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Stay a Spell #4
Always Practice Safe Hex
There's a reason no one messes with a grim...
Livvy Savoie is a people person. Not only does she have the magical gift of persuasion, but her natural charisma charms everyone she meets. She hasn’t met a person she didn’t like. Until her annoyingly brilliant competitor walks through the door. No matter how hard she denies it, loathing isn’t the only emotion she feels for him.
Grim reaper Gareth Blackwater is rarely, if ever, moved beyond his broody, stoic state. But the witch he’s partnered with in the public relations contest is destroying his peace of mind. He’s convinced that the flesh-melting attraction he feels for her is merely her witchy magic at work.
But forced proximity proves there is more than magic sparking between them. Livvy learns this enigmatic grim’s abilities are beyond any supernatural she has ever known. And when Livvy becomes the obsessive target of a dangerous wizard, Gareth proves just how powerful he truly is. Because no one is going to hurt his Lavinia.
Livvy Savoie is a people person. Not only does she have the magical gift of persuasion, but her natural charisma charms everyone she meets. She hasn’t met a person she didn’t like. Until her annoyingly brilliant competitor walks through the door. No matter how hard she denies it, loathing isn’t the only emotion she feels for him.
Grim reaper Gareth Blackwater is rarely, if ever, moved beyond his broody, stoic state. But the witch he’s partnered with in the public relations contest is destroying his peace of mind. He’s convinced that the flesh-melting attraction he feels for her is merely her witchy magic at work.
But forced proximity proves there is more than magic sparking between them. Livvy learns this enigmatic grim’s abilities are beyond any supernatural she has ever known. And when Livvy becomes the obsessive target of a dangerous wizard, Gareth proves just how powerful he truly is. Because no one is going to hurt his Lavinia.
379 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 24, 2022
About the author
Juliette Cross
41 books3,398 followersFor upcoming news and releases, sign-up here: http://eepurl.com/XeKIn
JULIETTE is a multi-published author of paranormal and contemporary romance, including the best-selling STAY A SPELL series. She is the co-host of the podcast, Smart Women Read Romance with her niece, Jessen. As a native of Louisiana, she lives in the heart of Cajun country with her husband, four kids, and sundry animals. When she isn’t working on her next project, she enjoys binge-watching her favorite shows with her husband and a glass (or two) of red wine or whiskey.
Follow JULIETTE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliettecro...
Follow JULIETTE on FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/juliettecros...
Follow JULIETTE on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Juliette__Cross
JULIETTE is a multi-published author of paranormal and contemporary romance, including the best-selling STAY A SPELL series. She is the co-host of the podcast, Smart Women Read Romance with her niece, Jessen. As a native of Louisiana, she lives in the heart of Cajun country with her husband, four kids, and sundry animals. When she isn’t working on her next project, she enjoys binge-watching her favorite shows with her husband and a glass (or two) of red wine or whiskey.
Follow JULIETTE on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliettecro...
Follow JULIETTE on FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/juliettecros...
Follow JULIETTE on Twitter: https://twitter.com/Juliette__Cross
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December 30, 2022
Always Practice Safe Hex is book four in the Stay a Spell series by Juliette Cross. I have loved this series from the beginning. I love the witchy Savoie sisters. We previously experienced a bit of the tension between Livvy and Gareth but now it’s their turn and I have to make sure you all know in advance, Gareth is mine!!!
Lavinia “Livvy” Savoie is a kind hearted, always cheerful witch. She both naturally and magically exudes charm. Livvy is one of three people chosen as the finalists in a PR competition sponsored by Garrison Media Corporation. Each of the three finalists all have causes they hope to highlight with their winnings.
Gareth Blackwater is a Grim Reaper. Grims are known for their introverted nature. They keep to themselves, holding their secrets close. No one really knows what their abilities are, how strong their magic really is.
From the first moment Gareth and Livvy met, they seemed to get on each other’s nerves. They couldn’t seem to be anywhere near each other without all kinds of sparks. But as they were forced to spend more and more time together, it soon became apparent that those sparks meant something altogether different. And possibly, something they were more than willing to explore.
“Gareth was a mystery wrapped in mystery. One I longed to uncover.”
All Grims had evil locked away inside of them. And because of that evil, they could also sense evil around them. And there was evil at Garrison Corp. Evil that had it’s focus on Livvy. Gareth has accepted that Livvy was important to him. He would do anything to keep her safe. The darkness inside of him would do whatever it took to protect what was his.
“I was praying for patience.”
“I didn’t know you were a spiritual kind of guy.”
“How could I not be? Perfection like this doesn’t happen by chance.”
Now for the swooning section of this review. Because Gareth is everything!!! He is all kinds of alpha. Even without his magic, he commands control. He is sexy and grumbly and when he finally completely fell for Livvy, he was putty in her hands. He would do anything and everything for her. Together, they were just magical in every way.
This book was all kinds of amazing. It might be my favorite of the series so far. There are quite a few huge updates on our previous couples, things that just made my heart so happy. I also want to mention that whatever is brewing between Clara and Henry has me so excited for what might be coming in the future.
I adored this book, I adored Livvy and Gareth. This is such an amazing series. You could read them as stand alones since each book is about a different couple BUT the entire group is present in each other’s books and you would miss so much if you missed their individual stories. So it would be so much better if you read them in order. So if you haven’t yet, go on and jump in, and enjoy the ride!!!
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Lavinia “Livvy” Savoie is a kind hearted, always cheerful witch. She both naturally and magically exudes charm. Livvy is one of three people chosen as the finalists in a PR competition sponsored by Garrison Media Corporation. Each of the three finalists all have causes they hope to highlight with their winnings.
Gareth Blackwater is a Grim Reaper. Grims are known for their introverted nature. They keep to themselves, holding their secrets close. No one really knows what their abilities are, how strong their magic really is.
From the first moment Gareth and Livvy met, they seemed to get on each other’s nerves. They couldn’t seem to be anywhere near each other without all kinds of sparks. But as they were forced to spend more and more time together, it soon became apparent that those sparks meant something altogether different. And possibly, something they were more than willing to explore.
“Gareth was a mystery wrapped in mystery. One I longed to uncover.”
All Grims had evil locked away inside of them. And because of that evil, they could also sense evil around them. And there was evil at Garrison Corp. Evil that had it’s focus on Livvy. Gareth has accepted that Livvy was important to him. He would do anything to keep her safe. The darkness inside of him would do whatever it took to protect what was his.
“I was praying for patience.”
“I didn’t know you were a spiritual kind of guy.”
“How could I not be? Perfection like this doesn’t happen by chance.”
Now for the swooning section of this review. Because Gareth is everything!!! He is all kinds of alpha. Even without his magic, he commands control. He is sexy and grumbly and when he finally completely fell for Livvy, he was putty in her hands. He would do anything and everything for her. Together, they were just magical in every way.
This book was all kinds of amazing. It might be my favorite of the series so far. There are quite a few huge updates on our previous couples, things that just made my heart so happy. I also want to mention that whatever is brewing between Clara and Henry has me so excited for what might be coming in the future.
I adored this book, I adored Livvy and Gareth. This is such an amazing series. You could read them as stand alones since each book is about a different couple BUT the entire group is present in each other’s books and you would miss so much if you missed their individual stories. So it would be so much better if you read them in order. So if you haven’t yet, go on and jump in, and enjoy the ride!!!
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
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May 7, 2022RELEASING EARLY ON MAY 24TH!
May 25, 2022
Are we surprised that I gave this 5 stars? No. Not at all. It's no secret I'm a huge fan of Juliette's books. And I had very high hopes for Livvy and Gareth's romance and I was not one bit disappointed!
This is the first romance with a Grim and I have been SO CURIOUS about these supernatural characters. Not only for what exactly they are and what they can do but also how they would work as a romantic hero.
It was giving me big emo, broody boy vibes but add in a dash of the sexiest alpha hero you've ever met! The power dynamics between this couple was fantastic!
This couple had SO MUCH CHEMISTRY! Something I think Juliette always does extremely well, and they also had some VERY hot steamy scenes. I think this is the steamiest book I've read by Juliette yet. But it isn't only chili peppers were Juliette is concerned because she definitely backed it up with a strong emotional connection between our couple.
Add in a heroine who usually chooses romantic partners she's able to dominate and the one man (Grim) who she would gladly crawl for.
It was amazing. I also really loved a truly diabolical villain and the theme of found family woven throughout.
A very well balanced paranormal romance with the plot keeping pace with the steam, and a return of some of our most beloved characters in the series.
I adored this book with my whole soul and HIGHLY recommend it!
I was provided an ARC copy for review.
This is the first romance with a Grim and I have been SO CURIOUS about these supernatural characters. Not only for what exactly they are and what they can do but also how they would work as a romantic hero.
It was giving me big emo, broody boy vibes but add in a dash of the sexiest alpha hero you've ever met! The power dynamics between this couple was fantastic!
This couple had SO MUCH CHEMISTRY! Something I think Juliette always does extremely well, and they also had some VERY hot steamy scenes. I think this is the steamiest book I've read by Juliette yet. But it isn't only chili peppers were Juliette is concerned because she definitely backed it up with a strong emotional connection between our couple.
