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We Used To Be Magic
What if the universe wants two people to be together, but they're too messed up to notice? This Next Great Love Story is a swoony slow-burn 'Brits in New York' can't-put-down YA read that's perfect for fans of Normal People and aspirational cinematic romance.
'I'll come back.' I tell him, squeezing his hand. 'Of course I will.'
'You have to. You don't want to offend the universe after it put in so much work to get you here.'
'Right.' I smile. 'Except I thought you didn't believe in that stuff?'
'Yeah, well, life happens. You happened.'
Rookie model, Audrey, is navigating the dizzying bright lights of New York for the first time as Ezra - no stranger to the city, returns from studying abroad with a broken nose and a broken heart. Their connection is instant, smouldering and all-consuming. But when Audrey is confronted with the darker facets of the fashion industry and Ezra's past proves impossible to outrun, will it be enough?
Fate brought them together, but it might just tear them apart . . .
A gorgeous 'will they, won't they' hook-laden romance that's irresistible escapism in the most glamorous New York package. Scintillatingly hot yet endearing flawed characters strut (and stumble) right off the page as Audrey and Ezra's tension fizzes throughout.
'I'll come back.' I tell him, squeezing his hand. 'Of course I will.'
'You have to. You don't want to offend the universe after it put in so much work to get you here.'
'Right.' I smile. 'Except I thought you didn't believe in that stuff?'
'Yeah, well, life happens. You happened.'
Rookie model, Audrey, is navigating the dizzying bright lights of New York for the first time as Ezra - no stranger to the city, returns from studying abroad with a broken nose and a broken heart. Their connection is instant, smouldering and all-consuming. But when Audrey is confronted with the darker facets of the fashion industry and Ezra's past proves impossible to outrun, will it be enough?
Fate brought them together, but it might just tear them apart . . .
A gorgeous 'will they, won't they' hook-laden romance that's irresistible escapism in the most glamorous New York package. Scintillatingly hot yet endearing flawed characters strut (and stumble) right off the page as Audrey and Ezra's tension fizzes throughout.
336 pages, Paperback
Published January 30, 2025
15 people are currently reading
426 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
November 4, 2024
“…but what if it was never as big as that? What if it was as small and simple and utterly miraculous as a single piece of string?”
In sitting down to write this review I honestly struggled to concisely describe just how special this book is.
This book invokes all the magic and emotions of those classic New York romcoms we know and love but with a completely fresh, modern story. The theme of fate vs chance plays out beautifully in the book as we follow the story of Ezra and Audrey and ponder whether people are truly brought together through the “invisible string” of fate or if it’s simply random coincidence.
I loved the choice of the dual POV as it made Ezra and Audrey feel so well rounded and real, not to mention it drives the story so effectively that it was only until I was on the last 50 pages I realised and started panicking as I knew the story was coming to an end.
It’s cinematic and romantic but also nuanced and touches on themes that feel both universal but also incredibly relevant for today.
The reference to both pop and classic culture kept the story grounded in reality but also adds another dimension to the novel by allowing the reader an opportunity to discover the world of the characters outside of the story which I loved.
Overall the novel manages to create a sense of timelessness which means it’ll be something I know I’ll be coming back to again and again.
Also *spoiler free* but this has to be made into a move as I NEED to see the final chapter brought to life!
In sitting down to write this review I honestly struggled to concisely describe just how special this book is.
This book invokes all the magic and emotions of those classic New York romcoms we know and love but with a completely fresh, modern story. The theme of fate vs chance plays out beautifully in the book as we follow the story of Ezra and Audrey and ponder whether people are truly brought together through the “invisible string” of fate or if it’s simply random coincidence.
I loved the choice of the dual POV as it made Ezra and Audrey feel so well rounded and real, not to mention it drives the story so effectively that it was only until I was on the last 50 pages I realised and started panicking as I knew the story was coming to an end.
It’s cinematic and romantic but also nuanced and touches on themes that feel both universal but also incredibly relevant for today.
The reference to both pop and classic culture kept the story grounded in reality but also adds another dimension to the novel by allowing the reader an opportunity to discover the world of the characters outside of the story which I loved.
Overall the novel manages to create a sense of timelessness which means it’ll be something I know I’ll be coming back to again and again.
Also *spoiler free* but this has to be made into a move as I NEED to see the final chapter brought to life!
December 8, 2024
I don’t even know where to start with this one. We Used To Be Magic is a book that reminded me why I love reading. Whenever I was doing anything else, I wanted to be reading this book, and was probably thinking about it in the meantime.
My heart bled for Ezra and Audrey, they were fantastic, and you get to know them through absolutely gorgeous writing. I could probably gush about this one interminably, and inevitably will, but for now I shall just say yes, you should absolutely read it. I will forever be grateful I got to experience it early.
I’ve recently discovered for me the difference between a 4 and 5 star book can be one of two things; did it make me cry? and does it make me want to be writing? This one is a resounding yes on both counts.
My heart bled for Ezra and Audrey, they were fantastic, and you get to know them through absolutely gorgeous writing. I could probably gush about this one interminably, and inevitably will, but for now I shall just say yes, you should absolutely read it. I will forever be grateful I got to experience it early.
I’ve recently discovered for me the difference between a 4 and 5 star book can be one of two things; did it make me cry? and does it make me want to be writing? This one is a resounding yes on both counts.
January 21, 2025
Gorgeous, sublime, heartfelt, evocative, perfection! 💛
April 2, 2025
We Used To Be Magic is the kind of book that sneaks into your heart and refuses to leave. Bea Ingalls writes with such effortless grace, every sentence carrying you along so naturally that you don’t even realise you’re turning the pages until you’ve reached the end.
This story made me laugh in ways no book ever has before reminding me how rare it is to find a writer who truly understands humor. And then, just as easily, it also made me cry. Ezra’s grief is written with a quiet intensity that feels deeply personal. I saw myself in his sorrow, in the way loss reshapes the world when someone we love so deeply is no longer in it. Bea doesn’t just tell a story, she makes you feel it.
Reading this book felt like watching a beautifully shot film: cinematic, vivid, and alive. The dialogue is so natural, so effortless, that you forget you’re reading at all. The characters are real, not just in the way they speak, but in the way they think, feel, and act.
All I can say is that this book is proof of Bea’s talent. I feel like she grabbed in all of this rom-com clichés and built something genuine, something that lingers long after the last chapter.
We Used To Be Magic isn’t just a book, it’s an experience. And I’m endlessly proud of my friend for creating something so special.
So, Bea, I hope we get to see more of these amazing characters soon… 👀
This story made me laugh in ways no book ever has before reminding me how rare it is to find a writer who truly understands humor. And then, just as easily, it also made me cry. Ezra’s grief is written with a quiet intensity that feels deeply personal. I saw myself in his sorrow, in the way loss reshapes the world when someone we love so deeply is no longer in it. Bea doesn’t just tell a story, she makes you feel it.
Reading this book felt like watching a beautifully shot film: cinematic, vivid, and alive. The dialogue is so natural, so effortless, that you forget you’re reading at all. The characters are real, not just in the way they speak, but in the way they think, feel, and act.
All I can say is that this book is proof of Bea’s talent. I feel like she grabbed in all of this rom-com clichés and built something genuine, something that lingers long after the last chapter.
We Used To Be Magic isn’t just a book, it’s an experience. And I’m endlessly proud of my friend for creating something so special.
So, Bea, I hope we get to see more of these amazing characters soon… 👀
February 28, 2025
3.5/5
Dans ce roman double PoV, on suit d’un côté Audrey, jeune mannequin qui arrive à New York et de l’autre Erza, jeune homme complément paumé.
J’ai eu l’agréable surprise de voir l’aspect du métier d’Audrey plutôt bien exploité pour une romance de 400 pages. Ce n’est pas juste un fil rouge et on nous parle d’aspect bien noir du mannequinat.
De son côté, Erza est vraiment un peu paumé, avec une gestion de l’alcool compliqué et un cœur bien blessé.
Si l’attirance entre les deux est assez directe, j’ai trouvé leur histoire plutôt sympathique et moins « facile » que je l’aurai redouter sur un « instalove ».
Ce que j’ai aimé dans ce roman, c’est le fait que chacun des personnages a des sujets pro ou perso à gérer et que ce n’est pas non plus « l’amour qui résout tout ». Chacun a sa vie et ses emmerdes, et ils se rejoignent en fil rouge.
En fait c’est ça. J’ai eu la sensation de suivre la vie de Audrey, la vie de Erza. Et le fil rouge, c’était leur romance. Et c’est suffisamment inversé pour que cela m’étonne en comparaison des romances contemporaines que j’ai l’habitude de lire.
En bref c’était une lecture sympathique. J’ai passé un bon moment
Dans ce roman double PoV, on suit d’un côté Audrey, jeune mannequin qui arrive à New York et de l’autre Erza, jeune homme complément paumé.
J’ai eu l’agréable surprise de voir l’aspect du métier d’Audrey plutôt bien exploité pour une romance de 400 pages. Ce n’est pas juste un fil rouge et on nous parle d’aspect bien noir du mannequinat.
De son côté, Erza est vraiment un peu paumé, avec une gestion de l’alcool compliqué et un cœur bien blessé.
Si l’attirance entre les deux est assez directe, j’ai trouvé leur histoire plutôt sympathique et moins « facile » que je l’aurai redouter sur un « instalove ».
Ce que j’ai aimé dans ce roman, c’est le fait que chacun des personnages a des sujets pro ou perso à gérer et que ce n’est pas non plus « l’amour qui résout tout ». Chacun a sa vie et ses emmerdes, et ils se rejoignent en fil rouge.
En fait c’est ça. J’ai eu la sensation de suivre la vie de Audrey, la vie de Erza. Et le fil rouge, c’était leur romance. Et c’est suffisamment inversé pour que cela m’étonne en comparaison des romances contemporaines que j’ai l’habitude de lire.
En bref c’était une lecture sympathique. J’ai passé un bon moment
December 14, 2025
2,5 ⭐️
May 24, 2025
3.5 stars - I think this would've worked better for me if the main characters weren't teenagers. But I still enjoyed reading it. The writing was really good, the characters interesting enough and the heavy themes make this more than just a love story. It's not just about love, it's about grief and loss and trauma. That was all handled really well, I would've liked it even more if the characters actually talked more, though. It was a lot of 'I don't want to talk about it right now' - and then they never really did. It's definitely a good debut, but I wouldn't call it a 'dazzling dreamy romance'.
December 10, 2024
This debut novel is an absolutely enchanting, compelling and compulsive read. It follows Audrey, a rookie model finding her way in the fashion world in New York, and Ezra, a brokenhearted man struggling with grief. Fate keeps pushing them together but will it tear them apart?
Ingalls handles darker themes with such respect and elegance. She casts a light on the cruel side of the fashion industry and the vulnerability of young models. The writing is so evocative, you can’t help but fall for the irresistible charm of the characters. There is so much banter and wit that balances the emotional vulnerability. One point in particular left me with tears streaming down my face in the most heartbreaking and beautiful way.
This book is so special and I can’t wait for everyone else to read it when it publishes. I don’t feel ready to say goodbye to these characters. Bea if you ever fancy a sequel or a spin off….👀
Many thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Ingalls handles darker themes with such respect and elegance. She casts a light on the cruel side of the fashion industry and the vulnerability of young models. The writing is so evocative, you can’t help but fall for the irresistible charm of the characters. There is so much banter and wit that balances the emotional vulnerability. One point in particular left me with tears streaming down my face in the most heartbreaking and beautiful way.
This book is so special and I can’t wait for everyone else to read it when it publishes. I don’t feel ready to say goodbye to these characters. Bea if you ever fancy a sequel or a spin off….👀
Many thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 25, 2024
This book is beautiful and charming debut from a writer who has an incredible way with words and sense of storytelling.
It handles sensitive topics with care and respect, and the way Audrey and Ezra’s relationship bloomed was a joy to read. The writing is beautiful, evocative and witty, and you really feel for the characters and what they’re wrestling with.
It handles sensitive topics with care and respect, and the way Audrey and Ezra’s relationship bloomed was a joy to read. The writing is beautiful, evocative and witty, and you really feel for the characters and what they’re wrestling with.
January 14, 2025
truly one of THE BEST romcoms i have ever read --- smart, funny, nuanced and very moving. i loved audrey and ezra (together and apart!) and you will too ✨️
January 8, 2025
**I won a proof copy of this book at YALC and this is my review for it**
Before you get into it, please know that contemporary YA is not really my thing anymore so take this review with a pinch of salt.
Review:
The start of the book was slow. There didn’t seem to be enough for me to grasp onto as to why I should care about these characters. I know there was an underlying sense of mystery from their interactions—in this case with Ezra’s relationship with his family and his reluctance to go to the party, but it wasn’t quite enough for me to get invested.
Audrey’s first chapter was not very memorable.
The dialogue felt stilted at times, explored in a way that doesn’t work in a book even if that is how a conversation in real life would go. It also didn’t give any relevant information about the characters nor about their relationship considering it was their first date and it should have been brimming with tension and possibilities.
The characters’ refusal to discuss certain topics over and over again even though the narrative was pushing them to do so, made me frustrated. There was a lot of “I don’t want to talk about it.” said by Ezra, Edie, Maggie, Mac, Audrey. It made it hard to truly believe all these people were friends and cared about each other when they all refused to talk about the issues in their lives. Especially when they are clearly upset about it and keep bringing the issues up over and over.
The plot itself was easy to follow and enjoyable and the story had a satisfying resolution.
Before you get into it, please know that contemporary YA is not really my thing anymore so take this review with a pinch of salt.
Review:
The start of the book was slow. There didn’t seem to be enough for me to grasp onto as to why I should care about these characters. I know there was an underlying sense of mystery from their interactions—in this case with Ezra’s relationship with his family and his reluctance to go to the party, but it wasn’t quite enough for me to get invested.
Audrey’s first chapter was not very memorable.
The dialogue felt stilted at times, explored in a way that doesn’t work in a book even if that is how a conversation in real life would go. It also didn’t give any relevant information about the characters nor about their relationship considering it was their first date and it should have been brimming with tension and possibilities.
The characters’ refusal to discuss certain topics over and over again even though the narrative was pushing them to do so, made me frustrated. There was a lot of “I don’t want to talk about it.” said by Ezra, Edie, Maggie, Mac, Audrey. It made it hard to truly believe all these people were friends and cared about each other when they all refused to talk about the issues in their lives. Especially when they are clearly upset about it and keep bringing the issues up over and over.
The plot itself was easy to follow and enjoyable and the story had a satisfying resolution.
January 31, 2025
I adored this. Such a wonderful, magical romance. An easy read and I loved how there was this realisation that parents are people too, they aren’t perfect. Where Audrey talks to her mum and she explains they started house renovations after her dad lost his job… something that Audrey didn’t know… I love how as you get older you realise that your parents don’t know it all, that they had lives like you do, and you see them on a whole new light.
It was such an endearing book.
It was such an endearing book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 9, 2024
I don't usually read YA novels much anymore but this has raised the bar for me. It was so well written and I loved the characters of Ezra and Audrey with their own little quirks and intrigues. Neither am I a huge reader of romance, but again, this was straight out of a coming-of-age, romcom movie (that I'm a sucker for) and it was too irresistible not to love.
February 17, 2025
L’histoire est pas mal mais il manque une 100aine de pages de dénouement, ils n’ont pas vraiment été ensemble finalement du coup c’est frustrant. + j’ai pas aimé leurs personnalités, je veux bien que y ait le milieu mais y a une ou deux phrases grossophobes et des tca banalisés
July 10, 2025
you happened 💖
August 7, 2025
The end was the best but he literally admitted that he still cares about his ex,felt guilty for meeting up with her yet still did it.
August 3, 2025
rom coms are SO back guys!!!!
also ezra is sooooooo black brothers coded ughhhhhh but a bit too much alcohol mentions for me
also ezra is sooooooo black brothers coded ughhhhhh but a bit too much alcohol mentions for me
January 14, 2025
A cute and heartfelt story that I absolutely adored! I loved Ezra from the moment I was introduced to him and him and Audrey make the cutest couple!
A delightful debut, can't wait to read more from this author!
Thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
A delightful debut, can't wait to read more from this author!
Thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 22, 2025
I am not the expected age demographic, but ploughed through it in 4 nights.
Haven’t enjoyed anything as much since
Where the Crawdads Sing .
Realistic relatable characters , loved the structure
of the book where we checked in with most characters with each new chapter .
NETFLIX PAY ATTENTION I can already envision
Timothy Chalomet ? as Ezra
Delightful
Haven’t enjoyed anything as much since
Where the Crawdads Sing .
Realistic relatable characters , loved the structure
of the book where we checked in with most characters with each new chapter .
NETFLIX PAY ATTENTION I can already envision
Timothy Chalomet ? as Ezra
Delightful
December 4, 2024
It’s difficult to articulate how much I loved this book, but I will briefly attempt it…
Such beautifully written, rounded characters with flaws and depth and growth. Realistic, idiosyncratic dialogue - which is, for me one of the biggest strengths of this gorgeous rom-com. Very effective dual POVs with distinct, nuanced voices for each of the two main character.
It’ll make you want to move to Manhattan, drink black coffee and watch The Apartment at an old movie theatre.
Such beautifully written, rounded characters with flaws and depth and growth. Realistic, idiosyncratic dialogue - which is, for me one of the biggest strengths of this gorgeous rom-com. Very effective dual POVs with distinct, nuanced voices for each of the two main character.
It’ll make you want to move to Manhattan, drink black coffee and watch The Apartment at an old movie theatre.
November 19, 2025
it was kinda cute & an easy read but it felt kind of slow at the beginning and then everything sort of happened within the last couple of chapters
May 29, 2025
i hate slow burn, but ezra was giving too many red flags for me. this is definitely a couple i feel like would get married then divorced real quick.
February 3, 2025
I'm still processing all the feelings of this book! I’ll be real with you, this book grabbed me and wouldn't let go - I literally couldn't put it down until I reached the last page.
The way Ezra and Audrey meet is anything but your typical coffee shop run-in, and I'm so here for it. She's working the modelling scene while he's deep in that "who even am I?" phase we all go through. But what really hits hard is how the book dives into their emotional baggage and past trauma. The author doesn't just scratch the surface - Bea goes deep, but in a way that feels real and respectful.
Can we talk about Ezra and Aubrey for a second? Like, yes, I wanted to shake them both and yell "JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER! TELL EACH OTHER HOW YOU FEEL DAMMIT!” but also... I get it? They're fresh out of school, trying to adult while life keeps throwing curveballs their way. It feels messy and real because, let's be honest, that's exactly how life is at that age.
The switching perspectives between Ezra and Audrey? Pure genius. Getting inside both their heads made everything click - even when they're making choices that had me wanting to throw my book across the room, I totally understood why.
And those side characters? *chef's kiss* Marika and Caroline aren't just background noise - they're characters who bring so much to the story. Major props to Bea for making them feel just as real as our main couple.
This one's a solid 4.5 stars from me. It made me FEEL things (which, trust me, doesn't happen often), and that alone makes it special. The tension and angst had me in a chokehold, and I'm not even mad about it. This is definitely going on my “will forever recommend" shelf!
The way Ezra and Audrey meet is anything but your typical coffee shop run-in, and I'm so here for it. She's working the modelling scene while he's deep in that "who even am I?" phase we all go through. But what really hits hard is how the book dives into their emotional baggage and past trauma. The author doesn't just scratch the surface - Bea goes deep, but in a way that feels real and respectful.
Can we talk about Ezra and Aubrey for a second? Like, yes, I wanted to shake them both and yell "JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER! TELL EACH OTHER HOW YOU FEEL DAMMIT!” but also... I get it? They're fresh out of school, trying to adult while life keeps throwing curveballs their way. It feels messy and real because, let's be honest, that's exactly how life is at that age.
The switching perspectives between Ezra and Audrey? Pure genius. Getting inside both their heads made everything click - even when they're making choices that had me wanting to throw my book across the room, I totally understood why.
And those side characters? *chef's kiss* Marika and Caroline aren't just background noise - they're characters who bring so much to the story. Major props to Bea for making them feel just as real as our main couple.
This one's a solid 4.5 stars from me. It made me FEEL things (which, trust me, doesn't happen often), and that alone makes it special. The tension and angst had me in a chokehold, and I'm not even mad about it. This is definitely going on my “will forever recommend" shelf!
January 24, 2025
*Won this proof at YALC*
Rating - 4⭐️
Honestly speaking? I wasn't expecting that much from this book BUT I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this!!!🫢 It felt like I was watching a classic romcom movie set in New York. The blooming romance between Audrey and Ezra made my heart melt. Their chemistry and interactions were honestly so up my alley that I often caught myself giggling and smiling🤭🤭.
I didn't think Ezra would be my type but let me tell you, Ezra's got game🙂↕️. He has quite some smooth dialogue delivery that made me go insane😩. His POV chapters also involved him being a starry-eyed simp for Audrey and I loved it! He's literally like a lovesick puppy🥹.
They both also had to deal with events happening in their individual lives which showed a lot of depth. No spoilers but, I AM SO PROUD OF AUDREY!!🥹 Her experience with sexual assault and harassment as a new model in the fashion industry made me feel SO NAUSEOUS😵💫 but I liked the way it was dealt with despite this heavy topic. Although, one thing I didn't enjoy was how Ezra dealt with his ex girlfriend, who was present in this book🥴. His ex really didn't deserve his kindness honestly. I just personally dislike it in novels when an ex shows up in your life again. The ex subplot really brought down my rating😭. It would’ve been 4.5 stars if it didn’t exist.
I was satisfied with the last few chapters though, it was quite cinematic and I thought it was so cute but also really funny?🤣🫶🏻 It gave off major classic romcom movie vibes!
Rating - 4⭐️
Honestly speaking? I wasn't expecting that much from this book BUT I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this!!!🫢 It felt like I was watching a classic romcom movie set in New York. The blooming romance between Audrey and Ezra made my heart melt. Their chemistry and interactions were honestly so up my alley that I often caught myself giggling and smiling🤭🤭.
I didn't think Ezra would be my type but let me tell you, Ezra's got game🙂↕️. He has quite some smooth dialogue delivery that made me go insane😩. His POV chapters also involved him being a starry-eyed simp for Audrey and I loved it! He's literally like a lovesick puppy🥹.
They both also had to deal with events happening in their individual lives which showed a lot of depth. No spoilers but, I AM SO PROUD OF AUDREY!!🥹 Her experience with sexual assault and harassment as a new model in the fashion industry made me feel SO NAUSEOUS😵💫 but I liked the way it was dealt with despite this heavy topic. Although, one thing I didn't enjoy was how Ezra dealt with his ex girlfriend, who was present in this book🥴. His ex really didn't deserve his kindness honestly. I just personally dislike it in novels when an ex shows up in your life again. The ex subplot really brought down my rating😭. It would’ve been 4.5 stars if it didn’t exist.
I was satisfied with the last few chapters though, it was quite cinematic and I thought it was so cute but also really funny?🤣🫶🏻 It gave off major classic romcom movie vibes!
June 9, 2025
💫 ¿Y SI UNA COINCIDENCIA FUERA EL COMIENZO DE TODO? 💫
Aquí te cuento de qué va esta “CUANDO EL DESTINO ERES TÚ” (siempre sin spoilers obvio 💁🏻♀️):
👩💖Audrey está empezando su carrera como modelo en Nueva York 🌆, intentando sobrevivir en un mundo lleno de luces, castings… y presión.
🙋♂️💔 Ezra regresa a la ciudad con el corazón roto y muchas dudas sobre su futuro.
🚶♀️🚶♂️ Cuando (¿por casualidad?) sus caminos se cruzan, todo cambia. Lo que empieza como un encuentro casual se convierte en una historia de emociones intensas, decisiones difíciles y segundas oportunidades 🌠
❤️🔥 Entre la atracción, los miedos del pasado y los obstáculos personales, Audrey y Ezra van descubriendo que el destino no siempre es fácil… pero a veces te lleva justo donde necesitas estar 💕
📝 MI OPINIÓN:
En esta historia encontrarás una lectura ligera y entretenida 📖✨. Ideal si buscas un romance corto, con buen ritmo y momentos tiernos que te saquen una sonrisa 😊
💫 Ezra sin duda tiene esa personalidad tan característica de las #romcom que hace que tanto nos guste, con ese toque carismático que hará que te unas al #slowburn de la historia.
📍También te sumergirás en una ambientación neoyorquina que te hará vivir entre sus calles 🗽, personajes jóvenes con chispa y una narrativa cercana, por lo que verás que este libro se lee rápido y hace que el tiempo vuele.
Aunque para mí el final ha sido bastante apresurado y me habría gustado leer unos capítulos más para terminar de desarrollar bien la historia, es verdad que no pretende ser una lectura transformadora, pero que sin duda cumple muy bien lo que promete✅: desconectar, disfrutar, hacerte suspirar con los personajes y regalarte un ratito agradable ✨
Porque honestamente, a veces eso es justo lo que necesitamos ☕📚
✨Y por supuestísimo dar las gracias a la editorial por el envío del ejemplar ✨
Aquí te cuento de qué va esta “CUANDO EL DESTINO ERES TÚ” (siempre sin spoilers obvio 💁🏻♀️):
👩💖Audrey está empezando su carrera como modelo en Nueva York 🌆, intentando sobrevivir en un mundo lleno de luces, castings… y presión.
🙋♂️💔 Ezra regresa a la ciudad con el corazón roto y muchas dudas sobre su futuro.
🚶♀️🚶♂️ Cuando (¿por casualidad?) sus caminos se cruzan, todo cambia. Lo que empieza como un encuentro casual se convierte en una historia de emociones intensas, decisiones difíciles y segundas oportunidades 🌠
❤️🔥 Entre la atracción, los miedos del pasado y los obstáculos personales, Audrey y Ezra van descubriendo que el destino no siempre es fácil… pero a veces te lleva justo donde necesitas estar 💕
📝 MI OPINIÓN:
En esta historia encontrarás una lectura ligera y entretenida 📖✨. Ideal si buscas un romance corto, con buen ritmo y momentos tiernos que te saquen una sonrisa 😊
💫 Ezra sin duda tiene esa personalidad tan característica de las #romcom que hace que tanto nos guste, con ese toque carismático que hará que te unas al #slowburn de la historia.
📍También te sumergirás en una ambientación neoyorquina que te hará vivir entre sus calles 🗽, personajes jóvenes con chispa y una narrativa cercana, por lo que verás que este libro se lee rápido y hace que el tiempo vuele.
Aunque para mí el final ha sido bastante apresurado y me habría gustado leer unos capítulos más para terminar de desarrollar bien la historia, es verdad que no pretende ser una lectura transformadora, pero que sin duda cumple muy bien lo que promete✅: desconectar, disfrutar, hacerte suspirar con los personajes y regalarte un ratito agradable ✨
Porque honestamente, a veces eso es justo lo que necesitamos ☕📚
✨Y por supuestísimo dar las gracias a la editorial por el envío del ejemplar ✨
December 25, 2024
I want to start by thanking Bea Ingalls and Orion for the uncorrected proof of “We Used To Be Magic”!
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4.5 ⭐️
I am very excited for this book to come out.
I loved how Bea Ingalls approached the vulnerability of young people in the modelling industry and gave perspective into the not so glamorous lives of models. Ingall writes about sensitive topics with a lot of respect and integrity. I really respect how physical violence in this book is not tolerated. A lot of male main characters are excused for this because they are ‘saving their woman’ or are ‘morally grey’. Ingalls clearly defines boundaries within the book and has the male character reflect on his actions.
I like how the characters feel like teenagers (because they are supposed to be). The way they approach situations and feel emotions is very realistic. The author really captures how it feels like to be a young adult. Something that is missing in a lot of YA these days. I love that the characters don’t fall in love and ‘fix’ eachother. It’s two personal journeys coming together. There is no happy, perfect ‘ending’ of any sort for Audrey and Ezra, more of a beginning.
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4.5 ⭐️
I am very excited for this book to come out.
I loved how Bea Ingalls approached the vulnerability of young people in the modelling industry and gave perspective into the not so glamorous lives of models. Ingall writes about sensitive topics with a lot of respect and integrity. I really respect how physical violence in this book is not tolerated. A lot of male main characters are excused for this because they are ‘saving their woman’ or are ‘morally grey’. Ingalls clearly defines boundaries within the book and has the male character reflect on his actions.
I like how the characters feel like teenagers (because they are supposed to be). The way they approach situations and feel emotions is very realistic. The author really captures how it feels like to be a young adult. Something that is missing in a lot of YA these days. I love that the characters don’t fall in love and ‘fix’ eachother. It’s two personal journeys coming together. There is no happy, perfect ‘ending’ of any sort for Audrey and Ezra, more of a beginning.
February 18, 2025
Rating: ★★★★.5 → ★★★★
Started: 07 February 25
Finished: 17 February 25
⚠️ sexual assault, alcohol abuse/addiction, grief ⚠️
This book has emotionally ruined me.
I won’t lie, I was really expecting a cute, wholesome romcom (I didn’t know anything going into this book) and it did have some cute and wholesome moments, but WOW this book is emotionally destroying. This book hit some really hard topics and had me bawling like a baby.
This book takes you on a journey of chance, fate or coincidence. How these two people meet in the bustling city of New York and find an instant connection with each other and how their paths keep crossing after that first meeting.
We follow Audrey and Ezra in their alternate POV’s dealing with, for Audrey the more darker side of the fashion industry and for Ezra the more darker side of grief. With them both only being 18 as well my heart hurt so badly for them both.
Bea has wrote an incredibly raw and real take on a romcom and I’m so glad I read this. I will be destroyed for the foreseeable future, but it will be worth it.
Thank you to teambkmrk for sending me a physical arc of “we used to be magic” in exchange for an honest review.
Started: 07 February 25
Finished: 17 February 25
⚠️ sexual assault, alcohol abuse/addiction, grief ⚠️
This book has emotionally ruined me.
I won’t lie, I was really expecting a cute, wholesome romcom (I didn’t know anything going into this book) and it did have some cute and wholesome moments, but WOW this book is emotionally destroying. This book hit some really hard topics and had me bawling like a baby.
This book takes you on a journey of chance, fate or coincidence. How these two people meet in the bustling city of New York and find an instant connection with each other and how their paths keep crossing after that first meeting.
We follow Audrey and Ezra in their alternate POV’s dealing with, for Audrey the more darker side of the fashion industry and for Ezra the more darker side of grief. With them both only being 18 as well my heart hurt so badly for them both.
Bea has wrote an incredibly raw and real take on a romcom and I’m so glad I read this. I will be destroyed for the foreseeable future, but it will be worth it.
Thank you to teambkmrk for sending me a physical arc of “we used to be magic” in exchange for an honest review.
Read
February 21, 2025« J’ai été, j’ai vécu, j’ai existé. Les bonnes choses se conjuguent désormais au passé. »
Le résumé, qui promettait une romance contemporaine toute mignonne entre une mannequin débutante et un jeune homme au cœur brisé, m'a tout de suite donné envie d'en savoir plus. Et dans l'ensemble, on peut dire que j'ai passé un bon moment.
Malheureusement, certains éléments de l'intrigue ne m'ont pas convaincue. À commencer par le duo formé par les personnages principaux, Audrey et Ezra. Certes, leurs histoires étaient touchantes, mais je n'ai pas réussi à m'attacher à eux. Pour ce qui est des points positifs, j'ai envie de citer le rythme, l'intrigue ainsi que la justesse des thématiques abordées. Il est notamment question des dérives de l'industrie de la mode, d'agression, d'alcoolisme, de santé mentale et de deuil. En bref, une lecture divertissante mais pas particulièrement marquante.
Merci aux éditions Hachette Romans pour l'envoi de ce livre et pour la confiance qui m'a été accordée. ♥
Le résumé, qui promettait une romance contemporaine toute mignonne entre une mannequin débutante et un jeune homme au cœur brisé, m'a tout de suite donné envie d'en savoir plus. Et dans l'ensemble, on peut dire que j'ai passé un bon moment.
Malheureusement, certains éléments de l'intrigue ne m'ont pas convaincue. À commencer par le duo formé par les personnages principaux, Audrey et Ezra. Certes, leurs histoires étaient touchantes, mais je n'ai pas réussi à m'attacher à eux. Pour ce qui est des points positifs, j'ai envie de citer le rythme, l'intrigue ainsi que la justesse des thématiques abordées. Il est notamment question des dérives de l'industrie de la mode, d'agression, d'alcoolisme, de santé mentale et de deuil. En bref, une lecture divertissante mais pas particulièrement marquante.
Merci aux éditions Hachette Romans pour l'envoi de ce livre et pour la confiance qui m'a été accordée. ♥
January 20, 2025
3,5⭐️ - Lecture moyenne
J'ai commencé We Used To Be Magic parce que j'avais envie de lire une petite romce contemporaine sympathique et j'avoue que même si j'ai passé un plutôt bon moment, je n'ai pas totalement été séduite par cette histoire.
L'intrigue est plutôt bien menée, c'est un roman qui se lit rapidement et le fait d'avoir les 2 POV permet d'apporter plus de perspectives sur certains éléments. J'ai apprécié cette exploration de l'univers de la mode, dont j'aurais aimé qu'on pointe les travers de manière encore plus détaillée.
Les personnages principaux sont également plutôt sympathiques, mais j'ai eu un peu de mal à m'attacher à eux. J'ai beaucoup plus accroché avec les personnages secondaires qui avaient étonnamment plus de substance.
Le défaut pour moi est principalement que j'ai trouvé l'histoire prévisible, j'avais l'impression d'avoir lu ce roman déjà plusieurs fois et cela m'a un peu sortie de ma lecture. Cela reste néanmoins un bon roman pour ceux qui veulent découvrir le genre.
J'ai commencé We Used To Be Magic parce que j'avais envie de lire une petite romce contemporaine sympathique et j'avoue que même si j'ai passé un plutôt bon moment, je n'ai pas totalement été séduite par cette histoire.
L'intrigue est plutôt bien menée, c'est un roman qui se lit rapidement et le fait d'avoir les 2 POV permet d'apporter plus de perspectives sur certains éléments. J'ai apprécié cette exploration de l'univers de la mode, dont j'aurais aimé qu'on pointe les travers de manière encore plus détaillée.
Les personnages principaux sont également plutôt sympathiques, mais j'ai eu un peu de mal à m'attacher à eux. J'ai beaucoup plus accroché avec les personnages secondaires qui avaient étonnamment plus de substance.
Le défaut pour moi est principalement que j'ai trouvé l'histoire prévisible, j'avais l'impression d'avoir lu ce roman déjà plusieurs fois et cela m'a un peu sortie de ma lecture. Cela reste néanmoins un bon roman pour ceux qui veulent découvrir le genre.
January 29, 2025
thank you so much to team bkmrk for a proof!!
we used to be magic is a dual pov romance that follows Ezra and Audrey and it’s set in New York
Ezra returns from studying abroad with a broken heart, but he learns that he cannot outrun his past.
whilst Audrey is new to New York as she’s trying to build a career as a model and is soon faced with the darker side of the fashion industry.
i loved the writing as it was so easy to fly through and honestly impossible to put down. i also loved how it invoked so many emotions in me. my heart ached for both Ezra and Audrey and the more i got to know them, the more i loved them and just wanted them to be happy😭
i can definitely picture this as the perfect romcom movie i’d eat up!! (pls i need this turned into one)
we used to be magic is a dual pov romance that follows Ezra and Audrey and it’s set in New York
Ezra returns from studying abroad with a broken heart, but he learns that he cannot outrun his past.
whilst Audrey is new to New York as she’s trying to build a career as a model and is soon faced with the darker side of the fashion industry.
i loved the writing as it was so easy to fly through and honestly impossible to put down. i also loved how it invoked so many emotions in me. my heart ached for both Ezra and Audrey and the more i got to know them, the more i loved them and just wanted them to be happy😭
i can definitely picture this as the perfect romcom movie i’d eat up!! (pls i need this turned into one)
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