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A Curious Kind of Magic
Howl's Moving Castle meets Little Thieves in this cozy fantasy about the teenage owner of a (mostly fake) magical curiosity shop and a girl cursed to turn everything she touches into magic.
Everyone in Ardmuir knows that Willow Stokes is a charlatan, including Willow herself. Her father's shoppe hasn't sold anything magical in decades, and it's only hanging on by the skin of the fake dragon's teeth Willow sells as charms, along with “enchanted” ostrich eggs, taxidermied chimeras, and talismans made of fools' gold.
Until outlander Brianna Hargrave appears and turns Willow's fakes into exactly what they're purported to be. But try as Willow might to enlist Bri's help, she wants nothing to do with Willow and her curiosities.
Because Brianna is harboring a secret of her own: everything she touches turns to magic, and the consequences have chased her all the way to Ardmuir. All she wants to do is find a particular missing grimoire, which contains a spell that can finally put an end to her curse.
Desperate to keep her father's shoppe, Willow proposes a bargain that could save them both. Together with the frustratingly handsome printer's assistant, the girls will uncover a plot that goes far deeper than either could have imagined. But when Willow is forced to participate in an ambitious collector's quest for the rarest magical object in the world-a quest that risks almost-certain death-she learns that not all treasure is for sale, and that true magic is closer than she ever could have imagined.
Everyone in Ardmuir knows that Willow Stokes is a charlatan, including Willow herself. Her father's shoppe hasn't sold anything magical in decades, and it's only hanging on by the skin of the fake dragon's teeth Willow sells as charms, along with “enchanted” ostrich eggs, taxidermied chimeras, and talismans made of fools' gold.
Until outlander Brianna Hargrave appears and turns Willow's fakes into exactly what they're purported to be. But try as Willow might to enlist Bri's help, she wants nothing to do with Willow and her curiosities.
Because Brianna is harboring a secret of her own: everything she touches turns to magic, and the consequences have chased her all the way to Ardmuir. All she wants to do is find a particular missing grimoire, which contains a spell that can finally put an end to her curse.
Desperate to keep her father's shoppe, Willow proposes a bargain that could save them both. Together with the frustratingly handsome printer's assistant, the girls will uncover a plot that goes far deeper than either could have imagined. But when Willow is forced to participate in an ambitious collector's quest for the rarest magical object in the world-a quest that risks almost-certain death-she learns that not all treasure is for sale, and that true magic is closer than she ever could have imagined.
Unknown Binding
First published October 21, 2025
115 people are currently reading
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About the author
Mara Rutherford
8 books1,531 followersMara Rutherford began her writing career as a journalist but quickly discovered she far preferred fantasy to reality. A triplet born on Leap Day, Mara has lived all over the world with her diplomat husband and two sons. She is the author of Crown of Coral and Pearl and its sequel, Kingdom of Sea and Stone; Luminous; The Poison Season; and A Multitude of Dreams. Her next book, A CURIOUS KIND OF MAGIC, releases Fall '25 from Wednesday Books.
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June 23, 2025
This was such a cozy fantasy novel, filled with magic! This book is in the young adult genre. It comes with a fun storyline, lovable characters and mystery! It made me feel lighthearted, adventurous, hopeful and relaxed. It’s one of those books that you can just sit by the fire, enjoy a nice cup or tea, and take your time reading. Oh, let’s not forget a warm fuzzy blanket to snuggle up with. This fantasy book centers around a teenage girl named Willow Stokes, who runs her dad’s fake magic shop. All items in this shop aren’t magical at all. She has her reasoning behind this, that we learn later on in the story.
Willow is still running her non magical shop, until a special someone that has special abilities walks in! A girl named Brianna walks into the shop and turns the items in the shop into real magic. Brianna is cursed with a gift that turns original objects into magical objects! With Brianna’s touch, the shop changes all of the non magical items to real, genuine magical items! They end up going on a quest with a good looking printer’s assistant! On this quest, they discover hidden magic and deception. A deep connection forms during this quest, as they explain their unique abilities! This book was such a fun, magical ride that I did not want to get off of! I give this book a solid 4 out of 5 stars rating!
I think fans of YA magical fantasy books will enjoy reading this one! Cussing is the only content warning.
Thank you to NetGalley, author Mara Rutherford and St. Martin's Press | Wednesday Books for this electronic arc of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book is expected to be published on October 21, 2025!
Willow is still running her non magical shop, until a special someone that has special abilities walks in! A girl named Brianna walks into the shop and turns the items in the shop into real magic. Brianna is cursed with a gift that turns original objects into magical objects! With Brianna’s touch, the shop changes all of the non magical items to real, genuine magical items! They end up going on a quest with a good looking printer’s assistant! On this quest, they discover hidden magic and deception. A deep connection forms during this quest, as they explain their unique abilities! This book was such a fun, magical ride that I did not want to get off of! I give this book a solid 4 out of 5 stars rating!
I think fans of YA magical fantasy books will enjoy reading this one! Cussing is the only content warning.
Thank you to NetGalley, author Mara Rutherford and St. Martin's Press | Wednesday Books for this electronic arc of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
This book is expected to be published on October 21, 2025!
October 20, 2025
★★★★★ A SPELLBINDING TALE OF FAKE MAGIC & REAL HEART
Move over, ordinary fantasies—A Curious Kind of Magic isn’t just a story; it’s a glittering, whimsical experience. Mara Rutherford crafts a world where deception dances with enchantment, and the most extraordinary magic often hides in the unlikeliest places. If you’ve ever wished to stumble into a shop brimming with peculiar wonders (even if they’re fakes), this book is your golden ticket.
A SHOP OF LIES—AND ONE LIFE-CHANGING TRUTH
Willow Stokes is Ardmuir’s most notorious fraud, peddling bogus charms and fabricated relics to keep her father’s failing curiosity shop afloat. Her “enchanted” wares are as real as a unicorn in a petting zoo—until Brianna Hargrave walks in. With a single touch, Brianna transforms Willow’s shams into genuine marvels. But she’s no savior; she’s a fugitive from her own curse, one that turns everything she touches into magic—whether she wants it to or not.
Their reluctant alliance is pure alchemy: Willow’s desperate cunning clashes with Brianna’s wary resilience, sparking a partnership that’s equal parts friction and fire. Add Finlay, the achingly kind printer’s assistant with a heart of solid gold, and you’ve got a trio so dynamic, they’ll steal your affection faster than a pickpocket in a marketplace.
WHY THIS BOOK IS PURE MAGIC
A Heroine You’ll Cheer For (And Occasionally Want to Shake)
Willow is a glorious mess—sharp-tongued, stubborn, and fiercely loyal, even when she’s making terrible decisions. Her growth from a girl clinging to lies to someone brave enough to face hard truths is nothing short of spellbinding.
A Curse That’s Both Gift and Prison
Brianna’s magic isn’t just a plot device; it’s a poignant metaphor for the burdens we carry. Her journey from isolation to belonging is woven with such tenderness, you’ll feel every flicker of her hope and fear.
