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Myrtlewood Mysteries #2
Experimental Magic
It's the Spring Equinox in Myrtlewood, complete with strange disappearances, a quest to uncover heritage, and a journey beyond the veil…
Rosemary and Athena are just settling into their new life in the unapologetically magical village of Myrtlewood. After so many years in financial turmoil, things are looking up. Rosemary even nabs the perfect part-time job while waiting on a certain handsome vampire lawyer to process her inheritance. Life is surprisingly peaceful until strange disappearances throw everything into chaos leading up to the Spring Equinox.
Meanwhile, Athena is newly enrolled at Myrtlewood Academy but feels woefully unprepared for magical education. She has enough on her mind with the enigmatic Finnigan and his aloof behavior, not to mention the disappearance of her father, Dain.
If you're ready for more mystery, witches, paranormal women's fiction with a midlife main character, and a big dose of humor, you're going to love Experimental Magic, book two in the Myrtlewood Mysteries series.
Rosemary and Athena are just settling into their new life in the unapologetically magical village of Myrtlewood. After so many years in financial turmoil, things are looking up. Rosemary even nabs the perfect part-time job while waiting on a certain handsome vampire lawyer to process her inheritance. Life is surprisingly peaceful until strange disappearances throw everything into chaos leading up to the Spring Equinox.
Meanwhile, Athena is newly enrolled at Myrtlewood Academy but feels woefully unprepared for magical education. She has enough on her mind with the enigmatic Finnigan and his aloof behavior, not to mention the disappearance of her father, Dain.
If you're ready for more mystery, witches, paranormal women's fiction with a midlife main character, and a big dose of humor, you're going to love Experimental Magic, book two in the Myrtlewood Mysteries series.
12 pages, Audible Audio
Published September 5, 2023
2745 people are currently reading
1626 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 326 reviews
January 22, 2025
did i particularly enjoy it? no
will i keep reading the series? probably
will i keep reading the series? probably
September 5, 2023
A lot better than the previous, though Athena is so moody, it's annoying.
July 20, 2024
2.5 stars. To sum up my thoughts in a succinct manner: the dialogue in this book is uncanny, interactions between characters rarely have an air of authenticity, the relationship between Rosemary and Athena is still a portrait of romanticized dysfunction, and largely the characters seem entirely unaltered in any meaningful way by their experiences in the this installment (or the first book).
With Athena set to attend magic school the stage is set for an explanation of the worlds magic system, but precious little is accomplished with this oppertunity. What Athena, and in turn the reader, learn about the magic system is primarily derived from boring, unrealistic conversations with other students. Rosemary continues to be a silly and weak character through the book before once again inexplicably exhibiting competence at the "darkest hour". The "mystery" in this book is given virtually no attention for the first twelve chapters; I honestly forgot what Rosemary and Athena were supposedly investigating/solving. This book will mark the end of my journey with the Myrtlewood Mystery series.
With Athena set to attend magic school the stage is set for an explanation of the worlds magic system, but precious little is accomplished with this oppertunity. What Athena, and in turn the reader, learn about the magic system is primarily derived from boring, unrealistic conversations with other students. Rosemary continues to be a silly and weak character through the book before once again inexplicably exhibiting competence at the "darkest hour". The "mystery" in this book is given virtually no attention for the first twelve chapters; I honestly forgot what Rosemary and Athena were supposedly investigating/solving. This book will mark the end of my journey with the Myrtlewood Mystery series.
March 17, 2025
The book continues on from the first going at a very fast pace. Again this book is conversational but that’s perfectly fine with me. I find it helps me understand what’s going on in the characters heads.
The book maintains a cozy, magical atmosphere with many quirky characters. I really loved the development of the magical world and the deeper exploration of the characters backgrounds. I could have done with less of the constant bickering between mother and daughter as it got tedious at times. Occasionally I found the plot to be a bit predictable but it didn’t bother me too much as what went on was still interesting.
”it’s easier not to think about the future. When I do, there’s just this big scary void of unknowns and potential failure.” - Rosemary Thorne
Overall it’s an enjoyable continuation to the series, blending mystery, magic, and humour in a charming setting. There are fun characters, adventures and an over abundance of tea and cake. On a side note I’d love to have a house that self cleaned and fixed..
The book maintains a cozy, magical atmosphere with many quirky characters. I really loved the development of the magical world and the deeper exploration of the characters backgrounds. I could have done with less of the constant bickering between mother and daughter as it got tedious at times. Occasionally I found the plot to be a bit predictable but it didn’t bother me too much as what went on was still interesting.
”it’s easier not to think about the future. When I do, there’s just this big scary void of unknowns and potential failure.” - Rosemary Thorne
Overall it’s an enjoyable continuation to the series, blending mystery, magic, and humour in a charming setting. There are fun characters, adventures and an over abundance of tea and cake. On a side note I’d love to have a house that self cleaned and fixed..
January 6, 2024
DNF at 83%. I absolutely do not care what happened to these characters.
It looks like this is where many reader’s stopped this series and I’m right along with them. There was no character development from the first book to this one. All of the dialog seemed forced and unnatural. Also, the two main characters continued to make ignorant decision after ignorant decision. I tried.
It looks like this is where many reader’s stopped this series and I’m right along with them. There was no character development from the first book to this one. All of the dialog seemed forced and unnatural. Also, the two main characters continued to make ignorant decision after ignorant decision. I tried.
January 9, 2024
I’m really enjoying this magical series. The mother and daughter remind me a lot of British versions of Lorelei and Rory Gilmore.
October 12, 2022
I like how this is PWF & YA all in one story! The story is told from Rosemary (single mother & new witch) and her daughter Athena (usually the more sensible one)'s points of view. We see Athena's friends doing a bit of "grown ups don't know what they're doing, so we'd better intervene" logic.
Ostara, the Spring Equinox is celebrated, We see Rosey practice her magic a bit, Athena find out more about herself; we find out more about the characters in the village and see a bit of the Fae realm.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book (even more than the first one!) and recommend people stick with the series and read the lot with me :)
Ostara, the Spring Equinox is celebrated, We see Rosey practice her magic a bit, Athena find out more about herself; we find out more about the characters in the village and see a bit of the Fae realm.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book (even more than the first one!) and recommend people stick with the series and read the lot with me :)
June 30, 2024
I think if you are looking for a lighthearted entertainment read and have low expectations, the Mrytlewood Mysteries is the series for you. Myrtlewood and its surrounding areas is as it is described, a magical place. Beaglehole has an interesting storyline and setting. She has quite a bit of potiential for this series.
My opinions:
I personally can't get past the characters and the dialogue. I was hoping the character development would improve for Rosemary and Athena in this second book. I am not invested in either main character and found I lost interest in the side characters as well.
A lot of the dialogue is awkward and reads as if you are watching people acting in a TV show rather than the reader feeling like they could be in the story with the characters. Beaglehole has dual point of view between Rosemary and Athena. Beaglehole did a good job with keeping the narration clear and easy to understand.
I wanted to like this series as it had much of what I enjoy in a book, the Fae, magical creatures, mystery, small town, ghosts, an old house filled with personality, and a magical setting. Beaglehole has the right recipe for a good book series, but the writing and the characters need improvement. If this series were to be made into a show with changes to the main characters, I would definitely give it a watch. However as a book series it fell flat for me.
My opinions:
I personally can't get past the characters and the dialogue. I was hoping the character development would improve for Rosemary and Athena in this second book. I am not invested in either main character and found I lost interest in the side characters as well.
A lot of the dialogue is awkward and reads as if you are watching people acting in a TV show rather than the reader feeling like they could be in the story with the characters. Beaglehole has dual point of view between Rosemary and Athena. Beaglehole did a good job with keeping the narration clear and easy to understand.
I wanted to like this series as it had much of what I enjoy in a book, the Fae, magical creatures, mystery, small town, ghosts, an old house filled with personality, and a magical setting. Beaglehole has the right recipe for a good book series, but the writing and the characters need improvement. If this series were to be made into a show with changes to the main characters, I would definitely give it a watch. However as a book series it fell flat for me.
May 9, 2024
Another dose of my new favourite witchy, paranormal, cozy, supernatural, magical series consumed. In this book we follow the mystery of disappearing people in Myrtlewood, and how the case is cracked. Rosemary is unsure of what she wants to do with "the rest of her life", as stuff gets sorted out in the present, and a large inheritance is on the cusp of coming through. We get a little hogwarts type situation going on with Athena, as she has to attend school, being her age and all.
I enjoyed the progression of Rosemary & Athena in this book, they both develop their powers in some way - one out of necessity, and the other out of necessity and self-searching. All the plotlines wrapped up very neatly by the end of the book, and the pacing was good enough to keep my completely engaged throughout.
Myrtlewood is such a pleasant setting, the characters continued to shine for me in this book. There's a whole lot of wholesome going on. I could probably ramble more but i'll leave it there. A great second installment.
5/5
I enjoyed the progression of Rosemary & Athena in this book, they both develop their powers in some way - one out of necessity, and the other out of necessity and self-searching. All the plotlines wrapped up very neatly by the end of the book, and the pacing was good enough to keep my completely engaged throughout.
Myrtlewood is such a pleasant setting, the characters continued to shine for me in this book. There's a whole lot of wholesome going on. I could probably ramble more but i'll leave it there. A great second installment.
5/5
January 29, 2024
Loving this series.
April 27, 2022
I should be working!
I should be getting my work done! However I couldn't stop reading. Reading about Myrtlewood is like visiting wonderland. Fantastical and dangerous at the same time. The characters are so realistic that I was even feeling annoyed at the teenagers antics. The relationship between mother and daughter felt real in an unreal situation. I can hardly wait for the next book to come out. The authors world building skills are terrific and yet she hasn't forgotten that the characters are who the reader connects with and holds our interest long after the last page has been read.
I should be getting my work done! However I couldn't stop reading. Reading about Myrtlewood is like visiting wonderland. Fantastical and dangerous at the same time. The characters are so realistic that I was even feeling annoyed at the teenagers antics. The relationship between mother and daughter felt real in an unreal situation. I can hardly wait for the next book to come out. The authors world building skills are terrific and yet she hasn't forgotten that the characters are who the reader connects with and holds our interest long after the last page has been read.
September 25, 2022
I was so excited to get the second one of this series because I absolutely loved the first one. Rosemary and Athena are such a fun mother-daughter duo both trying to find their way in this new landscape of magic and mystery. In this latest, there is a disturbing disappearance that isn’t the first that the village has experienced, and Rosemary and Athena do their best to find out what’s going on. They find out that there is a close relationship to them at play, and there are a couple of reveals and secrets that are so surprising. Well-written and fun, I’m off to start the next one. Highly recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
July 6, 2025
DNF
I hate, and I cannot express this enough, Rosemary. She’s paranoid, impulsive, prejudiced, self-centered, narcissistic, and just makes plain bad decisions. I have never disliked an MC so much in a book that’s otherwise interesting. But I really hate her and I am going to have to stop reading this series.
I hate, and I cannot express this enough, Rosemary. She’s paranoid, impulsive, prejudiced, self-centered, narcissistic, and just makes plain bad decisions. I have never disliked an MC so much in a book that’s otherwise interesting. But I really hate her and I am going to have to stop reading this series.
June 12, 2024
Hmmm 3 and a half really…
Regrettably, I am not as in love with the series as I was in the first book. Perhaps the novelty of the characters, setting and plot was a bit more refreshing the first time around. It still held the same lightheartedness, but the plot was a little less enticing and it seemed the dialogue was a bit repetitive. Spoilers ahead, so if you plan on reading it yourself and want surprises, you may want to leave now!
*********
The second book starts almost immediately after the first. Rosemary and Athena are still bickering and Athena is still a tad bitter that she is not as “magical” or “powerful” as her mom. She is not happy with her gift of mind reading. She begins a magical school in Myrtlewood and connects with a number of other friends, all with their own variety of gifts and/or descendants of magical creatures-shapeshifters, mermen, etc. The author tries very hard to represent the LGBTQ community with nonbinary characters and several with same sex partners.
Athena begins to meet with Finnegan (mysterious love interest from first book) in secret and finds out she is half fae just like him. That is why they can communicate telepathically. He convinces her to visit the Fae world and she quickly finds out it is entirely a ruse to give her to the queen. Once imprisoned, she finds her biological, deadbeat dad Dain. He is also imprisoned and happens to be a Fae prince thus creating her half fae condition with her human mom Rosemary. Since Rosemary is from a long line of very powerful Thorn witches, one can only assume Athena will be more powerful than everyone at some point which makes her a likely target of enemies.
Meanwhile, Rosemary gathers the necessary ingredients to go through the “veil” to the Fae World… not only to bring Athena back, but to rescue children who have been taken by the Fae. She does this with the help of Liam and his blood, her childhood sweetheart, who she has learned is actually a werewolf. In this tale, becoming a werewolf means catching a virus and werewolves are shunned by the townspeople because of it. Rosemary promises to keep his secret.
Rosemary manages to cross the veil along with help from Athena’s school friends during the equinox celebration. Dain, Athena, Rosemary and friends finally meet up, outwit the Queen with “cream” which happens to be a drug to the Fae. They land safely back in Myrtlewood with the lost children in tow. Rosemary, along with help from the sentient Thorn house, invite the entire party to stay with them until the children can be reunited with family.
I do plan on reading the next book in this first trilogy entitled Combustible Magic, but may take a break after that. The series is a welcome light read amidst some of the heavy dramas I’ve been reading lately. I also find Rosemary and Athena’s relationship funny and familiar, not entirely unlike my own ups and downs with a teenage daughter.
- Experimental Magic, p. 0
Regrettably, I am not as in love with the series as I was in the first book. Perhaps the novelty of the characters, setting and plot was a bit more refreshing the first time around. It still held the same lightheartedness, but the plot was a little less enticing and it seemed the dialogue was a bit repetitive. Spoilers ahead, so if you plan on reading it yourself and want surprises, you may want to leave now!
*********
The second book starts almost immediately after the first. Rosemary and Athena are still bickering and Athena is still a tad bitter that she is not as “magical” or “powerful” as her mom. She is not happy with her gift of mind reading. She begins a magical school in Myrtlewood and connects with a number of other friends, all with their own variety of gifts and/or descendants of magical creatures-shapeshifters, mermen, etc. The author tries very hard to represent the LGBTQ community with nonbinary characters and several with same sex partners.
Athena begins to meet with Finnegan (mysterious love interest from first book) in secret and finds out she is half fae just like him. That is why they can communicate telepathically. He convinces her to visit the Fae world and she quickly finds out it is entirely a ruse to give her to the queen. Once imprisoned, she finds her biological, deadbeat dad Dain. He is also imprisoned and happens to be a Fae prince thus creating her half fae condition with her human mom Rosemary. Since Rosemary is from a long line of very powerful Thorn witches, one can only assume Athena will be more powerful than everyone at some point which makes her a likely target of enemies.
Meanwhile, Rosemary gathers the necessary ingredients to go through the “veil” to the Fae World… not only to bring Athena back, but to rescue children who have been taken by the Fae. She does this with the help of Liam and his blood, her childhood sweetheart, who she has learned is actually a werewolf. In this tale, becoming a werewolf means catching a virus and werewolves are shunned by the townspeople because of it. Rosemary promises to keep his secret.
Rosemary manages to cross the veil along with help from Athena’s school friends during the equinox celebration. Dain, Athena, Rosemary and friends finally meet up, outwit the Queen with “cream” which happens to be a drug to the Fae. They land safely back in Myrtlewood with the lost children in tow. Rosemary, along with help from the sentient Thorn house, invite the entire party to stay with them until the children can be reunited with family.
I do plan on reading the next book in this first trilogy entitled Combustible Magic, but may take a break after that. The series is a welcome light read amidst some of the heavy dramas I’ve been reading lately. I also find Rosemary and Athena’s relationship funny and familiar, not entirely unlike my own ups and downs with a teenage daughter.
- Experimental Magic, p. 0
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 4, 2024
I really like this series, although it's pretty cheesy.
Reminds me of a mashup of Gilmore Girls and Charmed.
One thing I don't quite understand is this relationship between Rosemary and Berk. I've only known of them to interact in passing, yet they have this deep affection for each other. I must have missed something.
Also, the spelling errors are terrible. Author needs a new editor.
Reminds me of a mashup of Gilmore Girls and Charmed.
One thing I don't quite understand is this relationship between Rosemary and Berk. I've only known of them to interact in passing, yet they have this deep affection for each other. I must have missed something.
Also, the spelling errors are terrible. Author needs a new editor.
October 15, 2024
I was on the fence after reading Book One of this series, but I’m glad I kept reading! The magical world of Myrtlewood was more fleshed out in this edition, and I really appreciated that we got more magic and more of an understanding of it, as well.
My only gripes this time around have to do with Rosemary and Athena- their whiny-ness could be grating, and how they interacted with the other townsfolk at times was also not great, (like I get that Rosemary is new to magic as a real concept , but constantly saying offensive things throughout the book was just annoying- like imagine doing that after being corrected so much in a non-magical way?)
Other than those little things, I really did like this story and I’m definitely going to keep going.
My only gripes this time around have to do with Rosemary and Athena- their whiny-ness could be grating, and how they interacted with the other townsfolk at times was also not great, (like I get that Rosemary is new to magic as a real concept , but constantly saying offensive things throughout the book was just annoying- like imagine doing that after being corrected so much in a non-magical way?)
Other than those little things, I really did like this story and I’m definitely going to keep going.
May 24, 2025
Better
Rosemary didn’t speak in all exclamation points this book. I am impressed with her drive to get to Athena and admit she doesn’t have any idea how to chat with magic people. She’ll get there. Some entertaining twists. Ok, next book.
Rosemary didn’t speak in all exclamation points this book. I am impressed with her drive to get to Athena and admit she doesn’t have any idea how to chat with magic people. She’ll get there. Some entertaining twists. Ok, next book.
January 30, 2024
No one drinks that much tea!
These books are fun and easy to read cozy mysteries, but I didn't know witches needed so many cups of tea to get through the day! I recommend for anyone who enjoys books about magic and the paranormal in everyday life.
These books are fun and easy to read cozy mysteries, but I didn't know witches needed so many cups of tea to get through the day! I recommend for anyone who enjoys books about magic and the paranormal in everyday life.
September 7, 2024
Mixed feelings on this one
Ok I liked the first book, with editing I thought it’d be really good. I also liked the characters and understood why the daughter was so snippy to her mother. (FYI anyone that’s had to literally be the parent to their parent growing up would understand. It’s not easy, it’s not right, and it shouldn’t happen that a daughter has to grow up too fast and act like the responsible adult because her mother won’t. It’s seriously traumatizing and Athena actually handled Rosemary with a lot of grace and respect considering how frustrated she would have been.)
But book two.. ugh… now Rosemary is just annoying. She’s even more scattered and idiotic acting. She actually at one point is mad at Athena for not waking her up in time for work. Ummm no. Supposedly in the last book Rosemary found herself and pulled herself together, now she’s actually worse?!?! She’s now strangely obsessive and dependent. She treats her daughter (who has proven to be much more mature and responsible than she is) more like a 6 year old than a 16 year old. And yet Rosemary herself can’t even wake up when she needs to? She’s also constantly complaining that she has no time for anything and is exhausted. But she’s not trying to learn her magic, only works part of the day, and doesn’t seem to have anything much to do. I suppose all the overreacting, jumping to wrong conclusions, and accusations she’s doing are exhausting? Thankfully she pulled herself together by the end but she’s still an incredibly irresponsible and immature person. Speaking of the end. it almost makes up for Rosemarys actions up to then.
I do like the story, and will definitely read the next. BUT, I hope the editing gets better and if Rosemary doesn’t start to grow up I won’t read much further. She’s out of excuses now.
Ok I liked the first book, with editing I thought it’d be really good. I also liked the characters and understood why the daughter was so snippy to her mother. (FYI anyone that’s had to literally be the parent to their parent growing up would understand. It’s not easy, it’s not right, and it shouldn’t happen that a daughter has to grow up too fast and act like the responsible adult because her mother won’t. It’s seriously traumatizing and Athena actually handled Rosemary with a lot of grace and respect considering how frustrated she would have been.)
But book two.. ugh… now Rosemary is just annoying. She’s even more scattered and idiotic acting. She actually at one point is mad at Athena for not waking her up in time for work. Ummm no. Supposedly in the last book Rosemary found herself and pulled herself together, now she’s actually worse?!?! She’s now strangely obsessive and dependent. She treats her daughter (who has proven to be much more mature and responsible than she is) more like a 6 year old than a 16 year old. And yet Rosemary herself can’t even wake up when she needs to? She’s also constantly complaining that she has no time for anything and is exhausted. But she’s not trying to learn her magic, only works part of the day, and doesn’t seem to have anything much to do. I suppose all the overreacting, jumping to wrong conclusions, and accusations she’s doing are exhausting? Thankfully she pulled herself together by the end but she’s still an incredibly irresponsible and immature person. Speaking of the end. it almost makes up for Rosemarys actions up to then.
I do like the story, and will definitely read the next. BUT, I hope the editing gets better and if Rosemary doesn’t start to grow up I won’t read much further. She’s out of excuses now.
November 7, 2023
pushing an agenda :(
I’m glad I got these for free through kindle unlimited. I only plan to finish the story because of that. Otherwise I wouldn’t have paid money to read the past the first book. I’ve found myself getting irritated or annoyed too often through the book and just wanting to get to the end to be able to skip over the stupid actions or dialog between the characters.
The story is cute enough and engaging. A quick and mindless read. The two main characters are a bit annoying. The teenager says things I don’t think real teenagers would say. (Though I really prefer her over the mother) But I can understand it might be hard to write a teenager if you don’t really talk to them in real life. Just like I can understand people not knowing how to write children of different ages if you don’t have much experience interacting with them. And maybe this author does? I don’t know. But the way she writes the children’s dialog seems forced and unreal.
