If I ended the first book a bit uncertain of my opinion, then I have finished this one 100% certain that this book was a perfectly-paced masterpiece and it is one of the best books I have read in a long time. I could barely put the book down (and I’m on a vacation where there’s so much to do and experience - the worst time to be addicted!), and when I was actively reading it, there was a dread in the back of my mind at finishing it - what will I do when I’ve run out of Rune and Gideon content?!

I think one thing that made this book better than the first was that the pacing was *perfect*; we pick up right with the action and proceed at a reasonable pace. The first book felt like it was going just a liiiiittle fast the entire way through, but I didn’t feel that way this time. I’m also not a huge fan of a love triangle where two brothers are fighting for the same girl, and I guess that trope was “resolved” with the end of book one (😭). Instead, that trope was replaced with others that I love, and I was thriving as I read 😌👌.

Was there a plot twist or two that I found entirely predictable? Sure, but there were plenty I didn’t foresee, and I spent the entire book on the edge of my seat wondering how everything could possibly be resolved and answered. I needn’t worry, though, as Kristen Ciccarelli has woven the perfect book.

One thing is for certain: this book is entirely worth the wait and it won’t disappointment. I can tell this will be one of the biggest YA books of 2025 and I can’t wait for everyone to join in on the hype.

What an epic whirlwind!! Congrats to Kristen Ciccarelli on giving us the ride of our lives with Rebel Witch!

Rune and Gideon give us everything we could dream of when mortal enemies meet their match. The tension is the driving force of this book, that and overthrowing hate and greed. It was intoxicating and addictive and I loved every second of it!

I would give this ♾️ stars if I could! This was a highly anticipated read for me, and it lived up to my expectations!
Enemies to lovers is always top tier! I’ve already preordered a physical copy because I loved it so much ♥️

Amazing!! I’m crying, smiling, and wondering if there’s any way to convince Ciccarelli to write a third book because I am nowhere near ready to say goodbye to Rune and Gideon 😭

Sequels don’t always live up to the first book, but this one sure did!
Rune and Gideon continued their enemies-to-lovers, push and poll, constantly betraying eachother, but never communicating their true feelings, back and forth banter and it was awesome! There were so many times that I wished I could reach through the pages and shake them both until they realized what was right in front of them!!


**possible spoilers**


There was just as much action, adventure, and deceit as in book 1. There were parts that had me balling my eyes out. So many sacrifices were made for love. So many moments I couldn’t believe and even some actual spicy spice!! There was even a “who did this to you?” moment that had me straight up melting! Did I mention I love Gideon?! Even if he was turning her in at the end of book 1, he 100% redeemed himself in this book!

It was so sweet seeing this tough, witch hunter be so vulnerable and self-conscious when it came to Rune. Both of them felt like they didn’t deserve the other or like there was no way the other could love them, so seeing them get their HEA was just so sweet and satisfying.


“If this was weakness, he wanted to be weak. If this was sin, let him be dammed to hell. Kissing Rune was like a realignment. There was before, when off its axis. And then there was after, when everything was steady and right.”

“Kissing Gideon was like coming home.”

This was a phenomenal sequel to what was already an outstanding book 1.

It followed right where we left off, full of action keeping me engaged and the end was a wildly satisfying conclusion to this duology.

I struggled a bit during some of the miscommunication or misunderstandings because I really don't like that kind of issue but it resolved relatively quickly and satisfactorily.

Kristen Ciccarelli is an amazing author and I've quite literally never been let down by something she has written, this was without question no exception.

This story was enjoyable. I enjoyed book 1 more than 2 because there was a lot of miscommunication still between Rune and Gideon and miscommunication tropes frustrate me. The wrap up of this story was powerful and beautiful.

You know a book has hit hard when the words on the final chapters blur, and you just can’t seem to unstick those tears from your eyes.

A.K.A, I was cryin’, y’all! I was cryinggg!

Just like its predecessor, this book so wholly consumed me. I couldn’t bear to put it down, I was bewitched by it, pun intended. I actually harbor this weird regret, a regret that it's all over. That the end came and I did have to put the book down. It's over, and I don't want it to be! I want to immerse myself back in the story so I can live in its world just a little longer. I want to savor it more, I want to read it like its the first time again. I have read a lot of books I've come to love, but when I get this type of feeling it's because the love I have is on an entirely different level. Rebel Witch is an infinity stone in my collection of precious gems. I'm going to remember it forever and love it forever.

I continue to love the alluring world-building, the dynamic cast of characters, and the well-paced, well-thought out plot. But, what I love most is what's at the heart of this duology: Rune and Gideon's story.

