Hexmaker is the second book in Jordan L. Hawk’s Hexworld series of m/m paranormal historical fiction novels. I’m pretty sure I started reading this almost immediately after finishing Hexbreaker– the first book in the series.

Dr. Owen Yates appeared in Hexbreaker, and he’s ready to take on a more central role. Owen comes from one of the wealthiest families in the city, but he enjoys working for the magical police force as a forensic henchman. He first crosses paths with fox shifter Malachi when the latter is implicated in a murder. Malachi didn’t do it, and Owen is probably the only person who can help him prove his innocence.

Owen and Malachi realize that they share a strong bond, and are meant to be paired together as witch and familiar. But their bond extends beyond that, and they can’t deny the physical attraction simmering between them. But Owen is supposed to get married soon- an arranged marriage- and he’s torn between familial obligations and what he truly wants to do/who he wants to be with. And as if that wasn’t enough to contend with, there is still the murder investigation.

I was absolutely enchanted by Hawk’s alternate New York City when I was introduced to it in Hexbreaker, and I love the way that Hawk built upon that world in Hexmaker. In this book, there is more of a focus on class dynamics; some wealthy witches prevent their familiars from shifting out of animal form. There is also a power dynamic aspect to Owen and Malachi’s relationship, except that Malachi is the dominant one- a clear twist on their difference in social status. Either way, their chemistry is amazing

I would absolutely recommend Hexmaker. This book functions well as a standalone, but readers really ought to start with Hexbreaker to gain a full appreciation and understanding for the New York City of Hexworld. I am looking forward to reading the rest of this series, as well as Hawk’s other series. They are my favorite author, and I am looking forward to reading more of their books in the future.