Cozy Vibes with a Dash of Danger
Picture cobblestone streets, cluttered shelves of oddities, and the warm hum of a found family coming together—then toss in a high-stakes quest that’ll leave you breathless. The balance between quiet, heartfelt moments and pulse-pounding twists is flawless.
A LOVE LETTER TO SECOND CHANCES
At its core, this is a story about rewriting your destiny. Willow, Brianna, and Finlay each grapple with legacy, loss, and the courage to choose their own paths. The emotional payoff is so satisfying, I hugged my Kindle when I finished. (And yes, I cried. No shame.)
FINAL VERDICT:
A Curious Kind of Magic is a masterpiece of charm and depth, blending wit, warmth, and a touch of whimsy into a narrative that feels like coming home. Whether you’re a fan of The House in the Cerulean Sea’s coziness or Sorcery of Thorns’ adventurous spirit, Rutherford’s latest will leave you utterly bewitched.
HUGE THANKS to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press | Wednesday Books for granting me this dazzling digital ARC in exchange for my honest review. This book is a treasure—and I’ll be shouting about it from the rooftops!
★★★★★ (Infinity stars, if I could!)
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Move over, ordinary fantasies—A Curious Kind of Magic isn’t just a story; it’s a glittering, whimsical experience. Mara Rutherford crafts a world where deception dances with enchantment, and the most extraordinary magic often hides in the unlikeliest places. If you’ve ever wished to stumble into a shop brimming with peculiar wonders (even if they’re fakes), this book is your golden ticket.
A SHOP OF LIES—AND ONE LIFE-CHANGING TRUTH
Willow Stokes is Ardmuir’s most notorious fraud, peddling bogus charms and fabricated relics to keep her father’s failing curiosity shop afloat. Her “enchanted” wares are as real as a unicorn in a petting zoo—until Brianna Hargrave walks in. With a single touch, Brianna transforms Willow’s shams into genuine marvels. But she’s no savior; she’s a fugitive from her own curse, one that turns everything she touches into magic—whether she wants it to or not.
Their reluctant alliance is pure alchemy: Willow’s desperate cunning clashes with Brianna’s wary resilience, sparking a partnership that’s equal parts friction and fire. Add Finlay, the achingly kind printer’s assistant with a heart of solid gold, and you’ve got a trio so dynamic, they’ll steal your affection faster than a pickpocket in a marketplace.
WHY THIS BOOK IS PURE MAGIC
A Heroine You’ll Cheer For (And Occasionally Want to Shake)
Willow is a glorious mess—sharp-tongued, stubborn, and fiercely loyal, even when she’s making terrible decisions. Her growth from a girl clinging to lies to someone brave enough to face hard truths is nothing short of spellbinding.
A Curse That’s Both Gift and Prison
Brianna’s magic isn’t just a plot device; it’s a poignant metaphor for the burdens we carry. Her journey from isolation to belonging is woven with such tenderness, you’ll feel every flicker of her hope and fear.
Cozy Vibes with a Dash of Danger
Picture cobblestone streets, cluttered shelves of oddities, and the warm hum of a found family coming together—then toss in a high-stakes quest that’ll leave you breathless. The balance between quiet, heartfelt moments and pulse-pounding twists is flawless.
A LOVE LETTER TO SECOND CHANCES
At its core, this is a story about rewriting your destiny. Willow, Brianna, and Finlay each grapple with legacy, loss, and the courage to choose their own paths. The emotional payoff is so satisfying, I hugged my Kindle when I finished. (And yes, I cried. No shame.)
FINAL VERDICT:
A Curious Kind of Magic is a masterpiece of charm and depth, blending wit, warmth, and a touch of whimsy into a narrative that feels like coming home. Whether you’re a fan of The House in the Cerulean Sea’s coziness or Sorcery of Thorns’ adventurous spirit, Rutherford’s latest will leave you utterly bewitched.
HUGE THANKS to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press | Wednesday Books for granting me this dazzling digital ARC in exchange for my honest review. This book is a treasure—and I’ll be shouting about it from the rooftops!
★★★★★ (Infinity stars, if I could!)
Follow me on medium.com to read my articles about books, movies, streaming series, astrology:
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June 3, 2025
Working in a magical curiosity shop is actually my dream job, thank you for asking. Well ok, it might not be half as magical as expected. At least it's not for protagonist and curiosity shoppe owner Willow Stokes. Everyone knows that she only sells fake magic and useless trinkets, like the talismans that are really just normal jewelry or the mythical creatures that are nothing more than creative taxidermy jobs. Her business is not flourishing to say the least, but she is determined to keep her late father's shop alive. Luck might be on her side when Willow crosses paths with Brianna, a girl who is cursed to turn everything she touches into magic. The two of them don't have the best start, but they eventually strike a deal that will safe Willow's shop and break Brianna's curse.
This book was really everything I want from a cozy fantasy novel. It's pitched as Howl's Moving Castle meets Little Thieves, and these are two of my favorite things so no wonder I was smitten by A Curious Kind of Magic too. I don't really see the Howl comparison, safe for the curse-breaking in general and that one movie scene that shows Howl's cluttered bedroom full of talismans and magical objects. The Little Thieves comp makes a lot of sense to me though, because Willow is very similar to Vanya. She's direct and sarcastic, a bit shady, a bit terrible. Her personality may be a deal breaker for other readers, but I found her to be pretty relatable. I think that this book did a great job with showing how inner problems can shape the outward personality of a person. I liked not only Willow, but also Brianna who lives an isolated life due to her curse, and Finlay, the softest and most caring boy who deals with his mother's sickness. The romance was cute too, even if Willow was in denial for a big part of the book, but I understand that she had the mindset of not deserving any love. This book just checked a lot of my boxes and worked perfectly for me. I only have very little criticism and it doesn't lessen my overall enjoyment of this book at all. It was a little strange that the characters were teenagers, because everyone seemed so self-sufficient and parents were mostly out of the picture. It's a YA novel, but it would have worked fine as an adult cozy fantasy with only a few adjustments. What's really weird to me is that the synopsis mentions a plot line that doesn't start until the 60% mark of the book. I didn't mind too much, because I was already in love and because I honestly only read like one sentence of the summary, but I can imagine that this will bring up the wrong expectations for this book. Just know that a lot of time is spent on re-inventing the magic shop and on the chaotic search for a grimoire, and that this book is mostly not the adventurous quest that is kinda implied in the synopsis. Anyway, that was not a problem for me and I was very much enchanted by this little (magic) shop. I'm off to check out Mara Rutherford's backlist now. Let me know if you have any recommendations in this regard.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for providing a digital arc in exchange for an honest review.
This book was really everything I want from a cozy fantasy novel. It's pitched as Howl's Moving Castle meets Little Thieves, and these are two of my favorite things so no wonder I was smitten by A Curious Kind of Magic too. I don't really see the Howl comparison, safe for the curse-breaking in general and that one movie scene that shows Howl's cluttered bedroom full of talismans and magical objects. The Little Thieves comp makes a lot of sense to me though, because Willow is very similar to Vanya. She's direct and sarcastic, a bit shady, a bit terrible. Her personality may be a deal breaker for other readers, but I found her to be pretty relatable. I think that this book did a great job with showing how inner problems can shape the outward personality of a person. I liked not only Willow, but also Brianna who lives an isolated life due to her curse, and Finlay, the softest and most caring boy who deals with his mother's sickness. The romance was cute too, even if Willow was in denial for a big part of the book, but I understand that she had the mindset of not deserving any love. This book just checked a lot of my boxes and worked perfectly for me. I only have very little criticism and it doesn't lessen my overall enjoyment of this book at all. It was a little strange that the characters were teenagers, because everyone seemed so self-sufficient and parents were mostly out of the picture. It's a YA novel, but it would have worked fine as an adult cozy fantasy with only a few adjustments. What's really weird to me is that the synopsis mentions a plot line that doesn't start until the 60% mark of the book. I didn't mind too much, because I was already in love and because I honestly only read like one sentence of the summary, but I can imagine that this will bring up the wrong expectations for this book. Just know that a lot of time is spent on re-inventing the magic shop and on the chaotic search for a grimoire, and that this book is mostly not the adventurous quest that is kinda implied in the synopsis. Anyway, that was not a problem for me and I was very much enchanted by this little (magic) shop. I'm off to check out Mara Rutherford's backlist now. Let me know if you have any recommendations in this regard.
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for providing a digital arc in exchange for an honest review.
October 31, 2025
2 Stars
One Liner: Depends on how much you like the FMC
Everyone in Ardmuir knows that Willow Stokes is fake, including herself. Her father’s shoppe hasn’t sold a genuine magical product in decades. Brianna Hargrave, an outlander, appears and turns Willow’s fakes into real magic. Too bad Bri wants nothing to do with Willow and her curiosities. That’s because Bri is troubled by secrets of her own and needs to find a spell to end the curse on her.
The girls make a bargain to help each other, only for it to become a dangerous quest that could demand more than they can give.
The story comes in Willow’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
Sometimes, I wonder if I should copyright the one-liner, given how much I use it for YA fantasy reads. Also, my weakness for great covers is what lands me in this situation. This is one pattern I can’t seem to break!
There’s no denying the premise—it is intriguing, promises adventure, and a good dose of drama. The characters, kind of okay, except for the FMC, who is also our narrator. The book would be 100 pages shorter if she hadn’t acted the way she did.
This is supposed to be a cozy fantasy, which is a genre I like. The cozy part is okay, I suppose, though the world-building really isn’t tangible. It’s some historical setting with some sort of access to magic for certain people. Nothing really complex or alluring about it.
The FMC is supposed to be grumpy, selfish, prickly, etc., so you can imagine how it goes for most of the book. Yeah, annoying. Bri was pretty cool based on what we know, which is not much despite all that information. Finlay was… he was this sweet, patient, kind, and loving guy, which should have made him a darling, but it managed to turn him into a bland personality.
The writing wasn’t great either, since the pacing is slow and uneven, while still not creating any atmosphere or vibe. After the first half, I started to speed-read. That helped a lot.
Sadly, the villain wasn’t great either. They had plenty of potential, which went underutilized since their direct entry itself comes rather late and doesn’t leave much space to show the villainous side.
What I did like were a few side characters with limited roles. They saved a book a little. Moreover, a few scenes between the FMC and Bri were quite good.
To summarize, A Curious Kind of Magic made me curious but ended up being an unsatisfactory read. I’m a bit of an outliner, so please check other reviews before you decide.
Thank you, NetGalley and St. Martin's Press (Wednesday Books), for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #ACuriousKindOfMagic
One Liner: Depends on how much you like the FMC
Everyone in Ardmuir knows that Willow Stokes is fake, including herself. Her father’s shoppe hasn’t sold a genuine magical product in decades. Brianna Hargrave, an outlander, appears and turns Willow’s fakes into real magic. Too bad Bri wants nothing to do with Willow and her curiosities. That’s because Bri is troubled by secrets of her own and needs to find a spell to end the curse on her.
The girls make a bargain to help each other, only for it to become a dangerous quest that could demand more than they can give.
The story comes in Willow’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
Sometimes, I wonder if I should copyright the one-liner, given how much I use it for YA fantasy reads. Also, my weakness for great covers is what lands me in this situation. This is one pattern I can’t seem to break!
There’s no denying the premise—it is intriguing, promises adventure, and a good dose of drama. The characters, kind of okay, except for the FMC, who is also our narrator. The book would be 100 pages shorter if she hadn’t acted the way she did.
This is supposed to be a cozy fantasy, which is a genre I like. The cozy part is okay, I suppose, though the world-building really isn’t tangible. It’s some historical setting with some sort of access to magic for certain people. Nothing really complex or alluring about it.
The FMC is supposed to be grumpy, selfish, prickly, etc., so you can imagine how it goes for most of the book. Yeah, annoying. Bri was pretty cool based on what we know, which is not much despite all that information. Finlay was… he was this sweet, patient, kind, and loving guy, which should have made him a darling, but it managed to turn him into a bland personality.
The writing wasn’t great either, since the pacing is slow and uneven, while still not creating any atmosphere or vibe. After the first half, I started to speed-read. That helped a lot.
Sadly, the villain wasn’t great either. They had plenty of potential, which went underutilized since their direct entry itself comes rather late and doesn’t leave much space to show the villainous side.
What I did like were a few side characters with limited roles. They saved a book a little. Moreover, a few scenes between the FMC and Bri were quite good.
To summarize, A Curious Kind of Magic made me curious but ended up being an unsatisfactory read. I’m a bit of an outliner, so please check other reviews before you decide.
Thank you, NetGalley and St. Martin's Press (Wednesday Books), for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #ACuriousKindOfMagic
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October 21, 2025
A Curious Kind of Magic
by Mara Rutherford
YA Fantasy
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: Oct 21, 2025
St. Martin's Press/Wednesday Books
Ages: 12+
The shop Willow's father left her claims to have magical items, but everyone in town knows the things her father collected are fake. When a young woman ventures into the shop looking for a grimoire, a few of the items 'wake up'.
Seeing away to save her father's shop, Willow makes Brianna a deal, and together they begin to find not only success, but friendship.
But when a not-so-honest collector of magical items blackmails Willow into a risky quest, Willow discovers pieces to her past.
This is a cute, cozy YA fantasy that would capture the attention of younger readers. Sure, there is 'drama' and a 'bad guy', there are also 'life lessons' that adults could use while reading the story aloud to their kids/students. Willow's attitude towards life, her sorrow, and her self-discovery could give troubled kids an example of growth; that it can happen.
It kept at a pretty good pace, but I feel that there could've been more to the history of the world, especially since there were other 'kingdoms' that weren't really explained. Brianna came from one of these, so making sure the differences between the two places were explained would help readers understand why Brianna's own quest was so important.
