Book Description:
A self-deprecating witch with the unique ability to reanimate the dead. A dangerously handsome warlock torn between being her boss and her would-be lover. A six hundred year old English vampire with his own agenda; one that includes an appetite for witches. The Underworld in a state of chaos. Let the games begin.
Life isn’t bad for psychic Jolie Wilkins. True, she doesn’t have a love life to speak of, but she has a cute house in the suburbs of Los Angeles, a cat and a quirky best friend.
Enter Rand Balfour, a sinfully attractive warlock who insists she’s a witch and who just might turn her life upside down. Rand hires her to help him solve a mystery regarding the death of his client who also happens to be a ghost. Jolie not only uncovers the cause of the ghost’s demise but, in the process, she brings him back to life!
Word of Jolie’s incredible ability to bring back the dead spreads like wildfire, putting her at the top of the Underworld’s most wanted list. Consequently, she finds herself at the center of a custody battle between a villainous witch, a dangerous but oh-so-sexy vampire, and her warlock boss, Rand.
Review:
Jolie begins this book being very insecure but remained a likeable heroine throughout. I did find her struggle to accept being a witch a bit irritating, but only because one would think being a psychic might foster a more open mind to things paranormal, and she seemed very opposed to the idea. Her opposition fit her character though, and centered more on the idea that someone as unremarkable as herself could never be something as fantastic as a witch. However, it was a bit off that she seemed to vehemently oppose being a witch but didn't hesitate long when forced to give up her life and move to England with Rand, the hot warlock that turned her life upside down to begin with!
Rand, the previously mentioned hottie warlock, is a classic well-intentioned good guy with a dash of mystery. And did I mention that he is good looking? I would love some more history on him, although we are treated to some of his past via the friendly house ghost that was once a childhood friend. Rand introduces Jolie to the world of vampires and witches but doesn't really want her to be involved, and he fights his growing feelings every step of the way. So, maybe I should add stubborn to my assessment!
Bella, the bitchy-witchy antagonist, and her ideas to unite the paranormal community, was just the right ingredient to move the story along and create even more tension between Rand and Jolie, as Rand is forced to deal with Jolie on a much more permanent basis. Bella wants to be the evil queen and she can't let Jolie's amazing talent get in her way.
Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble is an excellent debut and I look forward to more in the series. Especially if we get to know more about Sinjin, the insanely hot and charismatic vampire that may or may not be on their side in the fight against Bella and her evil minions. The characters are definitely the strongest element: genuine and easy to like. I found myself really caring about them which surprised me on some level. Very well done!
Books by H.P. Mallory:
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*This book was provided for review by the author.
* Reviewed by Anna Dougherty (Bite Club)
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