Julie Johnson's Bad Luck Charm is a delightfully captivating read. This bewitching blend of spooky elements and charming romance draws you in effortlessly. The characters are endearing and well-developed, each with a distinct personality that weaves seamlessly into the story. Johnson skillfully crafts an engaging plot, filled with intriguing details and twists that keep you hooked from start to finish.

I’ve hoped that I would come back and finish this a number of times but I think I just need to call it.

I liked lots of this but I think it was a bit long for me.
The writing clearly aimed for overbearing alpha mmc and landed on concerning. I’ve tried several times to get back into this book, but something about the dynamic between the main characters just doesn’t sit right with me. Neither the MMC nor the FMC are particularly likeable, and the alpha male vibe of the MMC, which was probably meant to be strong and assertive, ended up feeling a bit unsettling.

There were aspects I enjoyed, but overall, the book was just too long for my taste. The writing is overly descriptive, with pages and pages dedicated to describing rooms and outfits in exhaustive detail without advancing the plot. The over done descriptions felt exhausting. Even the animal sacrifices are overly detailed and I don’t think it’s needed in a book like this. I kept pushing through despite being shook when I would forget parts of a conversation because the description took me out. It felt like the story could’ve been much tighter, it did not need to be 500-pages

There were so many aspects of the plot that didn’t feel believable. The portrayal of how a case like this would be handled by police felt far fetched.

In the end, this one just didn’t work for me, and I’m not entirely sure who it’s meant for. I know plenty of people have loved it, but clearly I am not the audience.

If only we all could find our perfect bad luck charm! If you enjoy enemies-to-lovers and feisty characters I think you will enjoy this book.

Julie Johnson is a relatively new to me author and I admit I wasn’t quite sure what I was going to be reading when I requested to review this book. Initially attracted to the book by its intriguing title - I found myself quickly absorbed into the story.

I always love a good “enemies-to-lovers” trope and the MCs Gwen & Graham give it their best shot to avoid their sizzling attraction … yet they do give in to their desires and it was hot AF! 🔥 The witty banter and the push and pull aspect of their relationship kept me glued to the pages 👀and I finished the book in one night. (More on that to come). The story is told from first person POV which is my favorite.

This story literally has everything needed for it to be considered the perfect Pumpkin Spice Latte/Fall/Halloween read - murder, witches, pirates, fortune tellers, crystals, spells, graveyards, and of course two stubborn MCs who set their world on fire 🔥❤️with their explosive chemistry and fiery love ❤️🔥- what more could you want?! 🐈‍⬛☕️ More you say? We’ll never fear as I think you will be kept on the edge of your seat as Gwen & Graham find themselves involved in a “who done it “ sidetrack involving ritualistic occult sacrifices. ☠️. Additionally, the author does an amazing job with setting and world building so that I felt as if I was transported to Salem and hanging out in the little shop owned by the female MC, Gwen. 🍂🍁🎃


▪️The parts of this book that led me to give 4 instead of 5 stars.
As previously mentioned I read this book in one night. So why do I point this out? Because that is an accomplishment when the book is 508 pages long! Make sure you have allotted yourself enough time to read the very long romance so you don’t end up going to work with no sleep after binging on the story all night. Although I greatly enjoyed the plot and characters I felt as if some of the back and forth between Gwen & Graham could have been weeded out as it became a bit repetitive, like 50-100 pages of drama. Then after reading all the drama the author gives us a short epilogue that I would have enjoyed more had it been longer. The story is classified as a romance, in my opinion a solid 300-350 pages makes for a great romance. I think the author just tried to include too many different tropes and made her MCs too damn stubborn. I haven’t read any other books in this “Witch City” series so I am not sure if all of them will be bursting full of extra pages.


Overall this is a solid 4 Star read and yes I recommend it!

Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Flames 🔥🔥🔥🔥

📚Disclosure: I received a review copy of this #book from the author/publisher via #Netgalley. All thoughts, opinions, comments, and interpretations of the story are my own and bias free. I did not receive any money in exchange for this review. Thank you to the publisher/author for allowing me the opportunity to review. 🦄
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This riveting tale offers an intriguing mix of suspense and romance that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The protagonist, Graham, is a seasoned private investigator known for his objectivity and professionalism. His character is compellingly complex, balancing his hard-edged detective persona with underlying layers of vulnerability and passion.

Gwendolyn is a refreshing counterpart, her fiery disposition and sharp wit creating a palpable tension between her and Graham. Their interactions crackle with intensity, their initial animosity gradually giving way to a deeper, unexpected connection. This transition from mutual dislike to attraction is handled with finesse, making their evolving relationship believable and engaging.

The plot is driven by the threat posed by dangerous criminals targeting Gwendolyn, adding a layer of urgency and danger that heightens the stakes. Graham's protective instincts kick into high gear, and his determination to keep Gwendolyn safe becomes as personal as it is professional.

