Member Reviews
Magic and witches seamlessly blend in with an intriguing historical period to create a fun, gripping read to hold you captivated until the end!
So sorry, but this is just not for me. The blurb is interesting. It has a hint of historical fantasy and romance. But soon I got tired of Esme. She’s such a hypocrite and acts like a wh*re. Keep saying their desire and their relationship as ‘nothing’ or as ‘friend’ even though they have made love several times. My one star is for the magic system and the coven, one star is for Simon!
I had such a great time reading this book! This is the 3rd series that I've read by A.S. Fenichel, and the first that has magic, and I was excited to see what it was like. And it was a really great story, I loved the world, and I loved these characters, and seeing them fall in love!
The synopsis really had me intrigued about the magic system, and getting to know these two as they fell in love. And this book delivered on both counts! The magic was interesting in how it worked, The fact that it seems like she gives him magic when she heals him is so cool, and these two were so cute to read about together!
That they both have complications keeping them from one other, of course they do, it's a book, it wouldn't have a lot of conflict in a romance if there wasn't. Loved watching them deal with things! They were just so fantastic together!
They come from different walks in life, that he's higher born then she is, and she's a witch with a coven that she doesn't associate with. Watching him deal with the magic, and the idea that he needed to have it, well, just was the threat that was coming? It was so great to read!
This was a really fantastic read, and I can't wait to continue!
It was a great fantasy book. But for my opinion it was a little bit off. I was waiting for a action and more passion between the characters but it didnt happen. So it was okay but not perfect. I reccommend it to younger era. Such as 15-20.
Does falling in love take a little magic or does magic enhance the love? Could it be both? Esme O'Dwyer and Sir William Meriwether just may find out in this first in the series offering. Historical romance laced with intrigue and mystery is my favorite genre, but add a little fantasy or magic, all the better. This tale is loaded with all, making it a very delicious read. It is one of those that you just can't wait to see what happens next, but at the same time, you don't want it to end. Lucky me! It continues to at least the next book in the series and maybe further. A little frustrating to a reader wants to see resolution, but okay since you didn't want the story to end anyway. I am looking forward to seeing how the author resolves this classic was between good and evil.
okay a book about UK witches and how did i find it well boring actually, the story line was meant to be romance and big evils who were trying to take over the throne, but it just didn't work for me. the storyline was very character driven and okay those were well written and so you do feel what they are feeling throughout it.
i just got bored of the back and forthing of the characters and i felt the romance was rush in to and so i found the rest of the book boring
Esme's got *the magic touch* as a witchy healer in historic Windsor, England. When war hero, Sir William Meriwether, stumbles into her shop looking for some healing ... he leaves with even more than he bargained for. Sir William is a very charming, non-threatening and sweet; it's no surprise Esme can't help herself...
If you like romantic drama, witchy-themes, evil forces and the paranormal this book is for you! From the vivid world building, suspenseful plot, and well-developed characters, this book is a total hit! I loved the way the system of magic is clearly explained and how the witchcraft unfolds.
I'm not usually into such a pure romance, I typically go for sarcastic banter and bratty behavior, but this was really a very sweet love story - the burn is slow and the spice delivers. I appreciated the witchy temptations and dealing with the family dynamics that come with new relationships in strange circumstances.
Lastly, I would like to share that my favorite character was Simon the cat! The author dedicates the book to the real Simon who has since passed, and it was touching to remember that as he left paw prints on our hearts throughout this story.
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me the opportunity to devour this A.S. Fenichel novel. I am so excited for the next installment in the Witches of Windsor book series. Magic Touch is a FANTASTIC book one.
Magic Touch combines all the best genres in my opinion. It's a romance, fantasy, historical story all in one and I really enjoyed it! A.S. Fenichel does a great job of world-building and I found myself wanting to know more about the witches protecting Windsor. Esme and William are both strong characters and I enjoyed the dual-perspective throughout the story. This book was a page-turner and I'm excited for more of their journey and adventure together!
Thank you NetGalley for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
Not generally my genre but a quick romantic witchy read. Honestly for those who like their books brimming with a bit more lust than usual, esp historical fiction, this is definitely for you! Nothing earth shattering but a blanket, tea and a starry night are the perfect background for the story and characters.
2.5 stars rounded up bc even though it's not for me, I do think that there are many who will enjoy it!
