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Spellfire
Not yet published
Expected 11 Aug 26Luna swore she would never go back to Grimoire High School. Now, she’s a successful witch with her own line of spellbooks, and she has no need to return to the small town she grew up in.
But when her beloved teacher Professor Herringbone passes away, and leaves Luna her prize spellbook library, Luna is forced to return. She’s not planning on staying long, but then she runs into former queen of Grimoire High, Amelia Hexford, now headmistress. When Amelia begs Luna to stay, Luna’s so flustered by the woman, who’s even more beautiful than she remembered, that she accidentally agrees to stay for the semester.
Amelia was always too cool for Luna at school, they barely even spoke. But now, Luna’s stuck in Amelia’s world again, and the staff room is a small place to hide in. As the unlikely pair spend more time together, Luna and Amelia might just find themselves spellbound by something other than magic…
🌶️ Spice!!!
💖Second chance romance
💃 💃Found family
🧙🏻♀️🔮Magical shenanigans
But when her beloved teacher Professor Herringbone passes away, and leaves Luna her prize spellbook library, Luna is forced to return. She’s not planning on staying long, but then she runs into former queen of Grimoire High, Amelia Hexford, now headmistress. When Amelia begs Luna to stay, Luna’s so flustered by the woman, who’s even more beautiful than she remembered, that she accidentally agrees to stay for the semester.
Amelia was always too cool for Luna at school, they barely even spoke. But now, Luna’s stuck in Amelia’s world again, and the staff room is a small place to hide in. As the unlikely pair spend more time together, Luna and Amelia might just find themselves spellbound by something other than magic…
🌶️ Spice!!!
💖Second chance romance
💃 💃Found family
🧙🏻♀️🔮Magical shenanigans
320 pages, Paperback
First published October 23, 2025
35 people are currently reading
658 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
October 30, 2025
3.5 Stars.
This was fun. I had a good time with it. I enjoyed our characters, loved the queer representation as well as the ADHD rep (as an ADHDer myself) ad really liked the atmosphere.
I do think that I've come to the conclusion a personal preference of mine is that I don't like spice in cosy fantasy. Although this isn't advertised as cosy fantasy, it definitely feels like it is. And I just find that spice feels out of place in this setting. It's a personal preference though. But overall, I had a good time with this one.
This was fun. I had a good time with it. I enjoyed our characters, loved the queer representation as well as the ADHD rep (as an ADHDer myself) ad really liked the atmosphere.
I do think that I've come to the conclusion a personal preference of mine is that I don't like spice in cosy fantasy. Although this isn't advertised as cosy fantasy, it definitely feels like it is. And I just find that spice feels out of place in this setting. It's a personal preference though. But overall, I had a good time with this one.
November 4, 2025
This was the least magical witch book I read all year.
If I wanted to spend hours listening to teachers talk about how to better scores and keep teens from cheating by using their phones inside the classroom, I would just... still be a teacher.
The writing style also did it no favors.
Super cute cover tho.
If I wanted to spend hours listening to teachers talk about how to better scores and keep teens from cheating by using their phones inside the classroom, I would just... still be a teacher.
The writing style also did it no favors.
Super cute cover tho.
September 9, 2025
Cute cosy sapphic fantasy! Didn’t really care about the romance but I liked the main character and story
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for the e-arc
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for the e-arc
December 8, 2025
This review is for the audiobook specifically!
I think this book would be better without the romance, but I’m not necessarily against the couple getting together either- it’s just not as interesting as the other things going on and therefore please make sure you’re reading this because the plot sounds interesting and not because you want the romance to sweep you off your feet (they’re very lovely to each other but it’s just not ‘sparks flying’ passion)
As someone who loves to write, wants to teach and has experienced a sense of not quite belonging (although in my case it’s due to being an immigrant which is not quite as cool as being a siren born witch haha) I could relate a lot to the MC and that obviously made her more interesting to me specifically. I did like all the characters in general and thought they felt very real and had very distinct personalities, so I don’t have many complaints. The character growth is a bit limited because the stakes are not super high and the book only spans a 6 month period but it works for the story.
The chemistry between the couple dwindles as the book continues just because they have way more things to do as colleagues and friends and therefore the romance really has to take a backseat- not great for a book marketed primarily as a romance… I think the book would’ve worked without the romance, the non romance plot in this book just doesn’t really work as like a sexy side plot or something that helps the romance grow stronger. Yes the issues at the school ensure that Bryn stays there but the two working together mostly deepens a friendship (that could turn into romance) and does not encourage some sort of steamy romance- which I think the author was trying to go for based on the books description. Disclaimer there are explicit scenes and they are fine scenes but I just felt like this book didn’t need them.
I have to give major credit to the narrator Serena Harley! I really enjoyed how she spoke and thought it suited the characters so well, it really added to the book for me. Because of her great work I will be rating the book 4 stars for now, as I think a great narration really should be considered when rating an audiobook :)
The book itself is more of a 3 star situation
I think this book would be better without the romance, but I’m not necessarily against the couple getting together either- it’s just not as interesting as the other things going on and therefore please make sure you’re reading this because the plot sounds interesting and not because you want the romance to sweep you off your feet (they’re very lovely to each other but it’s just not ‘sparks flying’ passion)
As someone who loves to write, wants to teach and has experienced a sense of not quite belonging (although in my case it’s due to being an immigrant which is not quite as cool as being a siren born witch haha) I could relate a lot to the MC and that obviously made her more interesting to me specifically. I did like all the characters in general and thought they felt very real and had very distinct personalities, so I don’t have many complaints. The character growth is a bit limited because the stakes are not super high and the book only spans a 6 month period but it works for the story.
The chemistry between the couple dwindles as the book continues just because they have way more things to do as colleagues and friends and therefore the romance really has to take a backseat- not great for a book marketed primarily as a romance… I think the book would’ve worked without the romance, the non romance plot in this book just doesn’t really work as like a sexy side plot or something that helps the romance grow stronger. Yes the issues at the school ensure that Bryn stays there but the two working together mostly deepens a friendship (that could turn into romance) and does not encourage some sort of steamy romance- which I think the author was trying to go for based on the books description. Disclaimer there are explicit scenes and they are fine scenes but I just felt like this book didn’t need them.
I have to give major credit to the narrator Serena Harley! I really enjoyed how she spoke and thought it suited the characters so well, it really added to the book for me. Because of her great work I will be rating the book 4 stars for now, as I think a great narration really should be considered when rating an audiobook :)
The book itself is more of a 3 star situation
December 24, 2025
rep: sapphic main relationship, non-binary side character, characters who use she/they pronouns, side character who is non-verbal.
this was very cutesy, it was a cosy romance involving insta love and found family with very low risks. I did enjoy the main relationship, I thought it was cute and fun- with some spicey scenes involved that were handled really well. I liked the side characters and thought they were diverse with good rep.
overall this was a cute read that was quick and easy, not life changing but something low stakes if you need something to go into that won’t be overwhelming or too large to handle
this was very cutesy, it was a cosy romance involving insta love and found family with very low risks. I did enjoy the main relationship, I thought it was cute and fun- with some spicey scenes involved that were handled really well. I liked the side characters and thought they were diverse with good rep.
overall this was a cute read that was quick and easy, not life changing but something low stakes if you need something to go into that won’t be overwhelming or too large to handle
July 7, 2025
I’m giving this 4.5 stars rounded up to 5 stars. This was a fun quick witchy read. This was a great palate cleanser for me between some heavier books. Because of this, I feel like I enjoyed it quite a bit more than I normally would have. I loved the premise, but ultimately it fell a bit flat toward the middle/end of the book. I also found Bryn’s inner thoughts to be a tad much. I didn’t find it to be a big problem until the end with the flattest third act breakup and I lowkey wanted more miscommunication surrounding it which is crazy I know 😅
Thank you to Netgalley for providing this ARC.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing this ARC.
July 20, 2025
Thank you to the author, the publisher and Netgalley for this arc!
The premise of this was sweet and definitely cosy but it ultimately fell flat for me. I found it quite dull, and I didn’t find the relationship between the FMCs very believable, nor did I particularly care about either of them.
The premise of this was sweet and definitely cosy but it ultimately fell flat for me. I found it quite dull, and I didn’t find the relationship between the FMCs very believable, nor did I particularly care about either of them.
November 21, 2025
"She was trying to go into the experiment already having the outcome, which was folly, if nothing else, not to mention completely unscientific. She acknowledged that wanting a guarantee was natural, but refusing to take action without it... Well if she didn't act, she would fail no matter what.""
GENRE: Witchy Fantasy Romance
RATING: 3.5/5 (rounded to 4 in platforms with no quarter stars rating)
FORMAT: eBook Arc
Review:
This was a fun book but it took a while for me to get into it. I enjoyed a lot of elements in it, like the teaching and understanding the magic as it is explained to the students, the forming of the relationships between the MCs and learning how kids (& adults) that come from mixed types of families (sirens & witches...etc.) are impacted by the structure of the magic. I think the main issue is that we don't really dive into a lot of the different elements presented in here and this is more of a story of saving a magical school and changing it from it's old ways to it's new ways.
I think I would have loved to learn more about how being a siren defined MC's experience, what she gathered from her years there and while we do get to see some of what happened, we definitely need a lot more depth into Luna's background and how everything came to be as it is.
I did enjoy getting to see MC's struggling with something for the first time and how strange it is to her that she isn't automatically good at something. This was very relatable for a lot of us ND people who are labelled as gifted and suddenly struggle when life, reality and burnout hit. It was also nice to read about the exploration of finding a career that fits who you are rather than settling for something just because you started it. All in all, this was a good book but could have used a bit more refinement and sharpening to deliver the message and bring more depth into the MCs themselves rather than the magic, the school and the community
Thank you to the Author, Publisher and Netgalley for the eArc in exchange for my honest opinion
August 17, 2025
Received from NetGalley, thanks!
I feel bad giving this a lower star rating, but I just didn't really enjoy this very much. I may have actually gone with a lower rating, except that I know what this author is capable of writing, and it's so much better than this.
This book takes place at a magical school, where our two MCs once attended. One is now the headmistress and the other has come to pick up books that have been bequeathed to her by a beloved professor who has passed away. And as soon as she arrives she is asked to fill in teaching. And, okay, fine, unrealistic, but fine. What didn't work for me was the romance. I didn't buy it, it felt rushed and undeserved. There was also just so much self-doubt and negative thinking, and that got old really quickly.
To be honest, this felt like what a first draft would read like. Sort of disjointed and not very polished. Which is so disappointing when I know how well this author can write, as ze has written some of my absolutely favourite books.
I feel bad giving this a lower star rating, but I just didn't really enjoy this very much. I may have actually gone with a lower rating, except that I know what this author is capable of writing, and it's so much better than this.
This book takes place at a magical school, where our two MCs once attended. One is now the headmistress and the other has come to pick up books that have been bequeathed to her by a beloved professor who has passed away. And as soon as she arrives she is asked to fill in teaching. And, okay, fine, unrealistic, but fine. What didn't work for me was the romance. I didn't buy it, it felt rushed and undeserved. There was also just so much self-doubt and negative thinking, and that got old really quickly.
To be honest, this felt like what a first draft would read like. Sort of disjointed and not very polished. Which is so disappointing when I know how well this author can write, as ze has written some of my absolutely favourite books.
October 25, 2025
would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book
a magical castle
witches
what more could you want....
luna came from a family that had no witches magic in them and she always felt different so when she was enrolled at Grimoire Academy for witches she knew she was in the best place for her
it was also there that she met amelia and she developed a very big crush on her... she was everything that anyone could want or desire ... what she shouldnt have done was write it in her diary where her present girlfriend could see it... so when this so called girlfriend revealed her inner most desires to the whole school luna was mortified and never really recovered from it all
so when she found out she had been summoned back to Grimoire Academy to collect some books she had been left from her favourite teacher she wasnt to happy...after all it had been over 5 years since she had graduated and was a successful writer of spells and witchcraft plus she also didnt want to see amelia who was now headmistress at the academy...
she hoped she could be in and out without seeing amelia at all when she arrived.... yeah that went well.... amelia met her at the door and proceeded to grab her arm and took her for a walk to plead for her help....
something was very wrong at Grimoire Academy and amelia wanted help and that was from luna....
not a bad storyline though i never really found the connection with luna and amelia and there must be more of a back story with amelia though i was cheering in the end for how the storyline panned out...
a magical castle
witches
what more could you want....
luna came from a family that had no witches magic in them and she always felt different so when she was enrolled at Grimoire Academy for witches she knew she was in the best place for her
it was also there that she met amelia and she developed a very big crush on her... she was everything that anyone could want or desire ... what she shouldnt have done was write it in her diary where her present girlfriend could see it... so when this so called girlfriend revealed her inner most desires to the whole school luna was mortified and never really recovered from it all
so when she found out she had been summoned back to Grimoire Academy to collect some books she had been left from her favourite teacher she wasnt to happy...after all it had been over 5 years since she had graduated and was a successful writer of spells and witchcraft plus she also didnt want to see amelia who was now headmistress at the academy...
she hoped she could be in and out without seeing amelia at all when she arrived.... yeah that went well.... amelia met her at the door and proceeded to grab her arm and took her for a walk to plead for her help....
something was very wrong at Grimoire Academy and amelia wanted help and that was from luna....
not a bad storyline though i never really found the connection with luna and amelia and there must be more of a back story with amelia though i was cheering in the end for how the storyline panned out...
November 19, 2025
This doesn't have great reviews overall, but I thought it was a fun, cozy, witchy romantasy with low stakes but with heart and emotion. I found the romance between Bryn and Amelia sweet. They were both overthinking everything but it didn't go too far into that to be annoying. Third act breakups aren't my favorite thing and it felt like there was an obvious solution to the dilemma Bryn was faced with, but that solution didn’t end up happening (Bryn could have remained at the school and written a book that consisted of the students' spells that they'd been working on during her classes. That book would have raised the money the school needed, as well as showing the students that their work and ideas are valuable etc. I was so sure it was heading that way because of the hints about the school funds being depleted and the throwaway line that the school should put out its own spellbooks with the spells that the kids were creating, but nope).
Anyway, that easily-resolved-and-probably-unneccessary third act break up reduced my score a bit. I really enjoyed Spellfire overall but felt like it petered out a little bit in that final quarter rather than picking up pace towards the conclusion.
Randomly, the blurb has the main character's name wrong - Luna is Bryn's sister, and Bryn is the main character. Perhaps Luna and Bryn had their names switched around during an edit, or whoever wrote the blurb just used the wrong name? It's odd that it's wrong on Goodreads, Fable and Storygraph but correct on the retailer listings like Amazon and Waterstones.
Anyway, that easily-resolved-and-probably-unneccessary third act break up reduced my score a bit. I really enjoyed Spellfire overall but felt like it petered out a little bit in that final quarter rather than picking up pace towards the conclusion.
Randomly, the blurb has the main character's name wrong - Luna is Bryn's sister, and Bryn is the main character. Perhaps Luna and Bryn had their names switched around during an edit, or whoever wrote the blurb just used the wrong name? It's odd that it's wrong on Goodreads, Fable and Storygraph but correct on the retailer listings like Amazon and Waterstones.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 9, 2025
I really wanted to love this because I love witchy tales, Sapphic magic stories are so fun, and the cover is just so gorgeous. Sadly, this was quite the chore to get through, and I would have DNF'd if this wasn't an arc.
The main character really grated on my nerves. I'm an anxious gal myself, but the circular, repetitive, stream of consciousness narrative from the main character was really tough to wadethrough as a reader. I don't feel like I know that much about her, despite parts I really wanted to hear more about. Why didn't we hear more about how being a siren impacted her magic? She's supposedly an accomplished spell inventor, but we don't get to see much about her process and creations. I also don't know much about her love interest, whom she immediately falls in intense love with startlingly quickly. Their romance was just not believable and of no substance.
The plot was so focused on the daily grind of running a school, and it wasn't even that specific to magical school issues. I was not invested at all in the conflict, and it also resolved very easily. I think the kernel of the book idea is good, but the execution was poorly done. If you're looking for a quick Sapphic romance with a magic setting, you might like this.
Thank you, Avon Books, for the arc!
The main character really grated on my nerves. I'm an anxious gal myself, but the circular, repetitive, stream of consciousness narrative from the main character was really tough to wadethrough as a reader. I don't feel like I know that much about her, despite parts I really wanted to hear more about. Why didn't we hear more about how being a siren impacted her magic? She's supposedly an accomplished spell inventor, but we don't get to see much about her process and creations. I also don't know much about her love interest, whom she immediately falls in intense love with startlingly quickly. Their romance was just not believable and of no substance.
The plot was so focused on the daily grind of running a school, and it wasn't even that specific to magical school issues. I was not invested at all in the conflict, and it also resolved very easily. I think the kernel of the book idea is good, but the execution was poorly done. If you're looking for a quick Sapphic romance with a magic setting, you might like this.
Thank you, Avon Books, for the arc!
October 21, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for an advanced e-reader copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Spellfire is a sweet and cozy sapphic romance full of small-town charm and a touch of everyday magic. The atmosphere is warm and whimsical which was perfect for me who is a gentle fantasy mixed with slowburn love stories lover. I really enjoyed the cozy vibes and the sense of community throughout the book. That said, the pacing felt a little uneven at times, and I wished for a bit more depth in the relationship development between Bryn and Amelia and world-building. Still, it’s an easy sapphic witchy comforting read.
November 5, 2025
This was cute! SO MUCH of this was about actual methods of teaching, which I found to be fine but I could see annoying some people. I did really enjoy the romance, I liked the communication the two had and when miscommunication arose, it felt realistic both to real life and to this characters. I also really enjoyed the steamy scene--though I wanted more than what we got!! I also really enjoyed the found family vibes with the broader casts and all the sweet moments we got between Bryn and her students! Overall, not a favorite or memorable read, but definitely a fun witchy read that isn't specific to Fall.
October 11, 2025
This was a tough ARC to read- thank you very much Avon for the opportunity! I will say this was not my favorite. The writing felt awkward and stilted, and I couldn’t get into the story or the characters at all. Every scene dragged, the dialogue was weird and unnatural, and it all just came across as clumsy. Honestly, it was hard to get through and kind of painful at times. The most painful part being the “steamy” scenes- the dialogue was cringe, unrealistic, and embarrassing. It was a lot of flat lines like “how naughty,” without anything actually naughty happening at all.
October 28, 2025
This was lovely! I have no idea why it's current GR rating is so low. It was cozy and had good representation: Sapphic main couple, people introducing themselves with their pronouns, calling attention to ableism, and showing examples of neurodiversity in a school setting. (And to me, none of that felt forced, but instead flowed naturally)
I liked that both the main characters were adults (One of them the headmistress, the other one a new teacher at the school), and that it all took place in a school for magic users. I loved both the central romance, and seeing how the school staff dealt with inequalities and learning difficulties at school, showing how schools often don't take into account the different backgrounds and individual needs of their students.
The romance itself focused a lot on being cute, and there were only two detailed sex scenes in the book, which suited me well.
I feel like the story in general was very well rounded. It did what it set out to do, and it was a cozy ride. A bit like a sapphic Hallmark movie with some light HP influences thrown in. (Not to worry, this one handled queerness well)
I liked that both the main characters were adults (One of them the headmistress, the other one a new teacher at the school), and that it all took place in a school for magic users. I loved both the central romance, and seeing how the school staff dealt with inequalities and learning difficulties at school, showing how schools often don't take into account the different backgrounds and individual needs of their students.
The romance itself focused a lot on being cute, and there were only two detailed sex scenes in the book, which suited me well.
I feel like the story in general was very well rounded. It did what it set out to do, and it was a cozy ride. A bit like a sapphic Hallmark movie with some light HP influences thrown in. (Not to worry, this one handled queerness well)
October 6, 2025
If you want a quick 📖, cozy 🧣 and fun 😄 read with a bit of spice 🌶️, Spellfire ✨ is a good option! While it’s not perfect 😅, it’s still a good time 🎉 — and you don’t have to think too much about it 🧘♀️💭.
December 15, 2025
This book was just okay; I mean it's lowstakes and the world building was interesting but a bit lacking since this is mainly a romance. I thought the romance was okay. I think overall, I just wanted a bit more out of this story.
October 3, 2025
2 ⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
Spellfire promised a spicy, sapphic, witchy romance at Grimoire Academy, but unfortunately it didn’t quite land for me. The romance itself was sweet, and Bryn was a likable enough protagonist, but I never felt fully invested in her story.
My biggest struggle was with the plot or lack of one. Much of the book focused on the details of teaching and the day-to-day running of the academy, which didn’t really capture my attention.
While the premise had so much potential, the execution left me wanting more. Cute romance, but overall not the magical, intriguing read I was hoping for.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC!
Spellfire promised a spicy, sapphic, witchy romance at Grimoire Academy, but unfortunately it didn’t quite land for me. The romance itself was sweet, and Bryn was a likable enough protagonist, but I never felt fully invested in her story.
My biggest struggle was with the plot or lack of one. Much of the book focused on the details of teaching and the day-to-day running of the academy, which didn’t really capture my attention.
While the premise had so much potential, the execution left me wanting more. Cute romance, but overall not the magical, intriguing read I was hoping for.
November 22, 2025
1/5
i’m sorry but was there some kinda plot hidden somewhere in there??????? i kept thinking and HOPING it would lead to some interesting love story or coming-of-age kind arc but nothing was developed at any point and eventually got so boring to me. the romance was mid, the writing was mid, the characters didn’t even have an arc or personality. everything was just……downright BORING!!!!!
i’m sorry but was there some kinda plot hidden somewhere in there??????? i kept thinking and HOPING it would lead to some interesting love story or coming-of-age kind arc but nothing was developed at any point and eventually got so boring to me. the romance was mid, the writing was mid, the characters didn’t even have an arc or personality. everything was just……downright BORING!!!!!
December 21, 2025
Okay romance. not much fantasy more just school vibes. got cringed the fuck out after they said i love you literally a day after they kissed or something. as grown adults. get a grip
November 12, 2025
Cute fun witchy read
Bryn and Amelia were so cute and freaky together and magical
love them
Bryn and Amelia were so cute and freaky together and magical
love them
September 18, 2025
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
3.5 stars
If you want a quick, cosy and fun read with a bit of spice, Spellfire is a good option. While it's not perfect, it's still a good time and you don't have to think too much about it.
The pacing is quick, covering 6 months in just over 300 pages. The character whose POV we follow isn't annoying and seems to figure things out fairly quickly so keeps things moving.
I did find the main romantic relationship and other characters a bit superficial though. I wanted to know more about the characters as they were interesting and I wanted the relationship to develop more. There were a lot of missed opportunities for more realistic connections that would have made the emotional moments hit harder. I also think the speed with which the main couple said "I love you" was far too unrealistic and could have had way more impact if it was delayed.
The spice was well done, proving once again that cosy vibes and spice so go together. The only thing I didn't really like was the use of the C bomb (this is one of my favourite words) during the sex scene. It was quite jarring and didn't fit with the overall vibes of the book.
All in all, I wanted something cute and easy and this delivered.
3.5 stars
If you want a quick, cosy and fun read with a bit of spice, Spellfire is a good option. While it's not perfect, it's still a good time and you don't have to think too much about it.
The pacing is quick, covering 6 months in just over 300 pages. The character whose POV we follow isn't annoying and seems to figure things out fairly quickly so keeps things moving.
I did find the main romantic relationship and other characters a bit superficial though. I wanted to know more about the characters as they were interesting and I wanted the relationship to develop more. There were a lot of missed opportunities for more realistic connections that would have made the emotional moments hit harder. I also think the speed with which the main couple said "I love you" was far too unrealistic and could have had way more impact if it was delayed.
The spice was well done, proving once again that cosy vibes and spice so go together. The only thing I didn't really like was the use of the C bomb (this is one of my favourite words) during the sex scene. It was quite jarring and didn't fit with the overall vibes of the book.
All in all, I wanted something cute and easy and this delivered.
August 3, 2025
When Bryn Delmar left the Grimoire Academy she had no intention of returning, but when she learns that her favourite teacher, the wonderfully named Professor Herringbone, has died and she is mentioned in her will - well, what's a witch to do? Of course, the fact that her teenage crush Amelia Hexford is now the headmistress made things just a bit awkward, especially as those feelings might be about to return, hotter and heavier than ever! Now a published author, Bryn, is supposed to be researching and writing, but the Academy is in trouble, and when Amelia asks for her help, how can she say no?
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Avon Books UK, but the opinions expressed are my own. This is a quick read, it's spicy in places, the magic is fun, and the fact that Bryn doesn't excel at everything she does made her more likeable. Not my usual reading fare, although I do enjoy a lot of middle grade magic led stories, I'm definitely glad I gave this a try.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Avon Books UK, but the opinions expressed are my own. This is a quick read, it's spicy in places, the magic is fun, and the fact that Bryn doesn't excel at everything she does made her more likeable. Not my usual reading fare, although I do enjoy a lot of middle grade magic led stories, I'm definitely glad I gave this a try.
July 30, 2025
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC of this to review
Spellfire is a cosy sapphic romance set in a fantasy world which manages to stay cosy by keeping the stakes fairly low but just high enough to stay invested/for the reader to feel there's something at stake.
The story revolves around Bryn who is left her favourite teachers spellbooks after her death. When she goes to the school to pack them up she finds that her teenage crush Amelia is the new headmistress of the school and she needs help. As Bryn tries to help the two of them find themselves becoming closer and cute sapphic romance ensues!
I really liked the dynamic between the two main characters Bryn and Amelia and their dancing around enough other unsure of where the boundaries between professional and personal lives should be at first. Their relationship does move quite quickly considering the short span of time the book covers but I think that since they clearly already had the pining/unrequited crush past and also real sapphic relationships do move that fast sometimes (the u-haul jokes exist for a reason) this did still work.
There was also a lot of nice representation in this book outside of the main sapphic romance including non binary characters and ADHD rep which I feel were both done quite well. I also really liked the focus on the struggle of living in a culture you weren't raised in and how what may have always been a normal part of life to someone raised one way can be completely new and sometimes intimidating to someone else.
On paper I probably should have liked this a bit more than I did but I think that with this book I didn't vibe with the writing style too well. It's not particularly descriptive which can feel limiting and definitely impacted my enjoyment of the story. And I think the worst part is that in some parts the description is there, there are some locations that are really well described and I have a clear mental picture of them it just wasn't there as consistently as I would have liked it to be.
I also felt that at times the dialogue stayed a little overly formal/felt stilted. At times this made sense as the main characters are trying to figure out how their relationship should look since they do work together and considering one of them is a headmistress also have a power imbalance/employee employer relationship but I feel that it kept sounding overly formal even after that had passed so I'm guessing its another case of me not meshing so well with the writing style.
Overall I had a good time reading it and I enjoyed that it was a low stakes fantasy romance it was a nice palette cleanser since a lot of my reads tend to not be so light
Spellfire is a cosy sapphic romance set in a fantasy world which manages to stay cosy by keeping the stakes fairly low but just high enough to stay invested/for the reader to feel there's something at stake.
The story revolves around Bryn who is left her favourite teachers spellbooks after her death. When she goes to the school to pack them up she finds that her teenage crush Amelia is the new headmistress of the school and she needs help. As Bryn tries to help the two of them find themselves becoming closer and cute sapphic romance ensues!
I really liked the dynamic between the two main characters Bryn and Amelia and their dancing around enough other unsure of where the boundaries between professional and personal lives should be at first. Their relationship does move quite quickly considering the short span of time the book covers but I think that since they clearly already had the pining/unrequited crush past and also real sapphic relationships do move that fast sometimes (the u-haul jokes exist for a reason) this did still work.
There was also a lot of nice representation in this book outside of the main sapphic romance including non binary characters and ADHD rep which I feel were both done quite well. I also really liked the focus on the struggle of living in a culture you weren't raised in and how what may have always been a normal part of life to someone raised one way can be completely new and sometimes intimidating to someone else.
On paper I probably should have liked this a bit more than I did but I think that with this book I didn't vibe with the writing style too well. It's not particularly descriptive which can feel limiting and definitely impacted my enjoyment of the story. And I think the worst part is that in some parts the description is there, there are some locations that are really well described and I have a clear mental picture of them it just wasn't there as consistently as I would have liked it to be.