The narrative skillfully intertwines the thrills of a mystery with the emotional depth of a romance, making it a compelling read for fans of both genres. The writing is crisp and evocative, painting vivid scenes that draw readers into the story's heart.

Overall, this book is a captivating journey through danger, desire, and unexpected love, leaving readers eagerly turning pages until the very end.

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

"Bad Luck Charm" by Julie Johnson is a spellbinding romantic comedy set in the enchanting town of Salem, Massachusetts.

Gwendolyn Goode leads a charmed life as the owner of an occult shop in downtown Salem. However, when a sinister warning appears outside her shop, Gwen finds herself plunged into a world of danger and uncertainty. With threats lurking around every corner, Gwen turns to private investigator Graham Graves for protection.

Johnson weaves a captivating tale filled with mystery, humour, and a touch of magic. As Gwen and Graham navigate the dangerous waters of Salem, their mutual dislike transforms into unexpected attraction, adding an extra layer of tension to the story. Johnson's dynamic characters and witty dialogue keep readers engaged from start to finish, while the backdrop of Salem provides an atmospheric setting for the unfolding romance.

"Bad Luck Charm" is a delightful blend of romance and intrigue that will leave readers spellbound. Perfect for fans of romantic comedies with a touch of the supernatural, this novel is sure to cast a spell on readers and leave them eagerly anticipating Julie Johnson's next enchanting tale.

Bad Luck Charm by Julie Johnson is the witchy, small town, enemies to lovers, mystery romance that I didn’t know I needed.

It took me a couple chapters to get used to the amount of details written in about the characters and setting, but by the mid way point this book had me hooked. It had so many of the tropes that I look for in my reads, the top one being forced proximity between the two main characters. I could not get enough of the banter between Gwendolyn and Graham. Their interactions had me either on the edge of my seat or giggling.

I really enjoyed Gwen’s character as a whole. She had some layers and depth while also providing so much comedic relief all throughout the book. By the end of the book I was so happy with her character development - a great progression from when she was introduced.

The mystery element to the book added so much interest to the plot. I really wasn’t sure what to expect and for me this story wasn’t immediately guessable like others books I’ve read in the genre.

Overall a really fun and spicy read! Will definitely be on the lookout for the next book which will follow different characters in the same town.

Gwendolyn Goode is sassy and smart and beautiful. She has a troubled past but had one safe haven. Her Aunt Collete. In the summer she would stay with her aunt and help her run her shop and go on her own little adventures. The summer time being her own slice of freedom.

She met a boy one summer and somehow many years later in her adult tilde she hates him. His name is Graham Graves. Around the time they crossed each others path in adulthood, Aunt Collette passes and leave everything to Gwen. The house the shop and her thunderbird.

One day Graham wanders into her shop and take her out back to the alley behind to reveal something horrific. A religious animal sacrifice. From there on, Gwen’s life is put into danger and she ends up the number one target.

I first want to start out saying and book that can squeeze in a movie quote from bring it on with such finesse, will automatically get a 4 star from me. The amount of times i laughed out loud was insane. Gwen is so funny and sassy and her banter and teasing with Graham was my favorite part. Their backstory was adorable. I throughly enjoyed their conversations and their character growth.

It would be a 5 star but I felt like it took a very long time to get to the main plot of the book and the side plot I now understand was part of the build up for the second book but in my opinion it overshadowed the main plot. The romance was enjoyable and the smut scenes were perfect. They were not cringey at all I loved it.

Thank you for NetGalley for providing a free Arc copy in exchange for an honest review
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I didn’t really enjoy the MMC in this book. He gave off many toxic vibes and it kind of ruined the story for me. Just not what I was expecting from a witchy book.

Gwendolyn Goode is the owner of an occult shop in Salem, MA where she’s been visiting her aunt during the summers since she was a child. A bloody sacrifice is left outside her shop, as well as around other areas of town. Police seem to think Gwen might be on the receiving end of danger. Private investigator Graham Graves, her child crush, turned nemesis, has one goal - to protect Gwen from whatever evil is out to get her.

What I loved:
🪄 Graham Graves + all his possessiveness

🪄 Great balance between the plot/mystery + the romance!

🪄 The banter, wit, sarcasm was beautifully written and had me laughing out loud

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What I didn’t love:
🪄 Repetitive phrases I found odd - “Hellfire” and “Oh my goddess”

🪄 As much as I love an alpha-male, I found Graham to be a little toxic. He could use a lesson in how to apologize! There also wasn’t a back story of exactly when he fell for Gwen, but we do know when she started crushing on him

🪄 The side characters had a lot going on and were distracting for reasons I didn’t feel had much of a purpose

This was my first book with any witchy/paranormal vibes and I really enjoyed it! I will be reading the rest of the series as it releases! If you love a little magic, Halloween, or the cozy feel of Salem, Massachusetts, you will devour this one! 🥰

Thank you to NetGalley and Johnson Ink, Inc for a copy of this one in exchange for an honest review!

