“His eyes flip open and pin me in place with ardor. There, that’s what I want; destroy me with a look, take me apart piece by piece, leave nothing behind.”
― Sara Raasch, The Entanglement of Rival Wizards

The Entanglement of Rival Wizards by Sara Raasch is the first book in the Magic and Romance series. Sara Raasch has written one of my favorite series, Royals and Romance, so when I saw this new series, I knew I needed to give it a try and I am glad I did!

Two rival graduate student wizards compete for a prestigious research grant in The Entanglement of Rival Wizards. This enemies-to-lovers fantasy academia romantic comedy brings the two main characters to the edge of sanity as they are forced to work together despite their differences.

Sebastian Walsh represents the Evocation Department. He is the first of his human family to choose college over the military. Elethior Tourael represents the Conjuration Department. He is half elf from a very prestigious and wealthy family in charge of a magical weapons manufacturing empire. Both Sebastian and Elethior are finalists for the Mageus Research Grant, a grant that has the power to change both of their lives. Imagine the shock when it’s announced that Sebastian and Elethior are the co-winners of the grant! They must work together and share the grant money. Forced to share the lab, supplies, and their research, their relationship turns volatile! But wait. Is that a spark? Of lust? Or romance? Falling for their rival could either destroy their lives or set them on a course to change the world.

The Entanglement of Rival Wizards is a spicy open-door, enemies-to-lovers romance, but it’s also so much more than just a romance. Elethior and Sebastian are dealing with trauma, insecurities, family expectations and dynamics, and strong emotions. Watching Elethior and Sebastian grow and advocate for themselves and others was refreshing. The author also explores platonic, familial, and romantic love and how these three types of love influence relationships. Check out this book if you are looking for a spicy, forced proximity, chaotic romance. I can’t wait to read the other books in this series!