth to the whole curse finally comes to light?
This was a great read. I really enjoyed how everything unfolded. It was not one of those reads that left you on the edge of your seat but it was a read that left grabbed your attention and kept it though the whole read. I look forward to another one of these books in this series in the future.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Leo is not able to meet, much less be attracted to or have sex with another man. The curse does not allow him to get close to a man without the curse kicking in and making him clam up and not be ablw to talk to hem much less anything else. So now Leo is seeking out a named Coke who owns a candy shop in hopes that he can help him.
Not only does Cole own a candy shop but he is also a cursebreaker witch. He comes from a family of witches and for the longest time no one bought he would have a witches power like the rest of the family but eventually he come into his power.
This is how Cole meets Leo. When Leo finally comes around to telling Cole what the real problem is, Cole agrees to help him. When Cole is able to see what the curse is. How it is affecting Leo and the lengths that the magic is composed of, he knows what it will take for the curse to be undone.
Is Cole willing to go to the lengths necessary to help Leo un-do this curse? Is he willing to go against what he has always been told the universe wants for him in order to help this virtually unknown stranger? What will happen to both men once the truth to the whole curse finally comes to light?
This was a great read. I really enjoyed how everything unfolded. It was not one of those reads that left you on the edge of your seat but it was a read that left grabbed your attention and kept it though the whole read. I look forward to another one of these books in this series in the future.
Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
January 30, 2020
This book caught my attention from the moment I read the blurb. Breaking Leo’s curse and falling in love along the way was definitely fun to read about. Cole was my favorite character of the two but I liked Leo as well.
I am a sucker for characters who are different from their family or who don’t have traditional abilities. So Cole was definitely the kind of character I like to read about. And Leo was a great character to follow as he learned about the obscure world and all it contains. Though I am a little disappointed that he wasn’t more interested in learning about it at first.
There were a few times when I wondered if this book was maybe the second or third in a series. I just got the feeling like I was supposed to already know some things, and because of that they weren’t explained very well. It wasn’t anything too big, but I am a fan of world building, and I had questions. Beyond that, I had no real grasp of the setting. Things like how big the town was or where everything was in relation to each other would have been nice to know. There were a number of times when the story surprised me because it turned out that what I was imagining was completely different from what the author had in mind, but the description didn’t happen until later.
There were a lot of times when Leo or Cole would interact with a side character and their relationship wasn’t clear or I had no idea what the character looked like. I would have liked to see Leo and Amy actually become friends. That seemed a little rushed, especially given how important their friendship was.
For an author I’ve never read before, I am happy with this book. None of the problems were big enough to keep me from enjoying the story, and I’ll definitely read the rest of the series when it comes out.
Find more reviews at Love is Love Reviews
I am a sucker for characters who are different from their family or who don’t have traditional abilities. So Cole was definitely the kind of character I like to read about. And Leo was a great character to follow as he learned about the obscure world and all it contains. Though I am a little disappointed that he wasn’t more interested in learning about it at first.
There were a few times when I wondered if this book was maybe the second or third in a series. I just got the feeling like I was supposed to already know some things, and because of that they weren’t explained very well. It wasn’t anything too big, but I am a fan of world building, and I had questions. Beyond that, I had no real grasp of the setting. Things like how big the town was or where everything was in relation to each other would have been nice to know. There were a number of times when the story surprised me because it turned out that what I was imagining was completely different from what the author had in mind, but the description didn’t happen until later.
There were a lot of times when Leo or Cole would interact with a side character and their relationship wasn’t clear or I had no idea what the character looked like. I would have liked to see Leo and Amy actually become friends. That seemed a little rushed, especially given how important their friendship was.
For an author I’ve never read before, I am happy with this book. None of the problems were big enough to keep me from enjoying the story, and I’ll definitely read the rest of the series when it comes out.
Find more reviews at Love is Love Reviews
May 8, 2019
I realized my review was all complaints, which felt weird for a five star so I came back to write more. I liked the Roman turnaround and the Nate red herring. I think it added to the sense that the universe was getting them together. I liked the hazelnut detail, and how it was seeded in to the last couple chapters as a reminder without being obvious or holding a big sign up. I love the charecterizations of Cole and Leo. It was a very well woven story.
