Unbeknownst to me, this book is part of a series—and of course, it’s book 2, lol. However, it feels more like a story set in the same universe but mostly standalone, so I was still able to enjoy the book without getting too lost. Most things were explained.

I was laughing right from the start with this one. The comments about her soulmate being a cop had me dying! The comedy continued through out the rest of the book with various amounts of sarcasm and sex jokes

Because of the soulmate trope, it’s very much an instalove situation, which I’m not usually a fan of, but it didn’t bother me too much. The spice, while minimal, definitely made up for it 😂🌶️😮‍💨

The past life flashback was really interesting. I expected it to be just a brief couple of paragraphs, but it ended up being a whole 10% of the book! It was a good story. I figured Asher would be affected, despite what was initially said.

I was concerned there might be a miscommunication trope due to the Guardian reveal, but it was quickly resolved.

The ending felt a bit rushed and thrown together, but everything was tied up nicely, so there’s that!

Overall, I really enjoyed the book and had a good time with it. At some point I would like to read the first book and eventually the rest of the series.

Thanks to NetGalley and Owl City Press for the ARC!!

I expected a spicy romance with not much emotional interest. Boy, Ou Boy, how I was surprised. Collen made Bewitching Rosemary one of the most surprising romance books, that I read in 2024. Let`s see together why 😉

If you read the first book in the Star Island series - Hedge Witch you already met Rosemary Bay, if not let me introduce you. Rosemary is one of 5 Bay sisters Lavender, Rosemary, Laurel, Verbena, and Sage. They all live in a cottage on Stare Island and well, are witches. Rosemary is a garden witch who dabbles in sex magic and well everyone else business.
In book one, we learn about a curse threatening the Bay sisters and meet Laurel and her soulmate, Owen. The story left us with plenty of unresolved dangers, which pick up again in this book

Rosemary meets right at the beginning her Soulmate Asher Evans who is the new Star Island sheriff. For Rosemary (a free spirit who loves dancing naked on every possible holiday, and takes mild natural drugs on special occasions ) this is an unpleasant surprise. Also, it looks like the brother of the villain from book one is coming to Star Island to find out what happened to his sibling. Will Rosemarie`s fears come to life and she and Asher will not have anything in common? Will the Bay sisters survive another of the evil siblings?

Review
Overall Rating: 4.75/5🪄
Characters: 🪄🪄🪄🪄🪄
Atmosphere:  🪄🪄🪄🪄🪄
Plot: 🪄🪄🪄🪄
Logic/Relationships:  🪄🪄🪄🪄🪄
Enjoyment: 🪄🪄🪄🪄🪄
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

This book is a work of magic. Rosemary is one of the most enticing antagonists I read in paranormal witchy romance in a while. She is funny in her inner monologues and I loved her as a character. The little chatty garden witch that loves good sex and is enjoying life to its fullest.
I adore her personality and the care she gives her flowers and family. I must say she is probably my new life guru. I looooooooove FMC who knows how to have fun and is wild, but also kind of wise and not unnecessarily reckless.
Asher at the beginning is what I consider a fairly normal guy. He is the protector and he is looking like a vanilla kind of guy. But that is not true at all. During the book Asher`s personality nicely developed. My first impression was that he would not have any depth, but his family history and other things made him interesting in the end. And if personal development is not enough for you his bossy, filthy mouth adds an unexpected edge that will keep you turning pages🥵😂 I must say that my man enjoyed the spicy side of this book, even though he did not read it 😉
I enjoyed the magic system in this book very much, witches are divided by nature and also subsections like house witch, garden witch, harvest witch, etc. It just breathes coziness to witchcraft.
My only critique of this book is that the villain was not scary enough for me 😂
In finale... Bewitching Rosemary is a fantastic read for everyone who loves cozy witchy romance with an island atmosphere, a dash of mystery, and a lot of funny banter between main characters. With a female lead who is a free spirit doing sex magic and a bossy man lead with a filthy mouth in the best way, I am sure you will enjoy this ride through Star Island.
Full review available here: https://rovrabel.wixsite.com/romisbookcorner/post/bewitching-rosemary-by-collen-delaney-sex-magic-and-past-life-that-make-you-cry

I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for a free and honest review.

