notastringonme 's review for:

The Coven by Harper L. Woods
4.0

⁝⁝ ARC REVIEW ⁝⁝

“I am the invitation.”

• • •

"We both know I’m far more likely to bend you over this desk and f*ck you until you cannot breathe."

• • •

“You fight. Every moment of every day, you fight. Because that is who you are.”
“What happens when I’m tired of fighting?”
“Then you let me do it for you.”

✦ CHARACTERS

» Willow Madizza – I love her. She’s a fierce, fearless, stubborn and snarky Green Witch who knows how to fight, and has been trained to use her powers, which I LOVE. Her journey in this book teases at what’s coming next for her and I can't wait to see it! She’s badass!
» Gray (Alaric Grayson Thorne) – I have no words to describe how much I love this tall, dark and devilishly handsome man. You can't resist him, and I don't think anyone would want to, really. He's magnetic, dangerous, hot as hell and completely unapologetic about what he does or says. Book boyfriend material with a villanous charm. He had me in a puddle in only a few chapters. And it’s true, HE is the invitation.
» Iban – I really liked him and I’m intrigued about his part in the next book.
» Susannah – I hate her to the bone! (Pun intended? Definitely.)

✦ CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT

» Willow is a very strong-minded and goal-oriented character who knows how to use her powers right from the start. She struggles a lot with how she feels about her family, her past, her present, where she comes from, and Gray, but she never once whines about it, which I found refreshing. By the end of the book, you get a glimpse of what’s coming next and I have high expectations.

» Gray knows exactly what he wants and will do anything to get it. He’s resourceful, powerful, domineering and imposing. He has you in a chokehold for the entire book! Literally and figuratively. He has become my newest obsession!

» Willow and Gray’s relationship throughout the book sucks you right in. It doesn’t take much for that to take off, and turn into a cat and mouse sort of game. Willow goes toe to toe with Gray at every chance she gets, and the banter between them is simply addictive. Dark doesn't even begin to cover their romance but I can assure you, you'll be left wanting more! The tension between them is compelling, and the spice is pure fire.

✦ WRITING STYLE

It’s my first time reading one of Harper’s books, and I have to say that I was genuinely surprised as how much I loved it. It’s dynamic, beautiful, and precise and it doesn’t feel repetitive or boring in the slightest.

✦ PLOT DEVELOPMENT & WORLDBUILDING

This book is a true page turner, filled with unexpected turns and twists. The pace was good and fast, but I did find myself pausing at certain points to digest what was happening because there are many elements to take into account.

The worldbuilding is captivating and intriguing, packed with creatures and elements we already know but have their own fascinating twist.

The gothic setting and spooky vibes make Hollow’s Grove University come to life. You can't help but be drawn to this new, mysterious place and want to explore every corner.

The magic system is intricate but has familiar elements that are used in new ways to make it unique.

Beware! Brace yourself for a wild conclusion that ends in a cliffhanger.

✦ DETAILS & TWs