What do you think?
Rate this book
Meddle & Mend #5
The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress
You can’t orchestrate true love…can you?
Spellmaster Geraldine Hartford has everything she could want — a successful spell shop and close friends and family — but she’s still waiting on her own swoon-worthy romance. Her friends think their matchmaking efforts are helping, but it’s the tall, handsome stranger in town who immediately catches Gerry’s eye.
Basil Thorne’s life has turned upside down. After his father’s death, he’s found himself uprooted from Bath to become the head of a family he barely knows. Overwhelmed by responsibilities, not to mention the clamor of Tutting-on-Cress locals wishing to befriend him — only the lovely spellmaster with a twinkling smile seems to soothe Basil’s heart.
And he’s not the only one who’s noticed…
Soon it seems as though everyone in Gerry and Basil’s lives is determined to match them up. But Gerry is waiting for the surefire spark of romance and Basil is waiting until his life settles down.
They may be perfect for each other, but it will take some meddling — and a bit of magic — to bring them together.
This book is the fifth installment in the series Meddle & Mend. It can be read after Dear Bartleby or as a standalone.
Spellmaster Geraldine Hartford has everything she could want — a successful spell shop and close friends and family — but she’s still waiting on her own swoon-worthy romance. Her friends think their matchmaking efforts are helping, but it’s the tall, handsome stranger in town who immediately catches Gerry’s eye.
Basil Thorne’s life has turned upside down. After his father’s death, he’s found himself uprooted from Bath to become the head of a family he barely knows. Overwhelmed by responsibilities, not to mention the clamor of Tutting-on-Cress locals wishing to befriend him — only the lovely spellmaster with a twinkling smile seems to soothe Basil’s heart.
And he’s not the only one who’s noticed…
Soon it seems as though everyone in Gerry and Basil’s lives is determined to match them up. But Gerry is waiting for the surefire spark of romance and Basil is waiting until his life settles down.
They may be perfect for each other, but it will take some meddling — and a bit of magic — to bring them together.
This book is the fifth installment in the series Meddle & Mend. It can be read after Dear Bartleby or as a standalone.
558 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 28, 2024
8 people are currently reading
141 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
May 21, 2024
OH MY GOSH THIS WAS SO GOOD!!!
and so long!! This is by far the longest book in the series and I was living for it. I am so in love with this little group of queer found family and this historical fictional town. I love them so much. This one follows Gerry and I was so excited to see her get her book. I've loved her since the very beginning and her independence and tenacity is something that I couldn't wait to see incorporated into a romance.
Then we have Basil and holy wholesome hunk of a man. He is thoughtful and kind and so concerned with making sure that his half siblings are cared for and have what they need that he thinks that he can't be in a romance at the moment. But he is so enthralled by Gerry even though he has no idea about magic at all and that is Gerry's entire life.
The pining and the meddling and the healing oh my god it's just so perfect. If you have not started this series what are you even doing. They are all available as audiobooks and I highly recommend them. I will say that even though I like both narrators, I did not like the voice that The feminine narrator used for Gerry. I loved her narration voice and I wish she had used that for Gerry as well and not this weird high pitched tone. But it wasn't enough to turn me off this book because I love them all so much.
I am absolutely dying for another Pip book and honestly I didn't think I'd ever say this but I would pretty much kill for a John book too at this point. Kick Veronica to the curb and let's see some growth man. Also in the author's note the idea of having all of Basil's siblings get books brings me so much joy and I'm like screaming with excitement because that's so many more books and I just get to stay in this little fictional historical queer normative town forever and ever and ever and ever. I don't ever want to leave.
Also forgot to mention Gerry is demiromantic and Basil is pansexual and I LOVE m/f queer books. Also Basil's best friend is a queer trans woman. There is an absolutely unending list of queer representation in the series So I'm just adding what this book adds to the table but just know that there's demisexual rep, aromantic, trans, bi, gay, nonbinary, pan, etc. Literally everything. It's amazing.
and so long!! This is by far the longest book in the series and I was living for it. I am so in love with this little group of queer found family and this historical fictional town. I love them so much. This one follows Gerry and I was so excited to see her get her book. I've loved her since the very beginning and her independence and tenacity is something that I couldn't wait to see incorporated into a romance.
Then we have Basil and holy wholesome hunk of a man. He is thoughtful and kind and so concerned with making sure that his half siblings are cared for and have what they need that he thinks that he can't be in a romance at the moment. But he is so enthralled by Gerry even though he has no idea about magic at all and that is Gerry's entire life.
The pining and the meddling and the healing oh my god it's just so perfect. If you have not started this series what are you even doing. They are all available as audiobooks and I highly recommend them. I will say that even though I like both narrators, I did not like the voice that The feminine narrator used for Gerry. I loved her narration voice and I wish she had used that for Gerry as well and not this weird high pitched tone. But it wasn't enough to turn me off this book because I love them all so much.
I am absolutely dying for another Pip book and honestly I didn't think I'd ever say this but I would pretty much kill for a John book too at this point. Kick Veronica to the curb and let's see some growth man. Also in the author's note the idea of having all of Basil's siblings get books brings me so much joy and I'm like screaming with excitement because that's so many more books and I just get to stay in this little fictional historical queer normative town forever and ever and ever and ever. I don't ever want to leave.
Also forgot to mention Gerry is demiromantic and Basil is pansexual and I LOVE m/f queer books. Also Basil's best friend is a queer trans woman. There is an absolutely unending list of queer representation in the series So I'm just adding what this book adds to the table but just know that there's demisexual rep, aromantic, trans, bi, gay, nonbinary, pan, etc. Literally everything. It's amazing.
May 6, 2024
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is exactly what I expected from the newest Meddle & Mend book! Full of great queer representation, as always. It warms my heart to see so many flavors of queer identities accepted and loved as if it were the most natural thing in the world. I wish the world was more like Tutting-on-Cress.
We get so much wholesome meddling where no secret stays a secret for long. Sarah Wallace is incredibly good at defanging common tropes. Whenever I think a plot twist would set up a book-long chain of "but I thought you said," she clears the air so no character has a reason to be mad at another.
We get POVs from characters I've wanted POVs from since the first book! Being inside Charles's head is the best thing ever! Gerry is so relatable and I really think that most people who've tried to live as a woman can easily resonate with her.
So many new characters show up, and all of them feel so real. I want to read about Sophia's coming of age and Lavinia's own gothic romance. (I even want to see John happy and I didn't think that was possible until now.) But, most of all, I want to read about Modesty Munro. She's a national treasure! I could read a full book just about her and Charles gossipping over tea.
I feel like this isn't only a love story of two people, but one of a whole found family. The book puts Gerry & Basil in focus but everyone else is slowly tapping away on their own journey while we get glimpses of them. Their lives certainly don't stop just because it's not "their book." I learned a lot about Charles, Gavin, and everyone else in Tutting-on-Cress. We see how Basil gets adopted into the family, not because he's getting on with Gerry but because he fits.
This book is funny but never makes fun of anything in bad taste. It's the most busy of the series so far, but that doesn't take anything away from the cozy nature that these books are known for. I absolutely recommend it.
This is exactly what I expected from the newest Meddle & Mend book! Full of great queer representation, as always. It warms my heart to see so many flavors of queer identities accepted and loved as if it were the most natural thing in the world. I wish the world was more like Tutting-on-Cress.
We get so much wholesome meddling where no secret stays a secret for long. Sarah Wallace is incredibly good at defanging common tropes. Whenever I think a plot twist would set up a book-long chain of "but I thought you said," she clears the air so no character has a reason to be mad at another.
We get POVs from characters I've wanted POVs from since the first book! Being inside Charles's head is the best thing ever! Gerry is so relatable and I really think that most people who've tried to live as a woman can easily resonate with her.
So many new characters show up, and all of them feel so real. I want to read about Sophia's coming of age and Lavinia's own gothic romance. (I even want to see John happy and I didn't think that was possible until now.) But, most of all, I want to read about Modesty Munro. She's a national treasure! I could read a full book just about her and Charles gossipping over tea.
I feel like this isn't only a love story of two people, but one of a whole found family. The book puts Gerry & Basil in focus but everyone else is slowly tapping away on their own journey while we get glimpses of them. Their lives certainly don't stop just because it's not "their book." I learned a lot about Charles, Gavin, and everyone else in Tutting-on-Cress. We see how Basil gets adopted into the family, not because he's getting on with Gerry but because he fits.
This book is funny but never makes fun of anything in bad taste. It's the most busy of the series so far, but that doesn't take anything away from the cozy nature that these books are known for. I absolutely recommend it.
July 15, 2024
4.5 stars
Sarah Wallace transports readers back to her queer-normative and fantastical version of Regency England in The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress, book 5 in the Meddle & Mend series. Easily the longest instalment so far, this new standalone story is full of peak meddling, whimsical magic, heartwarming (found) family vibes, and all the queer joy.
From the moment I read the first letter from Gerry to Gavin in book 1, Letters to Half Moon Street, I have been desperate for her to get her own story. And oh dear, did The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress just deliver everything I was hoping it would, and then so much more.
With Gerry being such a talented spellmaster, this instalment is easily the most magical one yet, which my fantasy loving heart absolutely adored. Yet at the same time, I would actually argue that the true magic of this series lies not in its fantastical spells, but in its dazzling characters and their wonderful interpersonal relationships.
As always, Wallace delivers a beautifully authentic queer romance, this time between a demiromantic FMC and a pansexual MMC. The dynamic between Gerry and Basil instantly warmed my heart, and I loved the seriously sloooooow-burn development of their relationship. In a way, I almost felt like there was a little too much hesitation and back-and-forth, but ultimately I think their soft romance was just perfectly imperfect in the most wholesome way imaginable.
Moreover, I really love how the romance elements of these stories never start to overshadow the other relationships that give this series so much heart. The entire cast of vibrant side characters, both the old and new faces, just pops off the page with personality and they each really get their time to shine. Not to mention, their meddling went above and beyond anything we have seen so far in this series, and I truly ate up the messiness!
Now, I already adored the Hartford family with all my heart, but Basil's own family dynamic also quickly started to tug on my heartstrings. Like, a man that takes care of his younger siblings who have come into his care... husband material right there, just saying. I'll admit that I wasn't completely sold on the inclusion of his little sister's POV at first, but her perspective actually added such a refreshing air of innocent giddy delight to the story in the end.
And if all that wasn't enough, we get treated to Charles' POV (truly a dream come true), Seb's slow-burn love story continues to develop on the sidelines, John somehow manages to get the redemption arc that I didn't know I needed, and Basil's best friend turns out to be a bubbly and brazen trans woman who is just an absolute hoot!
While this book absolutely stands perfectly on its own, I seriously don't see why you would deprive yourself of the joy of reading the earlier instalments in the Meddle & Mend series first. The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress might be the longest instalment in the series so far, but it absolutely deserves every single word in there and it had me crying tears of both sadness and pure, unbridled joy; I truly can't recommend this queer cozy historical fantasy romance series highly enough!
Sarah Wallace transports readers back to her queer-normative and fantastical version of Regency England in The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress, book 5 in the Meddle & Mend series. Easily the longest instalment so far, this new standalone story is full of peak meddling, whimsical magic, heartwarming (found) family vibes, and all the queer joy.
From the moment I read the first letter from Gerry to Gavin in book 1, Letters to Half Moon Street, I have been desperate for her to get her own story. And oh dear, did The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress just deliver everything I was hoping it would, and then so much more.
With Gerry being such a talented spellmaster, this instalment is easily the most magical one yet, which my fantasy loving heart absolutely adored. Yet at the same time, I would actually argue that the true magic of this series lies not in its fantastical spells, but in its dazzling characters and their wonderful interpersonal relationships.
As always, Wallace delivers a beautifully authentic queer romance, this time between a demiromantic FMC and a pansexual MMC. The dynamic between Gerry and Basil instantly warmed my heart, and I loved the seriously sloooooow-burn development of their relationship. In a way, I almost felt like there was a little too much hesitation and back-and-forth, but ultimately I think their soft romance was just perfectly imperfect in the most wholesome way imaginable.
Moreover, I really love how the romance elements of these stories never start to overshadow the other relationships that give this series so much heart. The entire cast of vibrant side characters, both the old and new faces, just pops off the page with personality and they each really get their time to shine. Not to mention, their meddling went above and beyond anything we have seen so far in this series, and I truly ate up the messiness!
Now, I already adored the Hartford family with all my heart, but Basil's own family dynamic also quickly started to tug on my heartstrings. Like, a man that takes care of his younger siblings who have come into his care... husband material right there, just saying. I'll admit that I wasn't completely sold on the inclusion of his little sister's POV at first, but her perspective actually added such a refreshing air of innocent giddy delight to the story in the end.
And if all that wasn't enough, we get treated to Charles' POV (truly a dream come true), Seb's slow-burn love story continues to develop on the sidelines, John somehow manages to get the redemption arc that I didn't know I needed, and Basil's best friend turns out to be a bubbly and brazen trans woman who is just an absolute hoot!
While this book absolutely stands perfectly on its own, I seriously don't see why you would deprive yourself of the joy of reading the earlier instalments in the Meddle & Mend series first. The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress might be the longest instalment in the series so far, but it absolutely deserves every single word in there and it had me crying tears of both sadness and pure, unbridled joy; I truly can't recommend this queer cozy historical fantasy romance series highly enough!
July 12, 2024
This was fun, spending time with so many familiar characters and a new set. The series is low-angst (except for Pip's story) and I love the world of acceptance the author's invented. The one flaw in this story is that the reluctance is drawn out entirely too long. I loved the discussions of how differently people experience love. That was great. But the time reluctance takes to resolve felt contrived rather than intrinsic to the character. Ah, well. Still a fun read!
June 21, 2024
The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress is book five in the Meddle & Mend series. It follows Gerry as she gracefully deals with her family and friends who take it upon themselves to find her a love match. In addition to more time with some fan favorites like Pip and Seb, we get a new and varied cast of characters in this story that are equally as unique and lovable.
This soft MF queer romance is full of magic, found family, idyllic Regency life in the countryside, and my absolute favorite thing of all: Charles’ POV chapters! 😍
Thank you @sarah.wallace.writer for the ARC copy
This soft MF queer romance is full of magic, found family, idyllic Regency life in the countryside, and my absolute favorite thing of all: Charles’ POV chapters! 😍
Thank you @sarah.wallace.writer for the ARC copy
March 3, 2025
Picked this book up since I've enjoyed Wallace's books in the past, particularly the charming Letters to Half Moon Street. In The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress, Geraldine is content with her loving family and eccentric but thriving career owning a spellshop--except for her desire to get married. Luckily (unluckily) her entire family, all of her friends, and a good handful of bystanders are attempting to set her up with Basil Thorne, the handsome newcomer to the village who's arrived to help care for his younger half siblings.
As a notorious long book skeptic, I looked askance at this book's five hundred page word count (romance books typically run to more like 250-350 pages). Having read the book, my initial reaction was correct. The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress just doesn't have enough plot to carry the word count. Geraldine and Basil are both attractive young people who meet early on in the book and are instantly attracted to each other. There's no plot or obstacles keeping them apart, except for Geraldine's exploration of whether she might fall on the aromantic spectrum. Which I like to see, but didn't add enough complexity to help the pacing at all.
Instead, the plot is occupied by the horror-novel-esque maneuvering of the village panopticon, ever-watching and fixated on Geraldine's personal life. Despite the fact that the couple has already met cute and liked each other, everyone in the village, from Basil's seven siblings to Geraldine's brother in law's friend, is obsessed with setting them up. The many POV sections from the various busybodies nearly outnumber the ones devoted to the couple. The pacing wasn't helped by Wallace using this book to follow up on nearly every romance from the previous four books.
Not recommended, unless you're a hard-core cozy slice of life addict or a particular fan of the earlier books in the series and need to know what the characters are up to. I'm still probably going to read any new books in the series, since I'm fond of the queer-norm alt Regency world and endearing style, but I'd give this specific book a pass.
As a notorious long book skeptic, I looked askance at this book's five hundred page word count (romance books typically run to more like 250-350 pages). Having read the book, my initial reaction was correct. The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress just doesn't have enough plot to carry the word count. Geraldine and Basil are both attractive young people who meet early on in the book and are instantly attracted to each other. There's no plot or obstacles keeping them apart, except for Geraldine's exploration of whether she might fall on the aromantic spectrum. Which I like to see, but didn't add enough complexity to help the pacing at all.
Instead, the plot is occupied by the horror-novel-esque maneuvering of the village panopticon, ever-watching and fixated on Geraldine's personal life. Despite the fact that the couple has already met cute and liked each other, everyone in the village, from Basil's seven siblings to Geraldine's brother in law's friend, is obsessed with setting them up. The many POV sections from the various busybodies nearly outnumber the ones devoted to the couple. The pacing wasn't helped by Wallace using this book to follow up on nearly every romance from the previous four books.
Not recommended, unless you're a hard-core cozy slice of life addict or a particular fan of the earlier books in the series and need to know what the characters are up to. I'm still probably going to read any new books in the series, since I'm fond of the queer-norm alt Regency world and endearing style, but I'd give this specific book a pass.
Read
July 13, 2024I had an advanced copy of this book, courtesy of the author, but have neglected to post my thoughts until now.
I loved being back in this world! Returning to Tutting-on-Cress feels like coming home and visiting with friends. I've said it before -- I want to live in this queernormative world so much!
Technically this is a standalone, but I highly recommend reading the other books first. I think you'll enjoy this more if you're familiar with all of the characters, plus the other Meddle & Mend books are great, and you should definitely read them!
This story definitely puts meddling in the forefront! Gerry has a great circle of family and friends, but they sure do meddle in her life a lot! It's all out of love, but still. It was fun seeing them all, especially Charles, worry about her and poke their noses in.
I loved seeing Basil find a family, a home, and love -- both romantic and familial. And I enjoyed seeing Gerry find her love, even as she struggled with how it differed from her preconceived expectations. I can't wait for the next book set in this world!!
I loved being back in this world! Returning to Tutting-on-Cress feels like coming home and visiting with friends. I've said it before -- I want to live in this queernormative world so much!
Technically this is a standalone, but I highly recommend reading the other books first. I think you'll enjoy this more if you're familiar with all of the characters, plus the other Meddle & Mend books are great, and you should definitely read them!
This story definitely puts meddling in the forefront! Gerry has a great circle of family and friends, but they sure do meddle in her life a lot! It's all out of love, but still. It was fun seeing them all, especially Charles, worry about her and poke their noses in.
I loved seeing Basil find a family, a home, and love -- both romantic and familial. And I enjoyed seeing Gerry find her love, even as she struggled with how it differed from her preconceived expectations. I can't wait for the next book set in this world!!
June 30, 2024
Has the first book I ever listened as an audiobook and I’ve got to say that it was an awesome experience. Not only did I love this cute romance story, I also really liked the narrators from the audiobook that I bet that made the story even more interesting since as I was listening to it it made me chuckle and have a good time listening to the different voices.
Now I hope in the future I’ll listen to more audiobooks!
This book was really enjoyable book in which I could describe it as a queer bridgerton with a pinch of magic.
All the characters were really well deve which is something I like about this authors books. That is that we not only get to know the main characters but we also have an insight into the backstories of the side characters.
In the book you have a lot of queer representation such as trans, non-binary, gay and bi side characters. And the male MC is also pamsexual.
I really recommend all of Sarah Wallace’s books that from those that come to read I got to say that I doubt that this author would ever have a book I wouldn’t enjoy.
So go read The spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress that comes out today!
Now I hope in the future I’ll listen to more audiobooks!
This book was really enjoyable book in which I could describe it as a queer bridgerton with a pinch of magic.
All the characters were really well deve which is something I like about this authors books. That is that we not only get to know the main characters but we also have an insight into the backstories of the side characters.
In the book you have a lot of queer representation such as trans, non-binary, gay and bi side characters. And the male MC is also pamsexual.
I really recommend all of Sarah Wallace’s books that from those that come to read I got to say that I doubt that this author would ever have a book I wouldn’t enjoy.
So go read The spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress that comes out today!
June 26, 2024
This book made me feel like the happiest songs I stim to.
Don't ask me to explain that. This book made me feel longing for good times, while at the same time feeling absolutely great. It made me feel like a bright summer day when I'm sitting outside in the sun and reading my book (there was absolutely no sun to be seen when I was reading this though). And it also made me feel full of love and warmth as if my partner was giving me a hug.
I don't know why I kept reading these books off for so long. This is my first in the series and like said it's quite okay to read as a standalone. But gosh do I want to know about all of the other people in the book ASAP and I can't wait until I can meet them properly. I am sold on this series.
As the main character Basil was such a lovely guy. He really tries his best and make things work even though everything is a huge chaos for him. I can't imagine becoming the head of a family like that and definitely was intense to him too. He tries so hard to do right by everything though. He genuinely cares for his siblings and wants to see them well which is so so adorable. Him being hesitant and wanting his life to settle down is so valid too though, but at the same time... this lovely lady is there.
Gerry is such a fun woman too. She is strong in her opinions and lets it be known to friends she doesn't want their meddling, although this doesn't stop them in the end. She is knowledgeable in her work as a spellmaster and it's a thing in her I really admire. But at the same time she also greatly enjoys her work which is such a joy to read as well. But she's so friendly too, always being polite towards the suitors her friends give her and kind to all her shop. I also really love the way her demiromanticism is handled was so lovely. It is my first book where I read about someone who is demiromantic and I really think it was handled with love.
The way these two interact is so so lovely. I just... ugh FEELS. This was such a slowburn, the biggest slowburn I might have read, 500 pages long is really long. But gosh do I love a slowburn like this. They kind of keep dancing around each other, saying to themselves and others all kinds of reasons why it wouldn't work. Until they realize it maybe does work. And that moment was a crying moment for me okay. It was such a sweet and climactic moment I just... had feels. However before they come together all of the interactions and love and care they had for each other was so lovely, so welcoming and sweet I ate it up. And I can't wait to read more when I go back into the other books of the series.
So if you want bright happy feelings this book is for you.
I received an eARC and this was my honest review.
Don't ask me to explain that. This book made me feel longing for good times, while at the same time feeling absolutely great. It made me feel like a bright summer day when I'm sitting outside in the sun and reading my book (there was absolutely no sun to be seen when I was reading this though). And it also made me feel full of love and warmth as if my partner was giving me a hug.
I don't know why I kept reading these books off for so long. This is my first in the series and like said it's quite okay to read as a standalone. But gosh do I want to know about all of the other people in the book ASAP and I can't wait until I can meet them properly. I am sold on this series.
As the main character Basil was such a lovely guy. He really tries his best and make things work even though everything is a huge chaos for him. I can't imagine becoming the head of a family like that and definitely was intense to him too. He tries so hard to do right by everything though. He genuinely cares for his siblings and wants to see them well which is so so adorable. Him being hesitant and wanting his life to settle down is so valid too though, but at the same time... this lovely lady is there.
Gerry is such a fun woman too. She is strong in her opinions and lets it be known to friends she doesn't want their meddling, although this doesn't stop them in the end. She is knowledgeable in her work as a spellmaster and it's a thing in her I really admire. But at the same time she also greatly enjoys her work which is such a joy to read as well. But she's so friendly too, always being polite towards the suitors her friends give her and kind to all her shop. I also really love the way her demiromanticism is handled was so lovely. It is my first book where I read about someone who is demiromantic and I really think it was handled with love.
The way these two interact is so so lovely. I just... ugh FEELS. This was such a slowburn, the biggest slowburn I might have read, 500 pages long is really long. But gosh do I love a slowburn like this. They kind of keep dancing around each other, saying to themselves and others all kinds of reasons why it wouldn't work. Until they realize it maybe does work. And that moment was a crying moment for me okay. It was such a sweet and climactic moment I just... had feels. However before they come together all of the interactions and love and care they had for each other was so lovely, so welcoming and sweet I ate it up. And I can't wait to read more when I go back into the other books of the series.
So if you want bright happy feelings this book is for you.
I received an eARC and this was my honest review.
May 8, 2024
Do you ever read a book that you love so much you don’t know if you will ever have the right words?
Even days after finishing this ARC I still find myself at somewhat of a loss for how to best give this book the review it deserves. But I will try!
It is no secret that I love Sarah’s Meddle & Mend series, and recommend it a lot. I knew I would love this book, but it quickly surpassed expectations and became my favourite in the series.
In The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress we finally get Gerry’s story. One of the things I really love about Sarah’s writing is how much care they take with each character, ensuring they each get a match that both deserves them and perfectly compliments them.
Spellmaster is no different.
The introduction of Basil Thorne and the Thorne family immediately felt right, like they had been part of these books all along. Basil’s closest friend, Modesty, was to Basil what Charles is to the Hartfords. Basil’s family were all well thought out and the love they have for each other evident. A match to Gerry’s family.
We also get perspective from Charles’ POV, which brought me endless joy, and finally a glimpse into John Hartford that feels like the start of something good. I love the parallels drawn between John and Seb, and John’s commitment, however initially small, to repair relationships with his siblings. John’s wife, Veronica, is the absolute worst and says some truly horrible things, but I really loved how the other characters defended the honour of those she targeted, and I love how even John started to back her less. This was handled so well.
But most of all, my favourite part of this book is the way Sarah writes about demiromanticism. So many of Gerry’s thoughts about what love “should” feel like and how confusing it is when it doesn’t are things I have struggled to articulate my whole life. Sarah does it so perfectly. It’s so nice to feel so seen in a romance book, which is usually not the case in the world of romance. I love so much how Sarah brings different ace and aro experiences to the forefront of their writing.
Arguably Meddle & Mend’s funniest book, I laughed a lot.
As always, I cried. Sobbed, even. And always because of the way certain characters talk about their beloved.
So beautifully written.
I truly cannot wait for everyone to read this masterpiece of a 5th book for Meddle & Mend!
Even days after finishing this ARC I still find myself at somewhat of a loss for how to best give this book the review it deserves. But I will try!
It is no secret that I love Sarah’s Meddle & Mend series, and recommend it a lot. I knew I would love this book, but it quickly surpassed expectations and became my favourite in the series.
In The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress we finally get Gerry’s story. One of the things I really love about Sarah’s writing is how much care they take with each character, ensuring they each get a match that both deserves them and perfectly compliments them.
Spellmaster is no different.
The introduction of Basil Thorne and the Thorne family immediately felt right, like they had been part of these books all along. Basil’s closest friend, Modesty, was to Basil what Charles is to the Hartfords. Basil’s family were all well thought out and the love they have for each other evident. A match to Gerry’s family.
We also get perspective from Charles’ POV, which brought me endless joy, and finally a glimpse into John Hartford that feels like the start of something good. I love the parallels drawn between John and Seb, and John’s commitment, however initially small, to repair relationships with his siblings. John’s wife, Veronica, is the absolute worst and says some truly horrible things, but I really loved how the other characters defended the honour of those she targeted, and I love how even John started to back her less. This was handled so well.
But most of all, my favourite part of this book is the way Sarah writes about demiromanticism. So many of Gerry’s thoughts about what love “should” feel like and how confusing it is when it doesn’t are things I have struggled to articulate my whole life. Sarah does it so perfectly. It’s so nice to feel so seen in a romance book, which is usually not the case in the world of romance. I love so much how Sarah brings different ace and aro experiences to the forefront of their writing.
Arguably Meddle & Mend’s funniest book, I laughed a lot.
As always, I cried. Sobbed, even. And always because of the way certain characters talk about their beloved.
So beautifully written.
I truly cannot wait for everyone to read this masterpiece of a 5th book for Meddle & Mend!
November 17, 2024
I loved this so so so much. It was 550 pages long and I could have read 500 more.
I'm in love with both Gerry and Basil, bless their souls. I love that Basil's siblings all have their own personalities and development, as I was worried it wouldn't be the case at first (it's always a challenge to introduce so many new characters at once). But clearly when it comes to character development, Sarah Wallace knows exactly what she's doing. Her characters feel incredibly real in the way they speak and reflect on their own issues.
As usual, the dialogues are witty and clever, a pleasure to read. This book made me want to read more about John (to my surprise), Sophia, Modesty, Elias... And of course all of the characters from previous books, especially Bertie, Pip and the Dukex. These books deal with so many serious topics (friendship, love, family and found family, death, grief...) in such a lovable, kind manner. They are so sweet and healing to read.
Thankfully the author confirmed in the notes at the end that this wouldn't be the last book in this series. I own all the books as ebooks but I really want to buy physical copies of the entire series now. Keep them coming!
I'm in love with both Gerry and Basil, bless their souls. I love that Basil's siblings all have their own personalities and development, as I was worried it wouldn't be the case at first (it's always a challenge to introduce so many new characters at once). But clearly when it comes to character development, Sarah Wallace knows exactly what she's doing. Her characters feel incredibly real in the way they speak and reflect on their own issues.
As usual, the dialogues are witty and clever, a pleasure to read. This book made me want to read more about John (to my surprise), Sophia, Modesty, Elias... And of course all of the characters from previous books, especially Bertie, Pip and the Dukex. These books deal with so many serious topics (friendship, love, family and found family, death, grief...) in such a lovable, kind manner. They are so sweet and healing to read.
Thankfully the author confirmed in the notes at the end that this wouldn't be the last book in this series. I own all the books as ebooks but I really want to buy physical copies of the entire series now. Keep them coming!
February 15, 2025
this book was so wonderful. i loved to read about Gerry’s life and how she finds the person for her but i also enjoyed reading about the other characters 💗 this group of characters are now in my heart forever. i’m so happy i decided to read this series, Sarah is an amazing author and the way they write is beautiful.
i love love love this book 💗 Another 5⭐️’s for me
i love love love this book 💗 Another 5⭐️’s for me
June 5, 2024
Such a sweet story that was su much more than a romance. It was just cozy and perfect.
December 23, 2024
Aaaahhh that was sooo cute!!! I was melting inside the entire time. I love this series and this book was the best one yet.
September 29, 2024
Delightful as usual.
July 1, 2024
Thank you so much to Sarah for this arc, what an absolutely beautiful story!
This is Gerry’s story, who we’ve met in the other Meddle and Mend books. She’s the owner of Tutting-On-Cress’s most popular spell shop, and a spellmaster in her own right. Gerry wants to fall in love, but she never wants to give up her work, which poses a problem in finding a spouse who will not expect her to manage the home.
Enter Basil Thorne. After his father falls ill, Basil returns to his family estate, now bustling with a stepmother and 7 siblings. Basil has been away from home for quite a while, and finds it difficult to figure out his place in the family. He’s stressed and worried, but he finds solace in Tutting-On-Cress, a group of wonderful new friends, and a beautiful and kind spellmaster.
As there affection for each other grows, both Basil and Gerry worry: about their futures, their timing, and if the other shares that affection. Add in a whole bunch of meddling friends and family, can these two ever find the perfect time?
-Magical realism
-A strong FMC
-A darling MMC
-Friends to lovers
-Meddling friends and family
Ps…Sarah, I hope one day we get Eli’s story because absolutely stole my heart!!
This is Gerry’s story, who we’ve met in the other Meddle and Mend books. She’s the owner of Tutting-On-Cress’s most popular spell shop, and a spellmaster in her own right. Gerry wants to fall in love, but she never wants to give up her work, which poses a problem in finding a spouse who will not expect her to manage the home.
Enter Basil Thorne. After his father falls ill, Basil returns to his family estate, now bustling with a stepmother and 7 siblings. Basil has been away from home for quite a while, and finds it difficult to figure out his place in the family. He’s stressed and worried, but he finds solace in Tutting-On-Cress, a group of wonderful new friends, and a beautiful and kind spellmaster.
As there affection for each other grows, both Basil and Gerry worry: about their futures, their timing, and if the other shares that affection. Add in a whole bunch of meddling friends and family, can these two ever find the perfect time?
-Magical realism
-A strong FMC
-A darling MMC
-Friends to lovers
-Meddling friends and family
Ps…Sarah, I hope one day we get Eli’s story because absolutely stole my heart!!
June 28, 2024
This book was so wonderful that I immediately had to rectify not having read the rest of the series!
Picture this: a warm hug and a cup of tea waiting for you in a cottage garden. That’s what reading the whole Meddle and Mend series feels like, but particularly this book. It’s a beautiful look into a beautiful family, it’s got romance and balls and magic, it’s got enough drama to keep you going. There’s beautiful character development, and a whole lot of love.
I especially love the complicated family dynamics and fully fleshed out side characters. And we have a magic system that is easy to understand and feels scientific! I love it!
There was a small moment about three quarters of the way through where I felt like maybe the book was a tad too long, but also maybe that was me screaming “just kiss already” at the characters when you can’t rush love.
Thank you so much to Sarah Wallace for the arc of this book!
Picture this: a warm hug and a cup of tea waiting for you in a cottage garden. That’s what reading the whole Meddle and Mend series feels like, but particularly this book. It’s a beautiful look into a beautiful family, it’s got romance and balls and magic, it’s got enough drama to keep you going. There’s beautiful character development, and a whole lot of love.
I especially love the complicated family dynamics and fully fleshed out side characters. And we have a magic system that is easy to understand and feels scientific! I love it!
There was a small moment about three quarters of the way through where I felt like maybe the book was a tad too long, but also maybe that was me screaming “just kiss already” at the characters when you can’t rush love.
Thank you so much to Sarah Wallace for the arc of this book!
June 7, 2024
I received an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Have you ever had a book enter your life at just the right moment? That’s how I felt with The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress. I filled out the form to apply for an e-ARC of the book on a whim. Imagine my delight when, a mere handful of hours later, my phone dings with an email alerting me that my early copy of The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress is available for download!
This book is like a steaming mug of tea and a favorite blanket on a cold, rainy autumn day. Like seeing a beautiful, multicolored sunset after a long day where you’ve barely had any time to yourself, and finally taking a moment to breathe and soak in the sight. I don’t think I can start writing, or even thinking properly, about The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress without first touching on the following line from the book’s Note From The Author, which puts my feelings into words: “This novel is an ode to forming relationships on your own terms, understanding yourself later in life, and found family.” In a fast-paced world where everything can feel like a bit of a race sometimes, it was unbelievable refreshing and validating to read a book where the two main characters take their time: to think situations through, to wonder and ponder their own feelings, to figure things out on their own and at their own pace. As though to mirror this sentiment, the story itself takes its time without the sense that it’s dragging. The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress distinguishes itself not only as an ode to those figuring themselves out, those who feel as though they are falling behind, those who don’t want to do the same things as their peers, and those who don’t yet know what they want, but the story also serves as a reminder that there is nothing wrong with feeling scared and uncertain, or with taking your time.
The rest of this review will go into more detail about the characters and the plot of The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress. It isn’t very spoilery, but I’m putting the content as a “spoiler” just to be safe. Feel free to skip it, but don’t skip out on the opportunity to read this wonderful, cozy, warm hug of a book full of fabulous and relatable characters who you can’t help but root for.
Have you ever had a book enter your life at just the right moment? That’s how I felt with The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress. I filled out the form to apply for an e-ARC of the book on a whim. Imagine my delight when, a mere handful of hours later, my phone dings with an email alerting me that my early copy of The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress is available for download!
This book is like a steaming mug of tea and a favorite blanket on a cold, rainy autumn day. Like seeing a beautiful, multicolored sunset after a long day where you’ve barely had any time to yourself, and finally taking a moment to breathe and soak in the sight. I don’t think I can start writing, or even thinking properly, about The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress without first touching on the following line from the book’s Note From The Author, which puts my feelings into words: “This novel is an ode to forming relationships on your own terms, understanding yourself later in life, and found family.” In a fast-paced world where everything can feel like a bit of a race sometimes, it was unbelievable refreshing and validating to read a book where the two main characters take their time: to think situations through, to wonder and ponder their own feelings, to figure things out on their own and at their own pace. As though to mirror this sentiment, the story itself takes its time without the sense that it’s dragging. The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress distinguishes itself not only as an ode to those figuring themselves out, those who feel as though they are falling behind, those who don’t want to do the same things as their peers, and those who don’t yet know what they want, but the story also serves as a reminder that there is nothing wrong with feeling scared and uncertain, or with taking your time.
The rest of this review will go into more detail about the characters and the plot of The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress. It isn’t very spoilery, but I’m putting the content as a “spoiler” just to be safe. Feel free to skip it, but don’t skip out on the opportunity to read this wonderful, cozy, warm hug of a book full of fabulous and relatable characters who you can’t help but root for.
June 4, 2025
Disliking a book in this series truly breaks my heart, but I cannot in all honesty give it more than 2.5*s.
Something seems to have gone terribly wrong here: the book is at least twice as long as it should have been — did the editor decide to phone it in this time around?
There are structural issues, too: the narrative went on in circles. For example, the first quarter of the book is spent in discussions of the upcoming visit of the horrid sibling and his wife, the next 65% of the book detail the same anticipated horrors taking place (in repeated situations in which the wife is being insufferable to everyone and her husband is doing the same or uselessly flailing about), and the last couple chapters or so are spent by everyone discussing how horrid the guests had been and whether the useless flailing is enough to have hope for the future improvement of character... Talk about beating a dead horse!
The main romantic plot suffers from an even worse sort of repetitiveness in which *every* notable character from the whole series (and some new ones!) follows the exact same script: get introduced to the couple, observe the couple, conspire with others to bring the couple together, give advice to the couple (or to one of them), manipulate the couple to reach the desired conclusion.
There are a lot of characters in this series...
No wonder Gerry can't hear herself think — she is not given the space, or enough air to breathe, suffocated as she is by all the "helpful" advice! And, frankly, all their meddling ways were almost as obnoxious as Veronica's opinionated malice.
Not only that, but it is extremely boring to read about and narratively ineffective: there are many ways to help people who are falling in love (especially for the first time), so this was an opportunity to show those different kinds of support, instead of repeating the same scenario for every character in the book (and the entire population of Tutting-on-Cress!). As the story is now, it's the repetitiveness that stands out instead of the minor differences in the kind of support the different characters offer (or could have offered instead).
I felt that this was another failure of the structural editing in this book.
Reading this after rereading 'The Education of Pip' was especially painful, because that book chronicles the slow and often regression-prone process of recovery from trauma and abuse, where Pip walks into the same conundrums and makes, seemingly, the same mistakes over and over. And yet, in that book this same author was able to clearly illustrate the nature of the progress he makes, because into every repetition of the problem, Pip enters as a slightly changed character, capable of at least processing the situation differently, even if he is not yet ready to act on it. So we know for a fact that this author is fully capable of writing compelling character development and structuring the story to show realistic progress.
By contrast, in this book all characters are stagnant from beginning to end (with the possible exception of horrid John who makes very marginal progress towards the aforementioned useless flailing). Even the romantic leads are static! Their progressions are not a matter of character development, but a function of a simple decision which was delayed only by plot contrivances.
What happened?!
Something seems to have gone terribly wrong here: the book is at least twice as long as it should have been — did the editor decide to phone it in this time around?
There are structural issues, too: the narrative went on in circles. For example, the first quarter of the book is spent in discussions of the upcoming visit of the horrid sibling and his wife, the next 65% of the book detail the same anticipated horrors taking place (in repeated situations in which the wife is being insufferable to everyone and her husband is doing the same or uselessly flailing about), and the last couple chapters or so are spent by everyone discussing how horrid the guests had been and whether the useless flailing is enough to have hope for the future improvement of character... Talk about beating a dead horse!
The main romantic plot suffers from an even worse sort of repetitiveness in which *every* notable character from the whole series (and some new ones!) follows the exact same script: get introduced to the couple, observe the couple, conspire with others to bring the couple together, give advice to the couple (or to one of them), manipulate the couple to reach the desired conclusion.
There are a lot of characters in this series...
No wonder Gerry can't hear herself think — she is not given the space, or enough air to breathe, suffocated as she is by all the "helpful" advice! And, frankly, all their meddling ways were almost as obnoxious as Veronica's opinionated malice.
Not only that, but it is extremely boring to read about and narratively ineffective: there are many ways to help people who are falling in love (especially for the first time), so this was an opportunity to show those different kinds of support, instead of repeating the same scenario for every character in the book (and the entire population of Tutting-on-Cress!). As the story is now, it's the repetitiveness that stands out instead of the minor differences in the kind of support the different characters offer (or could have offered instead).
I felt that this was another failure of the structural editing in this book.
Reading this after rereading 'The Education of Pip' was especially painful, because that book chronicles the slow and often regression-prone process of recovery from trauma and abuse, where Pip walks into the same conundrums and makes, seemingly, the same mistakes over and over. And yet, in that book this same author was able to clearly illustrate the nature of the progress he makes, because into every repetition of the problem, Pip enters as a slightly changed character, capable of at least processing the situation differently, even if he is not yet ready to act on it. So we know for a fact that this author is fully capable of writing compelling character development and structuring the story to show realistic progress.
By contrast, in this book all characters are stagnant from beginning to end (with the possible exception of horrid John who makes very marginal progress towards the aforementioned useless flailing). Even the romantic leads are static! Their progressions are not a matter of character development, but a function of a simple decision which was delayed only by plot contrivances.
What happened?!
June 2, 2024
Many thanks to @sarah.wallace.writer for an ARC of this book, the fifth in their 'Meddle and Mend' series. It's released on 28th June. Each book revolves around a different member of the Hartford family or one of their friends. This time, it's the turn of Geraldine (also known as Gerry), the sister of Gavin and Sebastian.
Gerry moved to Tutting-on-Cress to take over a shop selling magical spells, and she's been extremely succesful: the shop is now one of the most popular and profitable in the country. Gerry has also been able to develop her talent for making spells of her own. She's happy - but Gavin's husband, Charles, a confirmed meddler, thinks that she could be happier. So when the handsome, intelligent, and kind Basil Thorne moves into the neighbourhood following the death of his father, Charles' romance radar starts to sound. Charles is joined in his desire to see Gerry married by her friends, her family, and all of Basil's family. Basil is willing to fall in love, but Gerry feels there's some romance lacking in being constantly pushed together by everyone, and she's resistant to all the people telling her what a lovely couple they could make.
I love each book in the Meddle and Mend series, and they seem to get better and better as the series progresses. This is wonderfully warm, comical, and romantic. There are some brilliant secondary characters who are developed in their own right. Veronia, Gerry's sister-in-law, is the world's most ghastly house-guest, and it's interesting to see her husband, John, come out of his shell and to start to repair relationships with his siblings. Basil's seven step-siblings are also clearly delineated (my favourite was Lavinia, reader of many dramatic romance novels, who talks and thinks like she's a character in one). There's a lovely side-plot of the family dealing with the loss of their father and of Basil finding his place in the family as well.
Gerry and Basil do make a lovely couple – but I can totally see Gerry's point of view, and I would definitely object to being the centre of everyones' match-making endeavours in her situation. The fact that everyone wants them to become a couple does mean that the plot becomes a little repetitive, with lots of scenes of Gerry and Basil interacting at various gatherings while other people look on with heart eyes. But just as I was starting to think that it was a bit too much, something happens to move the romance along.
I would recommend this to anyone looking for a gentle, low-stakes, closed-door romance. It's pefect too if you've just read something heavy and are looking for something more restorative. There's at least one more book in the Meddle and Mend series hinted at in this book, and I look forward to reading it when it comes out!
Gerry moved to Tutting-on-Cress to take over a shop selling magical spells, and she's been extremely succesful: the shop is now one of the most popular and profitable in the country. Gerry has also been able to develop her talent for making spells of her own. She's happy - but Gavin's husband, Charles, a confirmed meddler, thinks that she could be happier. So when the handsome, intelligent, and kind Basil Thorne moves into the neighbourhood following the death of his father, Charles' romance radar starts to sound. Charles is joined in his desire to see Gerry married by her friends, her family, and all of Basil's family. Basil is willing to fall in love, but Gerry feels there's some romance lacking in being constantly pushed together by everyone, and she's resistant to all the people telling her what a lovely couple they could make.
I love each book in the Meddle and Mend series, and they seem to get better and better as the series progresses. This is wonderfully warm, comical, and romantic. There are some brilliant secondary characters who are developed in their own right. Veronia, Gerry's sister-in-law, is the world's most ghastly house-guest, and it's interesting to see her husband, John, come out of his shell and to start to repair relationships with his siblings. Basil's seven step-siblings are also clearly delineated (my favourite was Lavinia, reader of many dramatic romance novels, who talks and thinks like she's a character in one). There's a lovely side-plot of the family dealing with the loss of their father and of Basil finding his place in the family as well.
Gerry and Basil do make a lovely couple – but I can totally see Gerry's point of view, and I would definitely object to being the centre of everyones' match-making endeavours in her situation. The fact that everyone wants them to become a couple does mean that the plot becomes a little repetitive, with lots of scenes of Gerry and Basil interacting at various gatherings while other people look on with heart eyes. But just as I was starting to think that it was a bit too much, something happens to move the romance along.
I would recommend this to anyone looking for a gentle, low-stakes, closed-door romance. It's pefect too if you've just read something heavy and are looking for something more restorative. There's at least one more book in the Meddle and Mend series hinted at in this book, and I look forward to reading it when it comes out!
June 26, 2024
4.5⭐
Like its Meddle & Mend predecessors, The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress is a cozy historical romance with a twist of magic and focus on interpersonal relationships. Building on the story of spellmaster Gerry Hartford (who long-time M&M readers will recognize) and newcomer to town Basil Thorne, TSoToC explores each MC's family dynamics and slowly blossoms into a sweet romance.
In Wallace's usual fashion, The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress is cozy, whimsical, and profoundly heartfelt. Unafraid to deal with complications surrounding family bullying and the death of a parent, the narrative is beautifully balanced between a cozy atmosphere and navigating complex interpersonal/ emotional issues.
The pacing of the story is slow, but slow in the way of honey. It's that way for a reason, and remains thematically consistent with the whole of the novel. Gerry and Basil don't know each other at the beginning. Basil is overwhelmed by his new responsibilities. Gerry is navigating her lack of romantic attraction and desire for romance. The pace moves slowly because it allows the story to settle into itself, and when the romance does drop into the narrative, it is honey-sweet and feels deliciously well-earned.
One of my favorite parts of Wallace's writing is their ability to create a large cast of characters that are distinct individuals and that—aside from antagonists— genuinely care about each other. This book was no exception.
That being said, as someone who is only familiar with one of the other books in the M&M series, I found it difficult to keep track of who is who in this book and how they are in relationship with one another. I eventually started to figure it out about halfway through, but it was a little rough at the start. I imagine if one is a more dedicated fan of the series, it is a particular treat to encounter so many characters from previous books and to get some of their POVs.
As someone who lands about where Gerry does on the aromantic spectrum, it was also incredibly meaningful to see how the story navigated Gerry's feelings— or, as it were, her initial lack of romantic feelings. Her resistance to the pressure of relationship expectations from those around her and her simultaneous desire for romance felt familiar and thoughtfully rendered. I left this book feeling less alone and like the author had approached the topic with immense care.
TLDR/Conclusion: This book made me feel like a cat curled up in a sunbeam on a late spring afternoon. If you are looking for a cozy queer romantic read that's both sincere and whimsical, I cannot recommend TSoToC enough.
note: I was provided an ARC of this book by the author
Like its Meddle & Mend predecessors, The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress is a cozy historical romance with a twist of magic and focus on interpersonal relationships. Building on the story of spellmaster Gerry Hartford (who long-time M&M readers will recognize) and newcomer to town Basil Thorne, TSoToC explores each MC's family dynamics and slowly blossoms into a sweet romance.
In Wallace's usual fashion, The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress is cozy, whimsical, and profoundly heartfelt. Unafraid to deal with complications surrounding family bullying and the death of a parent, the narrative is beautifully balanced between a cozy atmosphere and navigating complex interpersonal/ emotional issues.
The pacing of the story is slow, but slow in the way of honey. It's that way for a reason, and remains thematically consistent with the whole of the novel. Gerry and Basil don't know each other at the beginning. Basil is overwhelmed by his new responsibilities. Gerry is navigating her lack of romantic attraction and desire for romance. The pace moves slowly because it allows the story to settle into itself, and when the romance does drop into the narrative, it is honey-sweet and feels deliciously well-earned.
One of my favorite parts of Wallace's writing is their ability to create a large cast of characters that are distinct individuals and that—aside from antagonists— genuinely care about each other. This book was no exception.
That being said, as someone who is only familiar with one of the other books in the M&M series, I found it difficult to keep track of who is who in this book and how they are in relationship with one another. I eventually started to figure it out about halfway through, but it was a little rough at the start. I imagine if one is a more dedicated fan of the series, it is a particular treat to encounter so many characters from previous books and to get some of their POVs.
As someone who lands about where Gerry does on the aromantic spectrum, it was also incredibly meaningful to see how the story navigated Gerry's feelings— or, as it were, her initial lack of romantic feelings. Her resistance to the pressure of relationship expectations from those around her and her simultaneous desire for romance felt familiar and thoughtfully rendered. I left this book feeling less alone and like the author had approached the topic with immense care.
TLDR/Conclusion: This book made me feel like a cat curled up in a sunbeam on a late spring afternoon. If you are looking for a cozy queer romantic read that's both sincere and whimsical, I cannot recommend TSoToC enough.
note: I was provided an ARC of this book by the author
August 22, 2024
I may have already been obsessed with the Meddle and Mend series by Sarah Wallace but The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress has added to the obsession! It is / has:
🧪 F / M historical romance - set in alternate regency period, with magic, queernormative
✨ Slow-burn romance - strangers to friends to lovers
🧪 Fifth book in the Meddle & Mend series - I’d recommend the series be read in order.
I’m shocked more people aren’t talking about this excellent, cosy series. So here are my reasons for loving this book (and the series):
1. I adore every character (well, except Veronica).
• We’ve had the previous books in the series to meet and love Gerry, so as The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress is her story my investment in her future was high! I love that she has carved out her own path but still suffers some little doubts along the way.
• Basil is a wonderful addition as the MMC, gentle and kind, watching him take his new role within his family and fall in love was incredibly precious.
• We have further new characters, in Basil’s siblings and friend Modesty, who are a delightful chaos. Each is a fully formed character and distinct in their own way (an aside: I want to give Elias a big squeeze of a hug).
• Speaking of characters WE GET CHARLES POINT OF VIEW (I screamed and jumped for joy). Seeing not only his interactions with the characters of the series but his continued love for Gavin! Thank you Sarah Wallace for including this 🫶 .
• Wallace does something surprising, which shows her excellence as a writer of characters, she made me begin to sympathise and like John, the elder Hartford sibling.
A few other reasons:
2. “But I’m coming to learn that home is made up of the people one is fondest of.” (p.423) The book (and the series itself) is a celebration of found family and friendship. As Wallace perfectly states:
“This novel is an ode to forming relationships on your own terms, understanding yourself later in life, and found family.” (p.501)
3. The book explores grief.
““Grief is an exhausting thing.”” (p.194) - and if you know me, you know I have an affinity with a book about grief.
4. We still get some letter writing elements from previous books.
I was very lucky to get an eARC from the author, but as I read this slowly savouring every second I purchased a print book on release. This review is my honest thoughts.
🧪 F / M historical romance - set in alternate regency period, with magic, queernormative
✨ Slow-burn romance - strangers to friends to lovers
🧪 Fifth book in the Meddle & Mend series - I’d recommend the series be read in order.
I’m shocked more people aren’t talking about this excellent, cosy series. So here are my reasons for loving this book (and the series):
1. I adore every character (well, except Veronica).
• We’ve had the previous books in the series to meet and love Gerry, so as The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress is her story my investment in her future was high! I love that she has carved out her own path but still suffers some little doubts along the way.
• Basil is a wonderful addition as the MMC, gentle and kind, watching him take his new role within his family and fall in love was incredibly precious.
• We have further new characters, in Basil’s siblings and friend Modesty, who are a delightful chaos. Each is a fully formed character and distinct in their own way (an aside: I want to give Elias a big squeeze of a hug).
• Speaking of characters WE GET CHARLES POINT OF VIEW (I screamed and jumped for joy). Seeing not only his interactions with the characters of the series but his continued love for Gavin! Thank you Sarah Wallace for including this 🫶 .
• Wallace does something surprising, which shows her excellence as a writer of characters, she made me begin to sympathise and like John, the elder Hartford sibling.
A few other reasons:
2. “But I’m coming to learn that home is made up of the people one is fondest of.” (p.423) The book (and the series itself) is a celebration of found family and friendship. As Wallace perfectly states:
“This novel is an ode to forming relationships on your own terms, understanding yourself later in life, and found family.” (p.501)
3. The book explores grief.
““Grief is an exhausting thing.”” (p.194) - and if you know me, you know I have an affinity with a book about grief.
4. We still get some letter writing elements from previous books.
I was very lucky to get an eARC from the author, but as I read this slowly savouring every second I purchased a print book on release. This review is my honest thoughts.
June 4, 2024
This book was such a lovely read, probably even more so than I expected - and I've been hoping for Gerry's book ever since finishing Letters to Half Moon Street! In the series thus far, we've watched Gerry becoming pretty protective of her independence after having found purpose in taking over the running of the spellshop in Tutting on Cress, while also enjoying the support and proximity of her family and friends. And having a book focused on Gerry means we also got a lot of time with this world's magic system, which is always fun.
Basil is our newest character, and is a very thoughtful and somewhat lonely man, who's found himself a little out of his depth after becoming the head of a family consisting of whole pack of little siblings and his widowed stepmother. I found it touching to watch this particular family's dynamic unfold, while also getting to know all 7 of the little siblings and their antics.
One thing I didn't expect from this book, was to start to feel differently about John, the Hartford siblings' eldest brother, who up until this point has been quite awful. I appreciate how Wallace has built up his arc over several books at this point, and we're starting to see something like growth. (His wife, Veronica, is still The Worst. So if you need a character to dislike, you've still got one for now).
The very best thing about these books in general are the alternate historical England that has an inclusive society, wonderful queer representation, and the way in which the found family takes care of each other through a lot of well-meaning meddling. (And this book in particular had almost comedic levels of meddling - it was great!) These are incredibly cozy, hopeful reads, and I often find myself smiling while reading them. Highly recommended for fans of regency romances or cozy fantasy!
Basil is our newest character, and is a very thoughtful and somewhat lonely man, who's found himself a little out of his depth after becoming the head of a family consisting of whole pack of little siblings and his widowed stepmother. I found it touching to watch this particular family's dynamic unfold, while also getting to know all 7 of the little siblings and their antics.
One thing I didn't expect from this book, was to start to feel differently about John, the Hartford siblings' eldest brother, who up until this point has been quite awful. I appreciate how Wallace has built up his arc over several books at this point, and we're starting to see something like growth. (His wife, Veronica, is still The Worst. So if you need a character to dislike, you've still got one for now).
The very best thing about these books in general are the alternate historical England that has an inclusive society, wonderful queer representation, and the way in which the found family takes care of each other through a lot of well-meaning meddling. (And this book in particular had almost comedic levels of meddling - it was great!) These are incredibly cozy, hopeful reads, and I often find myself smiling while reading them. Highly recommended for fans of regency romances or cozy fantasy!
May 29, 2024
I was honored to receive an advanced copy from the author. This review is honest and of my own free will!
I very much looked forward to reading this queer f/m romance, the fifth book of connected standalones that takes place in a queernormative and magical Regency England-inspired world. I was not disappointed! Just thinking about the story makes me smile.
Spellmaster is a lovely read! It has a large cast of wonderful characters, including both found family and family of origin. It has whimsy, big emotions, many moments of humor, and lots of heart.
The story progresses at a pace I feel makes sense, given that the love interests don’t know each other at the start. The reader needs time to get to know the various characters and root for them. To me, the slow pace is leisurely and incredibly enjoyable.
I think readers who haven’t read earlier books in the Meddle & Mend series may have a difficult time remembering all the names of the characters and who’s who. They are all distinct and (most of them are) very lovable, but it’s also a lot of names and descriptions to throw at readers who are new to Meddle & Mend.
While I think readers may still enjoy this book without having read the others, I think it might be helpful for them to pick up Dear Bartleby (which directly precedes this one) before reading The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress.
I adored this book and all its characters! I especially enjoyed the excellent trans representation in two of the side characters. I look forward to what the rest of the series has in store!
Five stars!
I very much looked forward to reading this queer f/m romance, the fifth book of connected standalones that takes place in a queernormative and magical Regency England-inspired world. I was not disappointed! Just thinking about the story makes me smile.
Spellmaster is a lovely read! It has a large cast of wonderful characters, including both found family and family of origin. It has whimsy, big emotions, many moments of humor, and lots of heart.
The story progresses at a pace I feel makes sense, given that the love interests don’t know each other at the start. The reader needs time to get to know the various characters and root for them. To me, the slow pace is leisurely and incredibly enjoyable.
I think readers who haven’t read earlier books in the Meddle & Mend series may have a difficult time remembering all the names of the characters and who’s who. They are all distinct and (most of them are) very lovable, but it’s also a lot of names and descriptions to throw at readers who are new to Meddle & Mend.
While I think readers may still enjoy this book without having read the others, I think it might be helpful for them to pick up Dear Bartleby (which directly precedes this one) before reading The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress.
I adored this book and all its characters! I especially enjoyed the excellent trans representation in two of the side characters. I look forward to what the rest of the series has in store!
Five stars!
June 8, 2024
A cozy fantasy of a woman who wants to find true love, and a man who trying to put back the pieces
after his father has passed, wrapped in a magical world.
I'm starting to think that Sarah is magic, they are sweet and their books are a delight! I have read so many books by them and every single one has been four stars or higher, that hardly ever happens for me. The Spellmaster Tutting-on-Cress has cast a spell over my heart when reading I didn't want it to end. So much that when I had 20% left I would only read a little bit each day to stretch it out so it wouldn't end.
I love Geraldine and Basil. I love all the couples in this world. It starts with the heartache of Basil's father who passed away. We see how that unfolds, the grief he and his family is going through. I love the bonding between him and his siblings. Basil's siblings made me want to hug them and fill them up with cookies and milk. They are sweet, charming, and oh-so funny. While Geraldine wants to keep her shop and career. She wants to find true love and not just to get married for states. We get to see the relationship blooming for Geraldine and Basil and it’s nothing but adorable.
If Sarah's name is on a book I am going to read it. I love and have joy telling people about her queer norm book worlds, their writing is easy to read while pulling on my heartstrings may it be because of sweet moments or sad, they are nothing but talent.
Be swept away in this queer norm cozy fantasy, with family drama, following one's heart and magic in a book you won't want to end.
after his father has passed, wrapped in a magical world.
I'm starting to think that Sarah is magic, they are sweet and their books are a delight! I have read so many books by them and every single one has been four stars or higher, that hardly ever happens for me. The Spellmaster Tutting-on-Cress has cast a spell over my heart when reading I didn't want it to end. So much that when I had 20% left I would only read a little bit each day to stretch it out so it wouldn't end.
I love Geraldine and Basil. I love all the couples in this world. It starts with the heartache of Basil's father who passed away. We see how that unfolds, the grief he and his family is going through. I love the bonding between him and his siblings. Basil's siblings made me want to hug them and fill them up with cookies and milk. They are sweet, charming, and oh-so funny. While Geraldine wants to keep her shop and career. She wants to find true love and not just to get married for states. We get to see the relationship blooming for Geraldine and Basil and it’s nothing but adorable.
If Sarah's name is on a book I am going to read it. I love and have joy telling people about her queer norm book worlds, their writing is easy to read while pulling on my heartstrings may it be because of sweet moments or sad, they are nothing but talent.
Be swept away in this queer norm cozy fantasy, with family drama, following one's heart and magic in a book you won't want to end.
June 6, 2024
4.5/5 stars
Thank you Sarah Wallace for the ARC!
The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress is a historical fantasy romance between Gerry, the Spellmaster of the town, and Basil, the newcomer.
This was my first time venturing into the realm of historical romance, and I haven’t read anything else in the Meddle and Mend series (yet).
I was so worried in the first 25% of this book that I wouldn’t enjoy it because it was a bit slow and there were so many characters to meet. But the book was so much fun and the pages flew by.
90% of the characters in the book are queer, and I loved that it was so normal in the world of the story. The leads are both pansexual (M/F romance), with possible a-spec representation(?). Even the characters who were bullies (*cough cough* Veronica) were never trans/homophobic.
I especially admired that Wallace created a giant cast of characters (between Basil’s family and Gerry’s friends/family) and managed to give them so much depth. Everyone felt like their own person, and the POV shifts were distinct without being jarring.
CW: grief (death of parent); insults/bullying
Thank you Sarah Wallace for the ARC!
The Spellmaster of Tutting-on-Cress is a historical fantasy romance between Gerry, the Spellmaster of the town, and Basil, the newcomer.
This was my first time venturing into the realm of historical romance, and I haven’t read anything else in the Meddle and Mend series (yet).
I was so worried in the first 25% of this book that I wouldn’t enjoy it because it was a bit slow and there were so many characters to meet. But the book was so much fun and the pages flew by.
90% of the characters in the book are queer, and I loved that it was so normal in the world of the story. The leads are both pansexual (M/F romance), with possible a-spec representation(?). Even the characters who were bullies (*cough cough* Veronica) were never trans/homophobic.
I especially admired that Wallace created a giant cast of characters (between Basil’s family and Gerry’s friends/family) and managed to give them so much depth. Everyone felt like their own person, and the POV shifts were distinct without being jarring.
CW: grief (death of parent); insults/bullying
March 27, 2025
Okay, first of all!!!!! I have never read a book with the characters could just be gay and it wasn’t a whole thing about coming out and it instead was just an inclusive part of society, and truthfully that healed me in ways I didn’t expect.
Second of all, I don’t normally read “fade to black” style books, because I do like smut 💅 however, the way that they so delicately wrote those seems felt some how even more intimate than most of the smut I’ve read. These characters had me blushing and kicking my feet the whole dang time!! 😩
Third, it was SUCH a nice change of pace to read such a well written, low stakes but generally beautiful book. I didn’t feel anxious but there was enough suspense to make me want to gobble to whole thing up, despite being so busy!
And lastly, there were so many characters in this book yet I felt like I got to know and love each and every one of them. Sometimes when reading books with loads of characters, I get overwhelmed and kinda ignore a lot of them. But I truly felt myself loving each of them.
It’s been a long time since I’ve consumed a book with so much joy through and through. Truly remarkable!
Second of all, I don’t normally read “fade to black” style books, because I do like smut 💅 however, the way that they so delicately wrote those seems felt some how even more intimate than most of the smut I’ve read. These characters had me blushing and kicking my feet the whole dang time!! 😩
Third, it was SUCH a nice change of pace to read such a well written, low stakes but generally beautiful book. I didn’t feel anxious but there was enough suspense to make me want to gobble to whole thing up, despite being so busy!
And lastly, there were so many characters in this book yet I felt like I got to know and love each and every one of them. Sometimes when reading books with loads of characters, I get overwhelmed and kinda ignore a lot of them. But I truly felt myself loving each of them.
It’s been a long time since I’ve consumed a book with so much joy through and through. Truly remarkable!
June 28, 2024
If you know one thing about me, I am a sucker for a queernomative world (especially a historical one)! I adored how cozy this book was. The found family was absolutely delightful and the matchmaking plot was really cute. The narrators also did a great job transporting me to another world. They both really added to the quirkiness and coziness of the world. I will say I did a silly thing and requested this ARC not realizing it was the 5th book in the series so I had no idea who most of the characters were 😂. It wasn't horribly confusing but I could definitely tell that there were a lot of moments that I would have appreciated way more if I'd spent four books getting to know these characters. That being said if you read the series in order (as intended lol) I'm sure the cozy atmosphere and found family will make you feel even more things. If you're looking for a cozy book to finish off Pride month with this could be your perfect read!
Thanks to the author for being so sweet and giving me an ALC to listen to early 🥰
Thanks to the author for being so sweet and giving me an ALC to listen to early 🥰
July 12, 2025
Book 5 in this series mainly follows Gerry, the only Hartford sister. Instead of splitting her POV with just her love-interest Basil, there are also chapters from Charle's POV (who is the love-interest in book 1, Letters to Half Moon Street), and Sophie, Basil's younger sister.
Instead of just following Gerry and Basil's romance, the book also follows those side characters who really want things to work out between the couple, and thus a lot of meddling happens.
I really enjoyed the interactions between Basil and his siblings (and there are a lot). Even though they are all new characters, they fit very well into the existing cast and grew on me very quickly.
The plot is, once again, super slow and low-stakes, but I loved every minute of it.
If you want queernorm, cozy historical romance with some mild fantasy elements, I highly recommend this series.
Instead of just following Gerry and Basil's romance, the book also follows those side characters who really want things to work out between the couple, and thus a lot of meddling happens.
I really enjoyed the interactions between Basil and his siblings (and there are a lot). Even though they are all new characters, they fit very well into the existing cast and grew on me very quickly.
The plot is, once again, super slow and low-stakes, but I loved every minute of it.
If you want queernorm, cozy historical romance with some mild fantasy elements, I highly recommend this series.
September 16, 2024
This was very sweet. I liked both characters, and the inclusion of POVs from other characters. Basil's relationship with his father made me tear up a few times.
Giving 4 stars instead of 5 because of the ending though - while the book is very long, the ending was just too abrupt for my tastes.
Giving 4 stars instead of 5 because of the ending though - while the book is very long, the ending was just too abrupt for my tastes.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews