... a charming and sweet novel ideal for the upcoming spooky season ... With relatable characters, a fun storyline, and some angsty romance, Payback’s A Witch will enchant you from the very first page. Even though the romance does play a big role in the story, it’s actually the witch tournament that becomes the center of this book, and the other subplots are just intertwined with it and help develop certain events in the story. The tournament itself spans over the course of a few days and it is actually so fun to read about ... In terms of the romance, it was refreshing to see that it avoids queer rom-com stereotypes, the relationship between Emmy and Talia feels very natural, with ups and downs and it also doesn’t feel too fast nor too slow. It really has a great development. There’s also quite a bit of angst but it’s well balanced with other tender moments and don’t we all love a bit of angst and slow burn! ... All in all, when you close the book, you’ll want to live in the bewitching town that is Thistle Grove. But since it’s only the first of the series, it’s good to know that readers will have the chance to revisit this magical autumnal town and its lovable characters when book two is released! Charming, sweet, and magical, Payback’s A Witch is the perfect book to enjoy on a cosy autumn night.

With a satisfying end to the tournament, and smart, funny characters who support one another, Harper’s series is off to a fantastic start. Highly recommended.

YA writer Harper’s first adult romance offers an imaginative and intriguing portrayal of magic, and a bisexual female romance between Emmy and Talia, and launches the promising Witches of Thistle Grove series.

... bewitches from the very first page ... This magical joyride manages to feel both vibrantly current and timelessly mystical while avoiding the typical queer rom-com stereotypes. Combining John Tucker Must Die with a helping of an adult Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire and a dash of Charmed, this addictive concoction begs for adaptation.

The action of the Gauntlet takes a back seat to the characters’ personal dramas and the intense romance that develops between Emmy and Talia. But the author’s writing shines in the small moments, particularly in the lush language used to capture the enchanting, autumnal atmosphere of quaint Thistle Grove and its supernatural allure ... Readers are sure to fall under the magic spell of Thistle Grove and its inhabitants.