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The Woodsmoke Women's Book of Spells
In a magical new direction for One Christmas Morning author Rachel Greenlaw, an evocative and mysterious story about lost love and the magic of coming home, for readers of Adrienne Young and Breanne Randall.
There is an old tale woven through the mountain town of Woodsmoke about a stranger who appears as the first snow falls in winter, who will disappear without a trace as the frost thaws in spring, leaving a broken heart behind.
Carrie Morgan ran from Woodsmoke ten years ago, and the decision has haunted her ever since. Spending a decade painting and drifting around Europe, she tries to forget her family’s legacy and the friends she left behind. But the Morgan women have always been able to harness the power of the mountains surrounding the town, and their spells—and curses—are sewn into the soil. The mountains, they say, never forget.
Sure enough, when Carrie’s grandmother dies and leaves behind her dilapidated cottage, she returns to renovate—certain she will only be there for one winter. She meets Matthieu as the temperature dips, a newcomer who offers to help refurbish the cottage. Before long, and despite warnings from her great-aunt Cora of the old stories, Carrie finds herself falling for the charming stranger. But when the frost thaws in spring, Matthieu goes missing.
Carrie is convinced he’s real, and he’s in danger. As she fights her way across the mountains to find him, she must confront all the reasons why she left Woodsmoke and decide whether the place she’s spent the last decade running from is the home she’s been searching for.
Rachel Greenlaw, the beloved author of One Christmas Morning, returns with another beautifully crafted, emotionally charged, and romantic tale about lost love and the magic of coming home.
There is an old tale woven through the mountain town of Woodsmoke about a stranger who appears as the first snow falls in winter, who will disappear without a trace as the frost thaws in spring, leaving a broken heart behind.
Carrie Morgan ran from Woodsmoke ten years ago, and the decision has haunted her ever since. Spending a decade painting and drifting around Europe, she tries to forget her family’s legacy and the friends she left behind. But the Morgan women have always been able to harness the power of the mountains surrounding the town, and their spells—and curses—are sewn into the soil. The mountains, they say, never forget.
Sure enough, when Carrie’s grandmother dies and leaves behind her dilapidated cottage, she returns to renovate—certain she will only be there for one winter. She meets Matthieu as the temperature dips, a newcomer who offers to help refurbish the cottage. Before long, and despite warnings from her great-aunt Cora of the old stories, Carrie finds herself falling for the charming stranger. But when the frost thaws in spring, Matthieu goes missing.
Carrie is convinced he’s real, and he’s in danger. As she fights her way across the mountains to find him, she must confront all the reasons why she left Woodsmoke and decide whether the place she’s spent the last decade running from is the home she’s been searching for.
Rachel Greenlaw, the beloved author of One Christmas Morning, returns with another beautifully crafted, emotionally charged, and romantic tale about lost love and the magic of coming home.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 22, 2024
294 people are currently reading
31578 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Greenlaw
8 books475 followersRachel Greenlaw is the author of ONE CHRISTMAS MORNING, THE WOODSMOKE WOMEN'S BOOK OF SPELLS the COMPASS AND BLADE series and THE ORDEALS duology. She lives on an island in the middle of the Atlantic, where you'll find her wandering the white sand beaches, searching for cowrie shells and writing her next story.
For up to date information on Rachel's books, giveaways and news, sign up for her newsletter at https://rachelgreenlaw.com
And follow her on instagram and TikTok @rachelgreenlaw_ for a window into her world.
For up to date information on Rachel's books, giveaways and news, sign up for her newsletter at https://rachelgreenlaw.com
And follow her on instagram and TikTok @rachelgreenlaw_ for a window into her world.
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November 18, 2024I'm so behind on my reads lol, BUT when My girl Maeghan tells me this is a freaking fantastic story with The Unmaking of June Farrow vibes.
Well, I'm just going to move it to the top of my TBR. Got the audio since I'm drowning in arcs currently.
Well, I'm just going to move it to the top of my TBR. Got the audio since I'm drowning in arcs currently.
October 11, 2024
The Woodsmoke Women’s Book of Spells
by Rachel Greenlaw combines magical realism, folklore, romance, and more in a heartfelt novel set in Carrie Morgan’s hometown of Woodsmoke. Carrie left the mountain town ten years ago. However, her grandmother has died and left her the dilapidated cottage she grew up in as well as her candle shop. Carrie plans to renovate the cottage during the fall and winter and sell it in the spring. She meets Mattieu as the temperatures drop and the first frost appears and hires him to help her with the renovations.
Despite her great-aunt Cora’s warnings about the old stories, Carrie falls for Mattieu. When he goes missing, Carrie decides to search for him despite the warnings. Is he real or not? Is this Carrie’s forever home or will she continue to travel the world?
Carrie is curious and doesn’t always listen to others. She feels adrift and unsure of her place in the world. She hasn’t even painted in a year. Will she find the answers she’s been seeking for the last ten years in Woodsmoke?
This story felt warm and cozy, but slow and somewhat disappointing. There wasn’t as much magic as I was expecting. Additionally, it was told from three different points of view and switched back and forth in time. This tended to adversely affect the flow of the narrative. Threads woven into the storyline include family, friendship, self-discovery, relationships, grief, and small-town gossip and treatment of those who are different.
Overall, I enjoyed the entertaining and atmospheric story, but it wasn’t what I expected. However, the world-building was excellent and it was a nice change-of-pace read that was also thought-provoking. The exploration of relationships was well-done.
Avon and Harper Voyager – Avon and Rachel Greenlaw provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for October 22, 2024.
---------------------------------------
My 3.16 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon.
Despite her great-aunt Cora’s warnings about the old stories, Carrie falls for Mattieu. When he goes missing, Carrie decides to search for him despite the warnings. Is he real or not? Is this Carrie’s forever home or will she continue to travel the world?
Carrie is curious and doesn’t always listen to others. She feels adrift and unsure of her place in the world. She hasn’t even painted in a year. Will she find the answers she’s been seeking for the last ten years in Woodsmoke?
This story felt warm and cozy, but slow and somewhat disappointing. There wasn’t as much magic as I was expecting. Additionally, it was told from three different points of view and switched back and forth in time. This tended to adversely affect the flow of the narrative. Threads woven into the storyline include family, friendship, self-discovery, relationships, grief, and small-town gossip and treatment of those who are different.
Overall, I enjoyed the entertaining and atmospheric story, but it wasn’t what I expected. However, the world-building was excellent and it was a nice change-of-pace read that was also thought-provoking. The exploration of relationships was well-done.
Avon and Harper Voyager – Avon and Rachel Greenlaw provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for October 22, 2024.
---------------------------------------
My 3.16 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon.
February 6, 2025
♾️✨ - one of my new Roman Empires.
I need to say that the comparison to The Unmaking of June Farrow absolutely terrified me as this book is also one of my Roman Empires. You can easily imagine that my expectations for this book were sky high. And it absolutely kicked all of my expectations in the face and blew me away.
The haunted writing gave me chills. This story was such a page turner… it kept me on my toes until the last page.
I don’t remember the last time a book made me cry that much. I had to put the book down and take a break 😅.
If you loved The Unmaking of June Farrow - you will absolutely devour this one. And just know I’m not one for comparisons but this has the same haunted writing and the vibes were immaculate.
« You can’t fit yourself into a box that wasn’t built for you » ❤️🔥
My favourite read of 2024.
—-• Thoughts while reading ;
I’m falling in love with this
I need to say that the comparison to The Unmaking of June Farrow absolutely terrified me as this book is also one of my Roman Empires. You can easily imagine that my expectations for this book were sky high. And it absolutely kicked all of my expectations in the face and blew me away.
The haunted writing gave me chills. This story was such a page turner… it kept me on my toes until the last page.
I don’t remember the last time a book made me cry that much. I had to put the book down and take a break 😅.
If you loved The Unmaking of June Farrow - you will absolutely devour this one. And just know I’m not one for comparisons but this has the same haunted writing and the vibes were immaculate.
