ARC Book Review: Not the Witch You Wed (Supernatural Singles #1) by April Asher

Rating: ★★★★
Audience: Contemporary Paranormal Romance
Length: 352 pages
Author: April Asher
Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin
Release Date: February 8th, 2022
Image & Other Reviews on: Goodreads

BOOK SUMMARY:

A fake relationship between a magic-less witch and a wolf shifter turns to more in the start of a bewitching new paranormal rom-com series.

Magic-less witch Violet Maxwell wants nothing to do with alpha wolf shifter Lincoln Thorne—the man who broke her fragile, teenage heart. But when the two of them are forced by arcane Supernatural Laws to find mates, Violet and Lincoln agree to fake-date their way to a fake-mating in order to conjure themselves some time.

The joke’s on them. When old feelings make a reappearance—along with Violet’s magic—they both realize there’s nothing fake about their feelings. But there are old secrets and looming threats that could snatch away their happily ever after, again. One thing’s for sure: magic doesn’t make dating and love any easier.

In Not the Witch You Wed, April Asher brings all the hilarity and sweet, sexy moments you love in a romantic-comedy—plus a fun dose of magic—to this spell-binding new series about being sexy, single, and supernatural in New York City.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an audio ARC.

SURPRISED ME!

I am one of those readers who has never been super into shifter/paranormal romances. But I gave this a chance based off of a trusted friend’s remarks and y’all. I adored this!!!

Since I listened to an advanced audio copy let me first say, the audio was GREAT. I had no issues with the narration. Loved the way it was told, easy to keep on a high speed. It was wonderful and definitely recommend that avenue!

Back to the story now. Let me throw out some tropes that I LOVE that this book had: fake dating and fated mates. I will take those always and forever. I loooove fated mates and I think this was really well written! I think the addition of the second chance trope helped too. There’s a slow build, but clear attraction between Lincoln and Violet. I did struggle with how much heavy innuendo there was (but I know that’s a point for others, so I’m mentioning it!). There’s also DUAL-POV. Which I am an absolute sucker for.

I really liked the larger plot with the politics of shifter groups and supernatural organizations. The romance kept the necessary front seat, while an enjoyable back seat plot pushed the narrative forward. All around a wonderful read I’m glad I took a chance on and I can’t wait to see what next book will be in the series!

Overall audience notes: