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Only Magic in the Building #2
The Cupid Chronicles
Some love stories are written . . . this one is magically delivered.
Iris Ellington isn’t looking for love. Not even a little bit. With a long list of failed relationships behind her, she’s decided to reinvent herself as a person who doesn’t fall head over heels on the first date.
New town, new job, new Iris.
But someone—or something—has other plans.
When her neighbor’s newspaper lands in front of her door, Iris has no choice but to return it. And when she does, she comes face to face with a ridiculously handsome but very grumpy chef who all but slams the door in her face.
Matteo Morgan just wants to be left alone. He’s loved and lost and has zero interest in ever doing that again. Which is why it makes no sense that The Serendipity’s magical newspaper has decided to turn him into an unwilling Cupid. Matchmaking is hardly in his wheelhouse.
And yet, for the last three years, that’s exactly what he’s done. And he’s always done it alone.
Until now.
When the newspaper pulls his bubbly neighbor into its matchmaking schemes, Matteo has no choice but to go along with it, hoping that maybe—finally—he can pass Cupid’s bow and arrow on to her.
Thrown together by fate, they must navigate the newspaper's increasingly absurd demands while trying to resist the undeniable spark between them.
Will Iris melt the ice around Matteo's heart and embrace the magic? Or will Matteo scare her off with his grumpy demeanor and ruin any chance of happiness? In a building where anything is possible, Iris and Matteo might just find that the greatest magic of all is finding love when they least expect it.
Iris Ellington isn’t looking for love. Not even a little bit. With a long list of failed relationships behind her, she’s decided to reinvent herself as a person who doesn’t fall head over heels on the first date.
New town, new job, new Iris.
But someone—or something—has other plans.
When her neighbor’s newspaper lands in front of her door, Iris has no choice but to return it. And when she does, she comes face to face with a ridiculously handsome but very grumpy chef who all but slams the door in her face.
Matteo Morgan just wants to be left alone. He’s loved and lost and has zero interest in ever doing that again. Which is why it makes no sense that The Serendipity’s magical newspaper has decided to turn him into an unwilling Cupid. Matchmaking is hardly in his wheelhouse.
And yet, for the last three years, that’s exactly what he’s done. And he’s always done it alone.
Until now.
When the newspaper pulls his bubbly neighbor into its matchmaking schemes, Matteo has no choice but to go along with it, hoping that maybe—finally—he can pass Cupid’s bow and arrow on to her.
Thrown together by fate, they must navigate the newspaper's increasingly absurd demands while trying to resist the undeniable spark between them.
Will Iris melt the ice around Matteo's heart and embrace the magic? Or will Matteo scare her off with his grumpy demeanor and ruin any chance of happiness? In a building where anything is possible, Iris and Matteo might just find that the greatest magic of all is finding love when they least expect it.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 12, 2025
996 people are currently reading
2950 people want to read
About the author
Courtney Walsh
37 books5,385 followersCourtney Walsh is a novelist, theatre director, and playwright. She writes low spice romance and women's fiction while juggling the performing arts studio and youth theatre she owns and runs with her husband. Her debut, A Sweethaven Summer, hit the New York Times and USA Today e-book bestseller lists. She is also a Carol award winner and Christy award finalist.
A creative at heart, Courtney has also written two craft books and several full-length musicals. She lives in Illinois with her husband and three children and a sometimes naughty Bernedoodle named Luna.
Visit her online at www.courtneywalshwrites.com.
A creative at heart, Courtney has also written two craft books and several full-length musicals. She lives in Illinois with her husband and three children and a sometimes naughty Bernedoodle named Luna.
Visit her online at www.courtneywalshwrites.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 486 reviews
September 17, 2025
“I’m not too much?”
…”not for me.” (Swoon)
“Soulmates aren’t found, they’re made.”
(Double swoon)
“I’m just, you know, holding back a little so I don’t scare people off.”
“If you’re scaring people off, Iris, then they aren’t the right people.”
(I feel so seen)
(I love Courtney Walsh)
…”not for me.” (Swoon)
“Soulmates aren’t found, they’re made.”
(Double swoon)
“I’m just, you know, holding back a little so I don’t scare people off.”
“If you’re scaring people off, Iris, then they aren’t the right people.”
(I feel so seen)
(I love Courtney Walsh)
April 11, 2025
If you like your romance with a sprinkle of magic, then this book is basically your new best friend. Courtney really knocked it out of the park with this one. It’s her first time adding a magical twist, and she did such a fantastic job, especially with the magical newspaper. It had personality, people!
Iris and Matteo completely stole my heart. Iris is sunshine in human form, love helping others, and Matteo is a grumpy-softie working through his grief who slowly lets his guard down. Watching them go from friends to more was the sweetest slow burn ever.
The side characters were awesome too, and this book had me feeling everything. I laughed, I smiled, I swooned—you name it. It was a full rollercoaster, and I loved every second. Iris and Matteo are the kind of couple you root for with your whole heart, and I’m so glad I got to tag along for the ride!
❤️🔥 Found Family
❤️🔥 Chef x Art Teacher
❤️🔥 Magical Realism
❤️🔥 Neighbors
🚨🚨 TW: Grief, Death of a Spouse, Car accident
Iris and Matteo completely stole my heart. Iris is sunshine in human form, love helping others, and Matteo is a grumpy-softie working through his grief who slowly lets his guard down. Watching them go from friends to more was the sweetest slow burn ever.
The side characters were awesome too, and this book had me feeling everything. I laughed, I smiled, I swooned—you name it. It was a full rollercoaster, and I loved every second. Iris and Matteo are the kind of couple you root for with your whole heart, and I’m so glad I got to tag along for the ride!
