Thank you to Netgalley and to the publishers for allowing me to read this advanced copy. I don’t think I have ever been so excited to receive an ARC as I was when I received this one. I loved The Heartless Hunter and couldn’t wait to find out how Rune and Gideon’s story ended. This book did not disappoint. Just as good as the first book, Rebel Witch was a wonderful journey of Rune and Gideon as they both try to do what’s right for their people, fight their ever growing attraction and try to outwit each other. I loved the back and forth between them and the action was non stop. The ending was incredibly satisfying and tied up the duology very nicely.

Thank you to Netgalley and to the publisher for allowing me to read this advanced copy.

In the gripping conclusion of the Crimson Moth duology, Rune (a witch) and Gideon (a witch hunter) are still entangled in a desperate game of cat and mouse. Rune and Gideon are forced into a desperate alliance to fight an evil witch and others who wish them harm.

I hesitate to say too much in my review for fear of spoiling anything- I don’t even want to tell you about the all tropes present in this book but trust me when I say that they are romance GOLD. This book pulled me into this world, kept me in a chokehold, and didn’t let go until long after the final pages. I honestly loved every minute of this final book and I’m so sad that it’s over. It was a brilliant escape into a different world, Rune and Gideon are enemies to lovers crossed with forbidden love perfection, and I can’t criticize anything about it because I loved it so much. Please read this, and let’s talk about it, and beg Kristin Ciccarelli to find a way to continue this story or write another series that hooks me just as much!

Thank you so much to Kristin Ciccarelli, Wednesday Books, and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC and the opportunity to be an early reader and reviewer.

Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martins Press, and Wednesday Books for this advanced copy! You can pick up Rebel Witch on February 18, 2025.

This book was everything I wanted it to be and more. It had all the great cat-and-mouse vibes from the first book, but with more heartfelt emotion on the surface due to the ending of Heartless Hunter. This book was quick-paced, action-packed, and chock-full of emotion from beginning to end. I feel like I already need a reread of this book just to see what I pick up on the second time around, and so I can finish it in one go rather than stretching it out between days like I did this time.

I loved Rune's character arc throughout this story and how Ciccarelli answered the question, "Who is the real Rune Winters?". Her dynamic with Gideon was absolutely irresistible, and while his growth was subtler, it was no less important or impressive. Every scene they had together had me giggling kicking my feet, though I also appreciated the relationships we saw develop with side characters throughout the story.

I just love this world and these characters, and I can't wait to talk about this book with everyone closer to release!

Obsessed !!!! I’ll never stop thanking you Wednesday books for this Advanced copy!!!! Five stars !!! Everyone and everything came together I was yearning and slow burn entire time and I’m SO happy we had so much Gideon and her time together because I was nervous that wasn’t gonna pan out and have too much separation !! I NEED this more in my life and I wish I could read again for theFirst time

I cannot even begin to tell you how excited I was to dive back into Rune and Gideon’s story. The Crimson Moth/Heartless Hunter was one of my favorite reads of last year, and I absolutely devoured this book. I missed the characters in a way that made this book sort of like coming home.

I’m going to start by saying that this book has an estimated publish date of February 2025, so take that into account with the following:

-As much as I loved this book, it felt rushed. It was rushed to the point that I kept questioning whether this book was actually a duology, or if it had been extended into a trilogy. Time kept feeling like it was running out to wrap this story up neatly, and even after finishing, I still feel that it possibly could have been a three parter

-I loved the back and forth with Rune and Gideon, per usual, however it had a weird quality to it that felt off kilter from book one. I completely understand that characters evolve throughout a series, but the interactions felt a little far off from what we had previously seen

-I really wish we had gotten more of the Harrow/Juniper story. It’s possible their story was so brief so that they could be set up for their own stories, but it seemed like they were just thrown in last minute to tie a part of the plot together. Harrow is such a complex character (so it seems), and an intriguing one at that, so I wish she’d gotten more “screen time”

Overall thoughts -

There’s nothing in this world that would have stopped me from reading this book. While I have my own reservations and thoughts on how this book went down, I absolutely 100% recommend reading this stunning conclusion to Rune and Gideon’s story!

(3.5 Stars rounded up!)

After LOVING Heartless Hunter, I was so beyond ready for the conclusion in Rebel Witch!

While I found Heartless Hunter to be great, I found Rebel Witch to be just good. I'm happy where we leave these characters, but was frustrated how we got there.

Immediately following the events of book 1, this book picks up off where we left these characters in precarious positions with a war brewing.