Bewitching Rosemary is the second book in the Witches of Star Island series by Colleen Delaney. Much like the first book in the series, this book is filled with magic, romance, revenge, and a lot of spice.

The main character and witch, Rosemary Bay, has been waiting to meet her soulmate since she was 16 years old and when she learns that her soulmate is not only human but also a cop (Asher), she has conflicting feelings about whether or not to pursue him.

As fate would have it, Asher has been assigned to a missing person’s case that involves Rosemary’s family so she is unable to avoid him. Her attempt to put a spell on him backfires but that doesn’t stop things between them from heating up fast.

Once again, the author transports the reader back in time. This time, we see the previous life and relationship of Rosemary and Asher from hundreds of years ago. In doing so, the reader is able to feel the deeper connection between Rosemary and Asher which gives their relationship more substance- a deeper connection that goes beyond just their sexual relationship, which I happened to appreciate.

This was a quick and fun read. Its witchy vibe is a perfect autumnal read! If you enjoy stories about witches, magical spells, other worldly realms, and romance then this book is for you!

Rosemary Bay may be a garden witch, but she’s planting chaos and love in equal measure, and I’m here for it. With a soulmate Sheriff who’s as stubborn as he is swoon-worthy, their chemistry is spellbinding. Add a metal warlock and a centuries-old curse, and you’ve got a story that’s part romance, part magical mayhem, and 100% unputdownable. Rosemary’s charm and Asher’s protective streak make for a delightful duo, and Star Island feels like a character all its own. If you’re looking for a read with heart, humor, and a touch of magic, this one will cast a spell on you.

This is Rosemary's story with Asher who is the new town Sheriff and her soulmate. I loved that we learned new things about the supernatural world and hopefully it will continue to be explored in the series. The Stoch's are something else. I have a theory on what may happened with the Choas one and a certain Bay sister, but I'll keep it to myself. In the past life chapter I did get a bit emotional and especially when Rosemary and Asher woke up from out of the spell. How things really came to light in the present and learning more about Asher. This just has some cozy vibes too making me want to live on Star Island. The way how Verbena depicts Rosemary and Asher's house at the end sounds delightful. I'm just really loving this series and we have at least 3 more to look forward to. I can't wait to read them.

I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Oh this was a fun and really quick read for me! I loved the romance, soulmates, and definitely the witchy vibes. The chilli peppers are definitely there for this one.

Thank you to netgalley and City Owl Press for providing me with an ARC of this novel to review.

Rosemary Bay has met her soulmate...and he happens to be her small community's new sheriff. She also happens to be one of five sister witches, have a penchant for some herbal drugs, and run around naked fairly frequently.
And could the timing be worse? There's a warlock after her and her sisters because of some past life shenanigans, the fact that they sort if imprisoned his sister in what they call the Hedge Wood, and a family curse states that anyone who takes the blood of the Bay sisters will steal their power.

This was a fun, "fluffy" read that centered on witches and other supernatural beings living in mostly-secret among humans in the modern world. There's definitely a fair amount of detailed spice, which isn't a thing I look for when choosing a book and I usually don't enjoy smut because of how ridiculous it can get. It definitely gets a little ridiculous here, but I think it works because the book doesn't take itself too seriously.

There is an interesting sort of interlude for a couple of chapters that changes the focus and pacing of the story during the middle point. It flashes to a shared past life between two characters and introduces a few darker themes (discussion of potential rape, murder, death, starvation). I found the change of pace welcome initially, but it soon felt like it went on a bit too long.

I did also make the mistake of picking this up without realizing that it's the second in the series. I didn't feel completely lost or like I missed anything in a first book that was critical to understanding the plot of this one, so that worked out better for me than it could have. I do get the sense that this will be a good series to pick up if you're in the mood for something light, fun, and flirty - just make sure you start with the first book!