Now for the complaints: in my opinion Cole shouldn't have forgiven Gran. That kind of constant manipulative behaviour won't go away just because she's experienced consequences once. I know some similar people in real life. She convinced herself it was okay at every step of the way, during every relationship, and every time she saw him cry after a breakup knowing she had caused it. She'll justify it to herself again the next time she gets the urge to meddle. And the revelation in the last chapter really casts that "seers don't interfere even though its hard" speech she gave Leo as a big ol pack of lies. She's been interfering directly for decades.
I'm also pretty darn mad that she *took a child away from his mother 9 months out of the year* and it was handwaved away as "I can see the future and I knew he'd die in florida. Oh and also a bunch of other places, because nowhere is actually safe, I am the matriarch, do as I say." I'm trying to imagine that with my mom and my kids and just...
Now for the complaints: in my opinion Cole shouldn't have forgiven Gran. That kind of constant manipulative behaviour won't go away just because she's experienced consequences once. I know some similar people in real life. She convinced herself it was okay at every step of the way, during every relationship, and every time she saw him cry after a breakup knowing she had caused it. She'll justify it to herself again the next time she gets the urge to meddle. And the revelation in the last chapter really casts that "seers don't interfere even though its hard" speech she gave Leo as a big ol pack of lies. She's been interfering directly for decades.
I'm also pretty darn mad that she *took a child away from his mother 9 months out of the year* and it was handwaved away as "I can see the future and I knew he'd die in florida. Oh and also a bunch of other places, because nowhere is actually safe, I am the matriarch, do as I say." I'm trying to imagine that with my mom and my kids and just...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2021
This was such a great book and the first one that I've read by this new author to me. The title, cover art and blurb were fantastic. Cole is a curse-breaking witch with a magpie familiar who runs a small-town candy shop and visits his grandmother (a famous witch) twice a week. Leo is a mundane aka a human whose ex-boyfriend (who was a vampire) cursed him. When he walks into the shop, Cole can see his curse spiderwebbing around his handsome body. Leo quickly discovers the world of the supernatural after his evil ex and got hexed for wounding a vampire's pride. Both men have to work together to break the curse and stop the hex from working its magic. I really enjoyed the journey both men had to take to come together in the end through twists, turns, magic, and destiny. Fans of magic and fate will really enjoy this read :) If you have a sweet tooth, you should also have some treats near by as you read this.
November 5, 2018
3.5* This is a cute story where Leo has recently discovered the world of magic after he broke up with his vampire boyfriend who seems to have put a curse on him. Cole is apparently the best hex breaker in town and realizes that the only way to break the curse is "love's true kiss" or something like that. After someone seems to be stalking Leo he moves in with Cole and they become friends because the curse won't allow Leo to date/have sex with anyone else. Eventually Cole confesses his feelings, and the curse is broken. Later, when Cole nearly dies from an allergic reaction but Leo saves him, it turns out that seer Grandma has been manipulating Cole's life since he was born and Leo is only the latest part. Wow, I was pissed off at the Grandmother and all's well that ends well I suppose but I hope Cole didn't let her back in too quickly. I can hold a grudge. :-)
February 10, 2023
This was a nice read, nothing great or memorable, but still ok. Of the two MCs, I liked Leo the most. He came across as very humble and sweet. Cole took some warming up to but never reached the same likability as Leo. He was described as being kind and caring and all things good, but I found him to be a bit too whiny with an air of negativity about him. Since he knew that “true love’s kiss” would break the curse, his angry reaction when he discovered the curse’s origin didn’t make sense to me.
I didn’t care too much for the writing style. At times it was a bit choppy and I was confused about who was speaking or whose pov it was. The ending was also rather abrupt. Considering the rollercoaster ride that Cole and Leo were put through over the course of the story, I was expecting a more solid, yet emotional ending to this.
I didn’t care too much for the writing style. At times it was a bit choppy and I was confused about who was speaking or whose pov it was. The ending was also rather abrupt. Considering the rollercoaster ride that Cole and Leo were put through over the course of the story, I was expecting a more solid, yet emotional ending to this.
August 24, 2018
4 Stars
This was so good, and the fact that it is set around Witches and Vampires and other paranormal creepies and Halloween made it so much more fun. This type of book is exactly what I love sweet romance, no Insta-love (Big points there), humor, and amusing meddling grandmothers.
