🦋🔮💎Perfect for fans of Practical Magic, The Good Place and Time Bandits.💎🔮🦋
Fate is written in stone. Destiny is yours to shape—if you're willing to wield the chisel.
When a cursed bloodstone goes missing before an eclipse set to unleash its dark influence, three strangers find their fates suddenly and impossibly intertwined.
Zani, an adventurous, relic-hunting witch, is determined to outrun the future her family designed for her. Her satchel is perpetually packed full of magical cures for common travel disasters. But losing an ancient artifact might be the one catastrophe that her bag of tricks can't fix.
Will, a half-fae porter who can summon doorways between any time and place, has followed the paths of others for so long that he's forgotten how to chart his way. But he seizes the chance to claim his gifts and step into his own timeline when he leads Zani on a journey through history itself.
Ondalune, a reclusive former film star, is haunted by a life that refuses to end naturally. She doesn’t look a day over 70, even though she’s been alive for over a hundred years and everyone she's ever loved is long gone. Yet she remains, plagued by a maddening sense of something forgotten—something she's meant to do—hovering just beyond her memory's reach.
As their quests collide and centuries-old mysteries surface, this magical trio learns that only they possess the power to outplay fate’s cruel hand. But solving the bloodstone's curse will require each of them to face the uncomfortable truths they've been running from.
The Witches Catalogue of Wanderlust Essentials is a cozy fantasy adventure about reclaiming your story, found family forged through magic and mishaps, and the revolutionary act of choosing yourself. Also Enchanted travel gear, lethargic vampires, portal-hopping through time for epic sandwiches and one very cursed piece of jewelry.
Set in the same world as the first book in the Natural Magic series, this is an interconnected story that can be read as a standalone, but may be best enjoyed after reading Book 1, The Mudpuddle Manual of Natural Magic.
Ciara Blume writes fiction about characters who aren't willing to wait around for their happy endings. An award-winning author working from the edge of the California coast, she crafts stories that explore the magic of transformation, the art of reclaiming yourself, the complications of family and the chaos of starting over when the world expects you to stay put. The daily sight of the ocean makes her wonder: what lies beneath the surface, and what happens when you dive in?
For more information and news about Ciara’s upcoming releases, follow her on Amazon, visit her website at www.ciarablume.com or follow @ciarablumeauthor on instagram, tiktok and facebook.
✨🧳🔮 Book Review: The Witches Catalogue of Wanderlust Essentials by Ciara Blume 🔮🧳✨
What do you do when your broom is parked, your relic-hunting days are behind you, and the magic still calls? You start a catalog of wanderlust essentials, of course!
Ciara Blume has crafted a cozy, clever, and utterly enchanting fantasy in The Witches Catalogue of Wanderlust Essentials, following the delightfully adventurous Zanfira—a retired artifact hunter turned archivist who just can’t sit still. With her heart still chasing the thrill of discovery, she launches a magical catalog business on the side, curating whimsical travel gear for witches on the move.
But when a legendary bloodstone amulet vanishes and the fate of the magical world hangs in the balance, Zanfira gets pulled back into a quest that only she has the skills (and the sass) to handle. Joined by Will, a charming half-fae Porter with the ability to travel through time and space, the two race across centuries to save magic itself before a solar eclipse tips everything into chaos.
This book is pure joy for fans of magical realism, time-bending quests, and heroines who refuse to be ordinary. Think Legends & Lattes meets a magical Indiana Jones, with a dash of fae charm and catalog-core aesthetic. The worldbuilding is lush, the characters sparkle with personality, and the adventure is both cozy and high-stakes.
Whether you're a lifelong fantasy reader or new to the genre, this story is a reminder that wanderlust doesn’t fade—it just changes shape. Sometimes, adventure finds you when you least expect it.
3.5 stars. Had a harder time getting into this one but glad I stuck with it. Time travel/time slips are not a particular favorite of mine but this really is a well-imagined world
As much as I loved the first book this one surpassed my expectations. I wasn’t sure how I felt about Zani at the start, but she quickly grew on me. I already knew that I loved Will from the first book. Their adventures were exciting and I was impressed and got so caught up in the journey. I was amazed at how everything weaved together to create the entire tapestry between Zani and Will, Ondalune, Cosimo, and Burnside. I can’t wait to see what comes next!
I was a little bummed with this second book because I loved Maida and Arthur in the first one, but I didn’t feel the chemistry between Zani and Will. Their relationship buildup felt lacking since we see at the beginning it was one sided from Will with Zani not wanting to be in a relationship because of her intense desire to be independent and it was like that easily 75% into the book then the last 25% of the book, suddenly Zani just falls for Will. (??) Then there was Will’s jealousy problem which I felt like wasn’t ever resolved or discussed either and it was the accumulation of these missing character buildup moments and details that made the book feel really rushed and forced. Which is funny because I very much enjoyed the story between Ondalune and Cosimo even though their chapters were much less frequent. I think seeing Cosimo’s origins really helped root him as a character where we get to see his beginnings and how he gets to the present day timeline which we don’t get with Will or Zani.
The pacing of the story was again, really rushed, there was a segment where the duration was a little over a 3 month timeline, but it was written within only a couple of pages and we only ever saw it from Zani’s perspective. I wish that part of the story was longer so we could’ve seen some parts from Will’s side since he was trying to find a way back to Zani. On top of the fact that their relationship wasn’t really acknowledged/formed until the last 25% of the book…
Ondalune and Cosimo’s love story definitely carried this book for me though, albeit don’t get me wrong, this book is still very much lovable and still very cozy read.
I am so glad this book found me when it did! It was a wonderful antidote to real world stresses. The second in the Natural Magic series, it takes place a bit after the first book ended, focusing on a career adventurer being forced to settle down and organize the Arcane Archives at the Mudpuddle Bookshop. Book #2 has all the charm of the first book and perhaps even more. I laughed, I cried, I wished I could try out a variety of its creations, both culinary and magical.
This book is a rare find, because it achieves two difficult challenges: switching lead characters and correctly addressing time travel. Many series switch leads, but the individuals or the couples frequently are not as captivating as their predecessors. In this book, we already knew two of the leads, but we meet several more characters, and they are quirky, charming, and mysterious in their own right. Time travel, obviously, can be approached from many different angles, and my biggest issue is that it must stay consistent. Logical. And even in this whimsical book, it does.
I enjoyed everything about it – the pacing, the dialogue, the characters, the mysteries. Did I figure out some of the plot twists in advance? Yes. Did some things I wished for happen? Also a happy yes. And yet, there was quite a large number of twists that I was not expecting, and all together, that makes for a very cozy, very satisfying, romantic fantasy read. Can’t wait for the next one!
Kind of disappointed with this 2nd novel in the series because of the focuse mainly on two previously supporting characters, Zain and Will, as well as a few other previously minor characters.
The MC’s from the first were barely covered, and seemed to be relegated to guest appearances, even though there was plenty going on with Maida, Arthur, and Arthur’s daughter Rosie. Plenty of material that could have moved forward with the laid out plot to begin with in book 1.
Instead there were actually new characters introduced, sporadically at first, and than basically taking over larger parts to the main plot, not just as additions to the storyline.
Whereas at the end of book 1, I was disheartened to realize the finale isn’t due out until later in the year, It may work out better to give me time to build back up my original love for this series. Maybe by then I’ll have lost my edge of disappointment, and just know it’s probably not going to feature the main characters, and I’ll go into it with the thoughts that maybe the world which had been built up originally in the 1st, will focus on different aspects as well.
Don’t get me wrong, I did immensely luxuriate in this addition, just not at a level 5, as the first was.
I normally say I don’t particularly care for fantasy reads, but this cozy series has changed my attitude.
I absolutely loved this book as well as the first book in the series. We have vampires, witches, porters, and even mer folks. It also has time travel and a lost bloodstone amulet.
In this book, the main characters are Zanfira and Will. There is also a plot line with a famous silent movie star from the 1920s that connects everything.
There are characters from book one in the series that make appearances which makes the book feel like a warm magical hug.
The romance is no spice which I liked.
There is a mystery as Zanfira has found herself stuck archiving objects when she wants to be traveling and solving what happened to a stolen object that was briefly in her possession.
One of my favorite parts of this book are the little in between chapters that have explanations of magical artifacts which are used in the book.
There is so much magical goodness stuffed into this book, it’s bursting! Merfolk, witches, vampires, porters, fae, and more, all sorts of magical creatures are featured in this cozy fantasy.
One of the most endearing aspects of this book is the character dynamics. I was happy that Zani, a relic-hunting witch, returned to the Muddlepuddle Bookshop and cafe, the heart of book one, to reunite with friends and family. Then, with the aid of Will, a half-fae porter, she embarks on a thrilling adventure through time in search of an ancient bloodstone amulet.
Full of magic, mystery, adventure, and a touch of romance, this story will let you escape into another world.
𝐸𝑛𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑛𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔, 𝑐ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑔, 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ℎ𝑒𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑤𝑎𝑟𝑚𝑖𝑛𝑔!
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @ciarablumeauthor for the gifted book and fun swag.
I love this series! Ciara Blume manages to weave another wonderful tale full of magic and mystery, but this time we get mermaids and time travel too.
On the surface we discover the mysteries of the bloodstone, but in the depths of the ocean we learn deeply meaningful lessons about love and self-confidence.
"The oblivion strips you bare. You need something that burns going down to keep reminding you that you're still alive."
-- I felt that line in my soul. Every character is relatable and inspirational in their own unique way. By the end of this story I found my own dreams renewed along with the belief that I can achieve them.
This story kept me guessing until the very end and I can't wait for the next one!
Zani is an artifact hunter and when she's finally found an amulet/bloodstone, it goes missing. Might not be a big deal except it disappears right before a night that could awaken its curse. Plus now her Aunt wants to bind her to the Muddpuddle archives which is not a grand idea considering her job.
Will, a Porter, wants to help her find out why it disappeared even if it means porting to the past... which happens with consequences.
There were a lot of magical creatures here. Merfolk and Sirens, vampires, shifters, etc. There's also a side story of a film star, Ondeluna, who disappeared while doing USO shows in the '40s. I really liked her story being interwoven in and how it connects to Zani and Will's adventure.
I was not expecting such a marvelous journey and now have to rush back to read the first book in the series!! For a foodie like me, the snacks were a delightful distraction. The mer people, vampires, witches and even a bit of time travel. The separate stories all come together in the end, but I stayed up late because there was no way I was going to bed until I got to the very last word.
I thought I'd stopped reading this kind of book years ago, but... I need MORE! Great writer, even better story!!
There is so much going on in this book. Mermaids, Vampires, Porters, Witches, oh My. I didn't read this book without reading the first in the series which might be why I feel the way I do, but I feel like there was so much going on and yet not enough. I would have loved to know more about our main characters Will and Zani. I feel like so much time was spent on the secondary story with Ondalune and until the end the 2 really don't mesh. I found Will and Zani's story so much more interesting and feel they weren't given their fair time.
I don’t read much fantasy but this cozy fantasy series is enchanting! The magical items like the “sensible satchel” and “forgettable fan” enhance an already fantastical story. Zani and Will were awesome characters and it was an added bonus that some of the characters from the first book made appearances as well. This could be read as a stand alone but you don’t want to miss the first book: The Mudpuddle Manual of Natural Magic. Both are full of mystery and adventure and are absolutely delightful.
I fell in love with these characters and the magical Mudpuddle commmunity in the first book in the series (The Mudpuddle Manual of Natural Magic), so was eagerly looking foreward to this second one. It didn't disappoint. The same familiar characters and themes, all wound up with travel adventures, creating a fresh take on finding oneself and family of origin stories. I almost hated to finish it. But I did, and now I'm left hangin until the next book in the series is released.
3.5 ⭐️ - I enjoyed this second book in the series, but also felt like it bit off more than it could chew in some ways. I'd love to have seen more group dynamics and more emotional maturity from almost all the main characters. There were also a handful of editing errors, and as with the first book, I didn't find the ephemera notes particularly worthwhile. That being said, it was still an enjoyable enough read overall.
I love cozy mysteries but this series is far beyond the usual mixture of tea shops, familiars, and romance. These are adventure, fantasy, mystery, and just the right amount of romance rolled into one. My only complaint is that it’s hard to get work done when all I want to do is get back to reading about the mysteries of the Mudpuddle and its residents and friends!
Magical mishaps, chaos, curses, secret with a dash of time travel suspense romance. This was an intriguing and suspenseful story showing how the lives of many magical beings are connected through time, space, and most importantly love. I enjoyed this book even more than book one and the cliffhanger ending leaves me eager for the next book in the series
A month ago I was itching to re-read book 1 of this series and then found out the second one was not too far from its release date! This book is so lighthearted and an enjoyable read. Ciara knows how to create the wonderful characters and intertwine their lives more than you realize until the end. Cannot wait for book 3!!
Absolutely brilliant use of parallel plot lines! Although I had to reread the first couple of chapters to make sure I had all the characters sorted out, once I realized the author had three different plots in progress, I couldn’t wait to read the next chapters!
That is all the spoiler I will give away.
I absolutely loved the ending and can’t wait for the next Mudpuddle adventure!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Another delightful read from this author! I loved the first book in The Natural Magic series, and this one absolutely delivered. It’s got everything I enjoy; rich worldbuilding, magic, adventure, and just the right touch of romance.
A fun, heartfelt mix of magic and high-stakes adventure. If you’re in the mood for a cozy thrilling fantasy with a little sparkle, this one’s for you.
This is the 2nd of a trio I think. It started out a little choppy but I persevered. It came together, bit by bit, sort of like a puzzle. I was confused for a while, reading and wondering how it was all gonna fit together. Then it did. On to the next book! Woo Hoo!
This was just as enjoyable as the first book by the author! I really love how effortless the writing comes across and how enjoyable the characters are! The atmosphere and overall vibe fit perfectly and had me guessing while also able to just sit and love the story at the same time. I definitely recommend it and the author again!
Loved this book. I'm blown away by what it must have taken to plot this twisty tale that ultimately comes deliciously back to center. Great characters, though I would like to have gotten to know Amrita better. And the book is exactly what it says it is: a cozy fantasy adventure with hints of romance. It's a book that has you smiling at the end.
Fun. Loving characters. Interesting world. Editing was not great but good enough.
Ondelune wonders why she doesn't age, why she's always drawn to the sea, and has blank spots in her memory. Will doesn’t know why time slipped when he ported a passenger. Greed and love battle for supremacy inside a vampire. Zani has to shelve her wanderlust to spend time cataloguing magical objects.
I loved this book even more than the first. This is a delightful, joyful, delicious cozy fantasy. I really enjoyed the creativity behind each catalogue item and the weaving together of the narratives. Can’t wait for the next one! (Read and received ARC)
Amazing! Beautifully written. Mer-people, Vampires and Witches. Each with their own adventure that weaves perfectly together for a great mystery and suspense story that keeps you wanting more. I couldn't put it down. I can't wait for the next one.
I've been waiting for book 2! Ciara did not disappoint. I didn't think book 2 would top book 1, but i was wrong, mind blown. I couldn't put this down. This book has all of my favorites: Mer people. Vampires. Witches. Time Travel. I can't wait for book 3. This series keeps getting better.
I love the storyline and fun characters in this series. I can't wait for the third book to come out in October!!! If you love witchy themes, time travel, a bit of mystery and romance, this book is for you!
This is the perfect cozy fantasy! I loved the first book, but this one was even better. If you like cozies like Legends & Lattes and the Falling for Fables series, then you will love this! Wonderful characters, fun adventures, and heartfelt joy.
Side characters of the Mudpuddle become main characters in the 2nd installment of the series. What a fun journey through anywhere and anywhen. A good time travel story, that set the rules and followed them.