The mother in the story is overbearing and idiotic. She says and acts in ways that I would hope a real grown up woman would not. Besides she pretty rude to everyone around her with her ignorance as an excuse. There is a difference between not knowing something and then saying rude as hell stuff to people and just dismissing it because you have the excuse of not knowing customs etc.
But I guess take it all with a grain of salt as it is just a fictional story.
Also seems to be trying to push the whole gender thing pretty hard. That was the biggest turn off in the story. The excessiveness of that.
Overall it’s something for me to read as I nurse my son while he naps or sleeps. If you are looking for a mindless read I’d say go for it!
I’m glad I got these for free through kindle unlimited. I only plan to finish the story because of that. Otherwise I wouldn’t have paid money to read the past the first book. I’ve found myself getting irritated or annoyed too often through the book and just wanting to get to the end to be able to skip over the stupid actions or dialog between the characters.
The story is cute enough and engaging. A quick and mindless read. The two main characters are a bit annoying. The teenager says things I don’t think real teenagers would say. (Though I really prefer her over the mother) But I can understand it might be hard to write a teenager if you don’t really talk to them in real life. Just like I can understand people not knowing how to write children of different ages if you don’t have much experience interacting with them. And maybe this author does? I don’t know. But the way she writes the children’s dialog seems forced and unreal.
The mother in the story is overbearing and idiotic. She says and acts in ways that I would hope a real grown up woman would not. Besides she pretty rude to everyone around her with her ignorance as an excuse. There is a difference between not knowing something and then saying rude as hell stuff to people and just dismissing it because you have the excuse of not knowing customs etc.
But I guess take it all with a grain of salt as it is just a fictional story.
Also seems to be trying to push the whole gender thing pretty hard. That was the biggest turn off in the story. The excessiveness of that.
Overall it’s something for me to read as I nurse my son while he naps or sleeps. If you are looking for a mindless read I’d say go for it!
March 30, 2023
Actual rating: 2.5 stars
A silly little time waster of a book. Just simply something fast-paced to read that is more escapist than meaningful.
I had more issues with this book than the first, those being that parts of the plot felt like they dragged. It wasn't as fast-paced as the first or as an enjoyable read. The ending seemed to take a while to get there and then resolved within a couple of chapters (obviously, everything worked out better than planned).
The characters development is pretty much non-existent. I know it's not an escapist read, but I'd still like to have seen more from some of these characters.
I do still see the strong likenesses with the Gilmore Girls within the MCs, to the point that I see Lauren Graham when Rosemary talks and Alexis Bledel when Athena talks. I just can't help it!
A silly little time waster of a book. Just simply something fast-paced to read that is more escapist than meaningful.
I had more issues with this book than the first, those being that parts of the plot felt like they dragged. It wasn't as fast-paced as the first or as an enjoyable read. The ending seemed to take a while to get there and then resolved within a couple of chapters (obviously, everything worked out better than planned).
The characters development is pretty much non-existent. I know it's not an escapist read, but I'd still like to have seen more from some of these characters.
I do still see the strong likenesses with the Gilmore Girls within the MCs, to the point that I see Lauren Graham when Rosemary talks and Alexis Bledel when Athena talks. I just can't help it!
November 2, 2023
A wonderful addition to the first book in this series. First and foremost, for anyone who was apprehensive about Rosemary being flighty and an overall mess, this book brought her to justice. We see more magic as both Rosemary and Athena adjust to their lives in Myrtlewood, sans the BloodStone committee. We also get to see a new realm and of course the ALWAYS FUN (atleast for me) sneak peek into schooling for magical…creatures/beings. As always, this book ended on a good note with all loose ends tied up, but still kept me wanting more (aka automatically turning to the next page on my kindle and starting book 3 ~Combustible Magic). Very much still the same vibes as HalloweenTown with a bit of HalloweenTown High thrown in. Can’t get enough!
July 26, 2023
I mean, it's fine.
I've been enjoying reading these books if I want something quick and easy as a break from heavier subject matters, but they're not well written. Eight books in this series have been released within just over a year and you can really tell.
They're not well written, they're rushed and there seems to be no actual change of pace. Even the "dramatic" parts of the book are a bit monotonous. There is no character development and the two main characters are simply annoying.
That being said, they're the sort of books I would have enjoyed when I was a teenager and I'm sure many teenagers these days will enjoy them too.
I've been enjoying reading these books if I want something quick and easy as a break from heavier subject matters, but they're not well written. Eight books in this series have been released within just over a year and you can really tell.
They're not well written, they're rushed and there seems to be no actual change of pace. Even the "dramatic" parts of the book are a bit monotonous. There is no character development and the two main characters are simply annoying.
That being said, they're the sort of books I would have enjoyed when I was a teenager and I'm sure many teenagers these days will enjoy them too.
March 19, 2024
After reading the first book, I tried to read the 2nd book and give it a chance but it’s just too much. The main characters are whiny. They have very weird and awkward conversations between themselves and other characters. Nothing really gets resolved and the issues that are brought up are drawn out way too long.
July 12, 2025
A Magical Sophomore Success
Iris Beaglehole returns with another enchanting installment that proves second books don't have to suffer from the dreaded middle-child syndrome. Experimental Magic is a delightful continuation that manages to be both a worthy successor and a compelling story in its own right.
What sets this series apart is Beaglehole's fresh take on the "discovering magical heritage" trope. Rather than retreading familiar ground, she weaves together the complexities of a newly awakened witch family with the rich, otherworldly influence of Fae ancestry. The result is a magical system that feels both grounded and wonderfully unpredictable.
The wit that sparkled throughout the first book is in full force here, with Beaglehole's sharp dialogue and cleverly observed moments providing genuine laughs without undermining the story's emotional core. Her characters feel authentically human (even when they're decidedly not), stumbling through magical mishaps with the kind of relatable awkwardness that makes you root for them from page one.
The pacing is expertly handled – each chapter ends with just enough intrigue to keep you turning pages well past bedtime. Beaglehole has mastered the art of the page-turner, balancing character development with plot advancement in a way that never feels rushed or forced. The Fae elements add layers of complexity and mystery that elevate the story beyond typical urban fantasy fare.
What impressed me most was how the author expanded the world-building without losing the intimate family dynamics that made the first book so engaging. The magical experimentation feels genuinely experimental – unpredictable, sometimes dangerous, always fascinating.
This is comfort reading at its finest: intelligent, funny, and utterly absorbing. If you're looking for a series that combines heart, humor, and genuine magical wonder, Beaglehole has crafted something special here.
Experimental Magic leaves you hungry for more adventures with this wonderfully dysfunctional magical family. Consider me thoroughly enchanted and eagerly awaiting book three.
Highly recommended for fans of urban fantasy, family sagas, and anyone who enjoys their magic served with a generous helping of wit and heart.
Iris Beaglehole returns with another enchanting installment that proves second books don't have to suffer from the dreaded middle-child syndrome. Experimental Magic is a delightful continuation that manages to be both a worthy successor and a compelling story in its own right.
What sets this series apart is Beaglehole's fresh take on the "discovering magical heritage" trope. Rather than retreading familiar ground, she weaves together the complexities of a newly awakened witch family with the rich, otherworldly influence of Fae ancestry. The result is a magical system that feels both grounded and wonderfully unpredictable.
The wit that sparkled throughout the first book is in full force here, with Beaglehole's sharp dialogue and cleverly observed moments providing genuine laughs without undermining the story's emotional core. Her characters feel authentically human (even when they're decidedly not), stumbling through magical mishaps with the kind of relatable awkwardness that makes you root for them from page one.
The pacing is expertly handled – each chapter ends with just enough intrigue to keep you turning pages well past bedtime. Beaglehole has mastered the art of the page-turner, balancing character development with plot advancement in a way that never feels rushed or forced. The Fae elements add layers of complexity and mystery that elevate the story beyond typical urban fantasy fare.
What impressed me most was how the author expanded the world-building without losing the intimate family dynamics that made the first book so engaging. The magical experimentation feels genuinely experimental – unpredictable, sometimes dangerous, always fascinating.
This is comfort reading at its finest: intelligent, funny, and utterly absorbing. If you're looking for a series that combines heart, humor, and genuine magical wonder, Beaglehole has crafted something special here.
Experimental Magic leaves you hungry for more adventures with this wonderfully dysfunctional magical family. Consider me thoroughly enchanted and eagerly awaiting book three.
Highly recommended for fans of urban fantasy, family sagas, and anyone who enjoys their magic served with a generous helping of wit and heart.