❤️🔥 Found Family
❤️🔥 Chef x Art Teacher
❤️🔥 Magical Realism
❤️🔥 Neighbors
🚨🚨 TW: Grief, Death of a Spouse, Car accident
March 16, 2025
Maaaggiiiccaaallll!!! Mmaaggiiiccaalll! MAGICAL!
That’s about sums up this story!
Iris was a bubble of joy! And her heartbeat, and subsequent heartbreaks, were so easy to empathize with as someone who has felt like they were “too much”. But as she comes to find in her HEA - having a huge heart, and loving big is not a flaw! And you will never be “too much” for the RIGHT people.
Matteo’s grief was *oof* tangible and I love that Courtney wrote about it! The gruff exterior that was built up so he would never have to experience pain like that again. But how it really just protected a KIND heart!
The “personality” of the magic was ADORABLE! And the banter between the characters as they were becoming friends was one of my favorite parts.
This book was a fantastic mix of laughter, grief, healing, family, and love!
4.5/5 stars
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
That’s about sums up this story!
Iris was a bubble of joy! And her heartbeat, and subsequent heartbreaks, were so easy to empathize with as someone who has felt like they were “too much”. But as she comes to find in her HEA - having a huge heart, and loving big is not a flaw! And you will never be “too much” for the RIGHT people.
Matteo’s grief was *oof* tangible and I love that Courtney wrote about it! The gruff exterior that was built up so he would never have to experience pain like that again. But how it really just protected a KIND heart!
The “personality” of the magic was ADORABLE! And the banter between the characters as they were becoming friends was one of my favorite parts.
This book was a fantastic mix of laughter, grief, healing, family, and love!
4.5/5 stars
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
March 14, 2025
The Cupid Chronicles is book 2 of the amazingly fun series, Only Magic in the Building. These books are all written by fantastic indie romance authors and I love how they are adding magical whimsy to their signature rom-coms.
In the Cupid Chronicles, the universe has epic plans to throw 2 unsuspecting people together. With an epically grumpy chef, an art teach with a big heart, magical and hilarious newspapers, and a great supporting cast, this book had me smiling ear to ear.
This book is so good and uplifting, it made it into my gratitude practice. When asked to contemplate what made me smile I thought of this book! This book made me smile and lifted my spirits.
There is some pretty significant emotional depth as one of the characters deals with a loss experienced off thr page. That tugged at my heart a bit at the end but overall, it's a feel great book.
In the Cupid Chronicles, the universe has epic plans to throw 2 unsuspecting people together. With an epically grumpy chef, an art teach with a big heart, magical and hilarious newspapers, and a great supporting cast, this book had me smiling ear to ear.
This book is so good and uplifting, it made it into my gratitude practice. When asked to contemplate what made me smile I thought of this book! This book made me smile and lifted my spirits.
There is some pretty significant emotional depth as one of the characters deals with a loss experienced off thr page. That tugged at my heart a bit at the end but overall, it's a feel great book.
March 19, 2025
So fun! I just love the setting of the magical apartment building! The magic in this 2nd book of the series was different than the first so that was interesting and fun to learn about. The part where the FMC first encounters the magic (think insistent, sarcastic magic) is so funny. The newspapers seem to have their own personality, quite humorous to read about--actually, the magical newspaper was probably my favorite character!
There was some depth to the characters of this love story but honestly their backstories and processing of their issues wasn't as interesting to me since I've seen it done a lot in other stories; in fact one action the MMC takes to process his grief was very predictable.
I enjoyed the magical elements, the growing relationship between the couple, and especially all the fun tasks the newspaper had them do. I loved that there was such growth of friendships and community in addition to the romance! And the big ending scene was so, so sweet!
Content: grief, insecurities/low self-esteem, mild innuendo, 3 mentions of "the universe"
Christian faith rating: 0/3 clean with no language
There was some depth to the characters of this love story but honestly their backstories and processing of their issues wasn't as interesting to me since I've seen it done a lot in other stories; in fact one action the MMC takes to process his grief was very predictable.
I enjoyed the magical elements, the growing relationship between the couple, and especially all the fun tasks the newspaper had them do. I loved that there was such growth of friendships and community in addition to the romance! And the big ending scene was so, so sweet!
Content: grief, insecurities/low self-esteem, mild innuendo, 3 mentions of "the universe"
Christian faith rating: 0/3 clean with no language
April 7, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
• 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧’𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲’𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 •
Did this book have me in tears? Absolutely, it did 😭 As of right now, this is my favorite book in the Only Magic in the Building series and it’s gonna have to take a pretty phenomenal book to be better than this one! Ughhh…it had EVERYTHING! The beauty, the pain, the love, the loss, the healing…it was such a beautiful story ♥️ I love that it had the perfect amount of both hilarity and deep moments to make it a perfectly balanced story! Be prepared to have your heartstrings tugged going into this book!
Iris Ellington has decided to forgo love for the time being because of her bad history with relationships, but The Serendipity has other plans in store for her. When her neighbor’s newspaper lands in front of her door, naturally she returns it. But when it happens a second time and the newspaper refuses to stay in front of her neighbor’s door, Iris begins to realize that all is not quite normal. After a few not-so-subtle hints from the newspaper, Iris ends up playing matchmaker with her grumpy neighbor for the time being.
As a man determined to never again find love, Matteo Morgan was not at all cut out to be a matchmaker, and yet, that’s what The Serendipity chose him to be. For three years, he alone played Cupid for the residents in the building, while also running his little Italian bistro, until a befuddled neighbor ended up outside his door to return his newspaper. Matteo hoped to finally be able to pass off his Cupid playing duties to someone else, but the newspaper had something else in mind for the two of them. Soon, both Iris & Matteo are at the newspaper’s beck and call, trying to avoid the love that neither one of them was looking for. But, of course, no one is able to withstand the ✨magic✨ of the building and not end up with a soulmate! I love how the building sets up the most unlikely of people as the perfect couple ♥️
Something that I quickly noticed with The Cupid Chronicles is that the magical element was more of a main plot than some of the other stories and I really enjoyed it! The newspaper was one of the most hilarious things I’ve read about in a while! The way it would whack Iris in the head had me absolutely cracking up 😂
The dynamic between Iris & Matteo was “chef’s kiss 🤌🏻” and I thoroughly enjoyed every interaction between them! The bond they formed was immensely special ♥️ Every time I read the grumpy/subshine trope, I’m reminded again just how much I love it! It always makes for the very best of stories 😁 I also loved how Matteo showed Iris that she wasn’t too much, like people had told her in the past 🥹 She didn’t need to care less about people, she just needed to find people worth caring about.
Once again, the side characters were so much fun and added the best elements to the story! Winnie and Jerry, along with Val and Nicola, and Liz and Brooke were all such a delight 😄
Top Moments:
🗞️ The newspaper 🤭
🗞️ Chef Cupid
🗞️ Helping Winnie
🗞️ Iris’s ravenous appetite
🗞️ Pop-Tart Princess
🗞️ “Don’t make yourself smaller…”
🗞️ Roberta and Rhonda
🗞️ Soulmates and messy art
• 𝐒𝐨𝐮𝐥𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐧’𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝, 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐲’𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐚𝐝𝐞 •
Did this book have me in tears? Absolutely, it did 😭 As of right now, this is my favorite book in the Only Magic in the Building series and it’s gonna have to take a pretty phenomenal book to be better than this one! Ughhh…it had EVERYTHING! The beauty, the pain, the love, the loss, the healing…it was such a beautiful story ♥️ I love that it had the perfect amount of both hilarity and deep moments to make it a perfectly balanced story! Be prepared to have your heartstrings tugged going into this book!
Iris Ellington has decided to forgo love for the time being because of her bad history with relationships, but The Serendipity has other plans in store for her. When her neighbor’s newspaper lands in front of her door, naturally she returns it. But when it happens a second time and the newspaper refuses to stay in front of her neighbor’s door, Iris begins to realize that all is not quite normal. After a few not-so-subtle hints from the newspaper, Iris ends up playing matchmaker with her grumpy neighbor for the time being.
As a man determined to never again find love, Matteo Morgan was not at all cut out to be a matchmaker, and yet, that’s what The Serendipity chose him to be. For three years, he alone played Cupid for the residents in the building, while also running his little Italian bistro, until a befuddled neighbor ended up outside his door to return his newspaper. Matteo hoped to finally be able to pass off his Cupid playing duties to someone else, but the newspaper had something else in mind for the two of them. Soon, both Iris & Matteo are at the newspaper’s beck and call, trying to avoid the love that neither one of them was looking for. But, of course, no one is able to withstand the ✨magic✨ of the building and not end up with a soulmate! I love how the building sets up the most unlikely of people as the perfect couple ♥️
Something that I quickly noticed with The Cupid Chronicles is that the magical element was more of a main plot than some of the other stories and I really enjoyed it! The newspaper was one of the most hilarious things I’ve read about in a while! The way it would whack Iris in the head had me absolutely cracking up 😂
The dynamic between Iris & Matteo was “chef’s kiss 🤌🏻” and I thoroughly enjoyed every interaction between them! The bond they formed was immensely special ♥️ Every time I read the grumpy/subshine trope, I’m reminded again just how much I love it! It always makes for the very best of stories 😁 I also loved how Matteo showed Iris that she wasn’t too much, like people had told her in the past 🥹 She didn’t need to care less about people, she just needed to find people worth caring about.
Once again, the side characters were so much fun and added the best elements to the story! Winnie and Jerry, along with Val and Nicola, and Liz and Brooke were all such a delight 😄
Top Moments:
🗞️ The newspaper 🤭
🗞️ Chef Cupid
🗞️ Helping Winnie
🗞️ Iris’s ravenous appetite
🗞️ Pop-Tart Princess
🗞️ “Don’t make yourself smaller…”
🗞️ Roberta and Rhonda
🗞️ Soulmates and messy art
July 30, 2025
I will read ANYTHING by the legit Queen of Romance 😭😭😭😭
March 13, 2025
I really wasn’t sure I was going to like this one at first. I was worried it was going to be too cheesy for my taste. But I trust Courtney Walsh - and I ended up really enjoying this!! Closed door romance with a whimsical match making magic building?! Count me in. There are also heavier themes of grief after the death of a loved one. It balanced well and gave me such a warm feeling. Loved
Content: Kissing only, death of loved one and grief, parental abandonment
Thank you to the author for an early copy!
Content: Kissing only, death of loved one and grief, parental abandonment
Thank you to the author for an early copy!
March 15, 2025
Another amazing magical adventure in the Only Magic In the Building Series! I loved this enemies to friends to more, grumpy/sunshine romance. Courtney Walsh blends a touch of magical whimsy with humor & a tug on your heartstrings romance in The Cupid Chronicles.
Iris Ellington’s a talented art teacher longing for a new start & a place to belong. She tends to fall head over heels for the wrong men & determines next time, she’ll guard her heart. But, her new apartment building, The Serendipity has other plans. When a newspaper arrives on her doorstep belonging to the handsome chef down the hall, she decides to just deliver it. But, the grumpy, taciturn man leaves her fuming. When his newspapers keep arriving on her doorstep, she finds herself caught up in a magical adventure.
Matteo Morgan fell in love once & never wants to again. But, for the last three years the Serendipity’s mysterious newspaper likes to play Cupid & Matteo finds himself an unwitting matchmaker, fulfilling the paper’s wishes. When the newspaper starts involving his beautiful new neighbor Iris, he’s at risk of losing his heart again as they work together to make dreams come true.
I loved this story! Matteo is an amazing chef & I loved all the amazing dishes he makes. (So far, this series is designed to make me hungry!) The reason for his grumpiness is slowly teased out through the book & when you finally find out, it’s heartbreaking. Beneath his surly exterior, is a kindhearted softy who secretly enjoys serving others. I loved his restaurant family & the relationship they have. They openly welcome Iris & add so much to this sweet story.
Iris is such a fun bubbly character who can’t help her enthusiasm for her students & fulfilling the newspaper’s wishes. She has some deep hurts from her childhood & hesitates to give her heart to someone who won’t love her back. I love the way she blurts out her thoughts & finds such joy in helping others.
The whimsical magic was light & fun. Like the Serendipity itself, the newspaper has a personality all its own I loved the funny way it got these two opposites’ attention.
Highly recommended this book & the whole series! Can’t wait for the next book! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author but also purchased a copy through Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
Iris Ellington’s a talented art teacher longing for a new start & a place to belong. She tends to fall head over heels for the wrong men & determines next time, she’ll guard her heart. But, her new apartment building, The Serendipity has other plans. When a newspaper arrives on her doorstep belonging to the handsome chef down the hall, she decides to just deliver it. But, the grumpy, taciturn man leaves her fuming. When his newspapers keep arriving on her doorstep, she finds herself caught up in a magical adventure.
Matteo Morgan fell in love once & never wants to again. But, for the last three years the Serendipity’s mysterious newspaper likes to play Cupid & Matteo finds himself an unwitting matchmaker, fulfilling the paper’s wishes. When the newspaper starts involving his beautiful new neighbor Iris, he’s at risk of losing his heart again as they work together to make dreams come true.
I loved this story! Matteo is an amazing chef & I loved all the amazing dishes he makes. (So far, this series is designed to make me hungry!) The reason for his grumpiness is slowly teased out through the book & when you finally find out, it’s heartbreaking. Beneath his surly exterior, is a kindhearted softy who secretly enjoys serving others. I loved his restaurant family & the relationship they have. They openly welcome Iris & add so much to this sweet story.
Iris is such a fun bubbly character who can’t help her enthusiasm for her students & fulfilling the newspaper’s wishes. She has some deep hurts from her childhood & hesitates to give her heart to someone who won’t love her back. I love the way she blurts out her thoughts & finds such joy in helping others.
The whimsical magic was light & fun. Like the Serendipity itself, the newspaper has a personality all its own I loved the funny way it got these two opposites’ attention.
Highly recommended this book & the whole series! Can’t wait for the next book! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author but also purchased a copy through Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
March 19, 2025
This was the second book in the Only Magic in the Building series. It was dual perspective, with romance, humor, and magic. There was a great mix of banter and emotional depth. The themes of grief and found family really resonated with me. I loved it, and am so looking forward to the other books in the series.
April 6, 2025
This was a cute story, but it was the grief storyline that really carried it for me. The theme of love after loss was so touching, exploring the guilt of moving on and the fear of opening your heart to someone new. I even shed a few tears toward the end.
I had a minor complaint that the first book in the series, The Serendipity, didn’t incorporate enough magic, and that was definitely improved here! The sentient, magical ability of the newspaper was a bit cheesy at times, but I liked the fun of it cheekily helping to bring people together.
Iris was a little too naive, but I really felt for her fear of heartbreak, her sense of being too much, and the depth of her love for others. It was really sweet to see the closed-off Matteo slowly open up to Iris and her big heart. The romance didn’t blow me away, but it had a nice buildup, and I liked how everything came together in the end.
(heat level: kissing only)
I had a minor complaint that the first book in the series, The Serendipity, didn’t incorporate enough magic, and that was definitely improved here! The sentient, magical ability of the newspaper was a bit cheesy at times, but I liked the fun of it cheekily helping to bring people together.
Iris was a little too naive, but I really felt for her fear of heartbreak, her sense of being too much, and the depth of her love for others. It was really sweet to see the closed-off Matteo slowly open up to Iris and her big heart. The romance didn’t blow me away, but it had a nice buildup, and I liked how everything came together in the end.
(heat level: kissing only)
April 6, 2025
Okay this one was so cute 🥹 I absolutely loved the magic in this story - it was funny and had a mind of its own! I loved the way it interacted with Iris and Matteo, it felt like it was another character.
I also loved how Iris and Matteo’s jobs were brought into the story. I could relate to iris being a teacher myself and could feel the joy her job gave her. And the food woven throughout the story with Matteo’s restaurant was lovely.
The found family was the perfect addition to the story as well!
I also loved how Iris and Matteo’s jobs were brought into the story. I could relate to iris being a teacher myself and could feel the joy her job gave her. And the food woven throughout the story with Matteo’s restaurant was lovely.
The found family was the perfect addition to the story as well!
March 20, 2025
HELLO TEARS.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
I am not someone who generally cries while reading. But this one brought tears to my eyes because your girl has an anxious soft spot for plots with a widow. Some of those closing scenes made me a mess of feelings. HOW DARE YOU COURTNEY.
Not to mention the others themes throughout of finding joy again, connecting with those around you and helping others are magnetic. This leans slightly more fiction than full blown romance and I hardly noticed because of how beautifully crafted this story was. It grew on me and as the pages went on I was attached to every single character.
I adored Matteo. I adored Iris. I loved the slow burn strangers to friends to lovers. It was everything they both needed to realize that they are in the long haul together. Covering grief and pain and feeling like you’re just too much. I just loved it so much. Endearing characters, raw emotions and a gentle romance.
Overall audience notes:
- Magical realism + contemporary romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Content Warnings: loss of a spouse (recounted), grief depiction
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
I am not someone who generally cries while reading. But this one brought tears to my eyes because your girl has an anxious soft spot for plots with a widow. Some of those closing scenes made me a mess of feelings. HOW DARE YOU COURTNEY.
Not to mention the others themes throughout of finding joy again, connecting with those around you and helping others are magnetic. This leans slightly more fiction than full blown romance and I hardly noticed because of how beautifully crafted this story was. It grew on me and as the pages went on I was attached to every single character.
I adored Matteo. I adored Iris. I loved the slow burn strangers to friends to lovers. It was everything they both needed to realize that they are in the long haul together. Covering grief and pain and feeling like you’re just too much. I just loved it so much. Endearing characters, raw emotions and a gentle romance.
Overall audience notes:
- Magical realism + contemporary romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
- Content Warnings: loss of a spouse (recounted), grief depiction
August 13, 2025
Absolutely loved!! Matteo's storyline of finding love after loss was beautiful ❤️
March 8, 2025
THIS BOOK WAS EVERYTHING. If I could rate it 10 stars, I would. Courtney’s books are always so amazing and heartfelt, and I think I just found my new favorite. I could relate to so much of it. The dealing with grief after loss? Check. The oversharing to new people? Check. The heartbreak of being too much for most people? Check. The making yourself smaller to avoid your big feelings? Double check. This was the sweetest, most perfect feel-good romance I’ve read in a long time, and I know it sounds cheesy but I feel like it gave me hope, too? I know it sounds weird, but I feel like I was MEANT to read this. Maybe there really is magic, after all🥹
I can’t wait to read all of the books in this cute series!
I can’t wait to read all of the books in this cute series!
March 26, 2025
Initial reaction rating after finishing is a 5⭐️. I’ll see how I feel in a couple of days!! But the magic in this book was dare I say *chef’s kiss*? 😉😉 I LOVED this one. I thought I really liked book 1 but this takes the top spot for now. So, so good. Matteo & Iris were super cute. The found family, the sunshine personality Iris had, and Matteo & Iris helping others! Everything was just magical in this book. 🥰
March 17, 2025
All the hearts and stars for this one!
The fun and magic continue in this 2nd book in the Only Magic In The Building series, and I absolutely loved it!
Iris Ellington is done with love. She’s had enough of failed relationships, so she starts fresh in a new town with a new job. But things take a turn when she meets Matteo Morgan, a handsome but grumpy chef who’s also given up on love, and just wants to be left alone.
A magical newspaper keeps pushing them together. Within the pages of the paper are clues and information about other people who need help, or prompts for matchmaking. But could this slightly mischievous paper have other motives in mind when it comes to Matteo and Iris?
You can expect—
✨ Grumpy—Sunshine
✨ Chef & Art teacher
✨ Light magical elements
✨ Found family
✨ Grief & healing
✨ Delicious food descriptions
✨ Dual POV
There is SO much sweetness to this story. The romance is lovely, and there are lots of laughs and humorous moments, but there’s also a lot of depth and poignancy to it. It’s got all the feels, and I recommend having tissues handy as you get to certain chapters.
I adored Matteo and Iris, and thought their character development was excellent. I loved how Iris found joy in everything. Both of them had a lot of pain from previous life experiences, and that came across in such a realistic and heartfelt way that It made me extra happy when they found love with one another.
I loved the themes of broken hearts mending, feeling like you finally belong, soulmates aren’t found-they’re made, the connection with food and the memories it brings, and allowing yourself to live again after a devastating loss.
Honestly, I loved everything about this story and can’t recommend it enough.
I received a copy from the author but a positive review wasn’t required.
The fun and magic continue in this 2nd book in the Only Magic In The Building series, and I absolutely loved it!
Iris Ellington is done with love. She’s had enough of failed relationships, so she starts fresh in a new town with a new job. But things take a turn when she meets Matteo Morgan, a handsome but grumpy chef who’s also given up on love, and just wants to be left alone.
A magical newspaper keeps pushing them together. Within the pages of the paper are clues and information about other people who need help, or prompts for matchmaking. But could this slightly mischievous paper have other motives in mind when it comes to Matteo and Iris?
You can expect—
✨ Grumpy—Sunshine
✨ Chef & Art teacher
✨ Light magical elements
✨ Found family
✨ Grief & healing
✨ Delicious food descriptions
✨ Dual POV
There is SO much sweetness to this story. The romance is lovely, and there are lots of laughs and humorous moments, but there’s also a lot of depth and poignancy to it. It’s got all the feels, and I recommend having tissues handy as you get to certain chapters.
I adored Matteo and Iris, and thought their character development was excellent. I loved how Iris found joy in everything. Both of them had a lot of pain from previous life experiences, and that came across in such a realistic and heartfelt way that It made me extra happy when they found love with one another.
I loved the themes of broken hearts mending, feeling like you finally belong, soulmates aren’t found-they’re made, the connection with food and the memories it brings, and allowing yourself to live again after a devastating loss.
Honestly, I loved everything about this story and can’t recommend it enough.
I received a copy from the author but a positive review wasn’t required.
March 12, 2025
ARC Review⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5’s
Thank you to the author @courtneywalsh for the #gifted e-book.
This closed-door, multi-author series called Only Magic In The Building is set in Serendipity Springs, where a legendary fountain brings good fortune. A whimsical romance with light magic, it follows a matchmaking building—no spells or shifters, just charm.
Courtney Walsh does it again with The Cupid Chronicles, the second book in this whimsical and heartwarming series! This standalone romance is packed with charm, humor, and just the right touch of magic.
With a grumpy-sunshine dynamic that had me grinning, the main characters were the perfect blend of witty banter and heartfelt moments. The story weaves in themes of found family, grief, and magical realism, making it more than just a romance—it’s a story about healing, hope, and finding love when you least expect it.
I absolutely loved the humor throughout the book, and of course, the happily ever after was so satisfying! Walsh’s signature style shines here—her books never disappoint, and The Cupid Chronicles is no exception. If you love closed-door romance with a touch of whimsy and real-life depth, this one’s a must-read!
✨Authors in the series:
Emma St. Clair, Courtney Walsh, Jenny Proctor, Savannah Scott, Julie Christianson, Carina Taylor, Melanie Jacobson, Katie Bailey
Thank you to the author @courtneywalsh for the #gifted e-book.
This closed-door, multi-author series called Only Magic In The Building is set in Serendipity Springs, where a legendary fountain brings good fortune. A whimsical romance with light magic, it follows a matchmaking building—no spells or shifters, just charm.
Courtney Walsh does it again with The Cupid Chronicles, the second book in this whimsical and heartwarming series! This standalone romance is packed with charm, humor, and just the right touch of magic.
With a grumpy-sunshine dynamic that had me grinning, the main characters were the perfect blend of witty banter and heartfelt moments. The story weaves in themes of found family, grief, and magical realism, making it more than just a romance—it’s a story about healing, hope, and finding love when you least expect it.
I absolutely loved the humor throughout the book, and of course, the happily ever after was so satisfying! Walsh’s signature style shines here—her books never disappoint, and The Cupid Chronicles is no exception. If you love closed-door romance with a touch of whimsy and real-life depth, this one’s a must-read!
✨Authors in the series:
Emma St. Clair, Courtney Walsh, Jenny Proctor, Savannah Scott, Julie Christianson, Carina Taylor, Melanie Jacobson, Katie Bailey
September 28, 2025
And just like that the series is over. 🥹
This book was absolutely beautiful—easily one of my top 2 favs of the series. It did take me a bit to get into the story. I just wasn’t feeling the magic at the beginning. But then I. Was. Hooked. 😍
Iris and Matteo are absolute darlings. The whole next-door neighbour, grumpy x sunshine vibes are elite. *chefs kiss* Matteo was a bit of a jerk at the beginning but I can forgive that because he was genuine about his apologies. And his grief was so real and heartfelt, it made my heart ache.
Courtney knows how to balance the lighthearted swoon and laughter with real depth, and this was no exception. I was laughing over the magical newspaper’s insistence and then bawled at the ending over Matteo making closure for his grief and rejoining the land of the living. 😭 It was so beautifully handled.
If you want a fun story with found family that will make your heart sing (seriously the family dinners are everything 🥹) and learning to live again with grief, this book is magnificent. 💛
This book was absolutely beautiful—easily one of my top 2 favs of the series. It did take me a bit to get into the story. I just wasn’t feeling the magic at the beginning. But then I. Was. Hooked. 😍
Iris and Matteo are absolute darlings. The whole next-door neighbour, grumpy x sunshine vibes are elite. *chefs kiss* Matteo was a bit of a jerk at the beginning but I can forgive that because he was genuine about his apologies. And his grief was so real and heartfelt, it made my heart ache.
Courtney knows how to balance the lighthearted swoon and laughter with real depth, and this was no exception. I was laughing over the magical newspaper’s insistence and then bawled at the ending over Matteo making closure for his grief and rejoining the land of the living. 😭 It was so beautifully handled.
If you want a fun story with found family that will make your heart sing (seriously the family dinners are everything 🥹) and learning to live again with grief, this book is magnificent. 💛
March 18, 2025
The more time I spend at The Serendipity, the more infatuated I become with this magical building. THE CUPID CHRONICLES is the second book in the ONLY MAGIC IN THE BUILDING series and I am seriously smitten.
Courtney Walsh’s contribution to this low spice, sweet romantic collection features Iris Ellington, an elementary school art teacher who is desperately trying to avoid another romantic entanglement. Matteo Morgan is a a successful chef nursing a broken heart. Neither is looking for love, but a pesky daily newspaper has other ideas.
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Iris and Matteo. From strangers to reluctant partners to friends to something more, nothing is rushed. It’s allowed to blossom in its own time and it feels genuine.
This series is proving to be fun, light, and highly entertaining.
Courtney Walsh’s contribution to this low spice, sweet romantic collection features Iris Ellington, an elementary school art teacher who is desperately trying to avoid another romantic entanglement. Matteo Morgan is a a successful chef nursing a broken heart. Neither is looking for love, but a pesky daily newspaper has other ideas.
I enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Iris and Matteo. From strangers to reluctant partners to friends to something more, nothing is rushed. It’s allowed to blossom in its own time and it feels genuine.
This series is proving to be fun, light, and highly entertaining.
March 23, 2025
“‘Some things about The Serendipity don’t follow traditional rules of logic, Teo. Best to embrace the magic.’
‘I don’t believe in magic,’ I said. He laughed at that. ‘Nobody does . . . until they do.’”
I am really loving this series! And this book might be my favorite so far! I’ve tried not to read any of the blurbs so I go in not knowing what type of magical element(s) to expect, and I’m glad. I loved the one in this book! It made me laugh, and I loved the uniqueness of it! I also loved Iris’s big personality and felt for both her and Matteo’s heartaches. I can’t wait for the next book in this fun series!
‘I don’t believe in magic,’ I said. He laughed at that. ‘Nobody does . . . until they do.’”
I am really loving this series! And this book might be my favorite so far! I’ve tried not to read any of the blurbs so I go in not knowing what type of magical element(s) to expect, and I’m glad. I loved the one in this book! It made me laugh, and I loved the uniqueness of it! I also loved Iris’s big personality and felt for both her and Matteo’s heartaches. I can’t wait for the next book in this fun series!
March 25, 2025
Cute read! I resonated with a lot of things that Iris struggled with. I mostly loved how Courtney Walsh connected the magical newspaper with so many lives & how much joy comes from seeking for opportunities to help others!!💖
I think I liked the overall story better than the romance story though, personally!
I think I liked the overall story better than the romance story though, personally!
September 25, 2025
I read 30% and can’t go on. It’s very, very slow. I’m wading through pages and pages of internal musings.
Now I’m skipping through all that and skimming boring conversations she is having with coworkers. At this point, every single scene is boring and long.
There is no chemistry between her and the jerk MMC. Seriously, he lacks even basic manners of politeness and completely blows her off repeatedly. Now he is finally seeing her and their romance is going to begin, I’m sure.
But I don’t want to wade through it anymore.
I’ll give it 2 stars because it’s not terrible.
Now I’m skipping through all that and skimming boring conversations she is having with coworkers. At this point, every single scene is boring and long.
There is no chemistry between her and the jerk MMC. Seriously, he lacks even basic manners of politeness and completely blows her off repeatedly. Now he is finally seeing her and their romance is going to begin, I’m sure.
But I don’t want to wade through it anymore.
I’ll give it 2 stars because it’s not terrible.
March 20, 2025
This grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity (via a magical newspaper) story was absolutely delightful! The whimsical magic of the matchmaking newspaper was hilarious. This book was a blend of laughter, healing, found family, and love! Oh, and be prepared, it will make you hungry.
TW: Widower
TW: Widower
July 3, 2025
LOVE!!! All the feelings in this book! One of my favorite authors does it again.
• Standalone in a multi-author series
• A magical building that helps lonely people
• Opposites working together as "Cupids"
• The best found family & friendships
• Matteo & Iris ♥️
• Standalone in a multi-author series
• A magical building that helps lonely people
• Opposites working together as "Cupids"
• The best found family & friendships
• Matteo & Iris ♥️
April 15, 2025
Iris is determined to turn over a new leaf. She's new to town and refuses to fly blindly into any relationship. Falling in love is easy but her history of heartbreak has encouraged her to change her ways. A newspaper with her neighbor's name, Matteo, lands at her doorstep and tempts her to return to her bad boy reforming ways.
This book is enchanting! I wanted to hug Iris and Matteo fiercely and am delighted they both found joy for themselves and in each other. A little magic and meddling was all they needed to be "enough". It's hard not to love an intentionally solitary and grumbly chef determined to cook the best of foods to change a pop tart/pizza loving girl into a frequent diner. Highly recommend picking up this book to bring some whimsy to your week!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy! All thoughts are my own.
This book is enchanting! I wanted to hug Iris and Matteo fiercely and am delighted they both found joy for themselves and in each other. A little magic and meddling was all they needed to be "enough". It's hard not to love an intentionally solitary and grumbly chef determined to cook the best of foods to change a pop tart/pizza loving girl into a frequent diner. Highly recommend picking up this book to bring some whimsy to your week!
Thanks to the author for the gifted copy! All thoughts are my own.
March 31, 2025
The Cupid Chronicles by Courtney Walsh is the second book in the Only Magic in the Building series. It is a standalone book. These closed-door, whimsical romance books are all set in the same historic building, which has a habit of playing matchmaker with its residents. There are light magical elements, but no spells, shifters, or dark magic.
"If you're scaring people off, Iris, then they aren't the right people."
At first, the magic got on my nerves. I was like "really," it felt forced. I know it sounds dumb because it's magic, but as the story progressed it was less noticeable and fit better with the story (if that makes sense).
I adored Iris. She is funny, bubbly, sensitive, smart, and relatable. I related to her more than I wanted to. Iris loves big, has big emotions, and gets hurt, you guessed it, big. She feels like she is too much (because she's been told that).
Matteo struggles with his grief and doesn't want to love again, so he basically pushes people as far away as he can. Except Iris has no concept of boundaries and before he's even aware, she is breaking down his defenses.
Read for:
🗞 magical newspaper
🗞grumpy/sunshine
🗞Chef Cupid
🗞Pop Tart Princess
🗞Iris's complete abandonment when eating
🗞found family
🗞witty banter
🗞 super sweet romance
🗞 family dinner
🗞square dancing
potential triggers: death of a spouse (in the past), light magical elements, grief,
"If you're scaring people off, Iris, then they aren't the right people."
At first, the magic got on my nerves. I was like "really," it felt forced. I know it sounds dumb because it's magic, but as the story progressed it was less noticeable and fit better with the story (if that makes sense).
I adored Iris. She is funny, bubbly, sensitive, smart, and relatable. I related to her more than I wanted to. Iris loves big, has big emotions, and gets hurt, you guessed it, big. She feels like she is too much (because she's been told that).
Matteo struggles with his grief and doesn't want to love again, so he basically pushes people as far away as he can. Except Iris has no concept of boundaries and before he's even aware, she is breaking down his defenses.
Read for:
🗞 magical newspaper
🗞grumpy/sunshine
🗞Chef Cupid
🗞Pop Tart Princess
🗞Iris's complete abandonment when eating
🗞found family
🗞witty banter
🗞 super sweet romance
🗞 family dinner
🗞square dancing
potential triggers: death of a spouse (in the past), light magical elements, grief,
March 1, 2025
As you may know I’m a huge Courtney Walsh fan! So when she shared she was writing a series with a group of authors with a dash of magical realism that takes place in a historic apartment building… I could not wait to get my hands on a copy!
Having just finished up the first in the Only Magic in the Building series…The Serendipity by Emma St Clair… I could not wait to be back at the vintage establishment with a new set of residence/characters. The transition was perfect and I have to say these do not need to be read in order and are brilliant as just stand alones…but I guarantee your heart will be swept up in the magic of it all and you will want more.
In The Cupid Chronicles you meet Iris an art teacher as well as a new tenant at The Serendipity… who is wanting a fresh start. One day she leaves for work and finds her neighbors paper outside her front door. She goes to return it and is meant by handsome yet grumpy chef named Matteo. He has no time for Iris nor the “magical newspaper” that he is ready to be rid of in his life… eventually these two find themselves playing Cupid together.
This is a new favorite for me of Courtney’s. The magical realism element she nailed! It gave me Seven Year Slip vibes which is one of my absolute favorite books. I’m always excited to see what professions she picks for her characters and I loved that Iris is an Art Teacher, her characters apartment reflects this and I loved the things she keeps and shares about. Matteo is a chef, and the food writing is mouth watering from authentic Italian food to the best description of how French toast should be prepared… have ingredients on hand I guarantee you will want to recreate.
The side characters I adored… Winnie 🫶🏼… really so many good ones. You will find all the characters are living very real lives and the happiness and hope Courtney brings to them is truly special.
Thank you Courtney Walsh 📖
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
Having just finished up the first in the Only Magic in the Building series…The Serendipity by Emma St Clair… I could not wait to be back at the vintage establishment with a new set of residence/characters. The transition was perfect and I have to say these do not need to be read in order and are brilliant as just stand alones…but I guarantee your heart will be swept up in the magic of it all and you will want more.
In The Cupid Chronicles you meet Iris an art teacher as well as a new tenant at The Serendipity… who is wanting a fresh start. One day she leaves for work and finds her neighbors paper outside her front door. She goes to return it and is meant by handsome yet grumpy chef named Matteo. He has no time for Iris nor the “magical newspaper” that he is ready to be rid of in his life… eventually these two find themselves playing Cupid together.
This is a new favorite for me of Courtney’s. The magical realism element she nailed! It gave me Seven Year Slip vibes which is one of my absolute favorite books. I’m always excited to see what professions she picks for her characters and I loved that Iris is an Art Teacher, her characters apartment reflects this and I loved the things she keeps and shares about. Matteo is a chef, and the food writing is mouth watering from authentic Italian food to the best description of how French toast should be prepared… have ingredients on hand I guarantee you will want to recreate.
The side characters I adored… Winnie 🫶🏼… really so many good ones. You will find all the characters are living very real lives and the happiness and hope Courtney brings to them is truly special.
Thank you Courtney Walsh 📖
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
March 17, 2025
‘I’d heard rumblings of magic in the building, but those are just silly superstitions, right?’
Some love stories are written… this one is magically delivered. ✨📖💘
The Cupid Chronicles by Courtney Walsh is officially here, and trust me—you do NOT want to miss the fun, whimsy, and romance packed into this delightful story!
Iris Ellington isn’t looking for love (for real this time). New town, new job, no falling for the first cute guy she sees. But fate—or a certain matchmaking newspaper—has other plans. When she crosses paths with Matteo Morgan, a grumpy chef who’s been unwillingly playing Cupid thanks to The Serendipity’s magical meddling, she’s pulled into a whirlwind of unexpected romance, absurd matchmaking schemes, and undeniable sparks.
If you love a little serendipity with your romance, this book checks all the right boxes! Forced proximity? ✔️ Opposites attract? ✔️ Found family? ✔️ And let’s just say… you may never look at frozen pizza and Pop-Tarts the same way again! 🍕🚫👨🍳
Courtney Walsh’s signature charm shines in this heartwarming, laugh-out-loud romcom, and I adored every moment inside The Serendipity. Plus, this is just one book in a multi-author series, so there’s plenty more magic to come!
This book is available today-link in stories!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content/Trigger: death of a loved one/grief, parent abandonment, romance-kisses only.
Some love stories are written… this one is magically delivered. ✨📖💘
The Cupid Chronicles by Courtney Walsh is officially here, and trust me—you do NOT want to miss the fun, whimsy, and romance packed into this delightful story!
Iris Ellington isn’t looking for love (for real this time). New town, new job, no falling for the first cute guy she sees. But fate—or a certain matchmaking newspaper—has other plans. When she crosses paths with Matteo Morgan, a grumpy chef who’s been unwillingly playing Cupid thanks to The Serendipity’s magical meddling, she’s pulled into a whirlwind of unexpected romance, absurd matchmaking schemes, and undeniable sparks.
If you love a little serendipity with your romance, this book checks all the right boxes! Forced proximity? ✔️ Opposites attract? ✔️ Found family? ✔️ And let’s just say… you may never look at frozen pizza and Pop-Tarts the same way again! 🍕🚫👨🍳
Courtney Walsh’s signature charm shines in this heartwarming, laugh-out-loud romcom, and I adored every moment inside The Serendipity. Plus, this is just one book in a multi-author series, so there’s plenty more magic to come!
This book is available today-link in stories!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content/Trigger: death of a loved one/grief, parent abandonment, romance-kisses only.
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