Another quick, fun read by Colleen Delaney.

I actually felt this book was stronger than the first, and I really enjoyed Rosemary and Ash's story.
It was cozy, and moved at a great pace. The spice was also *spicing*.

I thought Ash's back story was really well done, in addition to his previous life flashback.
The Bay witches are such a lovely group and I look forward to the next book.

See GoodReads review on NetGalley shelf
goodreads.com/bookiebird
And see Instagram post @cabinfeverjourneay

4.5 ⭐️ rounded up
And my, my, a shocking 🌶🌶🌶
This book was a quick, and fun ride.
Think Practical Magic, meets Charmed.
Wholesome, happy ending and a perfect way to finish off the day.

And thank you to NetGalley and City Owl Press for the chance to read this ARC.

Will absolutely read future books in this series.

An interesting modern magical romance with lots of flowers and true love found. Good for anyone who likes modern magic.

Looking for a witchy read? Look no further. I am not talking about the commercial, cute and full of sparkles. I mean the real deal, connected to the earth, with curses, pain, and love that transcends lifetimes.
Rosemary wants to meet her soulmate. When he finally appears as Sheriff Asher Evans, a human cop with no connection to her world of spells and curses, Rosemary is thrown for a loop. How can a human fit into her life brimming with magic and mayhem?
Asher came to Star Island looking for a fresh start and peace from his past, but his plans are quickly upended when he meets Rosemary. The pull between them is undeniable, and although he can’t explain it, he feels an instinctual need to protect her. However, their budding connection is threatened when a figure from their past lives reappears, bent on tearing them apart and reigniting a centuries-old curse that has haunted Rosemary’s bloodline.
The chemistry between Rosemary and Asher is palpable. As they face a relentless villain and unravel ancient mysteries, the stakes grow higher, testing their love and courage.
I loved how raw the story was. How the pain and fury of the past can haunt the present and how full of life a close family can be, connected both by magic and love.
As a downside, I would have preferred less of the s** spells, I find them not in line with the story and the allure of the characters.
This spellbinding novel is ideal for anyone who loves the idea of witches, villains, past lives, and curses.
Thank you, Netgalley, for this arc.

Bewitching Rosemary is a bewitching, romantic addition to Colleen Delaney’s *Witches of Star Island* series that beautifully blends magic, destiny, and a hint of danger. Rosemary Bay, a garden witch with a knack for love spells, has always anticipated meeting her soulmate. But when that soulmate turns out to be the charming and practical Sheriff Asher Evans, she finds herself questioning how a human could fit into her enchanted life.

Rosemary’s free-spirited character, with her unrestrained, vibrant energy, is so enjoyable to follow—especially in contrast with Asher’s grounded, no-nonsense demeanor. Delaney has created a rich sense of sisterhood between the Bay sisters that adds depth and warmth to the storyline, as they navigate magical mishaps and looming threats together. Their camaraderie and distinct personalities give the book a lovely familial undertone amidst the romance.

The story also dives into Rosemary and Asher's shared past life, a compelling subplot that unveils layers of lost love, bravery, and sorrow, providing an extra layer of emotional depth. The past-life narrative of Gundrun is especially well-crafted, and it brings a poignant, unexpected tenderness to the story. While the ending could have explored the guardians’ backstory in a bit more detail, the main plot ties up nicely, leaving readers both satisfied and eager to learn more about Star Island’s mystical world.

With a dash of well-balanced spice and enchanting magical elements, *Bewitching Rosemary* is perfect for readers looking for a cozy, romantic escape that’s equal parts whimsy and heart. Highly recommended for fans of witchy romance with a hint of danger and a lot of charm.

Thanks for the ARC, Netgalley and Colleen Delaney. I would first say there is a lot of spice but of course my opinion. Rosemary’s character is pretty straight forward and fun and just free. The Bay sisters have great relationships with each other, definitely a good sisterhood. There could’ve been more info regarding Asher! It was an interesting read if you’re into witches.

I love this book! I got drawn into the story right away, I loved Rosemary and her hippie ways and her sisters too! The main man was great as well. Loved it!

Rosemary Bay has been dreaming about meeting her soulmate since she was 16. One night, he unexpectedly shows up at her door in the form of Sheriff Asher Evans looking into the disappearance of a witch she helped her sister banish to another world. The missing witch's brother, Ivan, has been heckling the Sheriff Evans about the disappearance and is convinced that the Bay sisters had something to do with it. How will Rosemary and the new sheriff navigate the pull between each other?

Perfect read for a witchy October! I really enjoyed Rosemary's free spirit and hippie vibes, naked dancing is always an added bonus. I enjoyed the relationship between the 5 Bay sisters and their camaraderie. I was confused for a little bit when she was living through her past life but then get pretty sucked into that life. The love, grief, and bravery of Gundrun, you go girl! The spice was an added bonus. I made the mistake of starting with book 2 so I will need to go back and read book 1.

Thank you Netgalley and City Owl Press for providing me with an ARC!

I received this ARC on Netgalley for honest feedback.

After reading The Hedge Witch, I knew I wanted more of the Bay sisters. I'm so ready for the other three sisters to get their books.

This book follows Rosemary and her sisters, who are all witches. The authors take on how witchcraft, past lives(reincarnation), and a bit of spice thrown in is really well done. The characters have real development, and feel like you know them.

This book was just as cozy and spicy as the first in the series. Spice wasn't the main focus, and there was actual plot with the story. 3/5 🌶️

Lovely, cozy and smutty read. Loved it! The idea with the sisters is fantastic and cant wait to read about the others! Would recommend to anybody that likes the mated mates/soulmates trope, some nice smut and an overall cozy vibe with a lovely family setting.
What I liked:
- the smut, really well written, good amount, no complains
- the family, the sisters, its just great and adds so much to the feeling of the book
- the story idea with the soulmates, a curse and a small mystery for each sister to discover their part

What I didnt like:
- the past life part dragged a bit for me and was kind of sad, I see the importance of it and how it enhanced the story but still I feel like it could have been shorter?
- I have so many magical questions that I only hope will be answered in the following books

Thanks to netgalley and City Owl Press for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review

I am seriously eating this series up, no crumbs left behind. The Hedge Witch was a great first book of the series and I know the other sister’s books are going to be even more amazing because they will keep adding to the story. They’re not insanely long, so it doesn’t ever feel like the plot drags on.
Rosemary is such a fun character, I love that she is so free but sure of herself, she has relatable flaws and I think it’s amazing she’s a confident sexual being. The spice in this is just the perfect amount too.
I really liked the addition of other magical types of people in this, knowing there’s some type of underground witchy government (the councils) also gives the plot some depth to it too. I did think the introduction of the guardians at the end was a bit rushed, I would have liked a little bit more from the conversation with Asher’s biological dad’s friend.
Also, the past lives aspect of this one was insanely well done, Gundrun’s story was heart wrenching and beautiful it actually made me tear up. I feel very lucky to have been able to read this arc and would definitely recommend.

This series is quickly becoming one of my favorites. I adore the sisters and their journey to find their soulmates while grappling with their curse. Rosemary and Asher made a sizzling couple—there's nothing quite like the combination of a wild witch and a cop, right? I appreciate how the story weaves in past life regression; I hope this theme carries on for the other sisters, as it truly adds a unique touch to the narratives.

I truly enjoyed this book! I loved the main idea of the story and thought that the writing style was very unique. It is easy to read, a fun/fast paced book, and very entertaining. I loved seeing into the main characters past lives. I did think that many parts of the story needed a little more detail and that the author was trying too hard to include sex into the book. Don’t get me wrong, I am all about a spicy scene. But sex magic that fixes roads, a blowjob spell that makes people trust you… yikes. It felt very forced. The scenes were well written and didn’t use any of the phrases that make us readers roll our eyes. I really did like the plot and will continue to follow the series.