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Emberwood #1
Finding Magic in Misfortune
Finding Magic in Misfortune
is a magical romantic comedy about second chances, self-discovery, and the undeniable nature of love.
After a spectacular end to her fledgling career, Sam Marsh retreats to Emberwood for a fresh start. She hopes to see what options might exist for an out-of-work graphic designer and part-time witch. Sadly, she is not a wand-waving magic wielder from another realm, but simply a gifted intuitive with impressive tarot-reading skills, among other things. While she can’t conjure a spell to fix her life, she hopes some small-town magic will help.
Former Triple-A baseball player Jesse Garrett is stuck managing his father's hardware store, his dreams of the major leagues shattered. Facing a mundane reality and stalled physical recovery, he’s determined to find meaning beyond his glory days on the diamond.
Reunited unexpectedly after years apart, Sam and Jesse's awkward encounters reignite old sparks. If Sam can stop arguing with her spirit guides and Jesse can overcome his fears about the future, they might just help each other rebuild from rock bottom.
Can they turn misfortune into magic and find love where they least expect it?
After a spectacular end to her fledgling career, Sam Marsh retreats to Emberwood for a fresh start. She hopes to see what options might exist for an out-of-work graphic designer and part-time witch. Sadly, she is not a wand-waving magic wielder from another realm, but simply a gifted intuitive with impressive tarot-reading skills, among other things. While she can’t conjure a spell to fix her life, she hopes some small-town magic will help.
Former Triple-A baseball player Jesse Garrett is stuck managing his father's hardware store, his dreams of the major leagues shattered. Facing a mundane reality and stalled physical recovery, he’s determined to find meaning beyond his glory days on the diamond.
Reunited unexpectedly after years apart, Sam and Jesse's awkward encounters reignite old sparks. If Sam can stop arguing with her spirit guides and Jesse can overcome his fears about the future, they might just help each other rebuild from rock bottom.
Can they turn misfortune into magic and find love where they least expect it?
- GenresRomance
265 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
20 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Campbell
13 books124 followersI tell stories that make me feel like I'm not the only one who thinks the world is a crazy, scary, beautiful place. I hope that my readers feel it too. I also love doughnuts. Too much, in fact. And 90s music and my husband and my son and my feisty little dog :). Do drop me a line here or on social media- I love to talk books.
@nicolecampbellbooks on IG
@nicolecampbellbooks on IG
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
September 22, 2025
Super cute small town second chance romance. I love loved the modern witchcraft aspect of the book the most, but the MMC was also every version of a green flag out there and I loved it. I mean he was in therapy, was huge on consent, and was big on respecting her choices even if he didnt like them.
Zin was my favorite, she was such a character and I loved her vibe. I already downloaded book 2 and I'm excited to see what happens with this next couple and if the modern witchcraft practices will still be a bigger part of the book.
Zin was my favorite, she was such a character and I loved her vibe. I already downloaded book 2 and I'm excited to see what happens with this next couple and if the modern witchcraft practices will still be a bigger part of the book.
August 15, 2024
This book was not only so much fun to write, it also pushed me out of my comfort zone and into a new genre. I hope Sam and Jesse's story brings you some magic 🌙
October 2, 2024
Finding Magic in Misfortune is a wonderfully witchy second-chance romance in dual POV.
Sam returns to her summer home of Emberwood from high school after a disastrous ending to her job at a design firm. Little did she know that her teenage love Jesse has also returned to the town, following an injury that has derailed his sports career.
As both of them are maneuvering through their memories, the crushing heartbreak of teens, as well as their current situations, they find themselves working together. Sam needs help with setting up an inventory system properly at her Aunt Zin’s shop, and Jesse needs new logos for his father’s hardware store.
I loved the addition of Jesse going to therapy to come to terms with his abruptly ended career, which was the only thing (other than Sam) that he really wanted. Having glimpses of that therapy, rather than just it being mentioned in passing, was a great way to see how he was trying so hard to work on things.
The inclusion of Sam and Zin’s witchy prowess, with Samhain, tarot, and crystals – I loved this so much!
This was the perfect read to ease into October. You’ll devour this in one sitting while snuggled under a blanket with a cup of tea (or margarita) in your hand and a cat on your lap.
Thank you to Nicole for generously providing me an eARC. I can’t wait to read more about Emberwood!
Sam returns to her summer home of Emberwood from high school after a disastrous ending to her job at a design firm. Little did she know that her teenage love Jesse has also returned to the town, following an injury that has derailed his sports career.
As both of them are maneuvering through their memories, the crushing heartbreak of teens, as well as their current situations, they find themselves working together. Sam needs help with setting up an inventory system properly at her Aunt Zin’s shop, and Jesse needs new logos for his father’s hardware store.
I loved the addition of Jesse going to therapy to come to terms with his abruptly ended career, which was the only thing (other than Sam) that he really wanted. Having glimpses of that therapy, rather than just it being mentioned in passing, was a great way to see how he was trying so hard to work on things.
The inclusion of Sam and Zin’s witchy prowess, with Samhain, tarot, and crystals – I loved this so much!
This was the perfect read to ease into October. You’ll devour this in one sitting while snuggled under a blanket with a cup of tea (or margarita) in your hand and a cat on your lap.
Thank you to Nicole for generously providing me an eARC. I can’t wait to read more about Emberwood!
October 1, 2024
This book was a super cutesy whimsical witchy romance. There was minimal drama, no third act breakup, and it was just all around cute.
I liked the characters. They were relatable and I was rooting for them. The fact the MMC was actively in therapy was 🤌🏼🤌🏼. Their chemistry was great. And we got a little spice.
I would rate this more of a 3.5⭐️ for me. Again, it was cute, but it was missing a little something for me. The story felt more like it was about each of them finding their way and overcoming their fears and life changes, but I wanted a little more romance and relationship wise for them. That part felt more glazed over, and I would have liked more details and time spent on them together as a couple.
But in the end, super cute feel good read! This would be a great palette cleanser book for if you need something to give you all the warm fuzzies!
I liked the characters. They were relatable and I was rooting for them. The fact the MMC was actively in therapy was 🤌🏼🤌🏼. Their chemistry was great. And we got a little spice.
I would rate this more of a 3.5⭐️ for me. Again, it was cute, but it was missing a little something for me. The story felt more like it was about each of them finding their way and overcoming their fears and life changes, but I wanted a little more romance and relationship wise for them. That part felt more glazed over, and I would have liked more details and time spent on them together as a couple.
But in the end, super cute feel good read! This would be a great palette cleanser book for if you need something to give you all the warm fuzzies!
August 26, 2024
After being fired from her assistant position at a design firm, Sam returns to Emberwood to stay with her Aunt Zin. Jesse, the boy who broke Sam’s heart is also back in Emberwood after a sports injury ended his career.
Aside from being a cute story, I loved the mental health and therapy aspects. The magical elements were great as well. I found that it didn’t make me cringe.
This cute, cozy, and witchy second chance romance will have you giddy the whole way through.
A perfect read for your fall TBR.
Thank you to Nicole Campbell for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. These thoughts and opinions are my own.
Aside from being a cute story, I loved the mental health and therapy aspects. The magical elements were great as well. I found that it didn’t make me cringe.
This cute, cozy, and witchy second chance romance will have you giddy the whole way through.
A perfect read for your fall TBR.
Thank you to Nicole Campbell for this ARC in exchange for an honest review. These thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 12, 2024
I LOVED this book!
Sam is a witch who returns to Emberwood after getting fired from her assistant job at a Design firm. Good thing is her best friend Laur and Aunt Zin live in Emberwood, BUT the guy that broke her heart is also back in town…
This second chance romance was such an easy read (in a good way) where I DEVOURED the words written.
As someone who love witchy things I also did not know how to say Samhain And would’ve said "Sam-hane" too.
Love the characters, loved the plot, loved everything.
I do which the story was longer (thats how much i liked this book).
100% recommend
Sam is a witch who returns to Emberwood after getting fired from her assistant job at a Design firm. Good thing is her best friend Laur and Aunt Zin live in Emberwood, BUT the guy that broke her heart is also back in town…
This second chance romance was such an easy read (in a good way) where I DEVOURED the words written.
As someone who love witchy things I also did not know how to say Samhain And would’ve said "Sam-hane" too.
Love the characters, loved the plot, loved everything.
I do which the story was longer (thats how much i liked this book).
100% recommend
July 16, 2025
I feel like this book was both the light hearted Romcom and the kick in the ass I needed. I totally relate to Sam sas someone who is also going through a life/ career hiccup. If a super hot ex ball player with emotional intelligence wants to hit me up I’d be thrilled !
February 13, 2025
I loved this book :) It was very sweet. As a therapist, I really enjoyed the accurate portrayal of therapy and Jesse's journey with his mental health. Sam and Jesse have my heart. Their story was so much fun to read. I was laughing out loud, getting teary, and really feeling for these characters.
September 20, 2024
This was such a cute story about people finding their paths in the world even when things aren't what they expected and finding love at the right place right time. The couple is really cute, our FMC is more curvy which I do love to see in books since most girls I know are a little more curvy and our MMC definitely has some green flag points to him even though he's blonde and thats usually a 'no thanks' from me but thats a personal bias lol but on a serious note I really did enjoy this book and can't wait for the next release! It was a fun, quick read and I've already recommended it to a couple of my friends for anyone looking to read something nice and not anything that needs a lot of brain power (Like high fantasy type books) this being a contemporary romance with some witchy-ness sprinkled in was lovely because I still got a little whimsy but with the ease of a modern story making it an overall 4 stars. I liked it. :) thank you, Nicole for spoiling me with an early edition, I can't wait to dive farther into the world of Emberwood.
September 30, 2024
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 5.0 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5.0
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞: 🌶️🌶️
I enjoyed Emberwood so much! 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐈𝐧 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐞 is a cute, fun, cozy, fast-paced, magical read full of romance and of-course, magic.
In this story we meet Sam and Jesse. Six years after leaving her small town of Emberwood for the big city, Sam feels stagnant. Though she had been working as a Graphic Design Assistant for some years, she finds herself passed up for yet another promotion. Unable to take it anymore, she confronts her boss and that's all she wrote...Sam lost her job. Now jobless and unable to afford her apartment, Sam must decide what to do next. She ends up moving back to Emberwood, a place she left at 18, and she now lives with her great-aunt Zin. Emberwood has its good, like her bestie Lauren and Aunt Zin's store, the 𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑩𝒓𝒐𝒐𝒎𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒔 store, but it also has its bad...namely Jesse. Jesse is Sam's ex-summer fling and things ended really badly. Now that Jesse is also back in Emberwood after a knee injury while playing professional baseball, they once again find themselves in each other's orbit. Will Emberwood be big enough for the two of them or will a work related project lead them to rekindle what they started all those summers ago?
This was a fun and cute read. I read it all in one day. It's very fast-paced and easy to read and I loved both the FMC Sam and the MMC Jesse. They were so cute together and I loved the progression of their story. I also appreciated the flashbacks to their summer relationship...it really helped in better understand the characters and how they got to where they were and why they made the decisions they did. The chemistry between the two characters were real and not forced at all and be forewarned...things get spicy! Sam is a such a sweetheart. I loved her positive morning affirmations, her tarot card readings and her talking to her guides. Aunt Zin was such the perfect aunt and I loved Laur and Sam's movie nights and she was just the best bestie! There was so much more to the story besides the relationship between Sam and Jesse; like Sam's relationship with her mom and Jesse having to deal with his injury and what that means for his future and him working at his dad's store. All of it was great and came together so well. Excellent plot, character development, and overall story!
I had a great time reading 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐢𝐧 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐞 and it was great to see how these two really found magic and love and happiness after such misfortunate things happened to them. I highly recommend this book and I cannot wait to come back to Emberwood for book 2. I am crossing my fingers hoping that it is Jeremy and Lauren's story! I cant wait to see what these two are up to and to get an update on Sam and Jesse.
🆆🅷🅰🆃 🆃🅾 🅴🆇🅿🅴🅲🆃
🔮Small Town Romance
🪄Magic / Tarot Card Readings / Psychic Abilities
🧡He's an Ex Professional Baseball Player
🔮Returning Home
🪄Second Chance Romance
🧡Sister's Best-Friend
🔮Summer Fling
🪄Golden Retriever MMC
🧡Midsized FMC
🔮Steamy Romantic comedy
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞: 🌶️🌶️
I enjoyed Emberwood so much! 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐈𝐧 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐞 is a cute, fun, cozy, fast-paced, magical read full of romance and of-course, magic.
In this story we meet Sam and Jesse. Six years after leaving her small town of Emberwood for the big city, Sam feels stagnant. Though she had been working as a Graphic Design Assistant for some years, she finds herself passed up for yet another promotion. Unable to take it anymore, she confronts her boss and that's all she wrote...Sam lost her job. Now jobless and unable to afford her apartment, Sam must decide what to do next. She ends up moving back to Emberwood, a place she left at 18, and she now lives with her great-aunt Zin. Emberwood has its good, like her bestie Lauren and Aunt Zin's store, the 𝑩𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝑩𝒓𝒐𝒐𝒎𝒔𝒕𝒊𝒄𝒌𝒔 store, but it also has its bad...namely Jesse. Jesse is Sam's ex-summer fling and things ended really badly. Now that Jesse is also back in Emberwood after a knee injury while playing professional baseball, they once again find themselves in each other's orbit. Will Emberwood be big enough for the two of them or will a work related project lead them to rekindle what they started all those summers ago?
This was a fun and cute read. I read it all in one day. It's very fast-paced and easy to read and I loved both the FMC Sam and the MMC Jesse. They were so cute together and I loved the progression of their story. I also appreciated the flashbacks to their summer relationship...it really helped in better understand the characters and how they got to where they were and why they made the decisions they did. The chemistry between the two characters were real and not forced at all and be forewarned...things get spicy! Sam is a such a sweetheart. I loved her positive morning affirmations, her tarot card readings and her talking to her guides. Aunt Zin was such the perfect aunt and I loved Laur and Sam's movie nights and she was just the best bestie! There was so much more to the story besides the relationship between Sam and Jesse; like Sam's relationship with her mom and Jesse having to deal with his injury and what that means for his future and him working at his dad's store. All of it was great and came together so well. Excellent plot, character development, and overall story!
I had a great time reading 𝐅𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐚𝐠𝐢𝐜 𝐢𝐧 𝐌𝐢𝐬𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐞 and it was great to see how these two really found magic and love and happiness after such misfortunate things happened to them. I highly recommend this book and I cannot wait to come back to Emberwood for book 2. I am crossing my fingers hoping that it is Jeremy and Lauren's story! I cant wait to see what these two are up to and to get an update on Sam and Jesse.
🆆🅷🅰🆃 🆃🅾 🅴🆇🅿🅴🅲🆃
🔮Small Town Romance
🪄Magic / Tarot Card Readings / Psychic Abilities
🧡He's an Ex Professional Baseball Player
🔮Returning Home
🪄Second Chance Romance
🧡Sister's Best-Friend
🔮Summer Fling
🪄Golden Retriever MMC
🧡Midsized FMC
🔮Steamy Romantic comedy
October 13, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/ 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Writing a story that has a then and now storyline can be difficult. It can become messy, hard to keep what timeline we are in, and not help the storyline at all. This is not the case for Nicole. Our MCs have a past and understanding that past is vital to the story and where the journey has and is taking them. The past and present was easy to identify, flowed beautifully, and really helped the characters be better understood.
Jesse has returned home to Emberwood. An injury has put his pro baseball career on hold. He figured coming home would give him time to heal and recover, gain some perspective, and catch up with family. What he wasn’t counting on is seeing his past fling coming home as well. Since it is a small town and she’s his sister’s best friend it is impossible to avoid her. But does he want to?
Sam left her small town and never looked back. Not really thinking she would ever return, she is astonished that she is headed home. After a confrontation with her boss gone wrong, she can’t afford to not return to Emberwood. She focuses on the positive, her aunt, her aunts’ bookstore, and her best friend are all here. The one negative is Jesse. Her once summer fling that ended badly. Not being able to avoid him begins to stir feelings up in Sam that she thought she had long buried.
Nicole wrote an excellent second chance romance with the perfect fall vibes. Both of our MCs are layered and complex, but they are easy to relate to and love. The relationships between our MCs and their vital side characters are just as important to the storyline as the main romance. The story is very well paced, easy to lose yourself in, and will make you swoon.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
Tropes:
🔮Small Town Romance
🔮Returning Home
🔮Second Chance Romance
🔮Sister's Best-Friend
🔮Golden Retriever MMC
🔮Midsized FMC
Writing a story that has a then and now storyline can be difficult. It can become messy, hard to keep what timeline we are in, and not help the storyline at all. This is not the case for Nicole. Our MCs have a past and understanding that past is vital to the story and where the journey has and is taking them. The past and present was easy to identify, flowed beautifully, and really helped the characters be better understood.
Jesse has returned home to Emberwood. An injury has put his pro baseball career on hold. He figured coming home would give him time to heal and recover, gain some perspective, and catch up with family. What he wasn’t counting on is seeing his past fling coming home as well. Since it is a small town and she’s his sister’s best friend it is impossible to avoid her. But does he want to?
Sam left her small town and never looked back. Not really thinking she would ever return, she is astonished that she is headed home. After a confrontation with her boss gone wrong, she can’t afford to not return to Emberwood. She focuses on the positive, her aunt, her aunts’ bookstore, and her best friend are all here. The one negative is Jesse. Her once summer fling that ended badly. Not being able to avoid him begins to stir feelings up in Sam that she thought she had long buried.
Nicole wrote an excellent second chance romance with the perfect fall vibes. Both of our MCs are layered and complex, but they are easy to relate to and love. The relationships between our MCs and their vital side characters are just as important to the storyline as the main romance. The story is very well paced, easy to lose yourself in, and will make you swoon.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
Tropes:
🔮Small Town Romance
🔮Returning Home
🔮Second Chance Romance
🔮Sister's Best-Friend
🔮Golden Retriever MMC
🔮Midsized FMC
September 30, 2024
4.5 Stars
Finding Magic in Misfortune, book one of the Emberwood series, is written by Nicole Campbell, a new author to me. I am over the moon that I stumbled upon this book and had the opportunity to read it. I knew it would be great when Hekate was mentioned on the first page! Being a tarot-reading eclectic witch, this was a much-needed cozy read.
This dual-POV book follows Sam Marsh and Jesse Garrett in the town of Emberwood, which I would love to visit. Now a jobless graphic designer, Sam Marsh retreats to Emberwood to live with her aunt Zinnia for a fresh start. What makes Sam so special to me is that she is also a witch. I’m not talking about one of the over-the-top paranormal witches; she is more of the real-life type you always see in your local metaphysical shop.
After suffering an injury that ended his baseball career, Jesse works in his father’s hardware store in Emberwood. Struggling with his new mundane life, his injury, and the pitying looks and comments from those around him, he is just going through the motions. That is until his teenage summer love comes back to Emberwood. Oh, she is also best friends with his sister Lauren!
This whimsical second-chance romance is adorable. The characters are fantastic and well-written. I loved Aunt Zin and Lauren, the secondary characters. This cozy, witchy romance is perfect for the BER months.
Thank you to Nicole Campbell for gifting me an eARC of Finding Magic in Misfortune. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Finding Magic in Misfortune, book one of the Emberwood series, is written by Nicole Campbell, a new author to me. I am over the moon that I stumbled upon this book and had the opportunity to read it. I knew it would be great when Hekate was mentioned on the first page! Being a tarot-reading eclectic witch, this was a much-needed cozy read.
This dual-POV book follows Sam Marsh and Jesse Garrett in the town of Emberwood, which I would love to visit. Now a jobless graphic designer, Sam Marsh retreats to Emberwood to live with her aunt Zinnia for a fresh start. What makes Sam so special to me is that she is also a witch. I’m not talking about one of the over-the-top paranormal witches; she is more of the real-life type you always see in your local metaphysical shop.
After suffering an injury that ended his baseball career, Jesse works in his father’s hardware store in Emberwood. Struggling with his new mundane life, his injury, and the pitying looks and comments from those around him, he is just going through the motions. That is until his teenage summer love comes back to Emberwood. Oh, she is also best friends with his sister Lauren!
This whimsical second-chance romance is adorable. The characters are fantastic and well-written. I loved Aunt Zin and Lauren, the secondary characters. This cozy, witchy romance is perfect for the BER months.
Thank you to Nicole Campbell for gifting me an eARC of Finding Magic in Misfortune. I am leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 26, 2024
🔮 Finding Magic in Misfortune 🔮
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.💫
“Are those margaritas?”
“Yes. Glasses are in the hutch.”
“It’s 3:30 in the afternoon.”
“And time is a construct, so I don’t care.”
This is an ARC review and this book releases on October 1st.
This is a small town, second chance, magical romantic comedy following Sam, a part time witch, who was fired from her job as a graphic design assistant prompting her to move to return to the small town of Emberwood. In Emberwood, she reconnects with her ex Jesse, a former baseball player now managing his father’s hardware store after an injury ends his career. Both are at a crossroads, trying to rebuild their lives from rock bottom. Their unexpected reunion and second chance at love rekindles old feelings as they start to rediscover the magic in their lives.
This was so sweet and fun to read. It’s easy to read and I loved the small town setting and magical vibes, a perfect romance for spooky season - what I would give to spend an afternoon in Books and Broomsticks. Aunt Zinnia is a delight of a character and basically my spirit animal, drinking margaritas in the afternoon and closing her shop to seem mysterious. We get a dual POV here which everyone knows I’m extremely partial to and loved seeing the relationship develop on both sides. Definitely recommend if you’re looking for a cozy, magical romance to curl up with on a cold evening under a knitted blanket sipping on spiked hot chocolate.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.💫
“Are those margaritas?”
“Yes. Glasses are in the hutch.”
“It’s 3:30 in the afternoon.”
“And time is a construct, so I don’t care.”
This is an ARC review and this book releases on October 1st.
This is a small town, second chance, magical romantic comedy following Sam, a part time witch, who was fired from her job as a graphic design assistant prompting her to move to return to the small town of Emberwood. In Emberwood, she reconnects with her ex Jesse, a former baseball player now managing his father’s hardware store after an injury ends his career. Both are at a crossroads, trying to rebuild their lives from rock bottom. Their unexpected reunion and second chance at love rekindles old feelings as they start to rediscover the magic in their lives.
This was so sweet and fun to read. It’s easy to read and I loved the small town setting and magical vibes, a perfect romance for spooky season - what I would give to spend an afternoon in Books and Broomsticks. Aunt Zinnia is a delight of a character and basically my spirit animal, drinking margaritas in the afternoon and closing her shop to seem mysterious. We get a dual POV here which everyone knows I’m extremely partial to and loved seeing the relationship develop on both sides. Definitely recommend if you’re looking for a cozy, magical romance to curl up with on a cold evening under a knitted blanket sipping on spiked hot chocolate.
September 23, 2024
🧙♀️🧙♀️🧙♀️🧙♀️/5
🌶.5/5
Finding Magic in Misfortune is a dual POV book following Sam ,graphic designer and witch, and Jessie, ex-baseball player and temporary hardware store manager. Sam and Jessie have been friends since childhood, but a miscommunication in their senior year of high school ended their love story before it even really started. Six years later, Sam is back in Emberwood after being fired from her graphic design assistant job to work in her aunts witchy store while trying to put her life back together. When she is brought back in contact with her ex-friend/ex-crush, she tries to put up all her guards to keep feelings from coming back. But can Jessie fix past mistakes, and will Sam let her guards down and let Jessie back in?
I really enjoyed this book! It was a great mix of cozy fall vibes and a witchy halloween story perfect for a fall read! As someone who is quite intrigued by tarot cards, this book was very interesting! I love the second chance romance/best friend's brother tropes in this book. I also love how the main male character is in therapy and actively works on himself in the book! Men's mental health matters greatly, too, and I really like how this book handles Jessie's feeling of uncertainty, loss, and eventual hopfulness again! It's definitely a great fall/halloween read!
🌶.5/5
Finding Magic in Misfortune is a dual POV book following Sam ,graphic designer and witch, and Jessie, ex-baseball player and temporary hardware store manager. Sam and Jessie have been friends since childhood, but a miscommunication in their senior year of high school ended their love story before it even really started. Six years later, Sam is back in Emberwood after being fired from her graphic design assistant job to work in her aunts witchy store while trying to put her life back together. When she is brought back in contact with her ex-friend/ex-crush, she tries to put up all her guards to keep feelings from coming back. But can Jessie fix past mistakes, and will Sam let her guards down and let Jessie back in?
I really enjoyed this book! It was a great mix of cozy fall vibes and a witchy halloween story perfect for a fall read! As someone who is quite intrigued by tarot cards, this book was very interesting! I love the second chance romance/best friend's brother tropes in this book. I also love how the main male character is in therapy and actively works on himself in the book! Men's mental health matters greatly, too, and I really like how this book handles Jessie's feeling of uncertainty, loss, and eventual hopfulness again! It's definitely a great fall/halloween read!
August 17, 2024
ARC READ ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️ (2/5 on the 🌶️ scale)
This was my first witchy/magic themed romance book and I have to tell you that with spooky season fast approaching it set the tone for all I want to read this fall!
Sam is our FMC who’s moved back ‘home’ to live with her aunt after being fired from her graphic design job. We then get to meet her fabulous Aunt Zin (possibly my favorite character…sorry Sam) and best friend Lauren in their lovely small town setting. But of course we also run in to Jesse, the guy who broke her teenage heart.
In the spirit of no spoilers I’ll just say that this was a super sweet, cozy romance that I really enjoyed. It gave me Stars Hollow meets Practical Magic vibes just enough to pull me in as we explored a rekindled romance while also focusing on both the MMC and FMC’s mental health journeys. The magical elements felt super organic to the stories and characters without being cringy so it was a great introduction to this niche genre for me!
I would definitely recommend it if you’re looking for a cozy fall read!
This was my first witchy/magic themed romance book and I have to tell you that with spooky season fast approaching it set the tone for all I want to read this fall!
Sam is our FMC who’s moved back ‘home’ to live with her aunt after being fired from her graphic design job. We then get to meet her fabulous Aunt Zin (possibly my favorite character…sorry Sam) and best friend Lauren in their lovely small town setting. But of course we also run in to Jesse, the guy who broke her teenage heart.
In the spirit of no spoilers I’ll just say that this was a super sweet, cozy romance that I really enjoyed. It gave me Stars Hollow meets Practical Magic vibes just enough to pull me in as we explored a rekindled romance while also focusing on both the MMC and FMC’s mental health journeys. The magical elements felt super organic to the stories and characters without being cringy so it was a great introduction to this niche genre for me!
I would definitely recommend it if you’re looking for a cozy fall read!
September 21, 2024
I read a lot of contemporary romance, it’s kind of my jam and this book was one of my top 5 reads of the year.
I adored this book! It was a cozy and endearing second chance romance with witchy elements. I loved that the FMC and MMC were both dealing with their own internal conflicts. It just made the ending that much sweeter to see their personal growth. I also loved the “flashback” scenes from both POVs. The author took their time letting the main character’s past unfold which felt more organic to the story than a rushed retelling.
Can’t wait for the next book to read Lauren and Jer’s love story. Thank you Nicole, for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I adored this book! It was a cozy and endearing second chance romance with witchy elements. I loved that the FMC and MMC were both dealing with their own internal conflicts. It just made the ending that much sweeter to see their personal growth. I also loved the “flashback” scenes from both POVs. The author took their time letting the main character’s past unfold which felt more organic to the story than a rushed retelling.
Can’t wait for the next book to read Lauren and Jer’s love story. Thank you Nicole, for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2024
Love, love, love! A beautiful small-town second chance romance between the witchy Sam and the injured athlete Jesse. It had an amazing plot, and the story was an incredibly fun read; I rooted for Sam and Jesse to be end game from the start. I felt a real passion for this book, from the small town and welcoming magical vibes by everyone to the secondary characters; they made the story just as much as the main twosome.
If you love a story that gives you super comfy Stars Hollow meets Good Witch vibes and makes you want to snuggle up under your blanket, hot chocolate, and marshmallows in hand, then this is the book for you!
If you love a story that gives you super comfy Stars Hollow meets Good Witch vibes and makes you want to snuggle up under your blanket, hot chocolate, and marshmallows in hand, then this is the book for you!
August 9, 2024
✨ARC Review✨
2/5🌶️
4/5 ⭐️
Sam & Jesse’s story was so much fun to read. This was my first “magicy” book and I have to say I really enjoyed it. Sam is a bad ass witch who is trying to find her way after her life took a curve ball, same goes for Jesse. His career was altered due to an unfortunate injury. Rekindling an old flame and hoping for the best. I loved reading their love story and watching it all unfold. I truly hope there is more to come for them and hopefully Lauren & her aunt Zin.
Thank you so much Nicole for this beautiful book. It was amazing
2/5🌶️
4/5 ⭐️
Sam & Jesse’s story was so much fun to read. This was my first “magicy” book and I have to say I really enjoyed it. Sam is a bad ass witch who is trying to find her way after her life took a curve ball, same goes for Jesse. His career was altered due to an unfortunate injury. Rekindling an old flame and hoping for the best. I loved reading their love story and watching it all unfold. I truly hope there is more to come for them and hopefully Lauren & her aunt Zin.
Thank you so much Nicole for this beautiful book. It was amazing
August 13, 2024
This cozy, small town, witchy love story is endearing and I hugged my kindle when I finished it!
I loved that the conflict in this story wasn’t the typical misunderstanding or miscommunication trope but that the characters took time to work out their own mental health and desires before committing to anything. It’s more true to life. The therapy aspects were healthy and helpful and I loved it!
All of the witchy aspects felt like home without being too kitschy, because it was clear the author has some experience with the practices. 10/10!
I loved that the conflict in this story wasn’t the typical misunderstanding or miscommunication trope but that the characters took time to work out their own mental health and desires before committing to anything. It’s more true to life. The therapy aspects were healthy and helpful and I loved it!
All of the witchy aspects felt like home without being too kitschy, because it was clear the author has some experience with the practices. 10/10!
August 25, 2024
Finding Magic in Misfortune is a definite must read! It is a romantic second chances story with captivating characters and endearing story.
Both Sam and Jesse both find themselves in Emberwood facing the hard decisions of what comes next. In the process, Sam a graphic designer and part-time witch and Jesse, a former Triple-A baseball player who is now the manager at his father's hardware store reunite. With sparks flying and fears being faced, love is ignited once again. The hopes for a bright future for both characters is within reach.
Both Sam and Jesse both find themselves in Emberwood facing the hard decisions of what comes next. In the process, Sam a graphic designer and part-time witch and Jesse, a former Triple-A baseball player who is now the manager at his father's hardware store reunite. With sparks flying and fears being faced, love is ignited once again. The hopes for a bright future for both characters is within reach.
August 15, 2024
🌟🌟🌟🌟
🌶
"because I can’t do a casual thing. Not with you.”
Stop because this was so frigging cute my teeth hurt. Finished it in a single day because I just couldn't put it down! I loved how the mc's had their own issues and how they worked on them separately, so they could be together.
Usually I don't like when they just jump into bed together but also omg. I was begging them to just do it 🤣😭
What a sweet, cute read. I'm so happy I picked this up, and the cover is GORGEOUS
🌶
"because I can’t do a casual thing. Not with you.”
Stop because this was so frigging cute my teeth hurt. Finished it in a single day because I just couldn't put it down! I loved how the mc's had their own issues and how they worked on them separately, so they could be together.
Usually I don't like when they just jump into bed together but also omg. I was begging them to just do it 🤣😭
What a sweet, cute read. I'm so happy I picked this up, and the cover is GORGEOUS
August 16, 2024
I absolutely loved this book. The witchy vibe was just enough without being cheesy or overdone, which is great because it’s a favorite of mine. It also has gives all the small town feels which is another favorite of mine. It was perfect. This book was an easy read that left me wanting more in the best way possible. I couldn’t put it down. The characters were realistic and relatable. I would recommend this book for sure and can’t wait to read the next one!
September 1, 2024
Absolutely incredible.
Second chances are hard to come by, but Sam and Jesse are determined to make it happen, and take us on the journey of theirs.
I love a good rom-com, but add in plus size baddie and some witchy elements and I’m SOLD.
This book was fun, cute, and such a good banter between characters. Add a little bit of spice, but not too much & voila. Super fun read.
As Jesse would say, I am “out of my mind sure” that you’re gonna love this book.
Second chances are hard to come by, but Sam and Jesse are determined to make it happen, and take us on the journey of theirs.
I love a good rom-com, but add in plus size baddie and some witchy elements and I’m SOLD.
This book was fun, cute, and such a good banter between characters. Add a little bit of spice, but not too much & voila. Super fun read.
As Jesse would say, I am “out of my mind sure” that you’re gonna love this book.
September 25, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a must read small town romance just in time for spooky season! There is no way you won’t be rooting for the two MCs during their second chance! And you’re definitely going to fall in love with the supporting FMC, Lauren. I can’t wait until I can learn about Lauren in book 2
Read this if you enjoy
- dual POV
- small town romance
- second chances
- witty banter
- forced proximity
Publish date: October 1st
This is a must read small town romance just in time for spooky season! There is no way you won’t be rooting for the two MCs during their second chance! And you’re definitely going to fall in love with the supporting FMC, Lauren. I can’t wait until I can learn about Lauren in book 2
Read this if you enjoy
- dual POV
- small town romance
- second chances
- witty banter
- forced proximity
Publish date: October 1st
August 15, 2024
First, thank you for trusting me with an ARC.
After losing her job, Samantha (called Sam), finds herself back at her aunt's house, where she always felt at home. Not knowing what to do, she just goes with the flow, until she meets Jesse, he broke her heart 6 years ago, but still feeling herself drawn to him after all these years, making her question if it was a good idea to come back.
After losing her job, Samantha (called Sam), finds herself back at her aunt's house, where she always felt at home. Not knowing what to do, she just goes with the flow, until she meets Jesse, he broke her heart 6 years ago, but still feeling herself drawn to him after all these years, making her question if it was a good idea to come back.
August 16, 2024
This is a must read romance. There are lost loves, witch themes, and the appeal of small town life. The characters are introspective and find their true selves before committing to each other. I could not put it down and read it in one day. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series. If you are looking for a fun, heartwarming, love story read this book…now.
September 2, 2024
This book was cute and fun. It had me smiling and laughing and I even teared up at the end. The personalized tarot card was SO good! The chemistry between Sam and Jesse was so intense, they are clearly each other’s soul mates. I loved all the witchy elements throughout, as well as the importance of mental health. I cannot wait to read Lauren and Jeremy’s story!
September 20, 2024
ARC Review
Finding Magic in Misfortune was a fun read. I loved the mental health and therapy representation. Sam and Jesse were great characters and the town of Emberwood was such a magical setting. Sam and Jesse helped each other realize that their lives were not what they set out to be and found new dreams together.
Finding Magic in Misfortune was a fun read. I loved the mental health and therapy representation. Sam and Jesse were great characters and the town of Emberwood was such a magical setting. Sam and Jesse helped each other realize that their lives were not what they set out to be and found new dreams together.
August 30, 2024
I fell in love with this book! Sam is my kinda girl I connected well with her and Jesse oh my drooling over this man. There story is one of love, loss and love again. This is about finding your way in life.
September 15, 2025
DNF @ 58%. I really wanted to like this. The witchy elements were interesting and the overall vibe was cozy, but I just didn’t feel any chemistry between the love interests. Miscommunication tropes can be hit or miss and sadly this one was a miss.
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