They deserve all the hugs for what they've gone through, they are irrevocably changed due to the events of the first book's ending. Their individual paths begin on shaky convictions and once brought back together they must either fortify said convictions or find new beliefs. The path is not easy, there is the danger of betrayal at every corner, yet you want to see them march on, to move forward together even if they remain on either sides of a line.

There's more communication issues between Gideon and Rune, but I found it was never off-putting. Yes, I wanted to scream at them through the pages, I was frustrated many times, but all that only served to encourage me to root even harder for them. Their miscommunication never waned my attention, instead it intensified it. Their push-and-pull solidified how much I love them and how much I believe in their love story. How much I wanted to continuously protect it (especially from the likes of Abbie, ha). How much I wanted, hoped, and prayed they'd reach forgiveness, give trust, and forge their happily ever after.

I can't tell you if they did, but I can tell you that every emotion they felt, from their anger, to their passion, to their grief, to their resolve, and to their love, I felt too. These characters came to life so vibrantly off the pages, their journey was riddled with hurdles and high stakes, and it all consistently took my breath away. They took my heart and they took my tears.
I gladly leave it all there with them. And that alone makes it all worth it.

Rune and Gideon's story is so worthwhile, and this duology is one to forever cherish and acclaim. Read it, read it, read it!

Gorgeous Rebel Witch, we part far too soon! You're imprinted in my heart forever and I plan to revisit you time and time again.

Top tier favorite, a core memory, the all-around gold right here!

Thank you so kindly to St. Martin's Press Early Readers and NetGalley for the complimentary arc, I leave this honest review voluntarily.

<i><b>”I can't change the past, he thought as they walked, taking in the damage. But together, we might be able to change the future.”</b></i>


In the beginning of the year I was honoured to receive an e-arc for The Crimson Moth from Harper Collins UK and enjoyed the first book and was excited to read the sequel! Due to the issues revolving around the U.S Publishers of this sequel this review will be short and be the only feedback plus my goodreads review I’ll speak on this novel.

<b>I do not condone the behavior and racial discrimination that the U.S. publisher employs. All we ask is accountability. This issue has been ignored for too long.</b>



⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I enjoyed the sequel and the relationship between Gideon and Rune! There were some parts I had difficulties getting into during the slow paced scenes but I was still able to continue and enjoy that unexpected ending! I’m still in disbelief but so happy everything ended how it did!

<b>Thank you to NetGalley and Kristen Ciccarelli for the chance to read and review this e-arc in exchange for an honest review! All thoughts and opinions remain my own.</b>

"Rebel Witch" by Kristen Ciccarelli is a captivating fantasy that enchants readers with its richly imagined world and compelling characters. From the first page, Ciccarelli draws you into a realm where magic and rebellion collide, creating a story that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant.

The protagonist's journey is one of strength and self-discovery, and her growth throughout the novel is handled with depth and nuance. Ciccarelli excels at crafting strong, multidimensional characters, each with their own motivations and struggles that add layers to the narrative. The relationships, particularly the friendships and alliances, are well-developed and add heart to the story.

Ciccarelli's world-building is immersive, with detailed descriptions that bring the magical landscapes and political intrigue to life. The plot is well-paced, balancing action with moments of introspection and character development. Twists and turns keep the reader engaged, and the stakes feel high, making the story all the more gripping.

One of the highlights of "Rebel Witch" is its exploration of themes such as freedom, identity, and resistance against oppression. These themes are woven seamlessly into the plot, giving the story a meaningful and thought-provoking edge.

While the novel excels in many areas, there are moments where the complexity of the world and its lore can be overwhelming, and some plot threads could benefit from more clarity. However, these minor issues do little to detract from the overall enjoyment of the book.

In summary, "Rebel Witch" is a spellbinding fantasy that combines magic, adventure, and a poignant exploration of resistance and identity. Kristen Ciccarelli has crafted a tale that is sure to enchant readers and leave them eagerly anticipating the next installment.

FIVE MASSIVE STARS

This book was everything I’d hoped it be after Heartless Hunter’s dramatic finale. Fast paced, action packed, swoon worthy.

I loved the enemies to lovers to enemies dynamic and watching these characters constantly outsmarting each other. A epic game of cat & mouse but you never know which one is the cat.

I could’ve read 300 more pages of the banter between Rune & Gideon. Tension so high I could feel it in my bones.

Everything I could’ve hoped for in this sequel.

This is how a duology should be done!!!

Thank you NetGalley and publishers for the opportunity to read Rebel Witch by Kristen Cicarelli as an ARC!