A.S. Fenichel knocks it out of the park yet again! One of my favorite authors because she has an incredible ability of transporting the reader into a creative new world with deep characters. Esme is a witch with healing powers who loves to help others, whether they be human or cat. William is a wounded soldier who comes to her as a last resort to cure the pain. Be careful what you wish for.
What ends up happening is Esme's powers awaken powers within William that he didn't know existed. Thrown into the world of magic, he struggles to keep up with the new knowledge and the new enemy that has come over the horizon.
Esme and William work well together not just because of the battle at hand but also because of their strong romantic chemistry. I would recommend this book for readers who are fans of romance, adventure, magic, and cats. Simon is my favorite character in the book and I love that he was inspired by the author's own beloved cat! The development of character and story is incredible and I can't wait to read more from A.S. Fenichel!
Please note: an electronic Advanced Reader Copy of this book was generously provided by the publisher for free via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
*Received copy for review.*
1800’s witches & a war hero.
William seeks out a healer for severe leg pain cases by a war injury. He is surprised when the healer is a beautiful young woman claiming to be a witch.
Esme has been e thrilled by William since seeing his picture in a gallery. When her healing appears to transfer some of her magic to him, they have to work with a local coven to find a solution.
This book was an easy read. The world was interesting and having witches protecting Windsor was interesting.
"I don't love you in spite of who and what you are. I love you because of all you are."
Willam gets more than he bargained for when he enters Esmes shop. He leaves with a lot more than a healed leg. Esme, a witch with healing powers, unknowingly wakes up William's (he is a well known war hero) witch abilities when she heals him of wounds he sustained in war. After that happens she feels a strong responsibility to make things right and help him. A fascinating look at witchcraft and covens.
Esme and William are a great pair and their declarations were sweet as peach. I enjoyed them as a couple and loved reading their development. I loooved how strong Esme is as a character, and how noble William is. A fine match for sure!
This book is well written and I was really enjoying the story. I mean witches and dark magic set in 18th century England. What is there not to love.
The end keeps you wanting more. Wanting to find out what happens next and how will it all play out. I am surely very excited for the next book to come out and for me to read it.
RECOMMENDATION: Fans of historical fantasies are sure to love this. Themes of witches, evil forces, and romantic drama.
**All of my reviews will be posted on Instagram (@booksta_mommy) and my Goodreads page (@adna_fazlibasic) **
***Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with the eARC version for an honest review.***
Magic Touch is the first in what looks set to be a very exciting and romantic historical fantasy series.
The author took the time in this first book for world-building and the history of the witches but it's done in such a way that's very quick and easy to understand. The reader isn't bogged down in unnecessary detail but is instead immersed in the magic, intrigue and danger coming Esme and William's way. There was plenty of suspense and drama to keep me turning the pages
The dual point of view meant we got to experience events from Esme and William's perspectives.
I enjoyed the side characters as well. Simon the cat, and Henry were firm favourites of mine.
The book closes with some happy conclusions but also on a slight cliffhanger as the witches haven't yet defeated the evil that attacked them. It will be a fun adventure to follow and I'm looking forward to seeing what's next in store for all my favourite characters.
Honestly, I don't know where to start - this book was extremely unexpected in the best way possible, it was honestly a really good book, and the great start off to a series. Set in historical Windsor, when a seemingly normal war hero walks into the shop of a lovely witch, requesting healing services, he walks out with more than he bargained for.
The story that follows is full of romance and magic, while around them events begin to unfold that have been coming for a long time. In a countryside cottage, with limited people, Esme and William unfold powers and mystery around every turn while steamy, forbidden feelings swell around them.
To begin, I LOVED the writing style: the dialect and speech patterns were so lovely to read, and extremely well done, it never felt forced and I thought it added great depth to the story.
"ʏᴏᴜ ᴀʀᴇ ꜱᴏ ꜰᴀʀ ᴀʙᴏᴠᴇ ᴍᴇ, ʏᴏᴜ ᴄᴀɴɴᴏᴛ ᴋɴᴏᴡ. ɪ ᴅᴏ ɴᴏᴛ ᴅᴇꜱᴇʀᴠᴇ ʏᴏᴜʀ ᴀꜰꜰᴇᴄᴛɪᴏɴ, ʏᴇᴛ ɪ ꜱᴇᴇᴋ ɪᴛ ᴡɪᴛʜ ᴍʏ ᴠᴇʀʏ ʙᴇɪɴɢ."
The world building was so beautiful, I felt like i'd been taken back in time - the author had a great way of incorporating the history into conversations and throughout the book, meaning you didn't have a feeling of being bombarded with information, which is usually the time I start skimming. No skimming involved here!
All of the characters were great, and added to the book rather than feeling like a stop gap to fill the space a long the way, I found myself really interested in how a lot of the characters will develop throughout the series. Keep a look out for Henry Dove, who I imagine could have his own book (please? lol).
"𝐈𝐟 𝐚 𝐰𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐭 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐬 𝐎' 𝐃𝐰𝐲𝐞𝐫 𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐬 𝐚𝐭 𝐲𝐨𝐮, 𝐢'𝐝 𝐬𝐚𝐯𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐡𝐞𝐫, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐥𝐞𝐭 𝐬𝐨𝐜𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐦𝐬 𝐛𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐦𝐧𝐞𝐝."
The development of Esme, the FMC, an independent witch, who realises that being a stubborn introvert isn't always the best way to go about things, throughout the book was great but within her own right she is an amazing character.
The relationships she builds throughout the first book are going to be great to watch bloom throughout the next book, I'm looking forward to seeing more from Minerva too and where her story ends up.
I feel like their is more to come from our FMC regarding her powers, I feel like the meeting of William overshadowed the fact that she unlocked his power at the beginning of the book, and their may be more to it than is first realised.
"𝓦𝓲𝓵𝓵𝓲𝓪𝓶, 𝓘 𝓷𝓮𝓮𝓭 𝔂𝓸𝓾 𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓘 𝓭𝓸𝓷'𝓽 𝓷𝓮𝓮𝓭 𝓪𝓷𝔂𝓸𝓷𝓮."
William, the MMC, is most definitely swoon worthy: ♥ "ɪ ᴡᴏᴜʟᴅ ꜱᴇᴇ ʏᴏᴜʀ ᴘʟᴇᴀꜱᴜʀᴇ ᴀ ᴍɪʟʟɪᴏɴ ᴛɪᴍᴇꜱ ᴀɴᴅ ᴅɪᴇꜱ ᴛʜᴇ ʜᴀᴘᴘɪᴇꜱᴛ ᴍᴀɴ ɪɴ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴏʀʟᴅ." ♥ I MEAN: COME!!! ON!! I cannot wait for the next book to find out more about him and his family's history! The only thing I did miss, which is probably a personal choice for MMCs more than a fault with this one, is the alpha male vibe in a lot of the series I usually read. Other than that, he was most definitely up their as an MMC that will stick with me.
Something within this book that you don't see in many is the confidence other characters have around him, and rather than a lot of people being against him he is a through and through hero, maybe it's what is so different about him than other MMC's that i'm used to. William being the hero, rather than the anti-hero/villain I read a lot of!!
"ℍ𝕖 𝕨𝕚𝕝𝕝 𝕟𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕣 𝕓𝕖𝕥𝕣𝕒𝕪 𝕪𝕠𝕦, 𝔼𝕤𝕞𝕖 𝕆' 𝔻𝕨𝕪𝕖𝕣. ℕ𝕠𝕥 𝕖𝕧𝕖𝕟 𝕗𝕠𝕣 𝕡𝕠𝕨𝕖𝕣 𝕤𝕦𝕔𝕙 𝕒𝕤 𝕞𝕚𝕟𝕖." Hopefully, in the next books the Goddess is a bigger character, and we find out what she knows of Esme and William's relationship - and maybe their past relationships. The resurrection vibe was a great addition, and something i'm hoping the author expands on!
The only criticisms I have involve the slow burn, I feel like although the relationship between the MC's was slight slow burn and up and down most of the book, the last quarter of the book I feel things escalated a lot more than they needed to, it could have been spread across the other books. As I feel the way the epilogue was left hasn't got me absolutely dying to know what happens next, like I usually would, maybe it would have benefited from a cliffhanger and different outcomes for some of the characters that left us guessing - as hopefully this turns into a rather long series!!!
I am very much looking forward to the next books, despite of this, and this book definitely deserves it's SOLID 4 stars given for the reasons above and the following ratings:
Plot: 5/5
Spice: 3/5
Romance: 5/5
Slow Burn: 3/5
Characters: 5/5
Readability: 5/5
Highly recommended, this was my first book by this author and will definitely lead me to read more of her work!
"𝙻𝚘𝚟𝚎 𝚒𝚜 𝚖𝚊𝚐𝚒𝚌, 𝚆𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚒𝚊𝚖. 𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚠𝚘𝚞𝚕𝚍 𝚍𝚘 𝚠𝚎𝚕𝚕 𝚝𝚘 𝚛𝚎𝚖𝚎𝚖𝚋𝚎𝚛 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚝."
This was an entertaining, well-written book. It was creative, steamy and held my interest. I enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more books by this author. It looks like this is the first in a series (though stands alone with no cliffhanger) and I would be excited to read additional books in this series.
Just not for me. Too modern. Too much insta lust. Too much sexual inuendo. That is the point of regency reading, So much of the sexual tension happen because they can't touch. This guy was thinking all kinds of sex thoughts after the first meeting. Not my thing.
Esme unknowingly wakes up William's witch abilities when she heals him of wounds he sustained in war. After that happens she feels a strong responsibility to make things right and help him. Esme is alone in the world and has separated herself off from the local coven because of her parents relationship with the group. Going to them for help with William makes things - complicated for her. Not to mention her incredible attraction to William.
It isn't often you come across a character in romance who is just profoundly good. There area a lot of good characters - multi-dimensional characters, people who have good hearts - but William transcends those to a large degree. He isn't one-dimensional, or preachy, or anything of the sort- but is just a truly good person. The type of person whose goodness fights for others even when they haven't treated him well. It also doesn't make him boring in the least. He struggles with things and is definitely very sexy.
I loved the way this book worked - it is the first in a series but didn't fall victim to the way some first books do to the need to do too much. This book does introduce characters and whole world of magic - but it felt natural and didn't distract from the main arc of the story.
Overall I definitely recommend this one - and can't wait to read more.
I received this via NetGalley as an ARC, but these opinions are all my own.
Willam gets more than he bargained for when he enters esmes shop. He leaves with a lot more than a healed leg.
A lovely story with witches and dark magic set in 18th century England. In looking forward to the rest of the series 😊
Was given this book as an ARC in exchange for an honest review, so here we go ☺️
Rating: 3.5/5⭐️
This is a story that follows Esme - a witch with healing aborigines - and William - a war hero. But when Esme is healing Williams very damaged knee, something within him is awaken and his magic unbind. Bearing magic without control can be dangerous but all magic has a purpose and not knowing if William’s will be for good or bad might be just more dangerous.
I love that it’s set in England. There is always a special love on my end when the story is set in England! I also have a soft spot for witches stories, specially if they are to discover they have indeed powers, and the fact that Esme was the already well established witch and William was the one figuring out he was also a witch and had no idea what to do with his glowing, was really good!
This book is well written and was enjoyable to follow along.
The only thing that put me off was their romantic relationship and although I understand that’s to give it a little bit of a give-and-pull, it became a bit frustrating. They’re both singles, very vocal about them liking each other since chapter one and still, they’re a lot of dragging in that sense… for me, I try to avoid this trope as much as I can…! However, if you enjoy this trope, this book is totally for you!
This review is to be posted on my bookstagram (@maria_bookshelf) at the end of April, so make sure you also check out the photo that will go along with it🌸
SUMMARY
Esme O’Dwyer, a witch that primaries in healing, is content with her small shop and her regular customers whom she aids in their ailments. When the legendary war hero, Sir William Meriweather walks into her shop asking her to heal his leg, she is more than happy to oblige, but their connection is undeniable, as is the blue glowing magic that has suddenly been unleashed within William.
OPINION
How I can have nostalgia for a time period I wasn’t even alive for, I’ll never know. But
A. S. Fenichel writes about magic in Magic Touch as though it has been in England all along. I sincerely enjoyed the magic system, it was really clearly explained yet mysteries were left to tease the readers into page turning.
The romance was utterly divine. Esme and William are a great pairing and their declarations were sweet as peach. I enjoyed them as a couple and loved reading their development. I adored how strong Esme is as a character, and how noble William is. A fine match, indeed!
I would most definitely be interested in getting my hands on the next instalment of this series!
RECOMMENDATION
Fans of historical fantasies are sure to love this. Themes of witches, evil forces, and romantic drama