« You can’t fit yourself into a box that wasn’t built for you » ❤️🔥
My favourite read of 2024.
—-• Thoughts while reading ;
I’m falling in love with this
September 18, 2024
I was hoping this would be more magical.
Rating: 3 ⭐️
The Woodsmoke Women's Book of Spells follows three women. Cora, the 80-year old great aunt to our second POV character Carrie, and Jess, Carrie's ex-best friend. After 10 years away, Carrie has finally returned to Woodsmoke in order to fix up the cottage left to her in her grandmother's will.
My main problem with this book is its multiple-POVs. Jess's POV, specifically, felt unnecessary. Whereas Cora and Carrie's storylines revolved around their family's magic, Jess's story revolved around her marital problems.
Jess is not a Morgan. She has no magic. Her only relevance to the story is what she means to Carrie. So, to spend so much time on her thoughts and emotions when we could have been spending time with the far more interesting Carrie or Cora was lame. I really liked the scenes with Carrie refurbishing her grandmother Ivy's cottage or uncovering the mystery of Matthieu. However, that kept getting interrupted by Jess' broken marriage.
For a book focused on generational magic, it was decidedly bereft of it. Many of the chapters included interesting passages from the Morgan Book of Spells. However, those passages never seemed to truly influence the plot in any meaningful way. Nor, it seemed, did magic as a whole.
The ending was a bit of a let-down. It wasn't what I was hoping for and what I felt the story was leading up to with its inclusion of the passages from the Morgan Book of Spells. Overall, while there were definitely some interesting aspects to this book, it failed to adequately explore them.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for providing me access to The Woodsmoke Women's Book of Spells in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Rating: 3 ⭐️
The Woodsmoke Women's Book of Spells follows three women. Cora, the 80-year old great aunt to our second POV character Carrie, and Jess, Carrie's ex-best friend. After 10 years away, Carrie has finally returned to Woodsmoke in order to fix up the cottage left to her in her grandmother's will.
My main problem with this book is its multiple-POVs. Jess's POV, specifically, felt unnecessary. Whereas Cora and Carrie's storylines revolved around their family's magic, Jess's story revolved around her marital problems.
Jess is not a Morgan. She has no magic. Her only relevance to the story is what she means to Carrie. So, to spend so much time on her thoughts and emotions when we could have been spending time with the far more interesting Carrie or Cora was lame. I really liked the scenes with Carrie refurbishing her grandmother Ivy's cottage or uncovering the mystery of Matthieu. However, that kept getting interrupted by Jess' broken marriage.
For a book focused on generational magic, it was decidedly bereft of it. Many of the chapters included interesting passages from the Morgan Book of Spells. However, those passages never seemed to truly influence the plot in any meaningful way. Nor, it seemed, did magic as a whole.
The ending was a bit of a let-down. It wasn't what I was hoping for and what I felt the story was leading up to with its inclusion of the passages from the Morgan Book of Spells. Overall, while there were definitely some interesting aspects to this book, it failed to adequately explore them.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for providing me access to The Woodsmoke Women's Book of Spells in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
October 25, 2025
Just being honest here- I was bored throughout this one 😝
September 23, 2024
“The Woodsmoke Women’s Book of Spells” is a mesmerizing tale that intertwines its narrative with a beautiful and enchanting quality reminiscent of the captivating prose found in Adrienne Young’s work. It delves into a spellbinding story of lost love and the magic of reconnecting with one’s origins. Right from the beginning, I found myself spellbound by the atmospheric world painted within its pages, to the extent that I could envision myself nestled in Ivy’s cottage, surrounded by the mystical allure of the mountains. I cherished yet devoured every word. This book has all the components to make for a cozy read. I would have personally liked a bit more magic and for the characters to be developed a little further, but all in all, Greenlaw did an incredible job. This book teetered at the 4.5 mark for a bit, and I was almost disappointed at the end, but the epilogue sealed this in at five stars for me. I’d read this one again and again. ✨💕
✨Magical realism
✨Multiple POV
✨Mystery
✨ Small town
✨Splash of Romance
✨ “Witches”
Thank you, thank you, thank you, Avon and Harper Voyager | Avon Publishing, for providing me with this ARC. This was such a refreshing and delightful story. You bet I’ve already preordered a signed copy to add to my home library.
Pub Date: Oct 22, 2024
✨Magical realism
✨Multiple POV
✨Mystery
✨ Small town
✨Splash of Romance
✨ “Witches”
Thank you, thank you, thank you, Avon and Harper Voyager | Avon Publishing, for providing me with this ARC. This was such a refreshing and delightful story. You bet I’ve already preordered a signed copy to add to my home library.
Pub Date: Oct 22, 2024
June 11, 2024
★★★★★ - 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰
The Woodsmoke Women’s Book of Spells by Rachel Greenlaw
༘Spoiler free ༘
⭐️4.3125/5
Romance, Fantasy, Paranormal
Multi POV
➳ curses
➳ magical realism
➳ small town
➳ nonlinear timeline
➳ cosy
➳ family legacies
➳ healing
➳ forbidden/doomed romance
✨ “Maybe, as I learn to love this place and embrace every facet of it—and myself—I will accept the magic and the mountains as a part of me in a way I never did before. I will tell him. I will. But tonight is for starlight, and tomorrow belongs to the future.“ ✨
Rachel Greenlaw’s poignant yet whimsical prose created the perfect sense of magical realism that will leave you spellbound. This read is perfect for fans of Practical Magic, The Unmaking of June Farrow, Spells for Forgetting, and Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries. It was the perfect balance of romantic love and familial/platonic love and healing. I loved following the characters on their paths to healing and redemption.
📚📚📚
Song - Season of the Witch by Lana Del Rey
If you’re curious about whether Rachel Greenlaw’s writing lives up to the book description (and don’t want any major plot points spoiled) then read below
1️⃣ Atmospheric Setting?
Absolutely delivered. It was lush, cosy and eerie all at the same time. The small town of Woodsmoke was richly described, and the ominous and haunting presence of the mountains and the magic associated with them could be felt on every page. I can’t place my finger on exactly why, but the setting of this story was giving the same vibe as the standing stones at Craigh na dun in outlander, meets the small town in practical magic. While the mountains don’t serve as a method of time travel, they have the same sort of foreboding and almost *alive* presence about them.
2️⃣ Mystery and Intrigue?
If you’re not questioning reality and asking yourself whether the mountains truly are living things that enable/perform magic, then you’re probably hyper-analysing every crumb of interaction between Carrie and Matthieu desperate to discover the mystery behind him.
As soon as he appeared on page i was lured in… a man that appears with first snowfall and disappears with the thaw? Who is he?! Frosty the Snowman? Jack Frost?! More importantly… would he be interested in coming to my house and performing handiwork and making me coffee this winter too?? This man is mysterious, and I found myself immediately intrigued.
3️⃣ Romantic Tension?
I was initially reticent with this story and had the sickening feeling that Carrie might’ve returned and ended up with the childhood sweetheart, Tom, that she left at the altar. While i’m not against second chance romances, Tom is now married to her childhood best friend Jess. Although i was initially a bit resistant to Jess, they have an adorable daughter and i just don’t support breaking up a happy home.
Thanks a million, Rachel Greenlaw for delivering us a forbidden romance to support in the form of Carrie and Matthieu. Nothing makes for romantic tension like a forbidden/doomed love, and the curse surrounding their relationship had me on the edge of my seat and overanalysing every interaction.
As an additional bonus we were graced with Cora and Howard’s romance in the form of flashbacks and i think they’re my second favourite couple of this story. I honestly think the love Howard had for Cora was the sweetest love in this entire novel, as it aged over the decades.
4️⃣ Magical Realism?
The magical elements rooted in the folklore and traditions of Woodsmoke, added an enchanting layer to the novel without overshadowing its emotional core. The magic here genuinely did feel as if it could exist in our everyday world.
5️⃣ Sense of Home?
Yes, yes, a million times yes. I feel like the whole sense of home and homecoming was one of the more poignant themes in this novel and gave me one of my favourite quotes.
This was one of the few books where i can genuinely say i *felt* that sense of belonging that the characters experienced. Carrie struggled her whole life in the small town of Woodsmoke never truly feeling like she belonged, i felt an overwhelming sense of peace as she found her way and place in her life.
❧✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*❦*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧❧
Initially, I only felt connected to carrie. as the story unfolded I found myself understanding and hurting for jess and cora’s journeys as well. Rachel Greenlaw has a way of easing you into empathising with the other characters, even when their personalities and characteristics differ from your own.
I found the nonlinear timeline helped provide peeks and insights into the characters hearts and motivations. The character arcs felt natural, and some of the plot twists felt undeniably and beautifully realistic. The characters are all flawed humans and these flaw provided so many growth opportunities.
For me personally, the most gripping aspect of this story was Carrie’s curse. I found myself eagle eyed and rereading every interaction she had with Matthieu desperate to find clues and answers regarding the mystery that surrounded him and their romance.
This book is slower paced in the beginning while you’re laying the foundation and getting a grip on the world building, but after the first quarter things speed up a bit and you will find yourself struggling to put this book down.
100% would recommend this book to anyone in search of a cosy, slightly chilling, low stakes romantic fantasy. Perfect for fans of Practical Magic, The Unmaking of June Farrow, Spells for Forgetting, and Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries.
✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧
💖
LIKES:
⋆ The setting and atmosphere of this book was unmatched 🏔️
⋆ Rachel Greenlaw’s prose was evocative and whimsical without feeling campy.
⋆ The romantic moments drew me in and left me wanting to fully immerse myself in the character’s lives.
⋆ Healing, Homecoming, Reparations/Redemption themes were so beautifully executed in this novel.
❤️🩹
DISLIKES:
⋆ Not quite a dislike per se, but i would’ve appreciated a …. second epilogue. With a glimpse into the story maybe a few years or more down the road. Unless this isn’t meant to be a standalone, in which case the single epilogue was perfect.
Fantasy Scoring
Worldbuilding ➷ ✅ 4.5/5
Foreshadowing ➷ ✅ 4.0/5
Plot ➷ ✅ 4.5/5
Relationships ➷ ✅ 4.25/5
Find me on: insta | tiktok
Thank you to Rachel Greenlaw, Avon, Harper Voyager and NetGalley for the opportunity to provide my honest opinion on the ARC of this book.
The Woodsmoke Women’s Book of Spells by Rachel Greenlaw
༘Spoiler free ༘
⭐️4.3125/5
Romance, Fantasy, Paranormal
Multi POV
➳ curses
➳ magical realism
➳ small town
➳ nonlinear timeline
➳ cosy
➳ family legacies
➳ healing
➳ forbidden/doomed romance
✨ “Maybe, as I learn to love this place and embrace every facet of it—and myself—I will accept the magic and the mountains as a part of me in a way I never did before. I will tell him. I will. But tonight is for starlight, and tomorrow belongs to the future.“ ✨
Rachel Greenlaw’s poignant yet whimsical prose created the perfect sense of magical realism that will leave you spellbound. This read is perfect for fans of Practical Magic, The Unmaking of June Farrow, Spells for Forgetting, and Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries. It was the perfect balance of romantic love and familial/platonic love and healing. I loved following the characters on their paths to healing and redemption.
📚📚📚
Song - Season of the Witch by Lana Del Rey
If you’re curious about whether Rachel Greenlaw’s writing lives up to the book description (and don’t want any major plot points spoiled) then read below
1️⃣ Atmospheric Setting?
The slow trickle of fear taking hold, the knowing that life is different in Woodsmoke. You can’t be sure that a gift is always left with good intent. You don’t stray from the path. And if you see someone stepping off the mountain trails, or hear a voice luring you away, never follow. Sometimes a gift is just a gift. But sometimes . . . I swallow. Sometimes it’s a warning.
Absolutely delivered. It was lush, cosy and eerie all at the same time. The small town of Woodsmoke was richly described, and the ominous and haunting presence of the mountains and the magic associated with them could be felt on every page. I can’t place my finger on exactly why, but the setting of this story was giving the same vibe as the standing stones at Craigh na dun in outlander, meets the small town in practical magic. While the mountains don’t serve as a method of time travel, they have the same sort of foreboding and almost *alive* presence about them.
2️⃣ Mystery and Intrigue?
I have that feeling again. Like I’m being watched. Tested. Like every move I make is being weighed and measured.
If you’re not questioning reality and asking yourself whether the mountains truly are living things that enable/perform magic, then you’re probably hyper-analysing every crumb of interaction between Carrie and Matthieu desperate to discover the mystery behind him.
As soon as he appeared on page i was lured in… a man that appears with first snowfall and disappears with the thaw? Who is he?! Frosty the Snowman? Jack Frost?! More importantly… would he be interested in coming to my house and performing handiwork and making me coffee this winter too?? This man is mysterious, and I found myself immediately intrigued.
3️⃣ Romantic Tension?
love doesn’t work that way. It can’t be forced; it can’t be tricked.
I was initially reticent with this story and had the sickening feeling that Carrie might’ve returned and ended up with the childhood sweetheart, Tom, that she left at the altar. While i’m not against second chance romances, Tom is now married to her childhood best friend Jess. Although i was initially a bit resistant to Jess, they have an adorable daughter and i just don’t support breaking up a happy home.
Everything around us, everything else boiling up inside me, fades away, leaving only him, only his mouth, his touch, the warmth of him wrapping around me. It’s as though I’ve been lost in a blizzard with no end and no beginning. And now suddenly I’m no longer cold.
Thanks a million, Rachel Greenlaw for delivering us a forbidden romance to support in the form of Carrie and Matthieu. Nothing makes for romantic tension like a forbidden/doomed love, and the curse surrounding their relationship had me on the edge of my seat and overanalysing every interaction.
As an additional bonus we were graced with Cora and Howard’s romance in the form of flashbacks and i think they’re my second favourite couple of this story. I honestly think the love Howard had for Cora was the sweetest love in this entire novel, as it aged over the decades.
4️⃣ Magical Realism?
This is the way of the mountains, the way it has always been. This is the truth we learned as children, the truth that followed us into adulthood, through whispers that bound us. A Morgan woman can cast a wish. She can scratch at the door of the mountains and ask for the world, but if they agree to help, she must give something of equal importance in return. An eye for an eye. A secret for a secret. A life for a life.
The magical elements rooted in the folklore and traditions of Woodsmoke, added an enchanting layer to the novel without overshadowing its emotional core. The magic here genuinely did feel as if it could exist in our everyday world.
5️⃣ Sense of Home?
I spend the rest of the afternoon highly aware of him. Of myself. Of the air between us, crackling and heavy as we move around each other, painting the kitchen and then the lounge. And realise that you can belong with a person as much as you belong to a place.
Yes, yes, a million times yes. I feel like the whole sense of home and homecoming was one of the more poignant themes in this novel and gave me one of my favourite quotes.
This was one of the few books where i can genuinely say i *felt* that sense of belonging that the characters experienced. Carrie struggled her whole life in the small town of Woodsmoke never truly feeling like she belonged, i felt an overwhelming sense of peace as she found her way and place in her life.
❧✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:*❦*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧❧
Initially, I only felt connected to carrie. as the story unfolded I found myself understanding and hurting for jess and cora’s journeys as well. Rachel Greenlaw has a way of easing you into empathising with the other characters, even when their personalities and characteristics differ from your own.
I found the nonlinear timeline helped provide peeks and insights into the characters hearts and motivations. The character arcs felt natural, and some of the plot twists felt undeniably and beautifully realistic. The characters are all flawed humans and these flaw provided so many growth opportunities.
For me personally, the most gripping aspect of this story was Carrie’s curse. I found myself eagle eyed and rereading every interaction she had with Matthieu desperate to find clues and answers regarding the mystery that surrounded him and their romance.
This book is slower paced in the beginning while you’re laying the foundation and getting a grip on the world building, but after the first quarter things speed up a bit and you will find yourself struggling to put this book down.
100% would recommend this book to anyone in search of a cosy, slightly chilling, low stakes romantic fantasy. Perfect for fans of Practical Magic, The Unmaking of June Farrow, Spells for Forgetting, and Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries.
✧･ﾟ: *✧･ﾟ:* *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ✧
💖
LIKES:
⋆ The setting and atmosphere of this book was unmatched 🏔️
⋆ Rachel Greenlaw’s prose was evocative and whimsical without feeling campy.
⋆ The romantic moments drew me in and left me wanting to fully immerse myself in the character’s lives.
⋆ Healing, Homecoming, Reparations/Redemption themes were so beautifully executed in this novel.
❤️🩹
DISLIKES:
⋆ Not quite a dislike per se, but i would’ve appreciated a …. second epilogue. With a glimpse into the story maybe a few years or more down the road. Unless this isn’t meant to be a standalone, in which case the single epilogue was perfect.
Fantasy Scoring
Worldbuilding ➷ ✅ 4.5/5
Foreshadowing ➷ ✅ 4.0/5
Plot ➷ ✅ 4.5/5
Relationships ➷ ✅ 4.25/5
Find me on: insta | tiktok
Thank you to Rachel Greenlaw, Avon, Harper Voyager and NetGalley for the opportunity to provide my honest opinion on the ARC of this book.
October 20, 2024
⋆⋆½ — lovely prose, reminiscent of maggie stiefvater and adrienne young. an atmosphere that resembles that of zella day's song hypnotic. the angsty, nostalgic small-town magical realism would usually be right up my alley, but i couldn't connect to the characters this time. a problem because this was definitely a character study and had no semblance of anything close to a plot. the story was mainly about carrie's homecoming, and her slowly learning to love her hometown again. she wasn't a particularly interesting character, but jess and cora were even more irritating, and being forced to read from their povs every other chapter very much lowered whatever enjoyment i had in the earlier chapters. jess especially. i do not care about her tradwife marital problems. for a book where all three povs are female, it's odd that the book seems to be 60% about men? i wouldn't classify this as a romance, and yet. so. many. men. i'm sure even straight women have other topics to consider?
thank you to netgalley for the advanced copy.
thank you to netgalley for the advanced copy.
August 7, 2024
I received a free copy of, The Woodsmoke Women's Book of Spells, by Rachel Greenlaw, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. When Carrie's grandmother passed away she inherited her cottage in Woodsmoke. Carrie did not leave Woodsmoke on a good note and is a little wary about coming back, until she meets Matthieu, can he help her fix the cottage? This was a pretty nice read.
November 30, 2025
3 1/2 stars rounded down to 3.
A cosy, romantic tale with a touch of fantasy. Yes, I read a romantasy. Or ‘magical realism’ as it’s now called. Whatever happened to contemporary fantasy? There is a quiet, uncommon writing style, expressed in a gentle tone. There are achingly sweet (but not too much) descriptive passages. The mountains, the lands that both play such a big role here are truly alive and breathing. I am reminded of Adrienne Young’s delightfully emotional writing style. Our main character, Carrie, is a strong yet troubled young woman. Our secondaries are smoothly drawn, with feelings and troubles of their own. It is undeniably a slow burn. Ms. Greenlaw takes her time crafting this magical world. The book takes a year to cycle through its story. However, the plot does take time to unfold; this may be a deterrent to some readers. And unfortunately, there’s a bit too much of ‘tell’ and not enough ‘show’ with Carrie. Let me see what the character is doing, feeling; don’t just tell me. The ending was a bit predictable and light. My heart (yes, I have one) ached for something a bit stronger.
A cosy, romantic tale with a touch of fantasy. Yes, I read a romantasy. Or ‘magical realism’ as it’s now called. Whatever happened to contemporary fantasy? There is a quiet, uncommon writing style, expressed in a gentle tone. There are achingly sweet (but not too much) descriptive passages. The mountains, the lands that both play such a big role here are truly alive and breathing. I am reminded of Adrienne Young’s delightfully emotional writing style. Our main character, Carrie, is a strong yet troubled young woman. Our secondaries are smoothly drawn, with feelings and troubles of their own. It is undeniably a slow burn. Ms. Greenlaw takes her time crafting this magical world. The book takes a year to cycle through its story. However, the plot does take time to unfold; this may be a deterrent to some readers. And unfortunately, there’s a bit too much of ‘tell’ and not enough ‘show’ with Carrie. Let me see what the character is doing, feeling; don’t just tell me. The ending was a bit predictable and light. My heart (yes, I have one) ached for something a bit stronger.
July 10, 2024
This book proves that comps in publishing are soooo tricky because I saw it being compared to Adrienne Young and I was SOLD, but reading it…oof I hate that it fell so flat.
The narration was dry and too focused on being atmospheric that it lost the plot. The change in tense bothered the heck out of me, especially when I’m not typically a fan of first person. The FMC being written in first and other characters in third made no sense to me and gave me the worst whiplash. I so, so wish it could’ve been the same through out and I still don’t understand the need for the switch. The characters were one dimensional and all only had one purpose. The FMC and MMC had the most surface level chemistry. I’m not even sure when they started liking each other??? And the little mystery with the MMC was not very realistic at all. It’s pretty obvious what’s the truth, so this being the big mystery in the story only made things more boring. Its biggest selling points and interesting aspects weren’t utilized completely. And it just ended up being not nearly as complex or interesting as I expected it to be, or hoped it would be.
And that’s the problem with comps cause I do think I could’ve liked this more if it were marketed as a low stakes, cozy read. At least slightly more! But you say Adrienne Young and I’m expecting it to be twisty! And layered! With complicated characters and storylines! This books biggest fault is that it ended up not hooking me into either one of those and staying flat through out. All in all, it was just very boring and underwhelming.
Sad this was a miss for me. If you want something light and atmospheric, with an overuse of adjectives then this might be for you. Go into it for the vibes and I think you’ll have a good time.
Thank you again HarperCollins. And I’m sorry. It’s me not you!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The narration was dry and too focused on being atmospheric that it lost the plot. The change in tense bothered the heck out of me, especially when I’m not typically a fan of first person. The FMC being written in first and other characters in third made no sense to me and gave me the worst whiplash. I so, so wish it could’ve been the same through out and I still don’t understand the need for the switch. The characters were one dimensional and all only had one purpose. The FMC and MMC had the most surface level chemistry. I’m not even sure when they started liking each other??? And the little mystery with the MMC was not very realistic at all. It’s pretty obvious what’s the truth, so this being the big mystery in the story only made things more boring. Its biggest selling points and interesting aspects weren’t utilized completely. And it just ended up being not nearly as complex or interesting as I expected it to be, or hoped it would be.
And that’s the problem with comps cause I do think I could’ve liked this more if it were marketed as a low stakes, cozy read. At least slightly more! But you say Adrienne Young and I’m expecting it to be twisty! And layered! With complicated characters and storylines! This books biggest fault is that it ended up not hooking me into either one of those and staying flat through out. All in all, it was just very boring and underwhelming.
Sad this was a miss for me. If you want something light and atmospheric, with an overuse of adjectives then this might be for you. Go into it for the vibes and I think you’ll have a good time.
Thank you again HarperCollins. And I’m sorry. It’s me not you!!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 6, 2025
I just...wish I had DNF'd this.
For a book about a book of spells and magic, there was almost nothing of that genre in the story and it was incredibly frustrating. As if that wasn't bad enough, the plot seemed to revolve almost exclusively around men and Cora, Carrie, and Jess's relationships with them and the use of magic to get/keep/lose them.
I finished this book not really knowing what the point of the story was.
For a book about a book of spells and magic, there was almost nothing of that genre in the story and it was incredibly frustrating. As if that wasn't bad enough, the plot seemed to revolve almost exclusively around men and Cora, Carrie, and Jess's relationships with them and the use of magic to get/keep/lose them.
I finished this book not really knowing what the point of the story was.
November 8, 2024
Grief and Mountain Magic all rolled into a family line of Morgan Women. The Mountains give but they also take away. There are the old rules and old stories to guide you along this journey.
# The Woodsmoke Women’s Book of Spells
# 11/6/2024 ~ 11/7/2024
# 4.0 / 5.0
# The Woodsmoke Women’s Book of Spells
# 11/6/2024 ~ 11/7/2024
# 4.0 / 5.0
October 23, 2025
3.75 stars.
I really enjoyed this book, which felt almost like literary romantic fantasy in some ways.
We follow three main characters, Carrie and Jess, who are in their 30s, and Cora, who is Carrie’s great-aunt. Ivy, Carrie’s grandmother, has recently passed, and left her home and candle shop to Carrie. However, Carrie has to return to Woodsmoke, a small town in the mountains, to claim her inheritance.
Can Carrie mend fences with friends and family? Will she find the romantic relationship she may not even realize she needs? What about her magical heritage, a part of her family’s lives that she’s not really had an interest in up to this point?
I hope the author turns this into a series because this has a Sarah Addison Allen feeling with imo better writing and atmosphere. I’d really enjoy seeing where these characters and any children may go from here.
Kristin Atherton does the audio narration and it was so good that I’ve been searching for more books read by her. She captured the essence of the story perfectly in my opinion.
I really enjoyed this book, which felt almost like literary romantic fantasy in some ways.
We follow three main characters, Carrie and Jess, who are in their 30s, and Cora, who is Carrie’s great-aunt. Ivy, Carrie’s grandmother, has recently passed, and left her home and candle shop to Carrie. However, Carrie has to return to Woodsmoke, a small town in the mountains, to claim her inheritance.
Can Carrie mend fences with friends and family? Will she find the romantic relationship she may not even realize she needs? What about her magical heritage, a part of her family’s lives that she’s not really had an interest in up to this point?
I hope the author turns this into a series because this has a Sarah Addison Allen feeling with imo better writing and atmosphere. I’d really enjoy seeing where these characters and any children may go from here.
Kristin Atherton does the audio narration and it was so good that I’ve been searching for more books read by her. She captured the essence of the story perfectly in my opinion.
June 19, 2024
"There is an old tale woven through the mountain town of Woodsmoke about a stranger who appears as the first snow falls in winter, who will disappear without a trace as the frost thaws in spring, leaving a broken heart behind."
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
TW: abandonment, blood, death, death of a loved one, grief, infertility, injury/injury detail, medical content, pregnancy.
Perfect for fans of Rachel Griffin and Practical Magic, The Woodsmoke Women's Book of Spells was one of the most heartwarming books I've read in awhile.
This book delivered everything I wanted it to. Cozy, small-town, magical vibes with the kind of witchy atmosphere that feels like a Pinterest aesthetic board - complete with dried herbs and old, worn books. From the very first chapter, I was immediately captured by the setting and the characters - a feeling that didn't let go for the entirety of the novel.
Along with all of the cozy, higher budget Hallmark vibes there was also an undercurrent of heavier themes which is something I really appreciate. Amidst the little book clubs and tall trees, there are also discussions of grief and sacrifice and identity and beginnings/endings and what it means to call a place home. It was the kind of book that finds beauty even in tragic circumstances.
The only... criticism (if you could even call it that) I would give is that this book is very simple. I really enjoyed this and it's what I was looking for, but I could see some readers expecting more from this book. If you love Rachel Griffin's short, cozy take on witchy fantasy, I really think you'll enjoy this. But if you're wanting them to do a deeper look at the other townspeople and their lives and the implications of the magic, you won't get much more than a topical but still meaningful read.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and I will in fact be recommending it to everyone - especially those looking for a cozy read for the colder months (or any time of the year, really.)
ARC provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
TW: abandonment, blood, death, death of a loved one, grief, infertility, injury/injury detail, medical content, pregnancy.
Perfect for fans of Rachel Griffin and Practical Magic, The Woodsmoke Women's Book of Spells was one of the most heartwarming books I've read in awhile.
This book delivered everything I wanted it to. Cozy, small-town, magical vibes with the kind of witchy atmosphere that feels like a Pinterest aesthetic board - complete with dried herbs and old, worn books. From the very first chapter, I was immediately captured by the setting and the characters - a feeling that didn't let go for the entirety of the novel.
Along with all of the cozy, higher budget Hallmark vibes there was also an undercurrent of heavier themes which is something I really appreciate. Amidst the little book clubs and tall trees, there are also discussions of grief and sacrifice and identity and beginnings/endings and what it means to call a place home. It was the kind of book that finds beauty even in tragic circumstances.
The only... criticism (if you could even call it that) I would give is that this book is very simple. I really enjoyed this and it's what I was looking for, but I could see some readers expecting more from this book. If you love Rachel Griffin's short, cozy take on witchy fantasy, I really think you'll enjoy this. But if you're wanting them to do a deeper look at the other townspeople and their lives and the implications of the magic, you won't get much more than a topical but still meaningful read.
Overall, I really enjoyed this and I will in fact be recommending it to everyone - especially those looking for a cozy read for the colder months (or any time of the year, really.)
August 22, 2024
What a wonderful, cozy story! I loved everything about the world building and character development with this book. I’m a sucker for a beautiful book cover…I know you can’t judge a book by its cover,This one you can. I look forward to buying this for my little home library. I highly recommend this if you love a witchy, spooky, paranormal fantasy. Publish Date is October 22, 2024 Thank you to NetGalley, Avon and Harper Voyager and Rachel Greenlaw for the opportunity to read this arc in exchange for an honest review.
October 23, 2024
This book was a huge disappointment for me, as the synopsis sounded amazing and witchy but it did not deliver at all.
First with it being called the “book of spells”, the “book of stories” is more appropriate; there was essentially no magic in this at all and the whole ‘the mountains are evil’ thing just confused me as to why everyone is still living in this town if it’s as cursed as they say it is. So really it’s just a book about controversies.
Secondly I hated the writing style: with 3 different POV chapters, please keep them the same tense. Why was Carries first person whereas the others were third- this led to sentences like this:
“Cora wonders if Carrie is indeed safe in Woodsmoke, or if she is the one unbalancing everything. Cora wonders if it’s already too late.”
This writing sounds incredibly immature for an adult book. Also I agree with other reviews that Jess’ perspective, as a non Morgan woman, was completely unnecessary- it was so repetitive of her marital problems that every one of her chapters just became her incessant whining and complaining and if you take all her chapters out the story would still be the same. Literally if she just talked to her husband with words than none of her chapters would have meant anything. Cora was also insanely dislikable and I felt sorry for Howard. I wasn’t even sad when she died.
I also think the “love interest” (if you can call it that), felt completely flat. He had no depth to his character or essentially a personality at all, and I don’t think I could even call what they had “chemistry” as the only thing Carrie learns about him is regarding his brother, and they have that conversation about 4 times. Even Cora mentions to her that she doesn’t even know his last name when he vanished. He’s not able to get over his brother for 13 years, but then after meeting Carrie he’s miraculously fine after 9 months away from her… I think he’s pretty much a stranger to me as a reader which is not a good way to write a love interest.
This had so much potential but unfortunately it’s a 2 star from me.
First with it being called the “book of spells”, the “book of stories” is more appropriate; there was essentially no magic in this at all and the whole ‘the mountains are evil’ thing just confused me as to why everyone is still living in this town if it’s as cursed as they say it is. So really it’s just a book about controversies.
Secondly I hated the writing style: with 3 different POV chapters, please keep them the same tense. Why was Carries first person whereas the others were third- this led to sentences like this:
“Cora wonders if Carrie is indeed safe in Woodsmoke, or if she is the one unbalancing everything. Cora wonders if it’s already too late.”
This writing sounds incredibly immature for an adult book. Also I agree with other reviews that Jess’ perspective, as a non Morgan woman, was completely unnecessary- it was so repetitive of her marital problems that every one of her chapters just became her incessant whining and complaining and if you take all her chapters out the story would still be the same. Literally if she just talked to her husband with words than none of her chapters would have meant anything. Cora was also insanely dislikable and I felt sorry for Howard. I wasn’t even sad when she died.
I also think the “love interest” (if you can call it that), felt completely flat. He had no depth to his character or essentially a personality at all, and I don’t think I could even call what they had “chemistry” as the only thing Carrie learns about him is regarding his brother, and they have that conversation about 4 times. Even Cora mentions to her that she doesn’t even know his last name when he vanished. He’s not able to get over his brother for 13 years, but then after meeting Carrie he’s miraculously fine after 9 months away from her… I think he’s pretty much a stranger to me as a reader which is not a good way to write a love interest.
This had so much potential but unfortunately it’s a 2 star from me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 17, 2024
In The Woodsmoke Women's Book of Spells, Carrie Morgan returns to her hometown of Woodsmoke after a decade of drifting from place to place. Following her grandmother's death, she inherits a dilapidated cottage and decides to stay for just one winter to renovate it. Amidst warnings of old tales about a stranger who vanishes with the spring thaw, she meets and falls for Matthieu, a newcomer who helps with the refurbishment.
This book wasn't what I expected at all - I think I was expecting a cozy paranormal romance but it was a fantastic mix of many things - a romance, a mystery, the supernatural, family drama, and even a bit of gothic suspense with not knowing what was real and what was magic. I've just sat and read it all in one go because the tension of that mystery meant that I needed to see how everything fell out. I changed my mind about the various characters so many times as the story progressed, and it was so cleverly done.
The story is set in Autumn and Winter and it's definitely a perfect story for reading in Autumn or Winter. It's spooky and melancholy to start with, and then full of tension as you find out more about why Carrie originally left Woodsmoke. The snippets from The Morgan Compendium that precede each chapter added depth and intrigue to the unfolding story, making each chapter even more compelling.
This book was a complete surprise and I really enjoyed the journey it took me on! It was emotional and atmospheric and it felt like a real mix of genres but weaved together flawlessly. I'd definitely recommend this as a more serious and emotional tale about magic and coming home.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from NetGalley but this is my voluntary and honest review.
This book wasn't what I expected at all - I think I was expecting a cozy paranormal romance but it was a fantastic mix of many things - a romance, a mystery, the supernatural, family drama, and even a bit of gothic suspense with not knowing what was real and what was magic. I've just sat and read it all in one go because the tension of that mystery meant that I needed to see how everything fell out. I changed my mind about the various characters so many times as the story progressed, and it was so cleverly done.
The story is set in Autumn and Winter and it's definitely a perfect story for reading in Autumn or Winter. It's spooky and melancholy to start with, and then full of tension as you find out more about why Carrie originally left Woodsmoke. The snippets from The Morgan Compendium that precede each chapter added depth and intrigue to the unfolding story, making each chapter even more compelling.
This book was a complete surprise and I really enjoyed the journey it took me on! It was emotional and atmospheric and it felt like a real mix of genres but weaved together flawlessly. I'd definitely recommend this as a more serious and emotional tale about magic and coming home.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from NetGalley but this is my voluntary and honest review.
March 26, 2025
First book of the year that I truly struggled with, putting me in a slump after a couple of days. It was a cosy read with aspects of romance and witchery, however very flat. My running comment to my husband was that I didn’t really know where it was going or what it was truly about, and still don’t.
Anyway book finished!
Anyway book finished!
May 1, 2024
The Woodsmoke Women’s Book of Spells is achingly beautiful and haunting. I loved the history and lore of the town, combined with the generational magic of the Morgan women. This story was one of reckoning, of coming to terms with the past and carving a new path. I loved the themes of magic, love, and enduring sibling bonds. Plus, the characters were so real and relatable - the definition of perfectly flawed. The ending shattered my heart, but left me with feelings of hope and renewal.
I am quickly becoming a huge fan of Greenlaw’s work (Compass and Blade was also a five star read for me). She writes with such lyrical and atmospheric prose, which gives her stories almost dreamlike qualities. If you loved Adrienne Young’s Spells for Forgetting or Emilia Hart’s Weyward, then this story is absolutely for you!
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon Books for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
I am quickly becoming a huge fan of Greenlaw’s work (Compass and Blade was also a five star read for me). She writes with such lyrical and atmospheric prose, which gives her stories almost dreamlike qualities. If you loved Adrienne Young’s Spells for Forgetting or Emilia Hart’s Weyward, then this story is absolutely for you!
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon Books for the e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2024
Mystery. A Lost Love. Magic. Coming Home. The Mountain Town of Woodsmoke.
In the town of Woodsmoke, there is a tale. It is said that when a stranger shows at the first sign of snow in the winter months, they will disappear before the coming spring. There will be no clue, no obvious answer as to how they would have left. In their wake, there will be a bleeding, broken heart.
Carrie Morgan is from that snowy Mountain town. She had left the town behind in her rear-view mirror, no intention of ever coming back. Carrie had run away to pain in Europe for nearly a decade, doing what she loved. Except, her friends and loved ones always haunted her in the back of her mind. Never able to completely leave her loved ones behind.
Morgan had left more than friends and family, however. She had chosen to leave behind that ancient power that drew from the mountain and the creeks and the trees. The spells and the curses that ran through her veins and poured out into nature and the town.
Carrie's grandmother has passed away, she inherits dilapidated cottage that needs time, care, and love to renovate it. In this process, our main character meets Matthieu, a stranger that sweeps into the town as the spring turns to fall, as full turns to winter months.
Feelings begin to stir in her heart for this newcomer, despite the old wife's tales.
But then, the old legend becomes true and Matthieu disappears without a trace. Carrie knows he is real, despite the tale and despite the townsfolk warnings.
All in all, I think this was beautiful and tragic and heartbreaking. The history of the town was well written, the romance bittersweet. The generational magic of Carrie Morgan's family is something ancient and magical. This novel had a clever plot line, and the characters felt real. The issues felt like they would be a real struggle through family bonds.
Resurrecting old family ties and reigniting friendships was heartwarming. 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5 Stars!
In the town of Woodsmoke, there is a tale. It is said that when a stranger shows at the first sign of snow in the winter months, they will disappear before the coming spring. There will be no clue, no obvious answer as to how they would have left. In their wake, there will be a bleeding, broken heart.
Carrie Morgan is from that snowy Mountain town. She had left the town behind in her rear-view mirror, no intention of ever coming back. Carrie had run away to pain in Europe for nearly a decade, doing what she loved. Except, her friends and loved ones always haunted her in the back of her mind. Never able to completely leave her loved ones behind.
Morgan had left more than friends and family, however. She had chosen to leave behind that ancient power that drew from the mountain and the creeks and the trees. The spells and the curses that ran through her veins and poured out into nature and the town.
Carrie's grandmother has passed away, she inherits dilapidated cottage that needs time, care, and love to renovate it. In this process, our main character meets Matthieu, a stranger that sweeps into the town as the spring turns to fall, as full turns to winter months.
Feelings begin to stir in her heart for this newcomer, despite the old wife's tales.
But then, the old legend becomes true and Matthieu disappears without a trace. Carrie knows he is real, despite the tale and despite the townsfolk warnings.
All in all, I think this was beautiful and tragic and heartbreaking. The history of the town was well written, the romance bittersweet. The generational magic of Carrie Morgan's family is something ancient and magical. This novel had a clever plot line, and the characters felt real. The issues felt like they would be a real struggle through family bonds.
Resurrecting old family ties and reigniting friendships was heartwarming. 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5 Stars!
October 30, 2024
Phenomenally boring & badly marketed.
Utterly lacking in magic, painfully repetitive.
And the book of spells doesn’t really have any in.
Utterly lacking in magic, painfully repetitive.
And the book of spells doesn’t really have any in.
October 19, 2024
Rachel Greenlaw’s “The Woodsmoke Women’s Book of Spells” wasn’t quite what I was expecting… although, to be fair, I wasn’t sure what I’d get when I asked for the ARC! I so enjoyed her previous novel, “One Christmas Morning,” so I hoped I’d be in for something intriguing and well executed. An interesting cozy paranormal romance, I hoped. And yes, it’s that, but this also is a captivating blend of multiple genres—mystery, supernatural, family drama, a little bit of gothic suspense, and romance, and Ms. Greene intertwines them all as she teases us by blurring the lines between reality and magic. However, if you’re looking for a deeper exploration of the townsfolk and the nuances of the magic presented here, then know that “Woodsmoke” focuses more tightly on its MC than its wider elements. While the set-up features generational magic, it’s the narrative that provides the atmosphere and “feels” rather than overt, fantastical use of it. So, enjoy the enticing excerpts from the Morgan Book of Spells, but if you’re a fan of Harry Potter or some such, don’t expect wand waving.
Instead, enjoy a compelling story of love and that “magic” (in the non-magical-realism sense) of rediscovering your roots. I adored the atmospheric world that Ms. Greenlaw creates, effortlessly drawing you in. I almost felt I was inside Carrie Morgan’s cottage setting, enveloped by the mystical charm of the surrounding mountains as the story touches on some deeper themes such as grief, sacrifice, identity, and what it truly means to call a place home, all while giving us a delightful, and different, romantic thread.
4.5 stars bumped up because the prose is gorgeous!
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
Instead, enjoy a compelling story of love and that “magic” (in the non-magical-realism sense) of rediscovering your roots. I adored the atmospheric world that Ms. Greenlaw creates, effortlessly drawing you in. I almost felt I was inside Carrie Morgan’s cottage setting, enveloped by the mystical charm of the surrounding mountains as the story touches on some deeper themes such as grief, sacrifice, identity, and what it truly means to call a place home, all while giving us a delightful, and different, romantic thread.
4.5 stars bumped up because the prose is gorgeous!
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC.
December 21, 2024
I see a lot of comparisons between this book and the Unmaking of June Farrow here on the internet, and I really can see it. Both have the same small town, low magic vibe with a focus on family ties. If that's something you're into, this book delivers.
It's a solid 3.5 stars for me. The characters are complicated and their dynamics believable. The focus on friendships and family over romantic love was a welcome change for me, but there is definitely a love story to read here!
I truly enjoyed not knowing if the magic was real, or more precise, what was magic and what was not. Bargains were made to be sure, but what did they cause. Especially the plot about Matthieu being real or a conjuring of the mountains was *chefs kiss*. Cora was so sure he was fake, and with the twists and turns it kept me guessing.
The narrative being split among three POV characters can work, but with the constantly switching timelines it did really mess up the pacing.
It's a solid 3.5 stars for me. The characters are complicated and their dynamics believable. The focus on friendships and family over romantic love was a welcome change for me, but there is definitely a love story to read here!
I truly enjoyed not knowing if the magic was real, or more precise, what was magic and what was not. Bargains were made to be sure, but what did they cause. Especially the plot about Matthieu being real or a conjuring of the mountains was *chefs kiss*. Cora was so sure he was fake, and with the twists and turns it kept me guessing.
The narrative being split among three POV characters can work, but with the constantly switching timelines it did really mess up the pacing.
November 13, 2024
Carrie returns to her hometown after leaving behind a trail of broken hearts a decade prior. Her grandmother has left her the cottage she spent her time in and while fixing it up, we learn about the magic the women in their family hold and their relationship with the mountains as Carrie unravels family secrets and figures out what she hopes to gain from returning home.
This book wasn’t super heavy on the magic but I loved how it was woven into the story. What it was heavy on were the characters and their depth which I always appreciate in a story. It felt very atmospheric and I was hooked instantly until the end. There was suspense, love, and family drama. It made for a solid story that i thoroughly enjoyed!
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Rachel Greenlaw, and Avon for providing this free ARC. This is my honest review! This published on October 22nd.
This book wasn’t super heavy on the magic but I loved how it was woven into the story. What it was heavy on were the characters and their depth which I always appreciate in a story. It felt very atmospheric and I was hooked instantly until the end. There was suspense, love, and family drama. It made for a solid story that i thoroughly enjoyed!
Thank you so much to Netgalley, Rachel Greenlaw, and Avon for providing this free ARC. This is my honest review! This published on October 22nd.
July 24, 2024
A fabulous magic novel! The Woodsmoke Women’s Book of Spells introduces us to the Morgan family, the last ones in the Woodsmoke mountain region who are in the know about the magic it gives and takes.
I loved that this book focused on multiple generations of women, showing the ties between and the growth of the characters. The book flashes back and forth between the history of the Morgan women and the present day. I love how we don't dwell in the flashbacks, only long enough to understand the present. Some books get mired in flashbacks in order to give context, and this books only lingers just enough.
You may find yourself wincing on the first couple pages where the prose seems unnecessarily flowery, trying to set up the magical vibes of the book. However, the prose settles down very quickly and you ease into the small town, feeling right at home. The writing style allowed me to easily picture this small town entering into winter with the cool breezes and chill in the air. Reading this in July made me desperate for fall leaves. You don't often see magical/witchy books set in winter, and that was a breath of fresh air.
Other things I loved about the book:
- I appreciate that the magic in this book isn't a cure all and that magic has consequences. it is a give and take.
- While the book has a strong cozy vibe, it is grounded in real life issues of belonging, grief, friendship, trust, and character growth. You will like this if you like cozy novels but be prepared for real life issues.
- Great pacing. I never felt like I HAD to set it down. Read it in just a few days.
Romance/Spice:
- I would say this is less about the romance and more about the characters and female friendships / family connections. While there IS romance, it's included I feel more as the realities of living, vs feeling like a 'romance' novel.
- Closed door / not spicy. Read this if you love witchy small town books, not for spicy romance. Which is also great, just know what to expect.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, thank you! All opinions are my own.
I loved that this book focused on multiple generations of women, showing the ties between and the growth of the characters. The book flashes back and forth between the history of the Morgan women and the present day. I love how we don't dwell in the flashbacks, only long enough to understand the present. Some books get mired in flashbacks in order to give context, and this books only lingers just enough.
You may find yourself wincing on the first couple pages where the prose seems unnecessarily flowery, trying to set up the magical vibes of the book. However, the prose settles down very quickly and you ease into the small town, feeling right at home. The writing style allowed me to easily picture this small town entering into winter with the cool breezes and chill in the air. Reading this in July made me desperate for fall leaves. You don't often see magical/witchy books set in winter, and that was a breath of fresh air.
Other things I loved about the book:
- I appreciate that the magic in this book isn't a cure all and that magic has consequences. it is a give and take.
- While the book has a strong cozy vibe, it is grounded in real life issues of belonging, grief, friendship, trust, and character growth. You will like this if you like cozy novels but be prepared for real life issues.
- Great pacing. I never felt like I HAD to set it down. Read it in just a few days.
Romance/Spice:
- I would say this is less about the romance and more about the characters and female friendships / family connections. While there IS romance, it's included I feel more as the realities of living, vs feeling like a 'romance' novel.
- Closed door / not spicy. Read this if you love witchy small town books, not for spicy romance. Which is also great, just know what to expect.
I received this as an ARC from NetGalley, thank you! All opinions are my own.
October 11, 2024
Enticed by this gorgeous cover, I really enjoyed this book from Greenlaw. It was completely different to the book I read last year by this author and I appreciated this alternate direction. Perfect for this winter time, I loved seeing the seasons move from chilly autumn to the depths of winter, as the frosts surround the town of Woodsmoke.
Undoubtedly, Greenlaw has created a very atmospheric book. It very much reminded me of Upon a Frosted Star, not just because of the chilly weather. The idea of cursed, unrequited love is seen in both novels and I loved how nature becomes such a driving force in the plots. You really do become absorbed into the surroundings.
However, when you are reading this book, don’t expect cauldrons and spells galore. Although there is some symbolic witchy-craft taking place during the flashback scene with Cora when Carrie and Jess were children, this is more about the beliefs of nature’s power over the fates of others. Instead, the Morgan women’s book of tales and folklore is what drives this narrative as stories of romances that come with the frost haunt the Morgan family. As the weather moves into spring, the frost thaws and the romance eventually fades and disappears with no logical explanation.
I liked this book because Carrie’s return to Woodsmoke represents her trying to understand her past and make a future for herself. Over time, readers learn the circumstances behind Carrie’s abrupt departure and I enjoyed this flashbacks that provided more background to her family – a bit like the Morgan history book. Then, switching back to the present, the looming mountains and dense forest seem to swallow everything up and cast a shadow over Carrie and Woodsmoke.
I was bewitched by this narrative and enjoyed the mystical element to the story. I could not foresee Matthieu’s role in the novel and thought the ending was clever and slightly ambiguous. On the other hand, I sympathised with how isolated Carrie feels when she returns to Woodsmoke, wishing that she would make amends with Jess and Tom.
Not heavily a fantasy book but perfect for this bewitching time of year, this is a mystical, slightly spooky story that is heavy with atmosphere and pulled me in. I was fascinated by Greenlaw’s tale of loss, love and magic. It was a really refreshing yet cosy read.
With thanks to HQ and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Undoubtedly, Greenlaw has created a very atmospheric book. It very much reminded me of Upon a Frosted Star, not just because of the chilly weather. The idea of cursed, unrequited love is seen in both novels and I loved how nature becomes such a driving force in the plots. You really do become absorbed into the surroundings.
However, when you are reading this book, don’t expect cauldrons and spells galore. Although there is some symbolic witchy-craft taking place during the flashback scene with Cora when Carrie and Jess were children, this is more about the beliefs of nature’s power over the fates of others. Instead, the Morgan women’s book of tales and folklore is what drives this narrative as stories of romances that come with the frost haunt the Morgan family. As the weather moves into spring, the frost thaws and the romance eventually fades and disappears with no logical explanation.
I liked this book because Carrie’s return to Woodsmoke represents her trying to understand her past and make a future for herself. Over time, readers learn the circumstances behind Carrie’s abrupt departure and I enjoyed this flashbacks that provided more background to her family – a bit like the Morgan history book. Then, switching back to the present, the looming mountains and dense forest seem to swallow everything up and cast a shadow over Carrie and Woodsmoke.
I was bewitched by this narrative and enjoyed the mystical element to the story. I could not foresee Matthieu’s role in the novel and thought the ending was clever and slightly ambiguous. On the other hand, I sympathised with how isolated Carrie feels when she returns to Woodsmoke, wishing that she would make amends with Jess and Tom.
Not heavily a fantasy book but perfect for this bewitching time of year, this is a mystical, slightly spooky story that is heavy with atmosphere and pulled me in. I was fascinated by Greenlaw’s tale of loss, love and magic. It was a really refreshing yet cosy read.
With thanks to HQ and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 18, 2024
The Woodsmoke Women’s Book of Spells
By Rachel Greenlaw
Thank you so much partner @avonbooks for the gifted ARC.
Blurb:
There is an old tale that weaves through the mountain town of Woodsmoke.
It whispers of a stranger who appears as the snow falls, only to disappear in spring.
Leaving behind a broken heart...
✨ My thoughts:
I am seriously unwell! This book gave me all of the feels. It gave MAJOR Practical Magic vibes in a very specific whimsical, magical, warm way that’s hard to pin point but you can feel it. I’ve been in the mood for witchy reads for Summerween and this story DELIVERED. To say I’m sad it’s over is an understatement and I already know I’m going to want… no need… this book in every edition it comes out in to keep and cherish forever. I’m not sure if I was holding onto this book for dear life but it’s literally falling apart at the seams, which is exactly what I was doing while read it. Lastly, to Cora… my firecracker, wild, misunderstood, aunt Cora, I love you and you’re not even real. This book is so special and I can’t wait for it to touch the hearts of many many more. The Woodsmoke Women’s Book of Spells is out 10/22/24. I hope you’re ready to fall in love.
Happy reading 📖 💫
By Rachel Greenlaw
Thank you so much partner @avonbooks for the gifted ARC.
Blurb:
There is an old tale that weaves through the mountain town of Woodsmoke.
It whispers of a stranger who appears as the snow falls, only to disappear in spring.
Leaving behind a broken heart...
✨ My thoughts:
I am seriously unwell! This book gave me all of the feels. It gave MAJOR Practical Magic vibes in a very specific whimsical, magical, warm way that’s hard to pin point but you can feel it. I’ve been in the mood for witchy reads for Summerween and this story DELIVERED. To say I’m sad it’s over is an understatement and I already know I’m going to want… no need… this book in every edition it comes out in to keep and cherish forever. I’m not sure if I was holding onto this book for dear life but it’s literally falling apart at the seams, which is exactly what I was doing while read it. Lastly, to Cora… my firecracker, wild, misunderstood, aunt Cora, I love you and you’re not even real. This book is so special and I can’t wait for it to touch the hearts of many many more. The Woodsmoke Women’s Book of Spells is out 10/22/24. I hope you’re ready to fall in love.
Happy reading 📖 💫
October 29, 2024
The Woodsmoke Women's Book of Spells is a magical story about a girl who is traveling back home after 10 years and tries to see if she is meant to stay at home, or continue traveling the world.
Carrie's grandmother Ivy passed away, leaving her cottage to Carrie in order to bring her home. Carrie is Carrie Morgan, one of the famous Morgan girls. She left town 10 years ago abruptly and hasn't been back. Her aunt Cora has been waiting for this day. Carrie has a lot to deal with upon her arrival, if the town and the mountains let her return successfully.
Carrie has lots of obstacles and curses to break through to figure out her future. She sees old friends and flings and meets a new man during this time. What will happen to these closed off relationships?
This witchy story of coming home and finding your purpose in life and healing relationships was one I couldn't put down. It is a great round the year story full of hope and loss.
Thanks to the publisher for the advanced copy!
Carrie's grandmother Ivy passed away, leaving her cottage to Carrie in order to bring her home. Carrie is Carrie Morgan, one of the famous Morgan girls. She left town 10 years ago abruptly and hasn't been back. Her aunt Cora has been waiting for this day. Carrie has a lot to deal with upon her arrival, if the town and the mountains let her return successfully.
Carrie has lots of obstacles and curses to break through to figure out her future. She sees old friends and flings and meets a new man during this time. What will happen to these closed off relationships?
This witchy story of coming home and finding your purpose in life and healing relationships was one I couldn't put down. It is a great round the year story full of hope and loss.
Thanks to the publisher for the advanced copy!
October 10, 2024
This book was unsettling—the line between what was real and what wasn’t felt razor-thin, leaving me in a constant state of uncertainty. I went into it expecting a fantasy novel, but it ended up reading more like general fiction with hints of magical realism woven throughout.
The book is definitely well written, the atmosphere is rich, and the author does a great job at creating this eerie, almost dreamlike world. However, despite these strengths, I struggled to enjoy the book. I couldn't quite connect with the characters or the plot, and without that connection, it made the overall experience fall a little flat for me.
That being said, the blurred boundaries between reality and fantasy might work better for other readers who enjoy stories with a more ambiguous, unsettling edge.
3/5 ⭐
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The book is definitely well written, the atmosphere is rich, and the author does a great job at creating this eerie, almost dreamlike world. However, despite these strengths, I struggled to enjoy the book. I couldn't quite connect with the characters or the plot, and without that connection, it made the overall experience fall a little flat for me.
That being said, the blurred boundaries between reality and fantasy might work better for other readers who enjoy stories with a more ambiguous, unsettling edge.
3/5 ⭐
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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