Thank you netgalley and Julie Johnson for allowing me to read this book. I was so excited to receive this book not only because it’s a witchy book but the main character has the same name! I don’t think I can go through the next few months without thinking about how amazing this book is every single day!! I loved it!!! The chemistry and tension between the main characters was coming off the pages and with the sprinkle of jealousy here and there was the perfect mix. I am a sucker for enemies to lovers and although they had a somewhat pleasant past I enjoyed the fighting at times. Gwendolyn and Graham are amazing together!! I am going to buy the second book right after finishing this review so I can continue where the last book left off and see another couple find love! I loved the romance mixed in with the spooky aspects of a mystery and Halloween so I highly recommend!

What a delightful enemy to lovers witchy romance. I will say I wish this novel was paired down a bit - it is lengthy and some parts felt very slow. I did like alpha-hole Graham, though I am sure his overprotective tendencies will read as stalkerish to some. Overall, a fun fall romp!

this book was wayyyyy too long. why was it 500 pages, i think as i kept reading, i kept losing interest. I wasn't the biggest fans of gwen and graham. i also found graham to be very offensive and off-putting. i really struggled with this one.

It took me way too long to get through this book. I tried really hard to enjoy it but it felt a little disjointed in the writing style

This book was very cute enemies to lovers, with witchy elements. It takes place in Salem, MA in some of the iconic locations there which makes it very fun for October reading. The FMC had her issues but I was pleased when she overcame them fairly easily and the gruff MMC helped her get there. There is pining, witchcraft, coffee, and spice. What more could a girl ask for!

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC of Bad Luck Charm! This book was far more history, witchy woo woo fun, and interesting character development than my usual Romance / Rom Com reads - and it was perfectly crafted! I was invested in the suspense early on and wanted to get to the mystery resolution.

I loved it, and the 5 stars don't get taken away but a few things I wish I knew right now as I just wrapped up:
-were the O'Banion's also in the Heretic Coven?
- was Madame Zelda?
- is Hetti not a goth, but just disguising herself?
- Why did Graham say what we did when Gwen first came to town?
- The Graves legacy behind the church, will this impact the Graveswatch jobs?

Thankfully, there's Cade + Imogen's book - so maybe we'll find out soon : )

I absolutely loved Bad Luck Charm! It was such a fun witchy read with some mystery, great banter and spice.

Witchy mystery, enemies to lovers (they have a lot of history) and truly it was not the typical witchy romance which I really appreciated. The balance between the mystery and the romance was so well done. The tension, banter and spice between Gwen and Graham was perfection. It was such a fun read and perfect for the spooky season!

If you're looking for a witchy, fall, mystery vibes book with lots of banter this is definitely it!

4.5 rounded up to 5.

Thank you Johnson Ink, Inc. and NetGalley for my e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.

First & foremost, I didn't hate or even fully dislike this book. The overarching mystery and elements of witchcraft woven in were intriguing enough to hold most of my attention (as opposed to DNF'ing). And yes, it had some cute moments...., but there were also just as many moments that had be scratching my head and cringing (like how law enforcement worked in this world.... hm. lol.) Graham was too much of an Alpha A—hole™ MMC for me at times, with some of his behavior and actions just— *screaming* "red flags" all around. While I love a good dominant man, he has to be written both well AND consistently for him to succeed (at least, in my eyes). Similar to another romance/drama book I read earlier this year (which..... was honestly way worse), I just don't understand why we had to have *whole scenes* of Graham & Gwendolyn crossing paths earlier in their lives as children (in one, he's 15, she's 10; in another, he's 18 and she's 13). These scenes are played off as Gwendolyn having a childhood crush on Graham, which isn't an uncommon thing— but that's not what bothers me. The 5-year age difference isn't what bothers me either, but rather the HOW and the WHY behind it all (or lack thereof). If the characters were just a bit older, their age gap and supposed meet-cutes wouldn't give me The Ick™ as much as it does/did. Not only that, but readers are reminded of how young she was when they first met MULTIPLE TIMES and it made me feel even ickier. I just.... that whole section could have been taken out (or, if it "must" be left in, reframed to be less... creepy), because honestly I doubt it would even affect the story much. This book also definitely does not need to be as long as it is (500+ pages?? like— *phew*, WHY); it just felt super bloated at times, and that's coming from someone who typically loves very descriptive prose in relation to creating an atmospheric vibe. While this one wasn't a winner for me, I'd still be open to trying out more of the author's work in the future!

Paranormal romances are the next Danielle Steel, so move over sister. It's always fun to read a witchy romance in the Fall, especially one that takes place in Salem. Gwen is a delightful witchy protagonist. My biggest gripe is that the novel doesn't need to be over 450+ pages.

Highly entertaining, emotional and action-packed magical adventure filled with dangerous and engaging charters, witty dialog, heart racing twists and exciting turns. Was glued to the edge of my seat during this epic final journey in this magical series.