Add in a heroine who usually chooses romantic partners she's able to dominate and the one man (Grim) who she would gladly crawl for.
It was amazing. I also really loved a truly diabolical villain and the theme of found family woven throughout.
A very well balanced paranormal romance with the plot keeping pace with the steam, and a return of some of our most beloved characters in the series.
I adored this book with my whole soul and HIGHLY recommend it!
I was provided an ARC copy for review.
August 30, 2023
I NEED SOME GRIM DICK!!!! 😅💯😉
Their I said it!!!! In Juliette Cross new book from the Stay A Spell series Always Practice Safe Hex we get one of her hottest books yet!! I paced myself reading this book because just a couple of chapters in I knew I wouldn't be able to keep my mouth shut til it came out!!!! I did share a couple of teasers on my Goodreads updates so I did try to be good!😁 This book was not only full of unbelievable steamy sex scenes with some bondage play😅 but I fell head first in love with the dark and brooding Gareth Blackwater! His backstory and what he went through as a supernatural orphan pulled at my heart strings and learning more about grim's origins rounded this character out. I loved him from the beginning and the snarky hot chemistry between him and
Livvy was not only entertaining but promised to be steamy hot once they got together. If you think Nico, Devraj and Mateo and his other half Alpha were hot you're in for a hell of a ride along with Lavinia and I do mean ride!😅 Gareth carries a monster inside him that he must keep locked down because if he doesn't once its unleashed it will take what it wants and it wants Livvy! Gareth is very dominant and likes to run the show in bed but so is Livvy! She has always picked lovers that she can control but it always ends the same, when the hunt and challenge is over she becomes bored and moves on. But Gareth Blackwater will show this beautiful witch how a strong man not only takes care of a woman in bed and brings all her naughty fantasies to life but that the line between pleasure and pain and submission can lead to total freedom and even love. Both Gareth and his monster have claimed Lavinia as their mate and their will be nothing or no one that will take her away from them. Juliette cross is amazing writer and this book as well as all the other books she has written not only have steamy hot sex and great humor but characters that you soon won't forget. I love the Savoie sisters and every book has been a great read. This can be a standalone book but after reading this you'll be putting this author on your one click list! She's that fucking good! Until next time Luv's💕💋
Their I said it!!!! In Juliette Cross new book from the Stay A Spell series Always Practice Safe Hex we get one of her hottest books yet!! I paced myself reading this book because just a couple of chapters in I knew I wouldn't be able to keep my mouth shut til it came out!!!! I did share a couple of teasers on my Goodreads updates so I did try to be good!😁 This book was not only full of unbelievable steamy sex scenes with some bondage play😅 but I fell head first in love with the dark and brooding Gareth Blackwater! His backstory and what he went through as a supernatural orphan pulled at my heart strings and learning more about grim's origins rounded this character out. I loved him from the beginning and the snarky hot chemistry between him and
Livvy was not only entertaining but promised to be steamy hot once they got together. If you think Nico, Devraj and Mateo and his other half Alpha were hot you're in for a hell of a ride along with Lavinia and I do mean ride!😅 Gareth carries a monster inside him that he must keep locked down because if he doesn't once its unleashed it will take what it wants and it wants Livvy! Gareth is very dominant and likes to run the show in bed but so is Livvy! She has always picked lovers that she can control but it always ends the same, when the hunt and challenge is over she becomes bored and moves on. But Gareth Blackwater will show this beautiful witch how a strong man not only takes care of a woman in bed and brings all her naughty fantasies to life but that the line between pleasure and pain and submission can lead to total freedom and even love. Both Gareth and his monster have claimed Lavinia as their mate and their will be nothing or no one that will take her away from them. Juliette cross is amazing writer and this book as well as all the other books she has written not only have steamy hot sex and great humor but characters that you soon won't forget. I love the Savoie sisters and every book has been a great read. This can be a standalone book but after reading this you'll be putting this author on your one click list! She's that fucking good! Until next time Luv's💕💋
December 3, 2022
Reread for 2022 Favorites
July 17, 2022
5 stars
28/06/22
I want time, I want soo much time to write everything I loved about this book and I don't have it! I didn't have time to read it like I wanted to either so I'm definitely re-reading the first chance I get!
I loved coming back to this world! I loved it when everyone else from the previous books popped up too, especially Alpha! I want to dissect and obsess and regale and I can't, so just take it from me and pick this series up ASAP! Maybe I can manage on the re-read and update this better. I hope..
02/01/22
It is Gareth and Livvy!! Happy dance!
29/10/21
Walking in a Witchy Wonderland only made me want more!! Is this one Gareth Blackwater and Livvy??!! Ooooh pretty please, be them!!
28/06/22
I want time, I want soo much time to write everything I loved about this book and I don't have it! I didn't have time to read it like I wanted to either so I'm definitely re-reading the first chance I get!
I loved coming back to this world! I loved it when everyone else from the previous books popped up too, especially Alpha! I want to dissect and obsess and regale and I can't, so just take it from me and pick this series up ASAP! Maybe I can manage on the re-read and update this better. I hope..
02/01/22
It is Gareth and Livvy!! Happy dance!
29/10/21
Walking in a Witchy Wonderland only made me want more!! Is this one Gareth Blackwater and Livvy??!! Ooooh pretty please, be them!!
December 17, 2023
3.5 ⭐️ Damn, Gareth is a hot AF shadow daddy
"We may be rivals, Lavinia. But it doesn't make me want to f*ck your brains out any less." 🥵
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ New Orleans setting
✨ paranormal romance
✨ witch x grim reaper
✨ rivals to lovers
✨ hate to love
✨ damaged hero with a darkness living inside him
✨ bisexual FMC
✨ 3.5/5 🌶️
✨ spice includes bdsm, dom/sub, spanking, choking, restraint, biting, praise, slight degradation, shadow play, anal
✨ Savoie sister cameos
✨ HEA
✨ TW: death of parents (past), abuse (past), murder, serial r4pist, multiple incidents of attempted sexual assault of the FMC.
My Thoughts:
I absolutely love this world and diving into grims! This was the first book of the series with a grim MMC and they are definitely the most interesting of the paranormal folks! Their secret history is fascinating and so are the powers they wield.
Gareth is possibly the sweetest and sexiest MMC of the series. He is the definition of a damaged hero with an absolutely tragic backstory (my kind of guy). I loved seeing him go from being stand-offish and feeling unlovable to a gooey sweetheart with Lavinia. He’s my favorite part of the story. I also enjoyed that his past guides the storyline as we slowly discover the reason for his involvement in the contest.
Lavinia is a strong FMC. I love her boldness, passion, dedication, compassion, and determination. The way she fights for what she wants is admirable - she never gives up. Livy also isn't someone who likes giving up control, so seeing her finally relinquishing that power over to someone like Gareth was an exciting turn of events.
The chemistry between Gareth and Lavinia was explosive and the s*x scenes were so freaking hot! The hate, the lust, the praise, the domination - these two had me reaching for my nightstand more than once. And the fact Gareth lets his shadow monster come out to play took things to a whole different level. 🥵
The scenes with Clara and Henry have me so excited for their story. Their books is the last in the series and after learning about grims and taking a closer look at the dynamic between Henry and Clara, I have a feeling I'm going to love it!
All the cameos of the other Savoie sisters and their partners make me so damn happy. I love everything that's happening in their wonderful lives and was thrilled to get some tidbits on what's to come.
My only complaints. . .
Each book can be read as a standalone, so the author tends to include a lot of information that's been stated in previous books. As someone who's reading them in order, this information get's repetitive and a bit tiresome.
There needs to be a more specific trigger warning at the beginning of this book! Instead of saying attempted sexual assault, it needs to include something like “serial r4pist, multiple incidents of attempted sexual assault.” I was anticipating something dark because the MC was a grim, but this went a lot darker than I expected and definitely can trigger people if it's not adequately disclosed.
I still don’t fully understand why Livy and Gareth didn’t report the (first) attempted SA. Their reason for wanting to wait till the end of the content was flimsy and didn't make a lot of sense.
Overall, Always Practice Safe Hex is an intense sexy paranormal romance and a great addition to the series. I really did enjoy it up until the darker turn of events, but mostly because I didn't feel prepared by the trigger warnings in the beginning. If I had been, I definitely would have rated this 4 stars or above. When I do a re-read, I'll reevaluate since I now know what to expect.
PS: This series is free on Kindle Unlimited.
-
Stay A Spell Series + Ratings:
1. Wolf Gone Wild: 4 ⭐️
2. Don't Hex and Drive: 4.5 ⭐️
3. Witches Get Stitches: 2.5 ⭐️
3.5: Walking in a Witchy Wonderland: 4 ⭐️
4. Always Practice Safe Hex: 3.5⭐️
5. Resting Witch Face: 4 ⭐️
6. Grim and Bear It: 4 ⭐️
-
Favorite Quotes:
"Loquacious?" I arched a brow. "Trying to impress me with your big vocabulary?
"Since you're unwilling to check out my big c*ck, I thought it second best."
_______
"Are you dangerous? she whispered.
"To you?" I brushed my mouth against hers again, holding her gaze. "Never."
_______
"Take the time you need to settle this in your mind, Lavinia. But know this. I won't stop until I have you in my best."
_______
"I'll stay as long as you want me."
"Then stay forever."
_______
"You look so perfect," came his deep rumble, "on your knees, bare for me, taking my c*ck like a good girl."
_______
"No one else will dare touch what is mine."
_______
"You are my heart, Lavinia. Without you, there is no life worth living."
_______
'We loved with a love that was more than love."
_______
"We've all got a monster inside us, Gareth. That's nothing new. It's just how you use it that matters."
_______
"We may be rivals, Lavinia. But it doesn't make me want to f*ck your brains out any less." 🥵
WHAT TO EXPECT:
✨ New Orleans setting
✨ paranormal romance
✨ witch x grim reaper
✨ rivals to lovers
✨ hate to love
✨ damaged hero with a darkness living inside him
✨ bisexual FMC
✨ 3.5/5 🌶️
✨ spice includes bdsm, dom/sub, spanking, choking, restraint, biting, praise, slight degradation, shadow play, anal
✨ Savoie sister cameos
✨ HEA
✨ TW: death of parents (past), abuse (past), murder, serial r4pist, multiple incidents of attempted sexual assault of the FMC.
My Thoughts:
I absolutely love this world and diving into grims! This was the first book of the series with a grim MMC and they are definitely the most interesting of the paranormal folks! Their secret history is fascinating and so are the powers they wield.
Gareth is possibly the sweetest and sexiest MMC of the series. He is the definition of a damaged hero with an absolutely tragic backstory (my kind of guy). I loved seeing him go from being stand-offish and feeling unlovable to a gooey sweetheart with Lavinia. He’s my favorite part of the story. I also enjoyed that his past guides the storyline as we slowly discover the reason for his involvement in the contest.
Lavinia is a strong FMC. I love her boldness, passion, dedication, compassion, and determination. The way she fights for what she wants is admirable - she never gives up. Livy also isn't someone who likes giving up control, so seeing her finally relinquishing that power over to someone like Gareth was an exciting turn of events.
The chemistry between Gareth and Lavinia was explosive and the s*x scenes were so freaking hot! The hate, the lust, the praise, the domination - these two had me reaching for my nightstand more than once. And the fact Gareth lets his shadow monster come out to play took things to a whole different level. 🥵
The scenes with Clara and Henry have me so excited for their story. Their books is the last in the series and after learning about grims and taking a closer look at the dynamic between Henry and Clara, I have a feeling I'm going to love it!
All the cameos of the other Savoie sisters and their partners make me so damn happy. I love everything that's happening in their wonderful lives and was thrilled to get some tidbits on what's to come.
My only complaints. . .
Each book can be read as a standalone, so the author tends to include a lot of information that's been stated in previous books. As someone who's reading them in order, this information get's repetitive and a bit tiresome.
There needs to be a more specific trigger warning at the beginning of this book! Instead of saying attempted sexual assault, it needs to include something like “serial r4pist, multiple incidents of attempted sexual assault.” I was anticipating something dark because the MC was a grim, but this went a lot darker than I expected and definitely can trigger people if it's not adequately disclosed.
I still don’t fully understand why Livy and Gareth didn’t report the (first) attempted SA. Their reason for wanting to wait till the end of the content was flimsy and didn't make a lot of sense.
Overall, Always Practice Safe Hex is an intense sexy paranormal romance and a great addition to the series. I really did enjoy it up until the darker turn of events, but mostly because I didn't feel prepared by the trigger warnings in the beginning. If I had been, I definitely would have rated this 4 stars or above. When I do a re-read, I'll reevaluate since I now know what to expect.
PS: This series is free on Kindle Unlimited.
-
Stay A Spell Series + Ratings:
1. Wolf Gone Wild: 4 ⭐️
2. Don't Hex and Drive: 4.5 ⭐️
3. Witches Get Stitches: 2.5 ⭐️
3.5: Walking in a Witchy Wonderland: 4 ⭐️
4. Always Practice Safe Hex: 3.5⭐️
5. Resting Witch Face: 4 ⭐️
6. Grim and Bear It: 4 ⭐️
-
Favorite Quotes:
"Loquacious?" I arched a brow. "Trying to impress me with your big vocabulary?
"Since you're unwilling to check out my big c*ck, I thought it second best."
_______
"Are you dangerous? she whispered.
"To you?" I brushed my mouth against hers again, holding her gaze. "Never."
_______
"Take the time you need to settle this in your mind, Lavinia. But know this. I won't stop until I have you in my best."
_______
"I'll stay as long as you want me."
"Then stay forever."
_______
"You look so perfect," came his deep rumble, "on your knees, bare for me, taking my c*ck like a good girl."
_______
"No one else will dare touch what is mine."
_______
"You are my heart, Lavinia. Without you, there is no life worth living."
_______
'We loved with a love that was more than love."
_______
"We've all got a monster inside us, Gareth. That's nothing new. It's just how you use it that matters."
_______
November 21, 2022
"...they loved with a love that was more than love..."
I take back everything I said about this series. I had a rocky start with it and even though I knew that the series had the potential to get better, I wasn't expecting for a full-blown obsession to hit me. This series has now occupied a corner of my mind, my heart.
Gareth and Livvy? Had what fuckin' dreams are made off. It was so romantic, I might have let a tear or two slip.
Everything I wanted from this series from the beginning I got in this book! To tell you I am satisfied is an understatement.
Better character development, more world-building, magic, paranormal behaviour. And the spice?? I swooned way too many times. I think - no, I know - that what made the sex scenes that much better, more intense is because of how Juliette Cross developed their relationship. It was so intimate, so vulnerable and honest and goddamn sweet! We got to know them individually and together and it was all beautifully done.
Man, I don't want this series to end! 😭
Trigger warnings for sexual assault.
I take back everything I said about this series. I had a rocky start with it and even though I knew that the series had the potential to get better, I wasn't expecting for a full-blown obsession to hit me. This series has now occupied a corner of my mind, my heart.
Gareth and Livvy? Had what fuckin' dreams are made off. It was so romantic, I might have let a tear or two slip.
Everything I wanted from this series from the beginning I got in this book! To tell you I am satisfied is an understatement.
Better character development, more world-building, magic, paranormal behaviour. And the spice?? I swooned way too many times. I think - no, I know - that what made the sex scenes that much better, more intense is because of how Juliette Cross developed their relationship. It was so intimate, so vulnerable and honest and goddamn sweet! We got to know them individually and together and it was all beautifully done.
Man, I don't want this series to end! 😭
Trigger warnings for sexual assault.
December 30, 2022
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Listen...y'all are not ready for Gareth Blackwater 🔥🥵
Always Practice Safe Hex is the fourth book in the Stay a Spell series and it can be read as a standalone. Personally, I recommend reading Gareth and Livvy's prequel in the anthology Walking in a Witchy Wonderland before you read Always Practice Safe Hex.
Livvy and Gareth are rivals who are forced to work together on a project. Livvy is an extroverted influencer witch who gets along with everyone she meets...except for stoic grim reaper Gareth. But they both know that the tension between them is more than just rivalry 🔥
I knew I was gonna love this book because I loved Gareth and Livvy from the moment they first interacted. But this book surpassed my high expectations. Gareth is starchy, cold, controlled, and dominant. He pairs his expensive dress shirts and slacks with an icy mask of indifference. He has secrets and it takes time for him to reveal these secrets to Lavinia. Gareth is the personification of the "touch her and you die" trope. Livvy, on the other hand, is extroverted, charming, and has the magical gift of persuasion. She pairs her sexy, colourful, and matching outfits with a radiant smile. Livvy doesn't usually date Alphas, but she figures that it's probably time to try something new 😉
For those who love The Maddest Obsession—Gareth gives off Christian Allister vibes and he's a kinky grim reaper on top of that 🥵 If you loved The Maddest Obsession, then you are going to LOVE Always Practice Safe Hex 🔥 Each book in this series gets steamier and steamier. Chapter 25 lives rent free in my brain 🥵 Gareth has some very...unique powers, including telekinesis and telepathy, all of which he puts to good use. Like I said...y'all are not ready for Gareth 🥵
One of my favourite things about Livvy and Gareth is how music plays such an important part in their relationship development. Gareth and Livvy have the same taste in music and Gareth always uses music to slowly seduce Livvy. One day, I want to reread this book and listen to the songs as I'm reading the scenes they're mentioned in. I would recommend having your Spotify account open when you're reading this book. I'm sure your reading experience will be even more glorious as you're listening to the songs.
We also get a lot of world building in this book. Grims are very secretive and we finally learn more about their history, their powers, and how they operate in this supernatural world. Juliette Cross is consistently good, but she is especially good at writing creative and heart-pounding climaxes in her stories. The execution of the climax in this book was simultaneously terrifying and satisfying. Gareth is something else. Phew.
Lastly, we get healthy doses of the next two couples: Jules & Ruben and Clara & Henry. I already have an idea of how Jules and Ruben's story will go and I CANNOT WAIT OMG. I've been waiting for them since book 1!! It feels like I've waited 50 years for their book 😂 And of course, I'm also super excited for Clara and Henry!! GAHHH I CAN'T WAIT!!
