Thank you to NetGalley for this early edition. This was an absolute joy to read!
Synopsis: Belle Blackthorn is still considered a witch...kind of. At 29, her magical prowess has fallen to the wayside as she focuses on simply just surviving. Lunar Books is her pride and joy but with no self-confidence to take over the store as the old manager passes it along, it falls into the hands of a horrible new boss. On top of that, about to turn 30, she receives a mysterious letter, delivered by a mysterious (and handsome) guy about a witch trial she now has to attend. A trial where they asses her use of her magic for the past 15 years and determine if she is worthy to keep it for life. Teamed up with an unlikely mentor, Belle learns what it takes to be a witch and to truly believe in herself.
Plot: This was everything I wanted and more. A perfect fall cozy fantasy read that needs to be on everyones TBR. I love love loved this. Not only does it feature a bookstore with a lot of cozy charm, but follows a witch as she learns to come into her magic and herself more. There is an animal companion, a wonderful best friend, a banter-filled romance, and a tight mother-daughter bond. What more could you ask for? I felt all the emotions when reading this: I swooned, I laughed, and was almost brought to tears by the sincerity of the characters and the sweet relationships and found family they create. I loved all of the magical aspects including the coven and its intricacies. And despite this being a cozy fantasy, there was still an epic battle at the end and a lot of twists and turns along the way. When I finally got into this, I got INTO it, and couldn't put it down.
Characters: The characters have to steal the show for cozy fantasies to hit their mark, and they definitely did here. I am so in love with each one and they all brought their individuality to the story to just make it that much more special. Arty is especially one that I adored, and every time he was on the page I was swept away with sweetness. What an adorable character! I also have to say that I appreciate that even though there was a romance aspect to this, it was never overwhelming the plot in any way. Both characters still stood on their own and their eventual attraction toward each other was never forced and instead was another added element to the overall storyline. Belle is so special and I think a lot of people will be able to relate to her. I appreciate that this wasn't another 20-year-old trying to figure out their life, but instead a 30-year-old trying to find their spark again.
Will be immediately buying a copy when this hits the shelves in September.
4.5 stars.
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