I must admit that while I liked this story, I didn't care much for Willow's attitude. I get why she was the way she was, but more of her life with her father would've given the reader a deeper understanding of Willow before and after her father's death. Older readers would understand this without the extra detail, but younger readers might not, thus they wouldn't get a real understanding of Willow.
The cover is cute and it and the title fits the story pretty good. There is some violence/talk of violence, but it's not overly dramatic, so this is suitable for readers twelve and older.
Just made...
3 Stars
by Mara Rutherford
YA Fantasy
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: Oct 21, 2025
St. Martin's Press/Wednesday Books
Ages: 12+
The shop Willow's father left her claims to have magical items, but everyone in town knows the things her father collected are fake. When a young woman ventures into the shop looking for a grimoire, a few of the items 'wake up'.
Seeing away to save her father's shop, Willow makes Brianna a deal, and together they begin to find not only success, but friendship.
But when a not-so-honest collector of magical items blackmails Willow into a risky quest, Willow discovers pieces to her past.
This is a cute, cozy YA fantasy that would capture the attention of younger readers. Sure, there is 'drama' and a 'bad guy', there are also 'life lessons' that adults could use while reading the story aloud to their kids/students. Willow's attitude towards life, her sorrow, and her self-discovery could give troubled kids an example of growth; that it can happen.
It kept at a pretty good pace, but I feel that there could've been more to the history of the world, especially since there were other 'kingdoms' that weren't really explained. Brianna came from one of these, so making sure the differences between the two places were explained would help readers understand why Brianna's own quest was so important.
I must admit that while I liked this story, I didn't care much for Willow's attitude. I get why she was the way she was, but more of her life with her father would've given the reader a deeper understanding of Willow before and after her father's death. Older readers would understand this without the extra detail, but younger readers might not, thus they wouldn't get a real understanding of Willow.
The cover is cute and it and the title fits the story pretty good. There is some violence/talk of violence, but it's not overly dramatic, so this is suitable for readers twelve and older.
Just made...
3 Stars
July 23, 2025
***Thank you to Wednesday Books and NetGalley for this ARC***
A prickly orphan inherits her father’s shop of magic curiosities, which is fun and whimsical but for the fact that all the items are fake and everybody knows it. Willow wants to be an honest businesswoman, but it’s difficult when she can’t sell anything and her rent is 3-months past due. Her only friend is a twinkly-eyed printer’s assistant with a wonky tooth who adores her and bakes her pies. When an outlander stumbles into the shop, Willow is convinced she’s found the answer to her problems, and they set out to break a magic curse and save Willow’s reputation as the town charlatan. There are shoulder cats, dragon teeth, hair puns, and unicorn horns that cure impotence (for a night). Willow gets blackmailed into stealing a dragon egg for a shifty collector and learns that some powerful artifacts are best left undiscovered by humans. The vibe is Emily Wilde meets The Otherwhere Post starring a teenager making selfishly teenage decisions, but whom you can't help but like. At one point, Willow is so stressed she eats an entire apple pie for breakfast. I wish my coping mechanisms were that wholesome.
A prickly orphan inherits her father’s shop of magic curiosities, which is fun and whimsical but for the fact that all the items are fake and everybody knows it. Willow wants to be an honest businesswoman, but it’s difficult when she can’t sell anything and her rent is 3-months past due. Her only friend is a twinkly-eyed printer’s assistant with a wonky tooth who adores her and bakes her pies. When an outlander stumbles into the shop, Willow is convinced she’s found the answer to her problems, and they set out to break a magic curse and save Willow’s reputation as the town charlatan. There are shoulder cats, dragon teeth, hair puns, and unicorn horns that cure impotence (for a night). Willow gets blackmailed into stealing a dragon egg for a shifty collector and learns that some powerful artifacts are best left undiscovered by humans. The vibe is Emily Wilde meets The Otherwhere Post starring a teenager making selfishly teenage decisions, but whom you can't help but like. At one point, Willow is so stressed she eats an entire apple pie for breakfast. I wish my coping mechanisms were that wholesome.
July 15, 2025
🍄 𝟒.𝟓 ✩
⁀➷ : thanks to netgalley + the publisher for a copy in exchange for an honest review
→ if no can find me, im working at edward stoke's cabinet of magical curiosities and im probably not coming back. bonus points if i can find myself a finlay because dang that man was yearning like crap for willow.
🍄 ⋇⊶⊰❣⊱⊷⋇
→ i went into this book not knowing anything at all, and you know what--im glad i did. because i think if i knew something about it, i probably wouldn't have read it. because at a whole a curious kind of magic is a very slow paced book with a very light magic setting.
and that's okay !! i enjoyed it very much. i love willow, i love brianna (she's a girlboss can i be friends with her ??)
and finlay, this guy jokingly said "you know my heart belongs to you, willow." on page 12. PAGE TWELVE. i repeat that man has been obsessed with her since they were children. but enough of that. let's move onto the next section
🍄 ⋇⊶⊰❣⊱⊷⋇
→ as i said before, this book is slow paced, we dont get into the "action" if you can call it that, until about fifty or sixty percent into the book. it's moreso a quest that they go on. its hard to explain without spoiling the book. and the resolve with the bad guy is very hea which i loved, i stan a happy endng. it's a low stakes vibes where nothing feels like it's going to crumble. you aren't going to cry or anything.
i felt so much for willow and how she's just surviving without her parents, and for finlay with his mom being sick, and for brianna basically being the "black sheep" of her family ! i have some questions about the town being lowk not there ??? but that's for another day.
🍄 ⋇⊶⊰❣⊱⊷⋇
→ all in all, if you are okay with light witch magic, a slowburn friends to lovers (where's hes been in love with her forever), two girls becoming best friends and girlbossing their way through it, a magical shop, and if you are a fan of emily wilde's encyopledia of faeries (same vibes), then this book is for you! i will be deffo buying a copy !
→ →
⁀➷ : thanks to netgalley + the publisher for a copy in exchange for an honest review
→ if no can find me, im working at edward stoke's cabinet of magical curiosities and im probably not coming back. bonus points if i can find myself a finlay because dang that man was yearning like crap for willow.
🍄 ⋇⊶⊰❣⊱⊷⋇
→ i went into this book not knowing anything at all, and you know what--im glad i did. because i think if i knew something about it, i probably wouldn't have read it. because at a whole a curious kind of magic is a very slow paced book with a very light magic setting.
and that's okay !! i enjoyed it very much. i love willow, i love brianna (she's a girlboss can i be friends with her ??)
and finlay, this guy jokingly said "you know my heart belongs to you, willow." on page 12. PAGE TWELVE. i repeat that man has been obsessed with her since they were children. but enough of that. let's move onto the next section
🍄 ⋇⊶⊰❣⊱⊷⋇
→ as i said before, this book is slow paced, we dont get into the "action" if you can call it that, until about fifty or sixty percent into the book. it's moreso a quest that they go on. its hard to explain without spoiling the book. and the resolve with the bad guy is very hea which i loved, i stan a happy endng. it's a low stakes vibes where nothing feels like it's going to crumble. you aren't going to cry or anything.
i felt so much for willow and how she's just surviving without her parents, and for finlay with his mom being sick, and for brianna basically being the "black sheep" of her family ! i have some questions about the town being lowk not there ??? but that's for another day.
🍄 ⋇⊶⊰❣⊱⊷⋇
→ all in all, if you are okay with light witch magic, a slowburn friends to lovers (where's hes been in love with her forever), two girls becoming best friends and girlbossing their way through it, a magical shop, and if you are a fan of emily wilde's encyopledia of faeries (same vibes), then this book is for you! i will be deffo buying a copy !
→ →
July 18, 2025
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ Pre read ~ Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for giving me an ARC ! This book has such a gorgeous cover and gives me very cozy fantasy vibes which will be perfect with my chai latte tonight <3
Unfortunately, I DNF'ed this book, which is something I rarely do. It was just too slow for my liking.
So, i was so sure I was going to like this book, but it was just SO SLOW. Or maybe that's the point of cozy fantasies. I've learnt my lesson, i'm sticking to action filled romatasy from now on 😔.
However, if you like cozy fantasy stories, this one is definitley for you. The characters were very well written, and so was the world building and backstories, but when i don't see a potential love interest in the first 50%, you've lost me. This was a good book, but it just wasn't for me. <3
Unfortunately, I DNF'ed this book, which is something I rarely do. It was just too slow for my liking.
So, i was so sure I was going to like this book, but it was just SO SLOW. Or maybe that's the point of cozy fantasies. I've learnt my lesson, i'm sticking to action filled romatasy from now on 😔.
However, if you like cozy fantasy stories, this one is definitley for you. The characters were very well written, and so was the world building and backstories, but when i don't see a potential love interest in the first 50%, you've lost me. This was a good book, but it just wasn't for me. <3
October 29, 2025
Cozy fantasy, magic, and secrets? SIGN ME UP! This young lady runs a magical curiosity shop and when she meets someone who can turn the fakes into real, they devise a plan that helps both of them.
This was just what I needed! I loved the magic, the story telling, and the characters. I looked forward to reading this every day!
Thank you so much to Netgalley, St Martin’s Press, and Mara Rutherford for providing this free E-ARC, this published on October 21st. This is my honest review!
This was just what I needed! I loved the magic, the story telling, and the characters. I looked forward to reading this every day!
Thank you so much to Netgalley, St Martin’s Press, and Mara Rutherford for providing this free E-ARC, this published on October 21st. This is my honest review!
August 5, 2025
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the ARC of A Curious Kind of Magic!
This book was such a comforting, magical little escape. I fell in love with the small town vibes, the soft touch of romance, and the characters who were so easy to root for.
Willow’s journey especially stood out to me — her quiet strength, her stubborn independence, and the way she slowly let love in. I really connected with her.
It’s one of those books that just makes you feel cozy while reading. I had a great time with it and can’t wait to see more people fall in love with it too!
This book was such a comforting, magical little escape. I fell in love with the small town vibes, the soft touch of romance, and the characters who were so easy to root for.
Willow’s journey especially stood out to me — her quiet strength, her stubborn independence, and the way she slowly let love in. I really connected with her.
It’s one of those books that just makes you feel cozy while reading. I had a great time with it and can’t wait to see more people fall in love with it too!
July 13, 2025
Although the plot is a little messy in places, this had such great found family vibes that I didn't even care. This was magical and wonderful and like eating a really satisfying slice of cake, I was sad to leave the trio after their adventures, but happy with how much they'd grown over the course of the story.
October 26, 2025
A Curious Kind of Magic is a whimsical story of three teenagers, their friendship, and the magic that envelops them along the way. Initially, I was worried the story would be too YA or simple, but I found myself charmed by the characters and adventure of it all.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC. 3.5 stars rounded up :)
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC. 3.5 stars rounded up :)
October 30, 2025
⋆˚࿔ 3.5 stars ⋆˚࿔
A big thank you to Wednesday Books and Netgalley for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This was a very cute Studio Ghibli-style fantasy and was a cozy read for the fall (or my illusion of fall - it's still hot outside 😭). The characters were endearing and the atmosphere of the book was comforting. Although I enjoyed it, the plot didn't seem incredibly well thought out. This might've been a conscious choice to keep the book light-hearted and cozy rather than tense, but the conflict was barely there and it made the book feel... pointless? Especially with the long stretches of filler chapters, the chapters that DID further the plot felt minor. It made the ending anticlimactic. Maybe it's just not my kind of fantasy because I usually need some sort of epic magical conflict to keep me invested in the unraveling of the plot, but it made it harder for me to connect with the book.
Regardless, it was a sweet read! Just don't go into it looking for anything more than coziness.
~~
chat how am i supposed to keep up with ARCs when i have exams every week 😭😭
A big thank you to Wednesday Books and Netgalley for sending me this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
This was a very cute Studio Ghibli-style fantasy and was a cozy read for the fall (or my illusion of fall - it's still hot outside 😭). The characters were endearing and the atmosphere of the book was comforting. Although I enjoyed it, the plot didn't seem incredibly well thought out. This might've been a conscious choice to keep the book light-hearted and cozy rather than tense, but the conflict was barely there and it made the book feel... pointless? Especially with the long stretches of filler chapters, the chapters that DID further the plot felt minor. It made the ending anticlimactic. Maybe it's just not my kind of fantasy because I usually need some sort of epic magical conflict to keep me invested in the unraveling of the plot, but it made it harder for me to connect with the book.
Regardless, it was a sweet read! Just don't go into it looking for anything more than coziness.
~~
chat how am i supposed to keep up with ARCs when i have exams every week 😭😭
October 16, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and St Martins Press for this arc in exchange for an honest review!
DNF 19%
I think this might be a timing issue. I have a lot of books, both new releases and arcs I want to read, and so I think that is taking my attention. But this is also just not grabbing me.
We're mainly following two female characters that are going to eventually build a friendship, but both characters are just...meh. The main FMC I was really not enjoying. I think she was supposed to be someone who had a bit of an attitude, that's a loner except for a friend of hers, but she was really just coming across as more of a brat.
And I think everything just felt a little dry. I think this is supposed to more of a cozy fantasy type deal, but the writing wasn't really supporting that for me. No humor, no beautiful or lyrical writing, just meh.
I may come back to this one later but I have to move on for now ☹️
DNF 19%
I think this might be a timing issue. I have a lot of books, both new releases and arcs I want to read, and so I think that is taking my attention. But this is also just not grabbing me.
We're mainly following two female characters that are going to eventually build a friendship, but both characters are just...meh. The main FMC I was really not enjoying. I think she was supposed to be someone who had a bit of an attitude, that's a loner except for a friend of hers, but she was really just coming across as more of a brat.
And I think everything just felt a little dry. I think this is supposed to more of a cozy fantasy type deal, but the writing wasn't really supporting that for me. No humor, no beautiful or lyrical writing, just meh.
I may come back to this one later but I have to move on for now ☹️
October 23, 2025
oh this was just adorable!! rtc
June 13, 2025
ˋ°•*⁀➷ 𝟜.𝟚𝟝 𝕤𝕥𝕒𝕣𝕤, 𝕣𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕕𝕖𝕕 𝕕𝕠𝕨𝕟 𝕥𝕠 𝟜
I wasn't sure what to expect, but this book did NOT disappoint! It was so cozy and cute and fun to read, and I really enjoyed it. It did feel a bit slow and had a few boring moments, but oterhwise it was really enjoyable. While reading, I felt like I was transported into this fantasy world that it takes place in, and the detail, characters and worldbuilding were all amazing. I gave it 4 stars because it wasn't quite as good as some books I've read, and some chapters were harder to get through, but I still liked it. I can definitely see it becoming a comfort book for me to reread over and over again at some point, and I'm considering buying a physical copy when it actually comes out because that cover is so pretty!
» [Willow- Taylor Swift] «
0:00 ─〇───── 4:12
⇄ ◃◃ ⅠⅠ ▹▹ ↻
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕
౨ৎ A fun, cozy fantasy
౨ৎ An enjoyable writing style
౨ৎ Great worldbuilding
౨ৎ A slower paced book, but not in a bad way
━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━
𝘗𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦 (𝘴𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘭) 𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘵 𝘰𝘯 ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
Ages 12+
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔
౨ৎ Language- Minor swears used every so often, usually every couple chapters to a few times a chapter (sh*t, h*ll and maybe others)
౨ৎ Romance- Crushes, characters kiss, the main character imagines kissing someone
౨ৎ Violence- Murder (past, off page), a pony and carriage almost fall off a cliff, brief mentions of torture (no details)
౨ৎ Other- Death of a parent, some mentions of depression, maybe (?) more that I forgot
Emetophobia warning: On the part with the boat the character v* multiple times, some referances to it as well
━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━
𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼
⤷ Willow- She;s a really good main character, I loved reading from her perspective and thought she was a really good character!
⤷ Bri- also a great character!
⤷ Finlay- Another really great character!
━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━
𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓘 𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮𝓭
⤷ The writing style- Easy and fun to read, very enjoyable
⤷ The plot/concept-It was interesting and just really great
⤷ The romance- Even though it was a small subplot I really liked it and I think it was really well done!
⤷ The world building- I completely felt like I was in the world of this book, it was just so great and easy to get into, some fantasy books are kind of confusing but this one was not
𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓘 𝓭𝓲𝓭𝓷'𝓽 𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮
⤷ It got a bit boring at times- Since it is a slower paced book, at some moments I felt like I had to push through it a bit
━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━
I wasn't sure what to expect, but this book did NOT disappoint! It was so cozy and cute and fun to read, and I really enjoyed it. It did feel a bit slow and had a few boring moments, but oterhwise it was really enjoyable. While reading, I felt like I was transported into this fantasy world that it takes place in, and the detail, characters and worldbuilding were all amazing. I gave it 4 stars because it wasn't quite as good as some books I've read, and some chapters were harder to get through, but I still liked it. I can definitely see it becoming a comfort book for me to reread over and over again at some point, and I'm considering buying a physical copy when it actually comes out because that cover is so pretty!
» [Willow- Taylor Swift] «
0:00 ─〇───── 4:12
⇄ ◃◃ ⅠⅠ ▹▹ ↻
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒐 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒆𝒄𝒕
౨ৎ A fun, cozy fantasy
౨ৎ An enjoyable writing style
౨ৎ Great worldbuilding
౨ৎ A slower paced book, but not in a bad way
━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━
𝘗𝘰𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦 (𝘴𝘮𝘢𝘭𝘭) 𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘪𝘭𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘧𝘳𝘰𝘮 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘴 𝘱𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘵 𝘰𝘯 ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
Ages 12+
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒕 𝒘𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔
౨ৎ Language- Minor swears used every so often, usually every couple chapters to a few times a chapter (sh*t, h*ll and maybe others)
౨ৎ Romance- Crushes, characters kiss, the main character imagines kissing someone
౨ৎ Violence- Murder (past, off page), a pony and carriage almost fall off a cliff, brief mentions of torture (no details)
౨ৎ Other- Death of a parent, some mentions of depression, maybe (?) more that I forgot
Emetophobia warning: On the part with the boat the character v* multiple times, some referances to it as well
━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━
𝓒𝓱𝓪𝓻𝓪𝓬𝓽𝓮𝓻𝓼
⤷ Willow- She;s a really good main character, I loved reading from her perspective and thought she was a really good character!
⤷ Bri- also a great character!
⤷ Finlay- Another really great character!
━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━
𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓘 𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮𝓭
⤷ The writing style- Easy and fun to read, very enjoyable
⤷ The plot/concept-It was interesting and just really great
⤷ The romance- Even though it was a small subplot I really liked it and I think it was really well done!
⤷ The world building- I completely felt like I was in the world of this book, it was just so great and easy to get into, some fantasy books are kind of confusing but this one was not
𝓦𝓱𝓪𝓽 𝓘 𝓭𝓲𝓭𝓷'𝓽 𝓵𝓲𝓴𝓮
⤷ It got a bit boring at times- Since it is a slower paced book, at some moments I felt like I had to push through it a bit
━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━━•❃°•°❀°•°❃•━
November 10, 2025
Rutherford is an auto-read author for me. It's as if she's able to reach in her pocket and throw a handful of magic onto paper, either that or she is magic herself. Every aspect is superb - writing, world building, character development. I would have liked the pace to be a bit quicker, though. The story was unique, and this is just the type of book that makes me love reading.
If you love active book communities, check out LiterALLy BOOKiSh Book Club (on Facebook)! Games, giveaways, discussions, reviews, bingo, swaps, traveling books, and a lot more!
If you love active book communities, check out LiterALLy BOOKiSh Book Club (on Facebook)! Games, giveaways, discussions, reviews, bingo, swaps, traveling books, and a lot more!
November 3, 2025
This was the perfect cute and cozy read I was hoping it would be. It was fun, entertaining, and adventurous. The writing wasn't anything groundbreaking but it was so full of heart, friendship, and found family so 10/10 on that front 😊❤️
Want to read
November 5, 2025ty wednesday books 🫶
September 19, 2025
Thanks so much to NetGalley for the free Kindle book. My review is voluntarily given, and my opinions are my own.
Although the book was a bit slow at the beginning, taking me a bit to get into the story, I am glad that I decided to stick it out and continue past the first chapter or two. Might have just been that my mind was wandering the day I started or something, rather than the book itself. That does happen sometimes, as we all know. I ended up loving the story and characters so much. I mean, a real wolpertinger that grants wishes? Seriously? That is absolutely ridiculous, but I love it so much. Her shop is filled with fraudulent magical items, but the wolpertinger is real. If you don't know what that is, please look it up. This paragraph will make so much more sense.
For those looking for a clean fantasy romance, this will be a great choice for you. There is zero smut, unless you consider a kiss smut. Which, I know some people do.
Loved the book and would definitely recommend it.
Although the book was a bit slow at the beginning, taking me a bit to get into the story, I am glad that I decided to stick it out and continue past the first chapter or two. Might have just been that my mind was wandering the day I started or something, rather than the book itself. That does happen sometimes, as we all know. I ended up loving the story and characters so much. I mean, a real wolpertinger that grants wishes? Seriously? That is absolutely ridiculous, but I love it so much. Her shop is filled with fraudulent magical items, but the wolpertinger is real. If you don't know what that is, please look it up. This paragraph will make so much more sense.
For those looking for a clean fantasy romance, this will be a great choice for you. There is zero smut, unless you consider a kiss smut. Which, I know some people do.
Loved the book and would definitely recommend it.
February 3, 2024
The swindler-with-a-heart-of-gold from LITTLE THIEVES meets the urban fantasy whimsy of AN ENCHANTMENT OF RAVENS in A CURIOUS KIND OF MAGIC, and I couldn’t love it more.
As with every one of Mara’s books, I adored it—this is a book for magpies, people who are fascinated by all manner of artifacts and the stories behind them, and it made my little soul sing. Mara’s created a world of magical curiosities and cut-throat collectors, but below the surface, the themes of found family and internal growth are just 🤌
Can’t recommend more highly, and can’t wait to get my hands on a physical copy!
As with every one of Mara’s books, I adored it—this is a book for magpies, people who are fascinated by all manner of artifacts and the stories behind them, and it made my little soul sing. Mara’s created a world of magical curiosities and cut-throat collectors, but below the surface, the themes of found family and internal growth are just 🤌
Can’t recommend more highly, and can’t wait to get my hands on a physical copy!
October 23, 2025
Cozy fantasy perfection 😌
Willow Stokes inherited a shoppe selling magical curiosities, except…nothing actually seems to have magic. Her reputation in the town suffers, and she is running out of money to keep the shoppe running. She has her cat Argyle, at least 🥹
Brianna Hargrave shows up in her oxblood cloak searching for a grimoire to break a curse that causes everything she touches to turn to magic. That doesn’t sound bad, until Willow learns Bri must live a life without physical touch.
The girls end up on a magical adventure to the Sapphire Isles hoping to solve their problems which sound high stakes but feel low stakes - exactly how I like my cozy fantasies.
Seeing Bri and Willow’s friendship bloom is one of the best parts of the story. Of course, I also loved the sweet little romance subplot (he bakes her pies! 🥧💕)
I enjoyed an immersion read (audio + hardback) and loved the whole experience. Anna Burnett’s accent and delivery as narrator are just right. If I had to choose one, I’d recommend the audiobook because it will transport you right to this whimsical world, but it is a lovely experience to flip the pages for this one too.
✨🐇 🍄🟫 🫖 🐈 ✨
Thank you to Macmillan audio for the ALC!
Willow Stokes inherited a shoppe selling magical curiosities, except…nothing actually seems to have magic. Her reputation in the town suffers, and she is running out of money to keep the shoppe running. She has her cat Argyle, at least 🥹
Brianna Hargrave shows up in her oxblood cloak searching for a grimoire to break a curse that causes everything she touches to turn to magic. That doesn’t sound bad, until Willow learns Bri must live a life without physical touch.
The girls end up on a magical adventure to the Sapphire Isles hoping to solve their problems which sound high stakes but feel low stakes - exactly how I like my cozy fantasies.
Seeing Bri and Willow’s friendship bloom is one of the best parts of the story. Of course, I also loved the sweet little romance subplot (he bakes her pies! 🥧💕)
I enjoyed an immersion read (audio + hardback) and loved the whole experience. Anna Burnett’s accent and delivery as narrator are just right. If I had to choose one, I’d recommend the audiobook because it will transport you right to this whimsical world, but it is a lovely experience to flip the pages for this one too.
✨🐇 🍄🟫 🫖 🐈 ✨
Thank you to Macmillan audio for the ALC!
dnf
August 24, 2025i thought this would be sapphic and it is not. that was strike one. it's boring. that was strike two. the main character is supposed to be prickly in an endearing way where you want to see her open up over time, but instead i was like, "wow, you're very aggressively mean to others for no good reason. i don't like you." strike three! and we DNF.
August 28, 2025
4.5/5 stars
Look no further, A Curious Kind of Magic by Mara Rutherford is the perfect cozy fantasy read this fall.
Let me set the scene: you’re at Ren Faire. The weather is starting to cool off for the first time in months. There’s a wonderful breeze in the air. You can nearly taste the fall atmosphere. A desperate need for fall vibes overcomes you, so you pick up this book. It perfectly satisfies that exact need.
I am so very glad I had the opportunity to ARC read A Curious Kind of Magic. It was truly wonderful. The synopsis had already sounded up my alley but I was worried as I find the cozy fantasy genre to be very hit or miss. It can be hard for cozy fantasies to balance coziness without being boring. However, Mara Rutherford did a fantastic job keeping the plot interesting as she set us out on our series of quests.
I absolutely flew through the first half of this book. The premise was fun and quirky and the enchanting prose sucked me right in. The second half was a bit slower for me but definitely still very enjoyable.
A shop full of curiosities, a mysterious girl with a magical curse, and the cutest found family I think I’ve ever read. It was giving Emily Wilde meets The Spellshop meets Strange Antiquities (the video game). And it was truly wonderful.
I very highly recommend that people pick up A Curious Kind of Magic when it releases October 21st! It is simply a perfect fall read!
Look no further, A Curious Kind of Magic by Mara Rutherford is the perfect cozy fantasy read this fall.
Let me set the scene: you’re at Ren Faire. The weather is starting to cool off for the first time in months. There’s a wonderful breeze in the air. You can nearly taste the fall atmosphere. A desperate need for fall vibes overcomes you, so you pick up this book. It perfectly satisfies that exact need.
I am so very glad I had the opportunity to ARC read A Curious Kind of Magic. It was truly wonderful. The synopsis had already sounded up my alley but I was worried as I find the cozy fantasy genre to be very hit or miss. It can be hard for cozy fantasies to balance coziness without being boring. However, Mara Rutherford did a fantastic job keeping the plot interesting as she set us out on our series of quests.
I absolutely flew through the first half of this book. The premise was fun and quirky and the enchanting prose sucked me right in. The second half was a bit slower for me but definitely still very enjoyable.
A shop full of curiosities, a mysterious girl with a magical curse, and the cutest found family I think I’ve ever read. It was giving Emily Wilde meets The Spellshop meets Strange Antiquities (the video game). And it was truly wonderful.
I very highly recommend that people pick up A Curious Kind of Magic when it releases October 21st! It is simply a perfect fall read!
October 15, 2025
From the moment I saw the description stating that this is as if Howl’s Moving Castle met Little Thieves, I was hooked. A Curious Kind of Magic is about friendships, love, and unlocking the magic within you, no matter how small.
I absolutely adored our protagonist, Willow Stokes. She’s nowhere near perfect- she’s a liar, a thief, a cheat. Her walls are up too high for anyone to climb over- except for Finlay and Brianna. And that is what made me love her. It’s so tiring to read about perfect people, and truly it’s the imperfections that endear our loved ones to us.
The setting of this book was absolutely perfect! It’s been raining off and on while reading this story, and I feel like the world in the book just matched that. It feels Scottish inspired, especially given the pieces of dialect thrown in, but please correct me if I’m wrong! I read people’s dialogue in a Scottish accent for the first few chapters until I lost it in my own head voice.
Thank you so much to Wednesday Books and Netgalley for the e-arc! A Curious Kind of Magic releases on October 21st!
I absolutely adored our protagonist, Willow Stokes. She’s nowhere near perfect- she’s a liar, a thief, a cheat. Her walls are up too high for anyone to climb over- except for Finlay and Brianna. And that is what made me love her. It’s so tiring to read about perfect people, and truly it’s the imperfections that endear our loved ones to us.
The setting of this book was absolutely perfect! It’s been raining off and on while reading this story, and I feel like the world in the book just matched that. It feels Scottish inspired, especially given the pieces of dialect thrown in, but please correct me if I’m wrong! I read people’s dialogue in a Scottish accent for the first few chapters until I lost it in my own head voice.
Thank you so much to Wednesday Books and Netgalley for the e-arc! A Curious Kind of Magic releases on October 21st!
October 12, 2025
“Love is a curious kind of magic. It can grow in the most unlikely of places, but it must be tended as carefully as a seedling. Neglect it, and it will wither and die. Push it too far, and it will suffer all the more.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Curious Kind of Magic is the perfect fall read. Willow runs a magical curiosity shop that belonged to her father before he died. Business is extremely slow because most items in the shop don’t actually have magical capabilities. When Bri arrives an unlikely friendship forms as they try to figure out to break Bri’s curse. Finlay is extremely lovable and the way he adores Willow is perfection.
I think what I loved the most about this book is how it managed to be adventurous and cozy at the same time. The stakes are a bit high, but the world is just so whimsical and comforting.
This is a YA title but there is still a bit of romance. The overall story explores having a best friend for the first time, as well as young love.
Thank you Wednesday books for the e-arc. All opinions are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
A Curious Kind of Magic is the perfect fall read. Willow runs a magical curiosity shop that belonged to her father before he died. Business is extremely slow because most items in the shop don’t actually have magical capabilities. When Bri arrives an unlikely friendship forms as they try to figure out to break Bri’s curse. Finlay is extremely lovable and the way he adores Willow is perfection.
I think what I loved the most about this book is how it managed to be adventurous and cozy at the same time. The stakes are a bit high, but the world is just so whimsical and comforting.
This is a YA title but there is still a bit of romance. The overall story explores having a best friend for the first time, as well as young love.
Thank you Wednesday books for the e-arc. All opinions are my own.
October 21, 2025
Firstly, I’d like to thank NetGalley and MacMillan Audio for providing me with an ALC in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed this audiobook! The narrator was fantastic, and helped bring the magic of the curiosity shop to life. Willow was a bit of a selfish character, not always being forthright or honest about her intentions, or her end goals, but she’s got heart, and it’s clear she cares about her friends, so it made for a very nuanced read. She wasn’t unlikeable at all, in fact she was very likable, but it gave her some depth that is sometimes missing in some stories like this. I also really enjoyed her friendships with Finley and Brianna, and loved what both characters brought to the story.
I do feel like the plot/story was a little messy at times, and kept this from being a 5 star read for me. It could have used some polishing. But ultimately it was still a really enjoyable, cozy, whimsical read, with just the right amount of depth needed to not make the story seem too fluffy. This story does deal with parent death and illness, so check trigger warnings before going into it. But overall I really enjoyed this and can see myself rereading it again in the future.
I really enjoyed this audiobook! The narrator was fantastic, and helped bring the magic of the curiosity shop to life. Willow was a bit of a selfish character, not always being forthright or honest about her intentions, or her end goals, but she’s got heart, and it’s clear she cares about her friends, so it made for a very nuanced read. She wasn’t unlikeable at all, in fact she was very likable, but it gave her some depth that is sometimes missing in some stories like this. I also really enjoyed her friendships with Finley and Brianna, and loved what both characters brought to the story.
I do feel like the plot/story was a little messy at times, and kept this from being a 5 star read for me. It could have used some polishing. But ultimately it was still a really enjoyable, cozy, whimsical read, with just the right amount of depth needed to not make the story seem too fluffy. This story does deal with parent death and illness, so check trigger warnings before going into it. But overall I really enjoyed this and can see myself rereading it again in the future.
May 2, 2025
This was actually such a cute and cozy story. Full of almost magic, curiosities, found family and believing in yourself.
Willow is a grief filled girl that’s inherited her dad’s run down magic shop. She’s getting by until the day she meets Bri. Everything changes when she learns that’s Bri has magic, but also is carrying a deep secret.
The writing style was fun and engaging, and I found myself drawn to both of the main FMC’s. And nothing beats girls coming into the power and gaining their confidence. But when Willow makes a brash decision that affects her and Bri, she learns just how strong she actually can be
Thank you St Martin’s Publishing and NetGalley for the advance reader copy
Willow is a grief filled girl that’s inherited her dad’s run down magic shop. She’s getting by until the day she meets Bri. Everything changes when she learns that’s Bri has magic, but also is carrying a deep secret.
The writing style was fun and engaging, and I found myself drawn to both of the main FMC’s. And nothing beats girls coming into the power and gaining their confidence. But when Willow makes a brash decision that affects her and Bri, she learns just how strong she actually can be
Thank you St Martin’s Publishing and NetGalley for the advance reader copy
September 22, 2025
A charming, cozy YA fantasy perfect for fall!
FMC Willow has been trying to keep her late father’s magical curiosities shop afloat and take in Bri as a boarder because Bri seems to have magical powers. Bri can touch magical items and bring them to life temporarily due to a curse.
While hunting for a cure to Bri’s curse, Willow is hired by a wealthy collector of magical items to steal a dragon’s egg from another collector. In exchange, Willow will gain access to a grimoire that might have the spell Bri needs.
At 17 years old, Willow acknowledges the absurdity of her orchestrating a theft and things don’t go according to plan. It’s kind of refreshing to let teenaged characters not have it all figured out!
There’s a sweet, romantic subplot and lovely found family elements here.
FMC Willow has been trying to keep her late father’s magical curiosities shop afloat and take in Bri as a boarder because Bri seems to have magical powers. Bri can touch magical items and bring them to life temporarily due to a curse.
While hunting for a cure to Bri’s curse, Willow is hired by a wealthy collector of magical items to steal a dragon’s egg from another collector. In exchange, Willow will gain access to a grimoire that might have the spell Bri needs.
At 17 years old, Willow acknowledges the absurdity of her orchestrating a theft and things don’t go according to plan. It’s kind of refreshing to let teenaged characters not have it all figured out!
There’s a sweet, romantic subplot and lovely found family elements here.
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