If there’s one thing a girl likes, it’s magical realism. This book has some messes - it’s trying to do a lot and it doesn’t always accomplish that. But it has a lot of heart - enough that I did end up really enjoying the book. I’ll definitely be reading the second book in the series!

(3.5 rounded up)

I absolutely adored this book, its wistful touches of magic, and its floral and plant themes! Such a great concept and well executed. I'm excited to read whatever Raquel Vasquez Gilliland writes next.

A witchy romance with latinx representation is always going to be an auto-buy for me.

I’m absolutely enchanted! This novel beautifully blends magic, identity, and the deep connection to nature in a way that completely captivated me.

The protagonist’s journey is both relatable and inspiring, showcasing the struggles of finding one’s place in the world. Raquel’s lyrical writing pulls you in, painting vivid imagery that makes you feel like you’re walking alongside the characters in a lush, mystical landscape.

I loved the rich exploration of family and heritage, which adds so much depth to the story. The magical elements are woven seamlessly into the narrative, creating a world that feels both fantastical and grounded. Plus, the themes of empowerment and self-acceptance resonated deeply with me.

The only reason I didn’t give it a full five stars is that I wanted a bit more from the ending—it felt a little rushed for all the magic built up throughout the book. But overall, this is a must-read for anyone who loves a blend of whimsy and heartfelt storytelling!

Witch of Wild Things by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland is a charming tale blending magical realism and romance. The story follows Sage Flores, who returns to her Appalachian hometown to reconnect with her estranged family while grappling with her unique ability to communicate with plants and the lingering presence of her deceased sister. The novel beautifully explores themes of family trauma, forgiveness, and the complexities of rekindling past relationships, particularly with her high school crush, Tennessee. While the characters navigate their personal struggles, the narrative offers a cozy atmosphere filled with magical elements that enhance the heartfelt journey of rediscovery and love​.

Witch of Wild Things was such a delight to read! From the sweet romance to the rich family lore, I was completely enchanted by this story. Sage Flores’ return to her hometown, complete with magical gifts and a complicated past, immediately drew me in. The romance between Sage and Tennessee was both tender and heartwarming. I loved how their past connection blossomed into something new, making their love story feel genuine and earned.

What really made this book shine for me, though, was the dynamic between the Flores sisters. The relationships were so well-written, full of love, grief, and healing. The family magic added a wonderful layer to their bond, and I found myself deeply invested in their story. The blend of magical realism and family history gave the book a unique, almost ethereal quality that kept me turning pages.

Overall, Witch of Wild Things is a beautiful exploration of love, loss, and family with just the right amount of magic. I really loved the reading experience of this and devoured it in one sitting!

I'm not sure I've ever been more <i>torn</i> on a book before.

On one hand, this story is lush. The writing is descriptive and atmospheric, with details abounding that fully paint the scenes in your mind. The love and knowledge of plants, the Earth, and our relationship with them was evident. (This was my favorite part.) At its heart, this is a story about a family's journey to healing and fresh starts.

On the other hand... I the romance wasn't for me. Every time the author talked about some huge spark of chemistry, I was physically reacting as though I was trying to find it. I even liked the couple! Just something about them never clicked for me.

This book was a love letter to Nature first, family second, with a dash of romance added in to round it out. Interested in reading more of this author's work in the future!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for granting me free access to the advanced digital copy of this book.

Love a witch book, but this is also a sister book, an extending grace book, a forgiving yourself book, and a flirty book.

I’m a big fan of this rom com witch over, but this one fell a bit flat for me. I felt it was trying too hard to be witty and the characters could be annoying.

Thank you to Negalley, Berkley and PRH Audio for the ARC in exchange for an honest review

I would recommend if you're looking for (SPOILERS)

-m/f paranormal romance
-cozy witchy vibes
-second chance
-you've got mail vibes
-childhood crush

I regret not reading this book sooner. The audiobook was increidble and the narrator did such an excellent job bringing Raquel's beautiful prose to life. This book was cozy, witchy vibes, and just sisterly goodness. I was sucked right in and never wanted to leave this vivid world.

Sage is living her life when her chidlhood crush Ten comes back into her life. He doesn't know that they were former penpals and despite trying to avoid him they're stuck together. I adored their chemistry and just want a golden retreiver Ten was. He adored Sage for her, and I loved how their relationship was also a deep freindship at its core. And gosh the spice was spicin. This is such a cozy read on a fall day. the sister relationships were on point.

I'm an instant fan of Raquel's and can't wait to read whatever she writes next.

I thought that this story was a good cozy read. I liked the setting and the characters and think that the magic system was interesting. I would have liked to see more magic in the story but don't think that the lack thereof deterred the story. This story touches on some really serious topics and I think that it was done tastefully. The only thing that I didn't quite love was the amount of miscommunication trope that was involved in the relationships with several of the characters.

A fantastical journey and I loved every page. I highly recommend for fans of Rachel Griffin's novels.

At the end of her acknowledgements, Raquel wished readers "..a TBR pile full of life restoring books" and that's exactly what Witch of Wild Things did for me. It breathed life into me. This is Raquel's third book, and the third one I've read, and if you've been anywhere on my page in the last few years you know how much I adore Moon Fuentez and her story. So it comes as no surprise that this book now holds a place in my heart forever as well. The Flores sisters, Tenn, Laurel, every imperfect character. I loved them so much.

Raquel's love and respect for the land we inhabit is something that comes through in every line of this story. There's a passage (page 251 if you have the paperback) that seems insignificant but is such a perfect condensed breakdown of how those that destroy the land for so called development are "sophisticated" and those that want to protect and cultivate the land how it's meant to be are laughed at and called "crunchy" and that hit me hard.

This book is just a constant reminder that the land never forgets and we should honor and support those that are working to protect it.

No surprise here but I picked this title for its cottage core vibe cover and stayed for the story. It was such a cute and cozy read. The Sky, Sage, and Teal being raised by their aunt in a small town screams practical magic (and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that). The magic is fun, the family aspect was endearing, and the second chance romance was swoon worthy.

Just an all around entertaining read with a bit of substance. I highly recommend.

✨Book Review✨
Witch of Wild Things by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland
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I had no idea what to expect going into this book, but was pleasantly surprised. I can only describe it as magical realism mixed with romance mixed with family. This book had really good atmosphere and I really loved the main characters. I would definitely recommend this read to anyone who loves magical realism or a good romance with some deeper themes. I listened to the audio for most of this book and thought it was really well done.

This was a nice cozy read. I didn't love it as much as I had hoped because there was too much miscommunication between the characters. I would have liked to have seen stronger communication. The magic was fun and it was a good read, perfect for the fall.

thank you to netgalley for the advanced reading copy. I really enjoyed this and will be getting copies for my shop.

Witch of Wild Things by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland gave me “Charmed” vibes. I am dating myself with that reference, but I loved the sisters, the great aunt and, of course, the magic!
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Sky, Teal, and Sage are sisters raised by their aunt in a small, touristy town. Each woman in their family has a unique gift. Sage is the renowned plant whisperer and has a deep connection with the earth. She had fled the town after her youngest sister died eight years ago, and has just returned to her family, her magic, and her old crush from high school, Tennessee.
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I loved Sage and Tennessee together and how they brought out each other’s best. Tennessee is a swoon worthy book boyfriend.
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This was a sweet second chance at romance, second chance at family, and second chance for Sage to fit in. It was a quick, enjoyable read. I would like to see more books about this family and friends!

If you want to experience happiness through a book, you need to read this story now. I promise you will not have a single regret because it just made my heart soar and eyes water from happiness.

a quick read full of magical realism, love, grief, & healing. i loved reading about sage & her sisters, as well as her romance w tennessee. vásquez gilliland did such a good job exploring their relationships w each other & created something so beautiful out of it.