4.5!!!! Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this ARC! I was SO excited for this and I’m so happy it did not disappoint!!! I love Memnon and Selene with every fiber of my being and this book just added fuel to the fire! The pacing is amazing, there is genuinely never a dull moment as there are many, many actions scenes balanced out with character development and of course spicy scenes. I had visceral reactions to the anticipatory moments and starting at 70% my stomach was genuinely twisted in knots, I had to finish the book in one sitting to know what happens! Personal preference wise, I didn’t love the crime syndicate/mafia-esque vibes just bc I hate mafia plots and I did predict who would be the kind of overall villain but it makes good sense so it really isn’t that much of a ding. Overall I was so happy to be back in this universe and I can’t wait to see Selene grow even more powerful and viscous but please no more playing with their relationship let them be happy and in love😭😭😭

First, thank you to NetGalley and Bloom Books/Source Books for the early digital copy of this book. I have been eagerly awaiting it since I read Bewitched, book one of this series featuring Selene and Memnon.

Laura Thalassa is one of my favorite authors. I fell in love with her writing after experiencing the Four Horsemen series and now I greedily inhale anything she writes. Book one ended on a heck of a cliffhanger and this book, Bespelled, picks up directly following the events of book one and ends with another cliffhanger that leaves you reeling.

In Bespelled, the focus is less on the enemies to lovers trope and more on the second chance romance trope. Selene has her memories back, she knows who she is AND who Memnon is, and she is angry with Memnon for how he’s treated her. After making her make that unbreakable oath to marry, they alter the terms, and Selene forges a willing bond with Memnon, giving her the ability to command him to do her bidding.

So much happens in this book that your head will spin, but the chemistry between Selene and Memnon — that is so beautiful and grounding. Memnon works hard to get Selene back but he doesn’t just do so while pretending to be a perfect male. He is unapologetically himself — the former warlord who kills and conquers.

The ending, while wrapping up the first and second books really well, sets us up for book three and leaves us second guessing everything we thought we learned in book 2.

I absolutely cannot wait for book three to come out and I hope it’s this year, not next, because I don’t want to wait that long!!

Read this if you love romantasy, spicy reads, enemies to lovers, witches/sorcerers/werewolves, second chance romance, he falls first, and touch her and die vibes. Note: this series is set in the same world as Laura’s Bargainer series!!

This series is too good! I love that in this one we’re seeing Selene come into her power more, she’s starting to accept her past and generally becoming a badass. Memnon of course is still a little unhinged but also really sweet in this one, he loves Selene so much and is determined to prove himself to her. Giving her complete control over him? Top tier groveling.

The glimpses into Selene’s past life were heartbreaking and enlightening, the action just kept coming, and the spice was taken up several notches. Memnon and Selene continue to be hilarious, and Nero is still the best. Once again Laura has written an ending that has me dying to know what will happen in the next book.

Thank you to Sourcebooks Bloom for the ARC!

Laura Thalassa has done it once again! I absolutely loved “Bewitched” and had high expectations for this sequel — I was not disappointed. I found this sequel to be spicy, intense, and dramatic. I would never have been able to predict where this was going from the first book & I was pleasantly surprised when my suspicions were incorrect.

This book picks up right where the previous left off: our morally gray Memnon will do anything to keep his beloved mate safe. Selene has her memories back from this life and her previous one as Queen Roxilana, which is quite the adjustment for someone is used to keeping track of everything in her journals or else she’ll forget it . The relationship between Memnon and Selene intensifies as more insanity is revealed from the coven and community. My admiration and appreciation for Nero is off this charts in this book - he’s definitely my favorite character and a devoted familiar. The character development in this novel is chef’s kiss along with the dramatic plot.

I had so many emotions while I read this — there were moments of deep belly laughs, tears falling down my face, anger and rage building up within me, and moments where I was blushing from the spiciness. I would highly HIGHLY recommend this book to witchy fantasy lovers who enjoy some good smut with quality storytelling. Selene is a flawed yet lovable character who I felt my own unique bond with. I truly cannot wait to see how this all wraps up in the final installment - the ending of this one is abrupt and leaves me with a lot of questions…..

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Bloom Books for access to this ARC in exchange for my review. Laura’s writing is outstanding and I look forward to consuming more from her!

In Laura Thalassa's "Bespelled," readers can expect a captivating blend of elements that make for an irresistible read. From the very start, the novel delivers on its promise of groveling, with Memnon's heartfelt apologies and efforts to right past wrongs. The chemistry between the characters sizzles with intensity, represented by the 🔥🔥🔥 rating, while their banter adds a delightful touch of humor that will leave readers grinning from ear to ear.

Building on the foundation laid in "Bewitched," "Bespelled" seamlessly continues the story, picking up right where its predecessor left off. Selene's regained memories and the revelation of past betrayals set the stage for a tale of second chances and newfound understanding.

For fans of Laura Thalassa's signature blend of humor, spice, and darker elements, "Bespelled" is a must-read. It's a captivating continuation of the series that will leave readers eagerly awaiting the next installment.

Buckle up, because Laura Thalassa is back with another heart-pounding installment in her latest series, "Bespelled". If you thought "Bewitched" was a wild ride, just wait until you dive into this one!

Thalassa's signature blend of steamy romance, dark intrigue, and magical twists is on full display once again. She effortlessly navigates the fine line between sensual and shocking, delivering a story that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

In "Bespelled", we dive deeper into the complex relationship between Memnon and Selene. Memnon may be a definite gray character, but his unwavering love for Selene adds a layer of depth and dark to the intricate plot. And Selene proves herself to be a formidable counterpart, even when she doesn't realize it yet.

Of course, it wouldn't be a Thalassa novel without a few dark and twisted moments sprinkled throughout. But isn't that what makes the journey so exhilarating? You never know what's around the next corner, and that's what keeps you turning the pages.

So, if you're ready for another adrenaline-fueled adventure filled with danger, desire, and deliciously complicated relationships, then "Bespelled" is the book for you. Just be prepared for another jaw-dropping cliffhanger. Trust me, you won't want to miss it!

Laura Thalassa is fast becoming one of my favorite authors! It’s so hard to write these reviews and not use spoilers. That being said I knew the two worlds would combine whether in the book or the next. I also have a suspicion of what may happen between Kane and Selene moving forward but I will have to wait and see if I’m right. Laura has a way of pulling your attention in and hoping it hostage until the book is completed. Her characters have so many twists and turns but also so many truly admirable parts as well. I absolutely can’t wait until the next book and I hope I get the wonderful opportunity to continue to ARC read for this fantastic author,

How can you not love a badass witch with a panther familiar and a pension for docs and chucks? Covens, compelling and sassy incantations, bonds, spell circles, treachery, ley lines and one hot sorcerer culminate in this explosive book that will have you glued to the pages. Sorry Kane—Selene and Memnon have me routing for them through all the things! ✨♥️🔥

I read Bewitched and immediately stepped into this, and the momentum was strong. I must also give credit, this is one of the few (but very highly appreciated) books that has a "the road so far" summary at the beginning of the book. Let's all take a moment to appreciate authors who recognize that sometimes their readers need a reminder of what happened in the previous book!

This second installment continued to build on what happened in the first book. Everything turned up a level - the angst, the longing, the plot, the "I feel like something is sketchy here...." vibes. I read this entire book in 24 hours, I could not put it down.

Also, this is one of the few books I have read that uses a small amount of modern vocabulary and slang and isn't cringy. Rather, it feels natural and in line with the characters. It gives that feeling that this could be happening in our world, or at least it makes you wish it was.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bloom Books for a digital ARC. All opinions are my own and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

5/5 ⭐️

Absolutely amazing! This book was…so INTENSE! Like, nail biting, breath holding, edge of my seat intense. It was one perilous blow after another for Selene. I can’t tell you how many times I found myself internally screaming “no, no, NOO”!
Oh the journey she endured, it’s heart wrenching and beautiful, all at the same time. Selene is such an all powerful badass witch and empress! The growth we witness her go through and the confidence she attains is extraordinary.

We also get to see a lot of groveling from Memnon trying to right the wrongs he put Selene through. But, at the same time he is endearing and humorous. His temper over anyone touching or trying to hurt her is explosive. I love their relationship dynamic and was so ecstatic to see her finally give in to her feelings for Memnon.

This book was everything I wanted out of a series sequel! There’s a shitload of drama, multitudes of action, adventure, immense fighting and steaming hot spice!
Through all of that we finally learn the backstory of their history from 2000 years ago; how and why he was entombed into a deep sleep and why Selene is now in the modern day world. It’s an utterly fantastic plot line that is gripping, captivating and has you yearning for more!

This is a must read series, especially if you are a fan of Laura Thalassa!

Thank you NetGalley, Laura Thalassa and Bloom books for the opportunity to read this ARC.

i read the four hoursemen series, LOVED IT. read the first book in this series LOVED IT, just finished this one, LOVED IT EVEN MORE. god i love laura thalassa

Laura Thalassa has once again exceeded expectations with "Bespelled," solidifying its place as my favorite read of 2024 thus far. The sophomore installment in her series shows no signs of a slump; in fact, it surpasses its predecessor, "Bewitched," with its enhanced writing and pacing. While it does provide answers to some lingering questions, it skillfully introduces new ones, keeping readers engrossed until the very end. Memnon emerges as a standout character, his morally ambiguous nature and enigmatic demeanor adding depth to the narrative. A particular scene around the 80% mark left me captivated, and despite wondering how there could still be more to come, the remaining 20% flew by in a whirlwind of action and revelations. I found myself devouring each page eagerly, eager for more. However, one aspect I wished for improvement upon was Selene's character development. I kept waiting for her to come to terms with Roxilana, and at times, I found myself frustrated with her lack of growth. Needless to say, I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment in the series.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to review this book!

Thank you to Laura Thalassa, Bloom, and NetGalley for giving me an eARC of Bespelled in exchange for my honest review.

This book was outstanding and also not at all what I had expected. I was expecting a heavier focus on the enemies-to-lover plot line, which there was a lot of. Instead, we got this continuation of a mystery that played out in wonderful ways. And while one mystery might have been solved, the book ended with another really big question. I will say the ending surprised me because I thought the story could have ended where it did. I am not sure where Laura Thalassa is going to take the next book, but I am certain it will be amazing. I have a good idea of what I am hoping to see in the next book, but I cannot imagine being disappointed, even if my expectations do not happen at all.

Bespelled picks up right where Bewitched left off, with Selene in prisoned. Now having regained her memories, she is able to prove to Memnon just how wrong he was. Riddled with guilt, Memnon enters a bond with Selene, where he will follow her will until she falls in love with him. Meanwhile, there is also the question of who is killing these witches and what is really going on Henbane Coven? I would highly recommend this book to all of those who loved the first book. The plot is everything and you can see some character development in Selene. It is interesting now that she remembers both her current life, and her former life. It changes who she is in some ways, and in other ways it does not all. It is an interesting dynamic that I hope is explored further in the coming book because Selene is not the same women she was 2000 years ago.

I really enjoyed this. It was exactly what I wanted in the 2nd book. Romance. Drama. Intrigue. And it was a fun read. If you like romantasy I recommend this series!

First of all, this series might be my favorite witch series to date, and I’ve enjoyed it far more than the Four Horsemen series by Laura. Witch + her familiar, a soul mate bond with issues, and magic that requires a price.

Too much of this book was Selene making absolutely stupid decisions, ones that we could have overlooked maybe if she still had her memory issues, but without that excuse they just make me want to bang my head against the wall.

Memnon made up for it for me, to the point where I’d have loved to get a few chapters from his POV as well.

I’m glad we finally got an answer as to why he was entombed and cursed in the first place. I found the answer to be satisfying and didn’t feel contrived, which earns the author points in my book.

I wanted more from the shifters in this book. There seemed to be a lot of focus on Kane for him to still not be a main character. Maybe book 3 will flesh that out for us some more.

All in all I’m looking forward to seeing where this series goes!

I received an eARC from Netgalley in exchange for my honest opinions.

I quite liked this! I really enjoyed Bewitched so I was very excited to read the sequel. I think overall I did enjoy the first book more, but there were some moments I really loved in Bespelled. I loved finding out more about Memnon and Selene's past especially, and seeing Selene's character develop and change through the book was interesting. This book had a lot more spicy scenes than the first in the series. I'm still digesting the ending trying to decide if I liked it (I think I did) and I am excited to continue in Book 3!

Another amazing book from Laura Thalassa! She weaves a world that leaves you wishing to be a part of it. Her characters are complex, yet relatable. Selene is an admirably optimistic person, even when bad things are happening to her and around her. I love her strength and determination. She rolls with the punches as best as she can and always gets back up.
Oh, how I love Memnon. He is unrepentantly himself. He does whatever he wants and makes no apologies for it. He is deliciously morally gray and a bit villainous and I cannot get enough!
I was on the edge of my metaphorical seat the entire time and I cannot wait to read what will happen next!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

Thank you Laura Thalassa, NetGalley, and Bloom Books for allowing me to ARC read this!

Bespelled is the beguiling sequel to Bewitched by Laura Thalassa.

Picking up where Bewitched ended, Selene is continuing to try to solve the murders of witches. Memnon betrayed her and he is trying to atone for his mistakes and he does so in various ways.

Bespelled is absolutely beautiful and such a fun, but dark, read. I have loved Laura's works and I continue to absolutely love them! I still need to read The Unearthly series.

If you've read any of Laura's books or have read Bewitched, Bespelled is where it's at and I am absolutely obsessed.

The ending, although not as jaw dropping as the ending of Bewitched, was still surprising and a huge plot twist.

I love Selene and Memnon and I can't wait to see them in book three and what happens between them!

Content:
✨Magical College/Coven
🔥Enemies to Lovers
✨Fated Mates
🔥Touch Her & Die
✨Witches, Sorcerers, Shifts, & Fae
🔥Same World as Rhapsodic but separate series
✨Ancient Curse
🔥Familiars
✨Spicy!

Thank you Netgalley and Bloom Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Laura Thalassa. I will be honest. I love how this book just manages to continue the story. I know that sounds weird but I feel like in fantasy they try to make it feel like oh no this isn't the same story. This is a continuation of the plot of the first book. It isn't creating a new story out of thin air. Yet again though I will add. I need to read Rhapsodic and that whole series to feel in my opinion more connected to this world.

BESPELLED Laura Thalassa

This book, My goodness. I swear the only bad thing about ARCS is that you have to wait even longer for sequels, because there most be a sequel to this.

This book made me love Memnon even more (I was conflicted on Bewitched)

That ending!!! Why? Why?

I loved loved this book and I'm extremely eager to get another (I hope another is coming)

While the book kept prolonging the issue at hand since Bewitched it kept my attention and I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen, I gladly lost sleep to reading.

This book should definitely be on your TBR.