top of page

Book Review: Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin – Witches, Witch Hunters, and Witty Banter, Oh My!

Hold onto your broomsticks, folks! Serpent & Dove by Shelby Mahurin is a magical whirlwind of a book that will have you spellbound from start to finish. If you’re a fan of witty banter, steamy romance, and a good old-fashioned enemies-to-lovers trope, then grab your wand and get ready for an enchanting ride.

Concept art of a man holding a woman
Reid and Lou from Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin

The Lowdown


In a nutshell, Serpent & Dove is the story of Lou, a witch hiding from her coven, and Reid, a witch hunter who—surprise, surprise—hates witches. Through a series of unfortunate events and one highly awkward arranged marriage, these two polar opposites are forced to coexist under one roof. Cue the sparks flying, and not just the magical kind.


Tropes Galore!


Mahurin doesn’t hold back when it comes to sprinkling in some of our favorite tropes, and let me tell you, she does it with flair.

  1. Enemies to Lovers: This classic trope is at the heart of Serpent & Dove. Lou and Reid start off despising each other, and honestly, who doesn’t love watching that fiery hate turn into fiery passion? The tension is so thick you could cut it with a witch’s dagger.

  2. Forced Proximity: There’s nothing like an arranged marriage to bring two adversaries closer together. The forced proximity trope ensures plenty of steamy, awkward, and downright hilarious moments.

  3. Forbidden Love: What’s more forbidden than a witch falling for a witch hunter? This trope adds an extra layer of intrigue and keeps you on the edge of your seat, wondering how they’ll ever reconcile their differences.


Magical Content


The world-building in Serpent & Dove is top-notch. Mahurin creates a richly detailed universe where witches live in fear of being hunted and burned at the stake. The magic system is well thought out, and Lou’s street-smart, cunning use of her powers contrasts beautifully with Reid’s rigid, law-abiding approach to his duties as a Chasseur (witch hunter).



A man holding a woman
Reid and Lou from Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin

The Love Story


Now, let’s talk about the real magic: the love story between Lou and Reid. These two characters are as different as night and day, but their chemistry is undeniable.

  • Lou: She’s a sassy, independent witch with a sharp tongue and a heart of gold (well, mostly). Her snarky comments and devil-may-care attitude make her an incredibly likable protagonist. Lou is the kind of character you want to be friends with, even if she might turn you into a frog for fun.

  • Reid: Ah, Reid. The brooding, uptight witch hunter with a surprising vulnerability. His journey from viewing the world in black and white to navigating the many shades of gray is beautifully written. Watching him struggle with his growing feelings for Lou while clinging to his duty is both heart-wrenching and heartwarming.

Their relationship is a slow burn, filled with witty banter, heartfelt moments, and just the right amount of swoon-worthy romance. It’s the kind of love story that makes you believe in the power of opposites attracting.


Final Thoughts on Serpent and Dove


Serpent & Dove is a bewitching blend of romance, adventure, and magic. Shelby Mahurin has crafted a tale that is both engaging and entertaining, filled with dynamic characters and a love story that will leave you enchanted. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the enemies-to-lovers trope or just looking for a spellbinding read, this book is sure to cast its charm on you.


So, grab a copy of Serpent & Dove, settle into your favorite reading nook, and prepare to be swept off your feet by Lou and Reid’s magical journey. Just remember, in the world of witches and witch hunters, nothing is ever as it seems.


And if you're looking for another book with forbidden love and some tasty enemies-to-lovers vibes, take a look at Dissent where a delicious love triangle between the daughter of a vicious dictator and two rebels will have you drooling and your heart pounding with all the action.


book cover for Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin
Book Review for Serpent and Dove by Shelby Mahurin

6 views0 comments

Comments


bottom of page