A Sip of Magic: A Witchy Fantasy Romance (The Velvet Teahouse Witches) by Kate Swansea

Gold Winner in Romance: FWA 2025 Royal Palm Literary Awards A war is brewing between a witch and her new, grumpy but gorgeous, warlock neighbor. 28-year-old Serena never expected to receive a dark omen in her cup of tea right after moving to the quaint, seaside town of Pembrooke, Oregon. Even so, she’s not about to let a little death threat stop her from fulfilling her dream: opening a teahouse that serves brews spiked with a little healing magic. Even if it is strictly forbidden. After all, healing people is the only thing this wandering free spirit has ever really been good at. Soon a unique haven arises, offering thetownspeople a touch of the extraordinary, and lonely witches a safe spot to find each other. Enter Jared, the grumpy but sexy attorney from across the street. The snag? He also sits on the strict Magic Council, and he’s going to do whatever it takes—sabotage included—to shut down her magical establishment and run her out of town. Jared's efforts spark a fiery war between them. But beneath his gruff exterior lies dark secrets and a growing attraction that Serena finds increasingly hard to ignore. Yet something far more dangerous lurks in the shadows. An ominous presence stalks Serena, threatening the entire town, and making her question whom she can trust. And when the darkness closes in, Serena may be forced to trust the very man trying to ruin her. Read more