While there is SO MUCH going on in this book (we've got witches, succubus, chronic health issues, stripping, and so much more!) it all actually works so well! It's one of those books that you pick up and expect it to just be 'meh' but it was outstanding.

In my journey to read all books that have librarians and books somewhere featured prominently, I ventured upon this fun new twist on magic. Elementals are littered throughout society. They have an affinity to whatever element powers their magic whether that be water, fire, earth, or healing. The latest book in the Connolly series focuses on Ava who powers her healing magic through the sexual desires of men and Sammy Reyes who is a water elemental. They meet first at the strip club where Ava works once or twice a week, charging up her healing powers by simply strutting her stuff. By day she is librarian at a private “religious” college where there is a strict moral code. When Sammey is on a job checking out his construction site, he stumbles up on her by accident. Not impressed by his money, Ava might be the challenge he needs in his life.

Having picked up this novel to read and review, I hadn’t had the pleasure of reading the others in the series. The title makes a lot more sense when viewed with others in the series. You definitely don’t need to read these in order but they would make more sense. I really enjoyed Connolly’s commentary on morality codes within the private sectors of libraries. All librarians are overworked and underpaid.

First up, as always I would like to thank NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this arc.

This is the first time that I have read anything by this author and I am so glad that I have had that opportunity.
I enjoyed this story and the MCs, I feel as though a lot of time went into making this what it is.
I have always loved a good book with magic and then add in a playboy, so so cute!!

Loved all that this book was

An enjoyable paranormal romance. Good humor and it was nice seeing some of the characters from the previous books. I liked the main characters, though when it started off I was worried Sammy would be creepy, but thankfully he wasn't. The relationship developed slowly, which is great for those who dislike instalove, but at times it seemed to go a little too slowly. I really enjoyed the ending. Overall, a solid parnormal romance. *I received an ARC of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.

Sammy is certain that he’s unloveable except for his money. Ava is disinterested in his gifts and seems to scorn his advances. He’s trying to work out if he can offer her anything but she doesn’t want to be dependent on him for her health needs either…

Thank you NetGalley and publisher for this arc!

What a good book!!! Such a good story and great writing style. This was my first by this author and will not be my last!

This is the third installment in the series, but if you haven't had the chance to read the first two books, there's no need to fret; it stands perfectly on its own. I found myself captivated by this story. I read the first in the series and didn't get to the second before I received this Arc. The magical characters were delightful, especially our two protagonists: Sammy, a charming playboy who happens to be an elemental squid and an architect, is determined to catch the attention of Ava, our fierce and sassy succubus witch who works as a librarian and is also a talented magical dancer. Their evolving relationship was a joy to witness as they learned to trust one another, and it was heartwarming to see how their friend group supported each other throughout their journey. Connolly's writing style truly shines, as the chemistry between the characters leaps off the pages, making it an engaging read. If you're in the mood for a light-hearted paranormal romance filled with plenty of steamy moments, I highly recommend giving this series a try; you won't regret it!

"Healing Magic and Playboys” introduces readers to a unique blend of contemporary and paranormal romance, centered around a female librarian who moonlights as a witch and a magical dancer ✨. The dynamic between the main character Ava and Sammy, a character grappling with self-worth issues, adds layers of depth to their evolving relationship. What sets this book apart is the refreshing portrayal of a male lead who is genuinely caring and supportive, serving as a beacon of positivity for the main character, Ava.

I particularly appreciated the representation of health issues in the narrative, shedding light on a topic often overlooked in literature. The author skillfully weaves this aspect into the story, adding a layer of authenticity and relatability to the characters' experiences.

The romantic dynamics between Ava and Sammy are beautifully depicted, emphasizing how their relationship is built on mutual respect and admiration. Their journey feels organic and authentic, with each character complementing the other in a way that feels balanced and fulfilling.

The writing style of the book strikes a perfect balance between lightheartedness and depth, capturing the emotional nuances of the characters' experiences. The multiple points of view offer a well-rounded perspective that enriches the storytelling, pulling readers deeper into the world of the book.

Furthermore, as the third book in a series, "Healing Magic and Playboys" can be enjoyed as a standalone, delving into the entire series promises a deeper exploration of characters and their interconnected stories.

In conclusion, this sweet, fun, and steamy read is a delightful escape into a world where magic, romance, and personal growth intertwine seamlessly. For readers seeking a heartwarming tale with well-developed characters and a touch of the supernatural, "Healing Magic and Playboys" is a must-read. I highly recommend immersing yourself in this enchanting series to fully experience the magic woven throughout its pages.

Thank you NetGalley Co-op and Victory Editing in exchange for my honest review.

Classic story of the "playboy" with a different side only a certain someone can bring out in him. Although Ava doesn't want to depend on Sammy due to his tendencies and her insecurity. I read the series out of order and although the plot line makes sense as a stand alone it would be best in order to really understand the development and growth.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC! All opinions below are my own.

omg, I loved this book. I just love a good magical contemporary romance, and I love a hidden sex goddess underneath a "nerdy" exterior, and this book hit all those spots for me. I haven't read any of the prior books, but believe you me, I shall! Our MMC is a previous playboy, long left behind in his college days, as well as being a millionaire who loves to shower money and gifts on our FMC. He is aware of his faults, never pushes, and just is head over heels begging for our FMC - who remains distant due to her own powers as a succubus-witch. He's almost too perfect. But if you like that healing (for yourself, and your run-ins with shitty men), then this book boyfriend will provide that healing magic!

