#BookReview - "Mystic Maples" by Tena Stetler

Blurb

Earth/Fire witch Mercy Rose's insatiable curiosity always gets her in trouble. After a break-in at her Colorado flower shop, and a court battle that comes to a screeching halt in her favor, she arrives at Deerbourne Inn for a much-needed getaway. Looking for peace and quiet, she finds just the opposite in a startling handsome but mysterious man and his dog. 

Silvanus Forrest's gypsy/fae heritage is a double-edged sword. The land he inherited from his parents is rumored to be enchanted. But when Mercy discovers the truth, his well-ordered life unravels, and they're catapulted into the past to right a wrong. Along the way their lives intertwine, and they discover the true meaning of family and love. Will they change the past in time to save their future?

Review

In this Deerbourne Inn series novella, elemental witch Mercy Rose goes to Willow Springs for a six-month retreat. After a scheduling conflict with her reservations at the inn, she rents a cottage at the local maple farm and soon learns her sexy new landlord is more than he appears.

Silvanus Forrest produces very popular maple syrup on his private enchanted estate. He’s part Fae and part Gypsy, and since past generations of his family have acted less than proper, he does his best to act as normal as possible. He’s built a steady reputation for himself and the business, and doesn’t want anything—even a delectable witch—to ruin that.

Despite being a witch in a mortal world, Mercy was very open and honest with Sil about what she was, and I found her straightforwardness refreshing. Jobs, friends, and family often intervened in the development of their relationship, which is common in the real world, but sparks sizzled when they were together. The sex scenes were super hot!

Even though this story is a paranormal contemporary romance, there is some time travel, but it plays a very minor role and is wrapped up quickly.

There are lots of secondary characters, including both the H/h’s families, which add flair and more depth to the main characters. The story takes place over several months and throughout four big holidays (Fourth of July, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas), which allows Mercy and Sil the time they need to fall in love.

Ms. Stetler writes a very vivid narrative. The holiday decorations, buildings, scenery, etc are greatly detailed. There were a few minor typos, but I enjoyed the characters and plot, and would love to read more of the author’s books.

4 Stars

Disclaimer – I volunteered to read and review this book. Thank you, Tena Stetler, for sending me an ebook copy. I am not paid or compensated in any way, shape, or form for this review. I will not change or alter this review for any reason unless at my discretion.