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Myrtlewood Mysteries #9
Impractical Magic
Welcome back to Myrtlewood, where magic and mayhem are always on the menu.
Rosemary Thorn's life takes another surreal turn as she prepares to host the most unlikely event of the season, while her daughter Athena juggles exam stress and organising the town's Imbolc ritual.
Darkness is stirring in the nearby forest, and a hunger-driven force threatens to consume everything in its path. With vampire politics, fae realm adventures, and cantankerous deities in the mix, Rosemary and Athena must confront both external dangers and their own inner demons. Can they overcome their personal struggles and band together with friends old and new to protect Myrtlewood once again?
Packed with humour, heart, and a dash of the supernatural, this magical adventure suggests that in Myrtlewood, the most powerful magic of all just might be facing your fears – with plenty of tea and perhaps a cocktail or two!
Rosemary Thorn's life takes another surreal turn as she prepares to host the most unlikely event of the season, while her daughter Athena juggles exam stress and organising the town's Imbolc ritual.
Darkness is stirring in the nearby forest, and a hunger-driven force threatens to consume everything in its path. With vampire politics, fae realm adventures, and cantankerous deities in the mix, Rosemary and Athena must confront both external dangers and their own inner demons. Can they overcome their personal struggles and band together with friends old and new to protect Myrtlewood once again?
Packed with humour, heart, and a dash of the supernatural, this magical adventure suggests that in Myrtlewood, the most powerful magic of all just might be facing your fears – with plenty of tea and perhaps a cocktail or two!
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 31, 2024
766 people are currently reading
564 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
November 22, 2024
Magickally Wonderful!
I love the characters. I finished all 9 books in less than 2 weeks! I think Marjie is my favorite character. I can hardly wait for book 10. Until then, I'm going to start the Crone books.
I love the characters. I finished all 9 books in less than 2 weeks! I think Marjie is my favorite character. I can hardly wait for book 10. Until then, I'm going to start the Crone books.
October 27, 2024
ARC provided by the author. I enjoyed returning to this world. Felt so deeply for Athena dealing with her pain and anguish. Hope we will have more stories in Myrtlewood
March 23, 2025
Rosemary and Athena are finally back, and gosh is it delightful, especially with Marjie living at Thorn Manor as well 💕
As exciting as their return is, the consequences of the last book are biting back hard. Athena is struggling with the loss of Elise while Rosemary and Burk are facing some serious investigations into his new, sparkly, existence. And on top of all of that, there’s a new threat encroaching on Myrtlewood Forest and it just might be the end of it all!
I LOVED having Rosemary and Athena back, even if they were struggling in their relationship in this book. The dynamic between the two really does remind me of Lorelei and Rory in Gilmore Girls 😍 The difference is that Iris explores what it looks like internally for both of them as well, rather than just showing it like on TV. It gives it a depth and complexity that keeps you invested - although, nine books in, I’d say I’m pretty invested already 🤣
It’s also really fun to see how the other characters have grown, like Burk and Dain, who both had some adjustments to do. My favourite part was the somewhat sneaky Goddess gathering right on Imbolc - talk about a smart move!
Once again, Iris has created a cozy, fun, and heartwarming story that catches you in its grip and won’t let go. The only sad thing is that we don’t know when the next Myrtlewood Mystery will come out, but there’s a lot ahead for Rosemary and Athena, so I have no doubt it will be worth the wait 💗
As exciting as their return is, the consequences of the last book are biting back hard. Athena is struggling with the loss of Elise while Rosemary and Burk are facing some serious investigations into his new, sparkly, existence. And on top of all of that, there’s a new threat encroaching on Myrtlewood Forest and it just might be the end of it all!
I LOVED having Rosemary and Athena back, even if they were struggling in their relationship in this book. The dynamic between the two really does remind me of Lorelei and Rory in Gilmore Girls 😍 The difference is that Iris explores what it looks like internally for both of them as well, rather than just showing it like on TV. It gives it a depth and complexity that keeps you invested - although, nine books in, I’d say I’m pretty invested already 🤣
It’s also really fun to see how the other characters have grown, like Burk and Dain, who both had some adjustments to do. My favourite part was the somewhat sneaky Goddess gathering right on Imbolc - talk about a smart move!
Once again, Iris has created a cozy, fun, and heartwarming story that catches you in its grip and won’t let go. The only sad thing is that we don’t know when the next Myrtlewood Mystery will come out, but there’s a lot ahead for Rosemary and Athena, so I have no doubt it will be worth the wait 💗
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 4, 2025
Magic, Mystery, and a Touch of Darkness
What a wonderful and heartfelt finale to Rosemary and Athena’s journey! This last book really delivered on the emotions and the intrigue. Athena’s struggle since losing Elise was heartbreaking to witness—her grief, her secrecy, and the weight she carried alone were so raw and real. But seeing her rise above it all in the end was incredibly rewarding.
The mystery surrounding Burk and his transformation kept me hooked, and it was beautiful to finally see him step into the sun after so many years of darkness. Of course, true to form, everyone still had their own hidden agendas—especially the vampires, who were eager to study Rosemary. Thankfully, her new vampire family stood strong and proved they’ll always have her back when it matters most.
And I can’t not mention The Morrigan—still my absolute favorite. She’s such a brilliant mix of power, sass, and vulnerability. All she really wants is some friends and a damn good cocktail, and honestly, same.
I highly recommend not just Impractical Magic, but the entire series. It’s witty, heartfelt, magical, and full of characters you can’t help but root for. I’m already excited to dive into The Crones of Myrtlewood next!
What a wonderful and heartfelt finale to Rosemary and Athena’s journey! This last book really delivered on the emotions and the intrigue. Athena’s struggle since losing Elise was heartbreaking to witness—her grief, her secrecy, and the weight she carried alone were so raw and real. But seeing her rise above it all in the end was incredibly rewarding.
The mystery surrounding Burk and his transformation kept me hooked, and it was beautiful to finally see him step into the sun after so many years of darkness. Of course, true to form, everyone still had their own hidden agendas—especially the vampires, who were eager to study Rosemary. Thankfully, her new vampire family stood strong and proved they’ll always have her back when it matters most.
And I can’t not mention The Morrigan—still my absolute favorite. She’s such a brilliant mix of power, sass, and vulnerability. All she really wants is some friends and a damn good cocktail, and honestly, same.
I highly recommend not just Impractical Magic, but the entire series. It’s witty, heartfelt, magical, and full of characters you can’t help but root for. I’m already excited to dive into The Crones of Myrtlewood next!
December 3, 2024
This was an interesting read. Rosemary is still figuring out her place in Myrtlewood with her daughter, Athena. In this story, Athena is attempting to handle school, her growing magic and a recent heartbreak. Rosemary is focused on her role in Myrtlewood along with a new beau, Burk whom is a now, um, sparkling vampire. The vampire council is determined to find out how Rosemary's magic could turn Burk into a daywalker and insist on performing tests on Rosemary to find answers. Athena gets some assistance from Azalea, Burks's mother, vampire and very wise therapist. At the same time, a new threat emerges in the forest which deems itself, "Devourer" and threatens the entire town with hunger. Needless to say, with the help of Marjie, Ferg, the goddesses, Neve, Nesta, Dain and others, they take on the events with grace. Attempting not to share spoilers, this is a fun read.
September 3, 2025
Brilliant Series
Impractical Magic: Myrtlewood Mysteries Book 9 by Iris Beaglehole. Athena is heading for a breakdown but an appointment with the vampire Azalea, who is a psychologist, helps. Rosemary goes to Scotland to be studied by the vampires to see if they can work out how she managed to use her magic to allow Perseus to go out in the daytime. There is something in the forest that threatens Myrtlewood. The day of the Imbolic festival arrives and the threat from the forest emerges but the four goddesses from the underworld sort it out and everyone enjoys a cocktail party.
Impractical Magic: Myrtlewood Mysteries Book 9 by Iris Beaglehole. Athena is heading for a breakdown but an appointment with the vampire Azalea, who is a psychologist, helps. Rosemary goes to Scotland to be studied by the vampires to see if they can work out how she managed to use her magic to allow Perseus to go out in the daytime. There is something in the forest that threatens Myrtlewood. The day of the Imbolic festival arrives and the threat from the forest emerges but the four goddesses from the underworld sort it out and everyone enjoys a cocktail party.
December 24, 2024
This was another great story in the world of Rosemary and Athena and the author left it open for more stories to come although I am not sure what direction it will take.
There was mention of the Crones series which I am sure will have more fun tales and be a partner series to this.
There was a substantial amount of character growth with Athena and Azalea is proving to be an intriguing character. Rosemary is getting slightly better but this story seemed more centered around Athena.
Overall a good story and would definitely read more in this series.
There was mention of the Crones series which I am sure will have more fun tales and be a partner series to this.