September 25, 2023
Welcome back to Myrtlewood, where magic is real and Rosemary and Athena are starting to settle into life in Thorn Manor. It has been a while since I read the first book but I remember absolutely adoring the story and the characters. I didn't get the same vibe from this second installment. I still enjoyed the story but the characters seemed a bit harsher this time. Athena is a teenage true, but she was extra moody and in some places downright insufferable. Rosemary also seemed a bit more muddle headed than I remember and extremely overbearing. She seems too overprotective of Athena and a bit intrusive at time. I still don't understand her desire to swear off all me. Burk or Liam would both be fun avenues to explore and I'm hopeful we will see a little romance in the future.
The book has a decent know of spelling and grammatical errors, and while it doesn't interrupt the story it does become a bit annoying. The story also just didn't have the same coziness that I felt from the first book. It was still a very enjoyable read and I am looking forward to the third book. It just seems like this one suffered from the sophomore curse.
Regardless, grab your favorite snuggle blanket, find the best reading spot, and enjoy! Happy Reading.
The book has a decent know of spelling and grammatical errors, and while it doesn't interrupt the story it does become a bit annoying. The story also just didn't have the same coziness that I felt from the first book. It was still a very enjoyable read and I am looking forward to the third book. It just seems like this one suffered from the sophomore curse.
Regardless, grab your favorite snuggle blanket, find the best reading spot, and enjoy! Happy Reading.
May 30, 2025
I am almost positive this book was written by AI.
The conversation between characters are not authentic and always seem to be explaining concepts through the guise of conversation. They’ll say something like: “I’m so frustrated.” “You’re frustrated because you are a Leo.” A Leo is a star sign that has a rising moon and this moon means you are more frustrated”. It really takes the personality out of the book and made it very dry.
They are constantly pushing and explaining politically correct agendas. Now, I have no issues with politically correctness, but it fully takes a reader out of the fantasy world they have created. The explain in detail pronouns, all the different types of sexualities, setting boundaries, cutting off toxic parents and probably heaps more that I kinda just tuned out of. It’s not natural, instead of just having a character that’s a different sexuality and showing their difficulties, it’s just talked about in a robotic and explanatory way. Definitions are repeated multiple times, and it feels more like a lecture than a story.
The conversation between characters are not authentic and always seem to be explaining concepts through the guise of conversation. They’ll say something like: “I’m so frustrated.” “You’re frustrated because you are a Leo.” A Leo is a star sign that has a rising moon and this moon means you are more frustrated”. It really takes the personality out of the book and made it very dry.
They are constantly pushing and explaining politically correct agendas. Now, I have no issues with politically correctness, but it fully takes a reader out of the fantasy world they have created. The explain in detail pronouns, all the different types of sexualities, setting boundaries, cutting off toxic parents and probably heaps more that I kinda just tuned out of. It’s not natural, instead of just having a character that’s a different sexuality and showing their difficulties, it’s just talked about in a robotic and explanatory way. Definitions are repeated multiple times, and it feels more like a lecture than a story.
April 23, 2024
Title: Experimental Magic (Myrtlewood Mysteries 2)
Author: Iris Beaglehole
Rating: 2.5/5 (round up to 3 for review purposes)
Pages: 302
This book is available on Kindle Unlimited.
Another quick read from Iris beaglehole. Joining Rosemary and Agatha in their chaotic family.
Like some reviews have said, it has a gilmore girls feeling with Magic. I think it sums it up. The relationship is messy and sometimes frustrating. Gran is unhelpful, and I'm unsure of her contribution to the story.
The story didn't go anywhere, really. It was incredibly waffley, and I think the author gets too over excited with how she wishes to convey her ideas that sometimes the dialogue jumbles over each other.
However, I really do like the concept. The characters are interesting. I love the town. I'm still intrigued enough to continue with the series to see where the thorne family goes next.
What are you currently reading?
Author: Iris Beaglehole
Rating: 2.5/5 (round up to 3 for review purposes)
Pages: 302
This book is available on Kindle Unlimited.
Another quick read from Iris beaglehole. Joining Rosemary and Agatha in their chaotic family.
Like some reviews have said, it has a gilmore girls feeling with Magic. I think it sums it up. The relationship is messy and sometimes frustrating. Gran is unhelpful, and I'm unsure of her contribution to the story.
The story didn't go anywhere, really. It was incredibly waffley, and I think the author gets too over excited with how she wishes to convey her ideas that sometimes the dialogue jumbles over each other.
However, I really do like the concept. The characters are interesting. I love the town. I'm still intrigued enough to continue with the series to see where the thorne family goes next.
What are you currently reading?
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