Aguirre's third Fix-it Witches paranormal rom-com (after Boss Witch) delightfully defies gender stereotypes while delivering both heat and heart. Career-driven, politically minded witch Leanne Vanderpol is tired of the old boys' club she's up against in her job in the mayor's office, spurring her to run for office herself. But, 37 and twice divorced, she realizes that, to win, her image may need a tiny bit of tweaking in the form of a nice, stable man in her life. Enter Trevor Montgomery. At 33, Trev's life consists largely of weed and video games in his parents' basement, and he struggles with low self-esteem, depression, and his bad relationships with his toxic family. His world is turned upside down when Leanne zeros in on him to play her fake husband, in exchange offering to get him out of the basement. The resulting madcap romance gives a blatant middle finger to toxic masculinity as driven Leanne and nurturing Trev work together to trump the patriarchy. While lighter on the supernatural elements than most in its subgenre (the magic is mostly set-dressing), this celebration of healthy relationships offers characters readers will fall in love with and an off-the-charts heat level. The result is an absolute joy. Agent: Lucienne Diver, Knight Agency. (Oct.)

Career-minded witch Leanne Vanderpol has been married (and divorced) twice and has no plans to do it again. Then she realizes her local political campaign has a greater chance of success if she appears settled. Trevor Montgomery, on the other hand, has no ambition or direction in life. His failed college relationship started a downward spiral, and his toxic family relationship has left him with no confidence but plenty of depression. These two are the unlikeliest of couples, but each might be exactly what the other needs. This opposites-attract paranormal romantic comedy is the third in Aguirre's "Fix-It Witches" series (following Boss Witch) but can be read as a stand-alone and is arguably the most riveting installment so far. Leanne and Trevor are likable and empathetic characters with relatable emotional baggage. Their mutually beneficial, steamy relationship will give readers hope that there really is someone for everyone. VERDICT Highly recommended for all public library collections.--Heather Miller Cover