My overall thoughts:
- I found the first 50% of this book to be a slog. Although I'm happy to be back with these characters, it's a lot of down time and traveling to get them all back together again. The second half saves this book A LOT! We get introduced to interesting characters, more action, less predictability, and it feels like we' re BACK!
- Given this is a YA/NA book and some obvious plot reveals in book 1, I expected some predictability, but found the entirety of the book to be easily figured out. So many hints. SO much foreshadowing. It wasn't that the reveals weren't fun and cool, but they were so obvious and less exciting.
- Rune feels DIFFERENT. She's less sure of herself and just not who I remember from book 1. She relies heavily on those around her and the previous advice others give her. I wanted her to come out guns blazing and we got sparks but a much more subdued FMC. A few other characters felt different than book 1, but we'll chalk it up to growth!
- Good or bad, that ending was wrapped up QUICK!
-It's still FUN! Yes, it's a slower, more predictable read wrapped into a nice little bow, but it still has great moments, great tension, and fun new lore and characters introduced.

No doubt fans of book 1 will love the conclusion! Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.

I just finished this book, and wow, it was quite the ride. First off, a heads-up: if you haven’t read the first book, you really need to. This one picks up right where the last left off, so diving in without that context will probably leave you confused.

Emotionally, this book packs a punch. The author does a great job of creating rich, layered emotions that make you feel connected to the characters. Speaking of characters, they felt a lot more three-dimensional this time around. I found myself more invested in their journeys, especially Rune and Gideon. Their angst and longing were beautifully portrayed, keeping the tension high throughout the story.

The romance was a slow burn, with minimal spice. Even the one or two open-door scenes were more about the emotional connection than anything explicit. If you’re looking for heavy steam, this isn't your book. But if you love deep, emotional connections, you’re in for a treat.

Like the first book, the magic system was another highlight for me. It’s unique and well-thought-out, adding an intriguing layer to the narrative. The author’s take on witches feels fresh and different, making it even more compelling to read.

Now, on the downside, some of the problems the characters faced felt a bit repetitive. There were moments when I thought, “Haven’t we been through this already?” But honestly, it didn’t detract too much from my overall enjoyment.

The book is action-packed and fast-paced, keeping you on the edge of your seat. The dual perspectives of Rune and Gideon added depth, making their struggles and growth more poignant.

The character development was spot on, especially towards the end. Rune and Gideon’s journey from enemies to allies to something more was heartfelt and felt authentic. And the banter! They had so much chemistry, it made the relationship maybe the most engaging aspect of the story.

This book, with its mix of action, romance, and unique magic, is perfect for fans of romantasy. If you enjoyed the first book, prepare to love this one. It's the perfect wrap up to this duology, which has carved out a special place in my heart. I rate it a 4.5 out of 5, rounded up to 5 since fractions aren't possible on NetGalley.

So, if you’re into emotional, character-driven stories with a touch of magic and a good dose of angst, give this book a shot. It’s a wild, emotional journey that’s well worth your time.

Thank you so much to st Martin’s press for this digital ARC.

I just want to say I was screaming, crying, throwing up the entire time. It was everything I wanted and more and now I don’t know what to do with myself 🙃

Crimson Moth was your classic enemies to lovers, cat-mouse romantasy that was fun and entertaining but OMG Rebel Witch was simply phenomenal. I just love it so much when the sequel is better and Rebel Witch kept me on my toes from start to finish.

" "You are far worse than a thorn in my side. You are a knife in my heart". His voice was low and dangerous....."And you're a wolf I can't outrun" she whispered."

The tension and chemistry between Rune and Gideon was simply off the charts, like they genuinely wanted to kill each other and yet those feelings, haha! The author truly did justice with their epic romance and it was enemies to lovers perfection IMO. The plot was solid, there was action, tension, a few spectacular twists and an absolutely incredible ending!

This duology is going to be at the very top with my YA fantasy favorites, and I can't wait for the author's next book!

The magical duology comes to an epic end. Thank you to Wednesday books for my gifted copy! I loved this book just as much as the first. It's suspenseful, romantic, and action-packed.

The suspense was heart-pounding and stressful, with twists galore. The romance was tension-filled, angsty, and had me giggling. 😆 Kristen Ciccarelli has romance writing perfected. I adored Gideon and Rune.

My only gripe was that I wished the book was longer, which is the best complaint to have. I wanted more detailed action scenes and political discussions. I need more from this author! I cannot wait to see what she does next. I think she has the potential to create a detailed adult fantasy romance and I'd be the first pre-order (!!).

Wow! ALL. THE. STARS. this book was the perfect conclusion to a book I fell in love with so hard & fast earlier this year. I don't want to say too much to give anything away but I think everyone will be pleased & satisfied by the ending. I loved the journey everyone took in this one & of course the romantic tension was just perfect. Can't say enough nice things about this one - if you loved the first book, you're gonna love this one too!

So good! Fast pace and nail-biting!I loved that there is more of a vulnerable, yet unreliable, side of Rune and Gideon. The waterfall scene 🥺 Gideon still has that nonchalant arrogant attitude about him, but see it slowly turn around. Rune’s walls are up, but allows her heart to let up bit by bit. I did think that the cat mouse chase started to feel redundant (which made me start to lose interest). However, when the plot and unreliability of the characters thickened I was reeled back in! The plot and story telling is phenomenal. Enjoyed the supporting characters. Similar to book one, it’s on the steamier side of YA. The revelation(s) is a little bit predictable, but doesn’t take away from the story. The last few chapters were heart stopping. Loved it!

I cannot believe I got an early ARC of this! Thank you Wednesday Books!

With that being said… 4.25 stars from me.

The first 40% was the back and forth of the relationship. I always dislike this in books, it just dragsssss for me. But at the 60% mark when drama and war picks up- I was living! The ending was phenomenal! Couldn’t put it down!

4.5⭐️

The first book in this duology, it's nothing revolutionary. The plot is very generic and your topical "there's two kinds of people (think rich and poor or magical beings vs those who aren't, with enemies to lovers and they shouldn't be together or sometimes it's a girl between two brothers" kind of plot.

But even though the plot wasn't unique, I do appreciate how the author added her own unique touches (making the FMC a witch and the mmc a witch hunter, adding the fake dating and the touch of regency era). That book to me is the perfect example of how you can take inspiration from another popular book to make your own, without having to copy and paste every single detail from the original, which is a very common issue.

Anyways!! This sequel!!! FANTASTIC!!!!! This one did felt like a book of its own. It was very action packed compared to the first one (that one was more chill) I mean, the main couple couldn't catch a break. I loved this one and couldn't put it down. The romance was sooooo good and I loved every second of it. Also if you thought that they were enemies in the first book, just HOLD ON!! The writing was very easy to follow (same as the first one) which is expected since this is YA.

But anyways!! I loved this so so so much!!! Highly recommend

A phenomenal conclusion to the Crimson Moth duology! Fast paced, kept me hooked, and loved getting to see all the characters coming together in this book. The last half felt like it flew by, but not in a bad way, and somewhere around 85% I was convinced we were actually getting a trilogy, but it ended very nicely and didn’t feel rushed at all.

I was admittedly very nervous that Rebel Witch wouldn't deliver on the same level as Heartless Hunter but it did that and MORE!

I adored this duology so much, it's well-rounded in the best way. The Crimson Moth series gives romance, enemies to lovers to enemies to...., suspense, heartbreak, just everything masterfully put together to tell an incredible story unlike any other I've read.

Thank you SO much Netgalley and Kristen Ciccarelli for my copy of this amazing eARC.

Omg. Omg. Omg.

This was a whirlwind of emotions. That last bit there had me thoroughly freaking out. I'm really hoping this isn't the end to the story because I love it so dang much. 😩 I honestly didn't expect to love these books as much as I do, but it's definitely up there in my favorites now! I can't say too much, or I'll just spoil the whole book, so just know it was amazing, and I still want more, and I'll leave you with this one quote. 🫢

"It's been an honor, Captain."

Big thank you to St. Martin's Press/Wednesday books, Netgalley, and Kristen for the e-arc. I have a new book boyfriend added to the roster. 🤐❤️‍🔥

I recognize that after feeling pretty medium on the first book (3 stars), I’m probably not the target for the second book and it shows in my rating. I wanted to love this and a lot of times the second book gets even better in fantasy series but this just wasn’t it for me.

It started strong, but as the story continued it felt repetitive and silly. I was cheering for rune and Gideon so this was a bit of a rollercoaster!

Thank you to St. Martins Press for the advanced copy!!

4.5 ⭐️ 0.5 🌶️
Picked up right where HH left off
Some parts were predictable throughout this book, but still very enjoyable and an easy read.

Overall I love the banter between Rune and Gideon is the best part!! You can definitely see where they are working through their trauma and ability to trust in this book.

Tropes:
Enemies to lovers
Who did this to you?
Found family
Unique magic
Witches and Humans
Forced proximity
Fake dating / fake marriage
Secrets and deception

Rebel Witch by Kristen Ciccarelli is a thrilling continuation and conclusion to the Crimson Moth duology that kept me on the edge of my seat. The story picks up with Rune Winters on the run, having been betrayed by the boy she loved, Gideon Sharpe. The stakes are higher than ever as Rune must ally with the dangerous Cressida Roseblood to survive and reclaim the Republic for the witches.

Ciccarelli excels in creating a rich, immersive world filled with magic, intrigue, and complex characters. The tension between Rune and Gideon is palpable, making their forced alliance both compelling and fraught with emotional depth. The enemies-to-lovers trope is handled masterfully, with their chemistry unfolding at a steady, engaging pace.

The plot is fast-paced and filled with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing. Ciccarelli's writing is vivid and evocative, bringing the world and its conflicts to life. The high-stakes nature of the story, combined with the romantic tension, makes for a gripping read.

However, I found that the resolution was bit predictable, and a few secondary characters could have been more fleshed out. Despite these minor flaws, Rebel Witch delivers a satisfying and exciting conclusion to the series.

Overall, Rebel Witch earns a solid 4-star rating. It's a captivating read that balances romance, action, and fantasy elements beautifully, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.