There was a substantial amount of character growth with Athena and Azalea is proving to be an intriguing character. Rosemary is getting slightly better but this story seemed more centered around Athena.
Overall a good story and would definitely read more in this series.
October 26, 2024
I love this imaginative series, so I was, of course, excited to see another installment. I really adore Athena and Rosemary’s relationship, and I love how they are so there for each other. In this one, poor Athena is really struggling with her feelings, and she tries to hide it from everyone. We watch her struggle, we see Rosemary poked and prodded, and an unexpected danger in the forest. I wish we had seen Burke more, but hopefully there’s a lot more books coming. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
April 4, 2025
Awesome book series!
I enjoyed reading this book, actually the whole series was fantastic! This series was good in the beginning, had enough mystery and intriguing characters that made me want to read the next episode. The series never let me down. Each book is great. And there is a lot of wisdom included, especially on how to deal with the shadows in all our minds. Read them all!
I enjoyed reading this book, actually the whole series was fantastic! This series was good in the beginning, had enough mystery and intriguing characters that made me want to read the next episode. The series never let me down. Each book is great. And there is a lot of wisdom included, especially on how to deal with the shadows in all our minds. Read them all!
June 23, 2025
Chocolates and magic go together
I wasn't really sure about these books when I got to about number 5 as I got really cross with rosemary. She really began to annoy me, but I persevered and was really glad I did. She does still come out with absurd things but she has grown on me quite a bit. I would love to taste some of her chocolates or try the hot chocolate, I have never been able to find a great tasting one.
I wasn't really sure about these books when I got to about number 5 as I got really cross with rosemary. She really began to annoy me, but I persevered and was really glad I did. She does still come out with absurd things but she has grown on me quite a bit. I would love to taste some of her chocolates or try the hot chocolate, I have never been able to find a great tasting one.
November 1, 2024
What a fun read!
The latest tale from Myrtlewood was a delightful ride from beginning to end. I love how Athena's journey is unwinding and the added bonus of guest appearances by divine beings was a treat! Iris's writing is as always beautiful and dreamy. I can't wait for the next one!
The latest tale from Myrtlewood was a delightful ride from beginning to end. I love how Athena's journey is unwinding and the added bonus of guest appearances by divine beings was a treat! Iris's writing is as always beautiful and dreamy. I can't wait for the next one!
December 1, 2024
Rosemary does get up to some unusual activities, but with the help of family and friends everything comes together nicely. We get to explore Athena's issues a little more and she has a few of them but she finally comes to terms with the past with a little help.
I love reading these series by Iris so much depth and detail in the writing.
I love reading these series by Iris so much depth and detail in the writing.
May 6, 2025
Need more Myrtlewood!
I love the blending of folklore and mystical beings. My only dislike is the books in general seem to end rather simply. It's almost a letdown for such amazing stories to just up and end.
Overall, I love the series and can't wait for more and that's probably why I'm disappointed at such neat little endings....
I love the blending of folklore and mystical beings. My only dislike is the books in general seem to end rather simply. It's almost a letdown for such amazing stories to just up and end.
Overall, I love the series and can't wait for more and that's probably why I'm disappointed at such neat little endings....
November 10, 2024
Well done Iris - this is a nice way to take a break from the series but, I have to honestly say, I am going to go thru withdrawals without Athena, Rosemary, Margie and the other characters. Are we still on for a cookbook???
November 18, 2024
always a great read
I love the adventure of Rosemary and Athena. With all the characters that make this series so much exciting to read. You never know what is going to happen next.😃
I love the adventure of Rosemary and Athena. With all the characters that make this series so much exciting to read. You never know what is going to happen next.😃
November 24, 2024
fabulous
Fabulous as usual! I think one of the things that I really love about this book is the author’s handling of relationships. I love the reassuring qualities of Athena’s friends when problems accrue. Excellent to learn about the ancient festivals too.
Fabulous as usual! I think one of the things that I really love about this book is the author’s handling of relationships. I love the reassuring qualities of Athena’s friends when problems accrue. Excellent to learn about the ancient festivals too.
November 27, 2024
🥰🥰 Absolutely Wonderful
I loved every minute of this book and all of the Myrtlewood Mysteries.
The residents of Myrtlewood are unique and quirky with such a strong friendship.
I found myself wanting this world to be true.🥰🥰
I loved every minute of this book and all of the Myrtlewood Mysteries.
The residents of Myrtlewood are unique and quirky with such a strong friendship.
I found myself wanting this world to be true.🥰🥰
December 2, 2024
This is a wonderful series. It has everything you could want in a paranormal and witchy read. Great characters, that you will grow to love and can't wait to find out what happens next in their lives.
December 25, 2024
Good plot and storyline
Loved the plot and characters. However, I feel the author has been badly let down by the editor as there are glaring inconsistencies with timings and the sentence structure leaves a lot to be desired.
Loved the plot and characters. However, I feel the author has been badly let down by the editor as there are glaring inconsistencies with timings and the sentence structure leaves a lot to be desired.
January 3, 2025
the book 17 year old me needed to read
Wish I’d had this book amongst my library in 1998 would have been the therapy I needed reading Athena’s journey of self reflection and coming to terms with the loss of a loved one through intentional means.
Wish I’d had this book amongst my library in 1998 would have been the therapy I needed reading Athena’s journey of self reflection and coming to terms with the loss of a loved one through intentional means.
January 8, 2025
a mixture of many magics
So much is involved in making this a book so interesting that every moment is full of anticipation. Each character has a developing story that somehow blends with the developing of other characters and their individual stories. A pleasure to read.
So much is involved in making this a book so interesting that every moment is full of anticipation. Each character has a developing story that somehow blends with the developing of other characters and their individual stories. A pleasure to read.
January 17, 2025
Never disappoints.
Beautifully written with colorful characters and plot twists that keep you on your toes. I so love all of the Myrtlewood residents and can’t wait for the next book!
Beautifully written with colorful characters and plot twists that keep you on your toes. I so love all of the Myrtlewood residents and can’t wait for the next book!
February 7, 2025
Another great witchy read!
I have loved all the Myrtlewood adventures, watching the characters develop and grow into their magical and non magical personas. Can't wait to read the next installment.
I have loved all the Myrtlewood adventures, watching the characters develop and grow into their magical and non magical personas. Can't wait to read the next installment.
February 28, 2025
It's been a fun ride!
I burned through all 9 books and while I have to admit Rosemary really annoyed me at times (I'm sure I have been annoying myself at times), at the end of the day it was a great read.
I burned through all 9 books and while I have to admit Rosemary really annoyed me at times (I'm sure I have been annoying myself at times), at the end of the day it was a great read.
March 12, 2025
Magical and memorable
Love this series! Following Rosemary and Athena through their transformations and magical growth is fantastic. I highly recommend the Myrtlewood Mysteries series or really anything written by Iris Beaglehole!
Love this series! Following Rosemary and Athena through their transformations and magical growth is fantastic. I highly recommend the Myrtlewood Mysteries series or really anything written by Iris Beaglehole!
April 1, 2025
Excellent book as always!
I really liked this book. I am not sure why it's not available in audio format. I typically listen to books in audio format. I like this series so much that I read it on my tablet.
I really liked this book. I am not sure why it's not available in audio format. I typically listen to books in audio format. I like this series so much that I read it on my tablet.
April 5, 2025
Fantastic
Loved the series
Can't believe it's over can hardly wait for the adventures will advise everyone to read but make sure you have plenty of time you won't be able to put down
Loved the series
Can't believe it's over can hardly wait for the adventures will advise everyone to read but make sure you have plenty of time you won't be able to put down
April 27, 2025
Captivating I didn’t want to put it down!
Loved the series and the magic!!
Iris knows how to draw in the readers and her books are well written and the stories make me want to be a witch!
Loved the series and the magic!!
Iris knows how to draw in the readers and her books are well written and the stories make me want to be a witch!
May 24, 2025
A Gathering of Godesses
A somewhat different Myrtlewood tale is book 9. Things have taken a more serious turn and it has greatly affected the Thorn women. Thing heat up in Myrtlewood as Imbolc approaches. Well written and very interesting as usual.
A somewhat different Myrtlewood tale is book 9. Things have taken a more serious turn and it has greatly affected the Thorn women. Thing heat up in Myrtlewood as Imbolc approaches. Well written and very interesting as usual.
July 3, 2025
Athena finds her way
Rosemary finally has that cocktail party with the Morrigan. The festival that Athena is planning has unexpected turns and past characters from the series emerge again. Athena deals with losing her friend to the underworld. What will the next adventure be?
Rosemary finally has that cocktail party with the Morrigan. The festival that Athena is planning has unexpected turns and past characters from the series emerge again. Athena deals with losing her friend to the underworld. What will the next adventure be?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews