Book Review: “Witch of Wild Things” by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland

“Witch of Wild Things” by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland is a total page-turner that mixes magic, sisterhood, and a dash of romance into one spellbinding story.

In my teens and 20s, I was an avid reader, but lately, I’ve been struggling to stay focused when I pick up a book. COVID, TikTok, or perhaps my ADHD might be to blame. A friend recommended I try “spicy” books, which piqued my interest. I’ll admit, I chose this particular book solely based on its attractive cover—I’m a sucker for aesthetics. Surprisingly, it turned out to be the first book I’ve truly enjoyed in a while. I savored the story’s mild spice and whimsical charm. Reading it on vacation with a margarita in hand only added to the experience, leaving me feeling a bit sad when I reached the end.

What is Witch of The Wild Things about?

Legend goes that long ago a Flores woman offended the old gods, and their family was cursed as a result. Now, every woman born to the family has a touch of magic.

Sage Flores has been running from her family—and their “gifts”—ever since her younger sister Sky died. Eight years later, Sage reluctantly returns to her hometown. Like slipping into an old, comforting sweater, Sage takes back her job at Cranberry Rose Company and uses her ability to communicate with plants to discover unusual heritage specimens in the surrounding lands.

What should be a simple task is complicated by her partner in botany sleuthing: Tennessee Reyes. He broke her heart in high school, and she never fully recovered. Working together is reminding her of all their past tender, genuine moments—and new feelings for this mature sexy man are starting to take root in her heart.

With rare plants to find, a dead sister who keeps bringing her coffee, and another sister whose anger fills the sky with lightning, Sage doesn’t have time for romance. But being with Tenn is like standing in the middle of a field on the cusp of a summer thunderstorm—supercharged and inevitable.

How spicy is Witch of the Wild things?

I’d define this book as light spice. Nothing too smutty or graphic, a nice blend of romantic and steamy.

Spice rating of 2/5

What I Liked

This book hits the sweet spot with its mix of light spice and just the right amount of sensuality. It’s sexy without going overboard, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the story. The magic in the book is seriously enchanting, making you wish you had a little witchy power of your own. Plus, the bond between the sisters feels so real – love, competition, and all. Gilliland’s writing draws you in and makes you feel like you’re right there in the story, living it alongside the characters.

What I Wasn’t Crazy About

Okay, so there’s this one moment towards the end where you kinda have to just go with it and suspend your disbelief. It might feel a little far-fetched for some readers, but it’s worth it to keep the story rolling.

Buy Online: Witch of Wild Things