The Crimson Moth was a very good set up for this book, giving you investment into the characters and the world. The cliff hanger was done so well that I was soooo excited to get my hands on this book.

This duology was the perfect length, pace, and had the right amount of detail and world building for the YA genre (in my opinion). I loved that this fantasy duology wasn't overly long, so I didn't have time to get bored.

And can we talk about TENSION??!! *chefs kiss* Perfect conclusion to a fun adventure <3

IT WAS SO GOOD!!!! I was a little nervous after how the first book ended but gosh this book SHOWED UP! Perfect way to end a duology. It's been a minute since I've been so enraptured with the book that I didn't want to put it down especially fantasy and I was addicted to this one. There were so many moments that I was just swooning and on the edge of my seat !! I LOVED it!!!! Even more than the first! My only wish was it was out in the world sooner so I could discuss it with more people!!!! 🫶👏🏼🙌

This was the perfect follow up to The Crimson Moth.

It drops you right into the story, leaving no time to build or slowly draw you in. From the first words you are back with Rune and Gideon and it only sinks you further into their lives.

I just wish that I could have more of them. It was so so good and I don’t want this to be the last I see of these characters I’ve fallen in love with.

no words at the moment because WOW!!

i am genuinely in shock at how GOOD this book was. like heartless hunter was good... but this was a MASTERPIECE! i was on the edge of my seat the entire time, i went through a roller coaster of emotions OMG. i'm afraid to say much more without spoiling anything. but the emotion & tension & stakes (intensity) & plot twists of this book were next level. when i tell you i am obsessed.... OBSESSED! kristen ciccarelli amazes me.

you need to read heartless hunter asap if you haven’t already so you can experience this absolutely incredible book!!!

full review to come. thank you Wednesday Books & Netgalley for the eARC! this is my honest review.

This is one of my most anticipated reads of 2025 and I’m so excited to have been able to read it early. This was everything I could have asked out of the second book in this duology and more. I love Rune and Gideon and they definitely kept me on my toes the whole time. I stayed up way too late reading this because there was so much going on, I couldn’t wait to see what was going to happen next. Rune and Gideon have to decide what is most important to them and their people, and what that means for their feelings for each other. There are some twists, some that I saw coming, but honestly it didn’t take any of the enjoyment out of it. I loved this duology and definitely recommend it!

Rebel Witch was an absolutely stunning conclusion to The Crimson Moth duology. Fast paced, action packed and filled with brooding romance this was an epic read. I loved how Rune and Gideon's romance continued to blossom and sizzle and how between the bickering and the tension they ended up on the same team. The storyline was rich with Rune and Gideon both finding their true selves amidst the chaos surrounding their world, As always the magic system was brilliant. I could not put this book down and truly think fans will fall in love all over again as The Crimson Moth's story comes to its conclusion as well as be satisfied with how it ends.

Rebel Witch picks up shortly after Heartless Hunter and delivers so much angst with an action packed witch hunt and characters with questionable motives at every turn, Rune and Gideon have become one of my all time favorite Romantasy couples! Kristin’s writing is well paced and makes for a story that hooks me every time!

The Crimson Moth is an epic adventure and true enemies-to-lovers story, full of twists and turns… and magic! This duology has set a such a high bar for the romantasy genre for me — I’m obsessed! (And so freakin’ grateful to have been given an ARC for Rebel Witch! Big thank you to St. Martin Publishing).

Heartless Hunter was an immediate 5 ⭐️ read for me. It was so detail-oriented and I fell in love with the magic system and characters. The banter had me giggling, the tension was next level and the writing was absolutely incredible!

Rebel Witch, on the other hand, while it was action-packed and contained some of the same elements mentioned above, just didn’t pack the same punch as book 1. Unfortunately this seems to be a trend with super popular books these day — it just felt a tad rushed.

Don’t get me wrong, the major plot twist in this book had my jaw ON THE FLOOR (so good!) and I annotated the heck out of some quotes!! Rune and Gideon are probably one of my fav book couples, let’s be real.

My only disappointment was the actual ending itself. It paled in comparison to the ending scene of book 1. I also had a tough time knowing where the characters were half the time in this one (but that’s maybe — likely — just a me problem). And for those reasons, Rebel Witch was a solid 4 ⭐️ for me!

Overall, I adore this duology and it will live rent free in my heart for years to come! Cannot recommend it enough.

WOW. What a great ending to this duology. Lots of angst and heartbreak, but I loved how everything wrapped up. Rune and Gideon have my whole heart ❤️ I loved their journey, working through their trust issues. 😭🫶🏼 def a series I want to reread in the future!

5/5 stars
Recommended if you like: fantasy, witchy reads, enemies to lovers, dual POV

This review has been posted to Goodreads as of 8/2 and will be posted to my review blog 8/22 and to Instagram 8/27.

This was one of my most anticipated sequels of 2025 and it did not disappoint! For those like me who were worried about where (and with whom) Rune ended Heartless Hunter with, have no fear: she is perfectly aware it's a problem and has no plans to really stick around. That was honestly my biggest issue with book 1, so I'm glad Ciccarelli had a solution for it.

Gideon and Rune are once more on opposite sides, but now they have the added complication of their feelings for each other. Falling for Rune made a fool of Gideon, even if he turned her in in the end, and falling for Gideon nearly got Rune killed and did get someone killed. The two are a big bundle of conflicting emotions in this one, though Rune seems more willing to let things slide than Gideon does (to be fair, Gideon also thinks Rune wants to be with Cressida). Only one of them knows the full story.

I liked that Ciccarelli started the book with Rune and Gideon about to meet again after weeks/months apart rather than starting it with them separated and part of the plot being them finding each other again. Enemies to lovers works best when they're in proximity, and in proximity they are. That's not to say they get along though. The 'enemies' are back in full force, with Gideon being particularly prickly and ready to double-cross Rune the second he gets the chance. Despite that, the two are still familiar enough with each other that they work quite well together and are mostly able to scheme a way out of trouble.

With the Blood Guard still in charge and Cressida gathering an army, politics naturally comes into the conversation. The Blood Guard is clearly bad, indiscriminately torturing and killing witches simply for being witches. On the other hand, Cressida presided over a reign of terror with her sisters, allowing and even participating in the torturing and killing of non-magical people. So...both sides are bad, but at this point there's no alternate solution. I was definitely interested in reading Rune and Gideon talk their perspectives out since they both make valid points but also don't see a non-extremist solution. Other people join in on this conversation as well and I liked seeing what other characters had to say about things. In the end, I think they come up with a good solution that works for everyone.

Rune is stuck between a rock and a hard place when the book opens. She greatly dislikes Cressida, but she can't go home and she still wants to see witches free. She does get out of the situation, but is in deep trouble with Cressida as a result of it, leaving her with two enemies at her back. Rune definitely goes on a personal journey in this book, trying to stay true to what she wants while also remaining free and dealing with the trauma that is Cressida Roseblood (and Alex's death). She has some low points, but her loyalty to the people she loves as well as to witches as a whole is able to bring her around.

Gideon is back to being fully against witches (although admittedly I don't know if that ever stopped). He's on thin ice with the Blood Guard, so he's determined to prove that Rune isn't a weakness where he's concerned. She is obviously, so Gideon has to juggle keeping her safe while also steering clear of the Blood Guard and trying to figure out where his loyalties lie and what he really believes. I have to say, Gideon really comes through in this one. He fought in the Revolution because it was the right thing to do and he continued to be in the Blood Guard because he thought it was right. This can very easily lead to a rigid character who sticks to his guns even when proven wrong, but Ciccarelli wrote Gideon to be moral, not necessarily loyal. As evidence mounts that neither side is entirely correct, Gideon is able to shift his perspective and comes to understand that there's good and bad on both sides. I really liked seeing this shift in him and seeing him put his brain power and experience behind a new solution that benefits everyone.

We meet some new characters as well as some old ones. Harrow is back and we get to learn a little more about her background. I enjoyed her character and do wish we got to know her a little better since she's still pretty closed off. Laila is also back and I liked seeing her camaraderie with Gideon. She definitely doesn't understand his actions always, but she's loyal to him and trusts that he at least somewhat knows what he's doing. Seraphine is back as well and we get to learn more about the older witch as well as her relationship with Rune's grandmother. Seraphine definitely has some surprises up her sleeve and she proves to be a good ally.

Bart and Antonio are two new characters. Rune and Bart used to run in the same circles before things blew up in Heartless Hunter, and it seems Rune wasn't the only one keeping secrets. Bart ends up being much more serious and down-to-earth than Rune thought, his socialite persona just as fake as Rune's was. Antonio is Bart's lover as well as an ex-acolyte for the Cult of the Ancients. He's not a witch, but is just as much at risk as Rune is if anyone finds out. I really liked the dynamic between the four of them and wish we got more page time to see a deeper friendship develop (maybe a novella?).

Overall I greatly enjoyed this book and think it's the perfect sequel to Heartless Hunter. I wish it were longer, but that's only because I want to stay in this world for a longer period of time.