Also, pleasantly smutty. I cringed at first at the naming conventions, but quickly got over it - especially as Squid ended up being pretty tongue-in-cheek references a few times.

Light, bright and utterly charming. This book is a delight to read and will definitely cheer up any dreary day!

Thank you NetGalley and City Owl Press for the arc of "Healing Magic & Playboys“ by Lauren Connolly.

This is the first book I read by Lauren Connolly but it won’t be the last! I loved Ava and Sammys chemistry and banter. The story was great too. I love a good standalone series and this one definitely delivered.

The third in a light-hearted series of contemporary paranormal romances, Connolly's book is a fun and fluffy romp. I still think this is one of the most creative takes on PNR I've read in awhile -- characters from the two previous books appear but don't distract from the plot if you haven't read them, and (surprise) this one has a domme woman and a submissive man! A really delightful dynamic! This book also explored assumptions that others have about our MCs and what they choose to show to the world.

Ava Bellerose leads a double life as a librarian and a masked performer, using men's admiration to fuel her magic. Her biggest admirer, Sammy Reyes, discovers her secret identity and is determined to win her over. Despite her resistance, Sammy's charm might just break through her barriers. Engaging and magical!

Healing Magic and Playboys by Lauren Connolly

Rating: 4.0 Stars
Spice Level: 4.5

Though this book can be enjoyed as a standalone, I highly recommend starting with the first two installments in the series. I didn't, and I wish I had—characters from the previous books make delightful appearances throughout this charming story. I'm now eagerly diving into book one!

If I didn’t love Ava to the moon and back, I wouldn’t know what to do with myself when it comes to Sammy. At first, Sammy seemed a bit creepy—even Ava might have thought so. But as the story unfolded, he transformed into my latest book boyfriend. Can I order one for myself?

This book is an easy read; I flew through it and couldn't put it down. Some scenes will forever live rent-free in my mind. If I had to describe this book in three words, they would be sexy, cute, and hot. It’s the perfect summer read!

This is the first book that I've read by Lauren Connolly even though I have definitely heard her works talked about. It was sweet and different. I ended up staying up way too late to read this book because I was so intrigued with the magical elements of the storyline. I've read a good bit of magical books and romance books and this is definitely one of the more unique crossovers. It has an average level of spice. I actually expected a little more since Ava is a stripper succubus, but it was much more tasteful than I anticipated which I liked as well. The writing itself felt a little rushed for me, and I would have liked some more deep dives or more intensely emotional scenes, but overall I really enjoyed it and would definitely read more Lauren Connolly books.

I loved this book, it was a nice feel-good book and I really felt like I got sucked into the world!
It's another wonderful book in the series, and I can't wait to see what Lauren comes up with next!

Healing Magic & Playboys by Lauren Connolly is an absolutely delightful, heartwarming story.
I enjoyed this book a lot. It was fun and entertaining.
HM&P is a perfect, escapist, chemistry-fulled romance with a wonderful cast of characters.
The writing was absolutely superb. I was hanging onto every word.
A quick, feel good read.

Thank You NetGalley and City Owl Press for your generosity and gifting me a copy of this amazing eARC!

Ava is a masked performer who uses men's attraction to her to charge up her healing magic. Sammy recognizes her and woos her to her dismay.

Love Ava and Sammy. The hate to love relationship works for me. Love their banter and connection. Really enjoy the story.

Thanks to the publisher for the arc.

Another excellent book in the Casual Magic series from Lauren Connolly, which I have been just loving! I also really love how much she includes the previous characters, but in such a way you can easily read each one as a standalone.

This book, Healing Magic & Playboys is very aptly titled. We have a lot of elemental abilities in our characters from the previous books, including Sammy who is BFFs with several of the boys. He’s a big time playboy but he’s fallen for one of the dancers at the Jewelry Box, where Red works as a waitress (which is part of book 2). He’s continuing to visit to watch Pearl dance and in his obsession, starts bringing her gifts… which she doesn’t want or appreciate. She has another “real” job, as a college librarian, and only dances to refill her succubus witch magic. Ava is not an elemental, but is a witch.

After being invited to the elemental’s pool party where an incident happened and she has to show her healing abilities, Sammy falls for the real Ava, and she’s in trouble of her two lives crossing, and the fallout is what she’s always feared (she needs the club and the men’s lust to constantly refill her magic to ward off physical illness)… it could be very bad, or potentially very good?

Connolly is a fantastic author and if you haven’t checked out this series yet or her others (I’ve also read her Smartypants Romance contributions and just picked up her Folk Haven series on the incredible audio sale), you are most definitely missing out - she’s brilliant and I absolutely recommend her books, all of them, to everyone! Just the right amount of steam, and such well thought out and creative storytelling, and it’s all perfect! I also must say, as a migraine sufferer myself, I always appreciate whenever an author includes this in a romantic storyline!

I received an advance copy from NetGalley and City Owl Press, and this is my honest feedback.