P.S. I love that he's the only one who calls her by her full name "Lavinia" It's so sexy 🔥
CW: sexual harassment, sexual assault
Listen...y'all are not ready for Gareth Blackwater 🔥🥵
Always Practice Safe Hex is the fourth book in the Stay a Spell series and it can be read as a standalone. Personally, I recommend reading Gareth and Livvy's prequel in the anthology Walking in a Witchy Wonderland before you read Always Practice Safe Hex.
Livvy and Gareth are rivals who are forced to work together on a project. Livvy is an extroverted influencer witch who gets along with everyone she meets...except for stoic grim reaper Gareth. But they both know that the tension between them is more than just rivalry 🔥
I knew I was gonna love this book because I loved Gareth and Livvy from the moment they first interacted. But this book surpassed my high expectations. Gareth is starchy, cold, controlled, and dominant. He pairs his expensive dress shirts and slacks with an icy mask of indifference. He has secrets and it takes time for him to reveal these secrets to Lavinia. Gareth is the personification of the "touch her and you die" trope. Livvy, on the other hand, is extroverted, charming, and has the magical gift of persuasion. She pairs her sexy, colourful, and matching outfits with a radiant smile. Livvy doesn't usually date Alphas, but she figures that it's probably time to try something new 😉
For those who love The Maddest Obsession—Gareth gives off Christian Allister vibes and he's a kinky grim reaper on top of that 🥵 If you loved The Maddest Obsession, then you are going to LOVE Always Practice Safe Hex 🔥 Each book in this series gets steamier and steamier. Chapter 25 lives rent free in my brain 🥵 Gareth has some very...unique powers, including telekinesis and telepathy, all of which he puts to good use. Like I said...y'all are not ready for Gareth 🥵
One of my favourite things about Livvy and Gareth is how music plays such an important part in their relationship development. Gareth and Livvy have the same taste in music and Gareth always uses music to slowly seduce Livvy. One day, I want to reread this book and listen to the songs as I'm reading the scenes they're mentioned in. I would recommend having your Spotify account open when you're reading this book. I'm sure your reading experience will be even more glorious as you're listening to the songs.
We also get a lot of world building in this book. Grims are very secretive and we finally learn more about their history, their powers, and how they operate in this supernatural world. Juliette Cross is consistently good, but she is especially good at writing creative and heart-pounding climaxes in her stories. The execution of the climax in this book was simultaneously terrifying and satisfying. Gareth is something else. Phew.
Lastly, we get healthy doses of the next two couples: Jules & Ruben and Clara & Henry. I already have an idea of how Jules and Ruben's story will go and I CANNOT WAIT OMG. I've been waiting for them since book 1!! It feels like I've waited 50 years for their book 😂 And of course, I'm also super excited for Clara and Henry!! GAHHH I CAN'T WAIT!!
P.S. I love that he's the only one who calls her by her full name "Lavinia" It's so sexy 🔥
CW: sexual harassment, sexual assault
July 6, 2022
Gareth may just be the sexiest of all the heroes in this series so far, but… This was a lot darker than the previous books. Like several TW darker. But you know - he is a grim reaper, gotta be, well, grim.
The thing with grim reapers is, that no one really knows what they are capable of. The nerdiest of the nerds, a moody, mysterious and viciously smart bunch. But smoking hot, like all supers.
Gareth is not just an ordinary grim; he is a grimlock - heightened senses, telepathy, telekinesis, strength, speed, high IQ - an impressive CV even for a grim. Superman can’t really hold a candle. His superpowers come handy once or twice. And when they do it’s eerie and a little frightening. He’s not even a bad boy - more like a half-tamed monster.
“Are you dangerous?” she whispered, eyes dark as midnight as she clasped her slender white fingers around my wrists. “To you?” I brushed my mouth against hers again, holding her gaze. “Never.” Couldn’t say the same for everyone else.
😱 but also 🥰
Livvy is yet another sister I wish I had. A strong woman who knows what she wants and is not afraid to go for it, showing all misogynistic assholes how it’s done. She is a born leader, but… It would be so nice to have someone to take over the reigns sometimes… Enter Gareth, who does know a thing or two about taking over. 🥵.
I loved how Gareth let Livvy break the walls he had built around himself, and show him how to love and be loved. They were both strong personalities but they clicked just perfectly. Their relationship was beautiful and gave me all the warm and fuzzy feelings. There was some weird stuff too, but you can blame it on the black magic, that was part of him. Our man is not perfect, but who is?
Again less than five stars, cause some stuff does not add up here. So grim reapers are so powerful, almost invincible, but a grim can lose BOTH parents in a mere car accident? What are the odds?? Shouldn’t they be sort of mighty supers too?
Another thing; the story about how the first grim reaper came to life was a little over the top. Like 😱🤯😳. I know, it’s grim reapers, they are the epitome of dark and creepy… But eww. Just eww.
Anyway, thanks to all the feels, warm and icy, I devoured this book and I need the Jules and Ruben story NOW.
The thing with grim reapers is, that no one really knows what they are capable of. The nerdiest of the nerds, a moody, mysterious and viciously smart bunch. But smoking hot, like all supers.
Gareth is not just an ordinary grim; he is a grimlock - heightened senses, telepathy, telekinesis, strength, speed, high IQ - an impressive CV even for a grim. Superman can’t really hold a candle. His superpowers come handy once or twice. And when they do it’s eerie and a little frightening. He’s not even a bad boy - more like a half-tamed monster.
“Are you dangerous?” she whispered, eyes dark as midnight as she clasped her slender white fingers around my wrists. “To you?” I brushed my mouth against hers again, holding her gaze. “Never.” Couldn’t say the same for everyone else.
😱 but also 🥰
Livvy is yet another sister I wish I had. A strong woman who knows what she wants and is not afraid to go for it, showing all misogynistic assholes how it’s done. She is a born leader, but… It would be so nice to have someone to take over the reigns sometimes… Enter Gareth, who does know a thing or two about taking over. 🥵.
I loved how Gareth let Livvy break the walls he had built around himself, and show him how to love and be loved. They were both strong personalities but they clicked just perfectly. Their relationship was beautiful and gave me all the warm and fuzzy feelings. There was some weird stuff too, but you can blame it on the black magic, that was part of him. Our man is not perfect, but who is?
Again less than five stars, cause some stuff does not add up here. So grim reapers are so powerful, almost invincible, but a grim can lose BOTH parents in a mere car accident? What are the odds?? Shouldn’t they be sort of mighty supers too?
Another thing; the story about how the first grim reaper came to life was a little over the top. Like 😱🤯😳. I know, it’s grim reapers, they are the epitome of dark and creepy… But eww. Just eww.
Anyway, thanks to all the feels, warm and icy, I devoured this book and I need the Jules and Ruben story NOW.
September 11, 2023
Un aplauso para la autora que tiene una visión tan inclusiva en todo sentido.
¿Adjetivos para esta historia? Misteriosa, divertida, dulce, feminista, intensa, pasional y muy, muy hot.
Era obvio que el Grim iba a ser mi favorito. Hasta ahora, de los cuatro libros de esta serie, para mi, por lejos, este es el mejor.
Esta pareja es perfecta.
Gareth me dio Rhysand vibes…
Después de leer “Strange Sally Diamond” necesitaba una lectura más light, con amor y humor. Y di en el clavo con esta historia.
¿Adjetivos para esta historia? Misteriosa, divertida, dulce, feminista, intensa, pasional y muy, muy hot.
Era obvio que el Grim iba a ser mi favorito. Hasta ahora, de los cuatro libros de esta serie, para mi, por lejos, este es el mejor.
Esta pareja es perfecta.
Gareth me dio Rhysand vibes…
Después de leer “Strange Sally Diamond” necesitaba una lectura más light, con amor y humor. Y di en el clavo con esta historia.
June 5, 2022
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Bisexual character rep 👍
Older heroine 👍
Felt rushed.🙁
Bisexual character rep 👍
Older heroine 👍
Felt rushed.🙁
May 29, 2022
hello there friends 👋
here i am once again, a three (plus something extra) star review in a sea of five.
😮💨😮💨😮💨
“We may be rivals, Lavinia. But it doesn’t make me want to fuck your brains out any less.”
so, look … me giving always practice safe hex three (and something extra) stars is by no means me hating on the book. BUT, what it really means is that i wanted something a bit … more.
i wanted more from the romance, i wanted more from Gareth's grim reaper powers, i for sure wanted more from Livvy's powers, and i thought the main antagonist of the story was a huge letdown.
i couldn't help but feel like Livvy and Gareth's book ultimately served to set up Clara and Jule's books. and i mean … i low-key thought Livvy was Clara and was super bummed when i realized who was who.
that said, i still really enjoyed this book. it had its fun and steamy moments. the Savoie sisters are always a joy to read about. this series is definitely a solid one and i always recommend it.
here i am once again, a three (plus something extra) star review in a sea of five.
😮💨😮💨😮💨
“We may be rivals, Lavinia. But it doesn’t make me want to fuck your brains out any less.”
so, look … me giving always practice safe hex three (and something extra) stars is by no means me hating on the book. BUT, what it really means is that i wanted something a bit … more.
i wanted more from the romance, i wanted more from Gareth's grim reaper powers, i for sure wanted more from Livvy's powers, and i thought the main antagonist of the story was a huge letdown.
i couldn't help but feel like Livvy and Gareth's book ultimately served to set up Clara and Jule's books. and i mean … i low-key thought Livvy was Clara and was super bummed when i realized who was who.
that said, i still really enjoyed this book. it had its fun and steamy moments. the Savoie sisters are always a joy to read about. this series is definitely a solid one and i always recommend it.
May 20, 2022
I’m so excited I finally got Gareth and Livvy’s story!
I really enjoyed the antagonism between Livvy and Gareth. She was fighting him every step of the way and he was just biding his time. With a dark, mystique surrounding him, I couldn’t help but be pulled into his story. Waiting to learn his backstory was agony and once it was revealed, dear lord, no wonder there is a sense of darkness around him.
Gareth was intense in his desire for Livvy. He wasn’t as forward in his “mine” mentality as Alpha was, but he had some serious mojo to back his emotions up. What they shared was not the stuff of fairy tales, it was emotional, deep, lusty, and forever. I loved what they had together.
While there were still some fun moments between the sisters as well as their significant others, I personally felt this lacked the initial spark of humor that were found earlier in the previous books. This felt a bit darker. But then, Gareth is a Grim and once you get to know him, it’s obvious why there’s a heavier feel to this story.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
I really enjoyed the antagonism between Livvy and Gareth. She was fighting him every step of the way and he was just biding his time. With a dark, mystique surrounding him, I couldn’t help but be pulled into his story. Waiting to learn his backstory was agony and once it was revealed, dear lord, no wonder there is a sense of darkness around him.
Gareth was intense in his desire for Livvy. He wasn’t as forward in his “mine” mentality as Alpha was, but he had some serious mojo to back his emotions up. What they shared was not the stuff of fairy tales, it was emotional, deep, lusty, and forever. I loved what they had together.
While there were still some fun moments between the sisters as well as their significant others, I personally felt this lacked the initial spark of humor that were found earlier in the previous books. This felt a bit darker. But then, Gareth is a Grim and once you get to know him, it’s obvious why there’s a heavier feel to this story.
Dual POV
Safe
Triggers
Steam
December 29, 2022
Always Practice Safe Hex is the best in the series so far.
I liked both main characters and thought their chemistry, friendship and love relationship worked.
Characters…
✔️ I really loved the idea of a supernatural that’s a Grim Reaper. The backstory of how a Grim got their power and skills was well done. Gareth Blackwater was an interesting character and I enjoyed reading about his powers, family history and how he struggles with the monster inside of him.
✔️ Livvy Savoie was a dynamic character that’s charming, funny and ferocious. I liked reading about her relationship with her sisters and family history with New Orleans.
It was an opposites attract type of story but with enough interests in common that the relationship made sense to me.
Thoughts…
✔️ The plot with the dangerous wizard being obsessed with Livvy was good but I wanted more interaction in the beginning between the two (Livvy & the wizard). His obsession with her would have made a bit more sense when it escalated at the end of the book.
✔️ I still think the books in this series are a bit on the long side. Cutting some of the unnecessary details in the book(s) would help with the pacing in my opinion.
✔️ I was planning on going with 3.5 stars on this one but because of a reveal with a secondary character at the end, I’m throwing in a 1/2 star. 😃
I really did like the ending of this one!
I liked both main characters and thought their chemistry, friendship and love relationship worked.
Characters…
✔️ I really loved the idea of a supernatural that’s a Grim Reaper. The backstory of how a Grim got their power and skills was well done. Gareth Blackwater was an interesting character and I enjoyed reading about his powers, family history and how he struggles with the monster inside of him.
✔️ Livvy Savoie was a dynamic character that’s charming, funny and ferocious. I liked reading about her relationship with her sisters and family history with New Orleans.
It was an opposites attract type of story but with enough interests in common that the relationship made sense to me.
Thoughts…
✔️ The plot with the dangerous wizard being obsessed with Livvy was good but I wanted more interaction in the beginning between the two (Livvy & the wizard). His obsession with her would have made a bit more sense when it escalated at the end of the book.
✔️ I still think the books in this series are a bit on the long side. Cutting some of the unnecessary details in the book(s) would help with the pacing in my opinion.
✔️ I was planning on going with 3.5 stars on this one but because of a reveal with a secondary character at the end, I’m throwing in a 1/2 star. 😃
I really did like the ending of this one!
May 30, 2022
Really enjoyed this one! This couple wasn't one I was necessarily looking forward to, but they definitely exceeded my expectations. It was a really sweet and spicy book, although it was slow at times (hence the 4 Stars), but I LOVED Gareth (altho he did look at "attractive" women a little too much for me not gonna lie👀), but I also love how clingy he is with the heroine.
Reading about the Grims also makes me even more excited for Henry's book, so I can't wait to finally get theirs. Up next though, is Jules and Ruben's book, which I'm a little scared for tbh👀 I despise second chance and the whole bite app thing 😬 so Ruben better have been completely devoted to Jules in the time they were apart or I will probably hate the book😅 but I am excited to find out what happened to them👀.
Safety:
No virgins/manhos
No cheating
No ow/om drama
Slight details on both of their sex histories but nothing too descriptive
Reading about the Grims also makes me even more excited for Henry's book, so I can't wait to finally get theirs. Up next though, is Jules and Ruben's book, which I'm a little scared for tbh👀 I despise second chance and the whole bite app thing 😬 so Ruben better have been completely devoted to Jules in the time they were apart or I will probably hate the book😅 but I am excited to find out what happened to them👀.
Safety:
No virgins/manhos
No cheating
No ow/om drama
Slight details on both of their sex histories but nothing too descriptive
November 6, 2023
After already meeting the mysterious Gareth and not really understanding why Livvy had a problem with him, I was excited to find out everything with this book. And boy, did this author give me EVERYTHING!
Livvy and Gareth were competing for the same prize: a campaign behind the charity of their choice. Even Livvy had to admit that Gareth's cause was the best. After learning about why orphaned paranormals were so near and dear to his heart, I fell for this male right along with our heroine.
The truth behind Grims was so intriguing. I love how I still wonder what else there is to learn about them and their abilities. Gareth being the top dog of his kind made me get all tingly with excitement. He was the perfect match for Livvy and his protective instinct when it came to her made him a swoon-worthy hero.
There is a slimy, scary, harassment-prone character that we all will love to see get his, but aside from the creep factor, this was an amazing read. I was entertained from page one and I can't wait to dive back into this series and see these characters again.
Find more here: Always Practice Safe Hex
Livvy and Gareth were competing for the same prize: a campaign behind the charity of their choice. Even Livvy had to admit that Gareth's cause was the best. After learning about why orphaned paranormals were so near and dear to his heart, I fell for this male right along with our heroine.
The truth behind Grims was so intriguing. I love how I still wonder what else there is to learn about them and their abilities. Gareth being the top dog of his kind made me get all tingly with excitement. He was the perfect match for Livvy and his protective instinct when it came to her made him a swoon-worthy hero.
There is a slimy, scary, harassment-prone character that we all will love to see get his, but aside from the creep factor, this was an amazing read. I was entertained from page one and I can't wait to dive back into this series and see these characters again.
Find more here: Always Practice Safe Hex
October 30, 2022
"𝑈𝑠𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑓𝑒𝑎𝑟 𝑡𝑜 𝑑𝑜𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑎𝑡𝑒 𝑑𝑜𝑒𝑠𝑛'𝑡 𝑚𝑎𝑘𝑒 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑚𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑝𝑜𝑤𝑒𝑟𝑓𝑢𝑙. 𝐼𝑡 𝑚𝑎𝑘𝑒𝑠 𝑦𝑜𝑢 𝑎 𝑡𝑦𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑡."
On the scale of 1 to broody, I'd give this book perfectly broody.
I was super excited to get to know Gareth. These grims have captured my attention from the first book and I couldn't wait to find out more about them.
There's something about a dangerous, broody guy having a soft spot only for the FMC, opening up, and being vulnerable with her that's simply magical. Wonderful to read about.
Like I said about the previous parts, I'll say the same about this one. I believe this book is my favorite of all.
I'm pretty damn sure I'll be saying the same about the next book.
If it isn't obvious already, I'm obsessed with series and I so do not want to part with it.
"𝑊𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑎 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑖𝑠 𝑚𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒."
"𝑆ℎ𝑒 ℎ𝑎𝑑 𝑚𝑒 𝑢𝑡𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑙𝑦 𝑏𝑒𝑤𝑡𝑖𝑐ℎ𝑒𝑑. 𝐵𝑜𝑑𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑠𝑜𝑢𝑙. 𝐼 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑𝑛'𝑡 𝑤𝑎𝑙𝑘 𝑎𝑤𝑎𝑦."
On the scale of 1 to broody, I'd give this book perfectly broody.
I was super excited to get to know Gareth. These grims have captured my attention from the first book and I couldn't wait to find out more about them.
There's something about a dangerous, broody guy having a soft spot only for the FMC, opening up, and being vulnerable with her that's simply magical. Wonderful to read about.
Like I said about the previous parts, I'll say the same about this one. I believe this book is my favorite of all.
I'm pretty damn sure I'll be saying the same about the next book.
If it isn't obvious already, I'm obsessed with series and I so do not want to part with it.
"𝑊𝑒 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑎 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑡 𝑖𝑠 𝑚𝑜𝑟𝑒 𝑡ℎ𝑎𝑛 𝑙𝑜𝑣𝑒."
"𝑆ℎ𝑒 ℎ𝑎𝑑 𝑚𝑒 𝑢𝑡𝑡𝑒𝑟𝑙𝑦 𝑏𝑒𝑤𝑡𝑖𝑐ℎ𝑒𝑑. 𝐵𝑜𝑑𝑦 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑠𝑜𝑢𝑙. 𝐼 𝑐𝑜𝑢𝑙𝑑𝑛'𝑡 𝑤𝑎𝑙𝑘 𝑎𝑤𝑎𝑦."
April 29, 2024
4.25/5 ⭐️s
3.25/5 🌶️s
Gareth Blackwater can have his way with me any day of the week!
This is by far my favorite couple so far. Gareth and Livvy had so much openness and vulnerability with each other (and their sex was FIRE).
The stakes felt higher in this book with the antagonist being so utterly horrible (though I definitely recommend checking TWs). It added a sense of urgency to the story that the last few books were missing.
The glimpses at the other couples’ HEAs is such a nice treat too. I’ll be sad when I finish the series - leaving all of them is going to hurt!
3.25/5 🌶️s
Gareth Blackwater can have his way with me any day of the week!
This is by far my favorite couple so far. Gareth and Livvy had so much openness and vulnerability with each other (and their sex was FIRE).
The stakes felt higher in this book with the antagonist being so utterly horrible (though I definitely recommend checking TWs). It added a sense of urgency to the story that the last few books were missing.
The glimpses at the other couples’ HEAs is such a nice treat too. I’ll be sad when I finish the series - leaving all of them is going to hurt!
May 22, 2024
I went crazy this weekend and decided to finish these last 4 books! So alll the reviews are on the way. I didn't realize how much I wanted a Gareth and Livvy situation in my life until I read this. We were teased at the end of book 3 about them being kind of enemies to lovers but then got the image that Gareth had of Livvy in his bed TIED UP! I loved how quickly their romance and more developed. I loved how going into it Gareth had a clue what Livvy meant to him but didn't want to recognize it while at the same time found himself wooing her. I loved how vulnerable he was at times with her thinking she would leave him or that what they had was fragile and then how she would prove him wrong! The spicy scenes were SPICY! And the monster situation that happened was next level WHOA.
Livvy is going to be the bigger person in her situation. She has found herself working with Gareth the man who drives her crazy in the WORST way while also being ridiculously attractive. She will not be goaded by him. She will be professional. Until she finds herself liking their conversations and realizing that there is more to him than meets the eye. She finds herself at her favorite club which happens to be his and wanting MORE. She wants him but not just his body. She wants his mind and his heart and his happiness. She wants to help him through the struggles he has been shouldering alone. All of this is happening while she is being stalked and treated inappropriately by someone else. Someone who is evil incarnate but Gareth is on to him. Will he be able to save her when she needs it? Will he open up to her with his Grim secrets so that he can start making more of a difference with his powers?
Gareth knows what Lavinia is to him. She is his mate, but he is having fun goading her and making her angry and watching her blush. He is having fun wooing her in his own way. He finds himself opening up to her about things he never has before. He finds himself wanting to introduce her to his monster which most Grims don't do. There are too many things that could go wrong. But what if she could help him? What if she could complete him and bring him peace and happiness and not make him feel like the monster he thinks he is? The more time they spend together especially in bed, he realizes he would do anything for her. Including open up those secrets to the high guild in order to protect her from the evil warlock who has been stalking her and much worse.
I can't recommend this series enough. They literally seem to be getting better and better. The only ones I struggled to relate to were Evie and Mateo and then Isadora and Dev. I legit can't WAIT for Jules and Ruben and love the snippets we have been getting of Henry and Clara. Looking forward to Juliette's new series and will probably check out her previous ones as well!
Livvy is going to be the bigger person in her situation. She has found herself working with Gareth the man who drives her crazy in the WORST way while also being ridiculously attractive. She will not be goaded by him. She will be professional. Until she finds herself liking their conversations and realizing that there is more to him than meets the eye. She finds herself at her favorite club which happens to be his and wanting MORE. She wants him but not just his body. She wants his mind and his heart and his happiness. She wants to help him through the struggles he has been shouldering alone. All of this is happening while she is being stalked and treated inappropriately by someone else. Someone who is evil incarnate but Gareth is on to him. Will he be able to save her when she needs it? Will he open up to her with his Grim secrets so that he can start making more of a difference with his powers?
Gareth knows what Lavinia is to him. She is his mate, but he is having fun goading her and making her angry and watching her blush. He is having fun wooing her in his own way. He finds himself opening up to her about things he never has before. He finds himself wanting to introduce her to his monster which most Grims don't do. There are too many things that could go wrong. But what if she could help him? What if she could complete him and bring him peace and happiness and not make him feel like the monster he thinks he is? The more time they spend together especially in bed, he realizes he would do anything for her. Including open up those secrets to the high guild in order to protect her from the evil warlock who has been stalking her and much worse.
I can't recommend this series enough. They literally seem to be getting better and better. The only ones I struggled to relate to were Evie and Mateo and then Isadora and Dev. I legit can't WAIT for Jules and Ruben and love the snippets we have been getting of Henry and Clara. Looking forward to Juliette's new series and will probably check out her previous ones as well!
October 13, 2022
Damn, GARETH BLACKWATER!
That man is one hot, cold, sweet, se*y, powerful son of Grim.
4th instalment to one of my favourite series ( you definitely gotta check this series out, it’s so good) you could read this as standalone.
As usual with this author, this book was also well written with amazing characters and a solid plot.
I loved hero Gareth. Where do I even start with him? From the first glance itself he knew Lavinia was precious and he was hooked. He didn’t once dismiss his feelings or fight his attraction, quite opposite actually. His protectiveness, jealousy and borderline obsession…. Sigh.
Gotta love a man who knows who he wants and go for it guns blazing.
Heroine Lavinia perfectly complimented him. She straight out cherished him. I loved how she invited him to her family and inner circle. I also loved the quiet way she cared for him numerous times.
As usual Alpha made me laugh whenever he came on the page and I’m completely ready for Jules and Clara to find their HEA with Reuben and Henry.
The last chapter was fantastic. To me the author has taken this series to the next level by this book.
Safe and absolutely recommended.
That man is one hot, cold, sweet, se*y, powerful son of Grim.
4th instalment to one of my favourite series ( you definitely gotta check this series out, it’s so good) you could read this as standalone.
As usual with this author, this book was also well written with amazing characters and a solid plot.
I loved hero Gareth. Where do I even start with him? From the first glance itself he knew Lavinia was precious and he was hooked. He didn’t once dismiss his feelings or fight his attraction, quite opposite actually. His protectiveness, jealousy and borderline obsession…. Sigh.
Gotta love a man who knows who he wants and go for it guns blazing.
Heroine Lavinia perfectly complimented him. She straight out cherished him. I loved how she invited him to her family and inner circle. I also loved the quiet way she cared for him numerous times.
As usual Alpha made me laugh whenever he came on the page and I’m completely ready for Jules and Clara to find their HEA with Reuben and Henry.
The last chapter was fantastic. To me the author has taken this series to the next level by this book.
Safe and absolutely recommended.
December 3, 2022
This series has been a lot of fun. It follows a bunch of sisters in a witch family who have various talents and are falling in love with other members of the paranormal community. Each story has been interesting and had some interesting villain or challenge to overcome. I wouldn't just jump into this book without reading the others first because you'd miss some of the magic but you could still follow the story well enough without the few scenes we've seen in the past books.
Livvy has influence magic and in every relationship she has ever had she has been the dominant everything. Now her attraction is to a Grim, she knows practically nothing of their magic but she does know that when she is with Gareth all her baser instincts come to life and she is struggling to get them under control. Maybe this hate she thinks she has for him because they are in a competition against each other is something a little more complicated.
Gareth has bided his time and tried to shake Livvy from his mind, but that woman has him all wrapped up inside. He needs to figure out how to get her into his bed soon if he is going to keep the darkness inside of him happy. Because that demon knows she is his and is ready for them to take the next step to claim their mate.
There is danger nearby and Lavvy is in someone's sights. Gareth must protect the woman he is falling in love with, open all of his Grim secrets to her and walk her down a path to explore being a submissive to him in the bedroom. It will take all his wits and dominant tendencies to prove to Livvy he is the right man for her.
This was totally a fun story. I love the different events they thought up for the advertising competition they were in especially the wet t-shirt contest with werewolves. The plot was solid and the hints of romances for the books to come were enticing. Enjoying picking these up when the audio becomes available and definitely ready for Jules and Clara's books :)
Livvy has influence magic and in every relationship she has ever had she has been the dominant everything. Now her attraction is to a Grim, she knows practically nothing of their magic but she does know that when she is with Gareth all her baser instincts come to life and she is struggling to get them under control. Maybe this hate she thinks she has for him because they are in a competition against each other is something a little more complicated.
Gareth has bided his time and tried to shake Livvy from his mind, but that woman has him all wrapped up inside. He needs to figure out how to get her into his bed soon if he is going to keep the darkness inside of him happy. Because that demon knows she is his and is ready for them to take the next step to claim their mate.
“Are you the spiderman?” I asked, our breaths mingling, mouths inches apart.
“No, Lavinia.” He shook his head then dipped closer to me. I was sure he would kiss me, but he skimmed his nose along my jaw until his lips brushed my ear. “You are,” he grated, biting my lobe. “And I’m so fucking caught in your web.”
There is danger nearby and Lavvy is in someone's sights. Gareth must protect the woman he is falling in love with, open all of his Grim secrets to her and walk her down a path to explore being a submissive to him in the bedroom. It will take all his wits and dominant tendencies to prove to Livvy he is the right man for her.
This was totally a fun story. I love the different events they thought up for the advertising competition they were in especially the wet t-shirt contest with werewolves. The plot was solid and the hints of romances for the books to come were enticing. Enjoying picking these up when the audio becomes available and definitely ready for Jules and Clara's books :)
December 17, 2022
Trigger warnings: assault, attempted rape, murder, graphic violence, dubious consent.
2.5 stars
Okay, so first things first: I wanted to like this. Hell, I've wanted to LOVE all of these books because everything about the blurbs sounds exactly up my alley. And I think that's why I keep reading them even though I'm enjoying them less and less.
But while this was very readable and there WERE things I liked about it (the sibling relationships are fantastic and I love the world. I also really enjoyed the discussion of the cause Gareth is working towards), I just...yeah, I didn't like the romance in this one.
Part of that was Gareth's telekinetic abilities and the fact that telekinesis is REPEATEDLY referred to as "TK". Because it just felt like Cross couldn't be bothered typing it out every time so she started abbreviating it and then never did a find and replace to fix it before hitting publish. So every time TK cropped up on the page, I had to stop and try and remember whether it was a character's name or a magical abbreviation or something else altogether.
Additionally, I did NOT vibe with the sex scenes in this book. It's been that way for a while with this series - the cringe factor is high for me and everything just seems like it's written to emphasise the...squelch factor. This one was particularly cringe because there's some telekinetic vulva shaving as a form of foreplay and it was just...uncomfortable? Look, I'm fully aware that I'm FAR too ace for this book but this takes place *before* they've ever had sex and I just...no. No thanks.
And then the actual big dramatic sex scene between the two of them was SO FREAKING LONG and I just wanted it to be over well and truly before it was over. Also the fact that when she's wet it's referred to as "my cream"? Ma'am. If it's creamy, you probably need to see a medical professional.
And THEN you get to the fact that the entire scene essentially features some pretty dubious stuff from a consent perspective. The whole scene is about him letting out his inner monster and I suspect that's why the dub con is basically glossed over. But she's always been very clear about wanting to use protection, and yet because it's his inner monster, he just sticks his dick in her and goes to town. He then sticks his finger up her arse with no conversation about boundaries or asking for consent and also no lube. There's also a lot of her being restrained and lightly choked by the black smoke that his monster gives off and AGAIN, there's no conversation about whether she's okay with any of that.
Like, I get that it's meant to be his inner monster. And I get that he's so mortified by his actions the following day that he's convinced she'll never want to see him again. I understand that. I do. But in the moment, it just felt gross and when you've already got a secondary plotline about how she's being sexually harassed (and eventually sexually assaulted) by a colleague? The addition of dubious consent was extremely icky.
So yeah. It was very readable and I liked them having to team up on a project. But basically everything to do with them touching each other's genitals made me throw up in my mouth. #AceProblems
2.5 stars
Okay, so first things first: I wanted to like this. Hell, I've wanted to LOVE all of these books because everything about the blurbs sounds exactly up my alley. And I think that's why I keep reading them even though I'm enjoying them less and less.
But while this was very readable and there WERE things I liked about it (the sibling relationships are fantastic and I love the world. I also really enjoyed the discussion of the cause Gareth is working towards), I just...yeah, I didn't like the romance in this one.
Part of that was Gareth's telekinetic abilities and the fact that telekinesis is REPEATEDLY referred to as "TK". Because it just felt like Cross couldn't be bothered typing it out every time so she started abbreviating it and then never did a find and replace to fix it before hitting publish. So every time TK cropped up on the page, I had to stop and try and remember whether it was a character's name or a magical abbreviation or something else altogether.
Additionally, I did NOT vibe with the sex scenes in this book. It's been that way for a while with this series - the cringe factor is high for me and everything just seems like it's written to emphasise the...squelch factor. This one was particularly cringe because there's some telekinetic vulva shaving as a form of foreplay and it was just...uncomfortable? Look, I'm fully aware that I'm FAR too ace for this book but this takes place *before* they've ever had sex and I just...no. No thanks.
And then the actual big dramatic sex scene between the two of them was SO FREAKING LONG and I just wanted it to be over well and truly before it was over. Also the fact that when she's wet it's referred to as "my cream"? Ma'am. If it's creamy, you probably need to see a medical professional.
And THEN you get to the fact that the entire scene essentially features some pretty dubious stuff from a consent perspective. The whole scene is about him letting out his inner monster and I suspect that's why the dub con is basically glossed over. But she's always been very clear about wanting to use protection, and yet because it's his inner monster, he just sticks his dick in her and goes to town. He then sticks his finger up her arse with no conversation about boundaries or asking for consent and also no lube. There's also a lot of her being restrained and lightly choked by the black smoke that his monster gives off and AGAIN, there's no conversation about whether she's okay with any of that.
Like, I get that it's meant to be his inner monster. And I get that he's so mortified by his actions the following day that he's convinced she'll never want to see him again. I understand that. I do. But in the moment, it just felt gross and when you've already got a secondary plotline about how she's being sexually harassed (and eventually sexually assaulted) by a colleague? The addition of dubious consent was extremely icky.
So yeah. It was very readable and I liked them having to team up on a project. But basically everything to do with them touching each other's genitals made me throw up in my mouth. #AceProblems
May 4, 2023
Holy. Hot. Grim.
I just knew Gareth Blackwater was going to rock my world.
To say I was excited to read Gareth’s story is quite the understatement. So dark, so mysterious, and so very delicious. The protectiveness and fierceness and intensity of this sexy grim made all my things zing with happiness. I needed, wanted, craved his story.
In true Juliette fashion, this was a well-written story full of characters who are smart, strong, sexy, and so dang lovable. And it was full of passion and love and ALL THE FEELS.
The claws of this story sunk into me immediately and didn’t let go. I was willingly and happily pulled in…kept in… the grip was strong. But I was totally okay with that… I really didn’t want to leave.
This crazy-awesome world which was created by the uber-talented Juliette Cross, is fantastically and magically perfect. I could easily visualize everything and felt as though I was standing right there. I wanted to be there.
Livvy and Gareth together made my heart so happy. They are pure fire. All the emotions, all the magic, all the mystery… I adored everything about them. Getting their story made me love this series all the more.
Not only is this story about Gareth & Livvy, but we also get to see the characters from the previous books. And since I already love them with my whole heart, I was even happier experiencing them in this book.
If you’ve read the other books in this series, you’ll definitely want to read this one.
*Even though I read this book back in January 2023 and I’m just getting my review written today (May 4, 2023), I can still FEEL what I felt as I read the book. As I wrote my review, it was as if I experienced the story all over again. *heart eyes*
I just knew Gareth Blackwater was going to rock my world.
To say I was excited to read Gareth’s story is quite the understatement. So dark, so mysterious, and so very delicious. The protectiveness and fierceness and intensity of this sexy grim made all my things zing with happiness. I needed, wanted, craved his story.
In true Juliette fashion, this was a well-written story full of characters who are smart, strong, sexy, and so dang lovable. And it was full of passion and love and ALL THE FEELS.
The claws of this story sunk into me immediately and didn’t let go. I was willingly and happily pulled in…kept in… the grip was strong. But I was totally okay with that… I really didn’t want to leave.
This crazy-awesome world which was created by the uber-talented Juliette Cross, is fantastically and magically perfect. I could easily visualize everything and felt as though I was standing right there. I wanted to be there.
Livvy and Gareth together made my heart so happy. They are pure fire. All the emotions, all the magic, all the mystery… I adored everything about them. Getting their story made me love this series all the more.
Not only is this story about Gareth & Livvy, but we also get to see the characters from the previous books. And since I already love them with my whole heart, I was even happier experiencing them in this book.
If you’ve read the other books in this series, you’ll definitely want to read this one.
*Even though I read this book back in January 2023 and I’m just getting my review written today (May 4, 2023), I can still FEEL what I felt as I read the book. As I wrote my review, it was as if I experienced the story all over again. *heart eyes*
March 8, 2023
LOVED IT!!!
“Also, loquacious?" I arched a brow. "Trying to impress me with your big vocabulary?"
"Since you're unwilling to check out my big cock, I thought it second best.”
“He was a grim. An unknown. And his aura made me want to be very, very naughty. With him. My desire was so blood-burning, throat-choking intense that I feared what would be left after that kind of love affair was all over.”
“Also, loquacious?" I arched a brow. "Trying to impress me with your big vocabulary?"
"Since you're unwilling to check out my big cock, I thought it second best.”
“He was a grim. An unknown. And his aura made me want to be very, very naughty. With him. My desire was so blood-burning, throat-choking intense that I feared what would be left after that kind of love affair was all over.”
November 12, 2022
Another great Savoie sisters paranormal romance set in New Orleans. I loved this grumpy/sunshine, dual POV, workplace, enemies to lovers romance between Livvy, a bisexual witch with the gift of persuasion and grim reaper Gareth who get teamed up to work on a charitable promotion campaign to benefit orphaned supernaturals.
The chemistry between these two was OFF THE CHARTS!! Very possibly the steamiest book of the series and I was here for it! There's also a workplace harassment storyline and Gareth has control issues he's working through from his troubled past in foster care.
Great on audio narrated by Johanna Fairview and Aiden Snow with lots of cameos from the other sisters and their partners. Highly recommended if you enjoy a good steamy paranormal romance with lots of emotional depth! I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
The chemistry between these two was OFF THE CHARTS!! Very possibly the steamiest book of the series and I was here for it! There's also a workplace harassment storyline and Gareth has control issues he's working through from his troubled past in foster care.
Great on audio narrated by Johanna Fairview and Aiden Snow with lots of cameos from the other sisters and their partners. Highly recommended if you enjoy a good steamy paranormal romance with lots of emotional depth! I can't wait to read the next book in the series!
May 17, 2022
Swooooooon! I love Gareth and Lavinia so much and barely have words for how perfect this book is. Always Practice Safe Hex is book 4 in Juliette Cross’ Stay a Spell series and I feel like I say this each time, but this is by far my favorite in the series yet and so special!
I was so happy to be back in this paranormal series with the Savoie sisters and the backdrop of New Orleans. Lavinia “Livvy” Savoie is an Influencer witch who cannot stand Gareth Blackwater, a Grim. After seeing the little prequel moment of their relationship in the holiday novella, Walking in a Witchy Wonderland, I could not wait for their story. Livvy and Gareth get off to a rough start and begin as rivals. Both are competing in a PR contest and get chosen as 2 of the 3 finalists who have to work together on a project for a charity fundraiser to show off their PR skills. We learn so much about Grims in this book and I loved getting all the glimpses into these previously closed-off, mysterious, supernatural beings. Gareth is so gone for Livvy and I loved her realizing it and both of them giving in. Their chemistry was fantastic and these 2 just bring all the heat! 🔥 I think what makes their relationship and steamy moments even better is their connection and how much of themselves they share with one another. This is a deeply romantic book and I was just swooning over them!
“Lavinia. I’d break the whole world to be with you.”
So much from Gareth made me emotional during this read. Orphaned when he was just 7-years-old, Gareth shares his experience as a supernatural in a human foster care system and it is heartbreaking. I loved seeing how the Savoie family brought him into their circle and how much that meant to him. From the shaving scene, to Clara’s book club chats about Marrying Winterborne and The Viscount Who Loved Me, to the guys’ game night, to all the family moments, to the emotional court scene. I just never wanted this read to end! I am so excited for the next 2 books in the series, Jules & Ruben and then Clara & Henry!
*CW: sexual harassment, attempt of sexual assault
Thank you to the author for an early e-ARC, I am on the author’s ARC team. All thoughts in this review are my own. Always Practice Safe Hex has a publish date of May 24, 2022.
I was so happy to be back in this paranormal series with the Savoie sisters and the backdrop of New Orleans. Lavinia “Livvy” Savoie is an Influencer witch who cannot stand Gareth Blackwater, a Grim. After seeing the little prequel moment of their relationship in the holiday novella, Walking in a Witchy Wonderland, I could not wait for their story. Livvy and Gareth get off to a rough start and begin as rivals. Both are competing in a PR contest and get chosen as 2 of the 3 finalists who have to work together on a project for a charity fundraiser to show off their PR skills. We learn so much about Grims in this book and I loved getting all the glimpses into these previously closed-off, mysterious, supernatural beings. Gareth is so gone for Livvy and I loved her realizing it and both of them giving in. Their chemistry was fantastic and these 2 just bring all the heat! 🔥 I think what makes their relationship and steamy moments even better is their connection and how much of themselves they share with one another. This is a deeply romantic book and I was just swooning over them!
“Lavinia. I’d break the whole world to be with you.”
So much from Gareth made me emotional during this read. Orphaned when he was just 7-years-old, Gareth shares his experience as a supernatural in a human foster care system and it is heartbreaking. I loved seeing how the Savoie family brought him into their circle and how much that meant to him. From the shaving scene, to Clara’s book club chats about Marrying Winterborne and The Viscount Who Loved Me, to the guys’ game night, to all the family moments, to the emotional court scene. I just never wanted this read to end! I am so excited for the next 2 books in the series, Jules & Ruben and then Clara & Henry!
*CW: sexual harassment, attempt of sexual assault
Thank you to the author for an early e-ARC, I am on the author’s ARC team. All thoughts in this review are my own. Always Practice Safe Hex has a publish date of May 24, 2022.
May 24, 2022
I'm finding out that the grim's totally do it for me! We finally get to learn some of the secrets they have been hiding from us this whole series and I like what I see!
Gareth was so much more than I was expecting. He was hiding so much from everyone until Livvy just started peeling back the walls he had up. I love that Livvy was the one to draw the real Gareth out. She was sunshine to his darkness. You could feel that sunshine penetrate and spread inside of Gareth and it was beautiful.
I really adore this whole family and the men they are all falling in love with. These sisters are really fun to read about. I am especially enjoying that they are falling in love with all different kinds of supernaturals and bringing them into the family fold. It's what helps keep each book different and makes me excited for the next one!
Gareth was so much more than I was expecting. He was hiding so much from everyone until Livvy just started peeling back the walls he had up. I love that Livvy was the one to draw the real Gareth out. She was sunshine to his darkness. You could feel that sunshine penetrate and spread inside of Gareth and it was beautiful.
I really adore this whole family and the men they are all falling in love with. These sisters are really fun to read about. I am especially enjoying that they are falling in love with all different kinds of supernaturals and bringing them into the family fold. It's what helps keep each book different and makes me excited for the next one!
January 18, 2024
At this point, I think almost all of the stories in the Stay A Spell series get close to 5 stars automatically. This world is my guilty pleasure or happy place at the moment. I can’t believe there’s only 2 left to read.
The narrator for the male POV in the audiobooks (Aiden Snow) knocked it out the park yet again. Although it was quite strange to lust after a character named Gareth of all things, you manage it quickly with all the shadow play, binding, mind links & BDSM.
I did think it was a strange choice to leave Jules/Ruben & Clara/Henry’s books to last as they are the most intriguing potential couples but this little diversion into Livvy’s world did end up being a welcome distraction.
That shaving scene was a nope from me tho 😬👎🏻
The narrator for the male POV in the audiobooks (Aiden Snow) knocked it out the park yet again. Although it was quite strange to lust after a character named Gareth of all things, you manage it quickly with all the shadow play, binding, mind links & BDSM.
I did think it was a strange choice to leave Jules/Ruben & Clara/Henry’s books to last as they are the most intriguing potential couples but this little diversion into Livvy’s world did end up being a welcome distraction.
That shaving scene was a nope from me tho 😬👎🏻
August 13, 2022
Juliette Cross is back with another spellbinding installment in her Stay a Spell series.
Always Practice Safe Hex
is book four in the Stay a Spell series. It’s an enemies to lovers with a fun werewolf wet t-shirt contest, grim powers, and bondage play.
The Savior sisters are such wonderful characters and give me that wonderful family vibe. They all care for each other and want what’s best. When the Grims popped up on the scene a few books back, we were treated to just a hint as to what they can do, but now we finally get to dive deeper into their powers.
The romance between Livvy and Gareth is sizzling once they figure out that they are perfect for each other. The build up is fire crackling, with all their little jabs, that are leading up to the big moment when they realize they can make fireworks together.
Always Practice Safe Hex delivered everything I was hopping for. A dash of drama, a spark of action, and romance. I’m a fan of Cross’s and really enjoy this series. It’s light, fun, sweet, and has a dash of magic. It was just the read I needed when I was having such bad luck in my picks of books to read. I can’t wait for the next installment.
Rated: 4 Stars
The Savior sisters are such wonderful characters and give me that wonderful family vibe. They all care for each other and want what’s best. When the Grims popped up on the scene a few books back, we were treated to just a hint as to what they can do, but now we finally get to dive deeper into their powers.
The romance between Livvy and Gareth is sizzling once they figure out that they are perfect for each other. The build up is fire crackling, with all their little jabs, that are leading up to the big moment when they realize they can make fireworks together.
Always Practice Safe Hex delivered everything I was hopping for. A dash of drama, a spark of action, and romance. I’m a fan of Cross’s and really enjoy this series. It’s light, fun, sweet, and has a dash of magic. It was just the read I needed when I was having such bad luck in my picks of books to read. I can’t wait for the next installment.
Rated: 4 Stars
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