Cole is so sweet (just like his candy’s) and I adore him. From his friendships to family he has great relationships with all those around him and even those he isn’t as close to.
Leo is amusing and cute, his reactions to the knowledge that the paranormal is real had me laughing out Loud several times. His interactions with the people he work’s with as well as the people he slowly becomes friends with is outgoing and sweet.
I love this town, it’s so cute and somewhere I would love to visit, the festivals and the shops and somewhere I could see myself settling down in and Cole and Leo are two people I would definitely love to have close friendships with. I also want to try some of Cole’s Candies (I love that concept as well its very original, at least to me it is I’ve never came across it in all of the books.)
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
This was so good, and the fact that it is set around Witches and Vampires and other paranormal creepies and Halloween made it so much more fun. This type of book is exactly what I love sweet romance, no Insta-love (Big points there), humor, and amusing meddling grandmothers.
Cole is so sweet (just like his candy’s) and I adore him. From his friendships to family he has great relationships with all those around him and even those he isn’t as close to.
Leo is amusing and cute, his reactions to the knowledge that the paranormal is real had me laughing out Loud several times. His interactions with the people he work’s with as well as the people he slowly becomes friends with is outgoing and sweet.
I love this town, it’s so cute and somewhere I would love to visit, the festivals and the shops and somewhere I could see myself settling down in and Cole and Leo are two people I would definitely love to have close friendships with. I also want to try some of Cole’s Candies (I love that concept as well its very original, at least to me it is I’ve never came across it in all of the books.)
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
August 22, 2018
A Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words Review An Alisa Review:
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
I really enjoyed this story. Cole wants to help Leo but at the same time is sure that he can’t be the one to do it. Leo doesn’t realize how hollow his life and relationships have been until he doesn’t have them anymore.
Cole has given up on finding love and even though he doesn’t want to fight this pull to Leo he is afraid to give in and get hurt. Leo is struggling with his new reality but it is also giving him a chance to reflect on his life and how he may want it to change.
I really liked both of these characters. I could understand how Cole kept the way to break the kiss from Leo but once they gave in and the curse seemed to go away there never really a talk about how that happened. We can see Leo struggle to understand everything about this new paranormal world he is living in but he does pretty well for the most part and really doesn’t want to walk away from it either. I look forward to more stories in this universe and hope it will follow someone we met in this book.
The cover art by Aaron Anderson is great and I love all the visuals that it gives for the story.
Rating: 4 stars out of 5
I really enjoyed this story. Cole wants to help Leo but at the same time is sure that he can’t be the one to do it. Leo doesn’t realize how hollow his life and relationships have been until he doesn’t have them anymore.
Cole has given up on finding love and even though he doesn’t want to fight this pull to Leo he is afraid to give in and get hurt. Leo is struggling with his new reality but it is also giving him a chance to reflect on his life and how he may want it to change.
I really liked both of these characters. I could understand how Cole kept the way to break the kiss from Leo but once they gave in and the curse seemed to go away there never really a talk about how that happened. We can see Leo struggle to understand everything about this new paranormal world he is living in but he does pretty well for the most part and really doesn’t want to walk away from it either. I look forward to more stories in this universe and hope it will follow someone we met in this book.
The cover art by Aaron Anderson is great and I love all the visuals that it gives for the story.
April 7, 2022
Leo has been cursed by a vampire exboyfriend. Seeking help, he finds sweet candy maker Cole who is known to help people break their curses. As the two search for answers, strange things keep happening that bring them closer together. This was a sweet story about Cole and Leo falling in love. Cole's backstory was interesting as he was the only male witch in his family. There was a surprising plot twist at the end. I loved Cole's familiar!
August 30, 2018
Overall, a very enjoyable read. I loved all the magic-related worldbuilding and candy and such. Maybe the end was a wee bit abrupt even if I did enjoy some (some!) of the revelations unleashed there. I would definitely read more books if this were to turn into a series.
3.5 stars
3.5 stars
September 28, 2018
Very cute, sweet and a great start to a series of supernatural love stories. A good balance of story, character development with a some hot sex mixed in.
First time I've read this author but I will be looking for more.
First time I've read this author but I will be looking for more.
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