I also felt that at times the dialogue stayed a little overly formal/felt stilted. At times this made sense as the main characters are trying to figure out how their relationship should look since they do work together and considering one of them is a headmistress also have a power imbalance/employee employer relationship but I feel that it kept sounding overly formal even after that had passed so I'm guessing its another case of me not meshing so well with the writing style.
Overall I had a good time reading it and I enjoyed that it was a low stakes fantasy romance it was a nice palette cleanser since a lot of my reads tend to not be so light
November 18, 2025
Why is the main characters name wrong on the goodreads description?? Her name is Bryn, Luna is her sister...
A sapphic witchy story of two women reconnecting and getting their second chance while working at the school they both attended?? Absolutely up my street!! Sadly this one just didn't hit home for me.
I loved the premise, I love the witchy magical school full of students all learning their magic and becoming a found family, I loved our MCs wanting so much to help the kids and improve their education and break old traditions, I loved all the representation both from students and teachers, and I even enjoyed the MCs being old classmates that never realised the other had a crush on them back then. I was so sad that the execution didn't really match.
The first 40/50% of this book was honestly a struggle, I even had to break and read another book at one point to get motivation back. The writing was stilted and jumpy making it seem like this was a first draft, or fanfiction as opposed to the finished product. This did get better as the book went on but not by much.
I also really struggled with the constant doubt and questions from both MCs. I get it, I'm an anxious person who always overthinks and expects the worst, but having both characters constantly wonder if the other likes them and going back and forth becomes draining. They would kiss and say they like each other, and then spiral and stumble over every sentence wondering if she actually liked them. And this didn't improve the entire way through, the only conflict between them in the entire book could be solved by two sentences if they actually spoke to each other. I know some people love the miscommunication trope but its not for me, if this even counts when they didn't really communicate it at all.
If it wasn't for the sex scenes I'd have said this book was 100% intended for the younger end of YA readers, though those too were hit and miss, with quotes such as "Her nipples poked out of the light top as if aimed directly at the object of her desire".
Don't let my review put you off though, genuinely it wasn't for me but I expect many people will love it especially with such a sweet premise. I could even see this becoming a series set at the school as the teachers bring the classes together and reform the way the students are taught, as our three main students go through their upper years and graduate etc.
A sapphic witchy story of two women reconnecting and getting their second chance while working at the school they both attended?? Absolutely up my street!! Sadly this one just didn't hit home for me.
I loved the premise, I love the witchy magical school full of students all learning their magic and becoming a found family, I loved our MCs wanting so much to help the kids and improve their education and break old traditions, I loved all the representation both from students and teachers, and I even enjoyed the MCs being old classmates that never realised the other had a crush on them back then. I was so sad that the execution didn't really match.
The first 40/50% of this book was honestly a struggle, I even had to break and read another book at one point to get motivation back. The writing was stilted and jumpy making it seem like this was a first draft, or fanfiction as opposed to the finished product. This did get better as the book went on but not by much.
I also really struggled with the constant doubt and questions from both MCs. I get it, I'm an anxious person who always overthinks and expects the worst, but having both characters constantly wonder if the other likes them and going back and forth becomes draining. They would kiss and say they like each other, and then spiral and stumble over every sentence wondering if she actually liked them. And this didn't improve the entire way through, the only conflict between them in the entire book could be solved by two sentences if they actually spoke to each other. I know some people love the miscommunication trope but its not for me, if this even counts when they didn't really communicate it at all.
If it wasn't for the sex scenes I'd have said this book was 100% intended for the younger end of YA readers, though those too were hit and miss, with quotes such as "Her nipples poked out of the light top as if aimed directly at the object of her desire".
Don't let my review put you off though, genuinely it wasn't for me but I expect many people will love it especially with such a sweet premise. I could even see this becoming a series set at the school as the teachers bring the classes together and reform the way the students are taught, as our three main students go through their upper years and graduate etc.
December 3, 2025
I picked this up as a cute Halloween read, it was far from it. An author and researcher goes back to her old school to claim some books her ex teacher left her in her will. Whilst there, her childhood crush and now headmistress asks her to stay and fulfill the deceased teachers position.
This book was not very good, it was fantasy set in a witch school but felt so unbelievably dull and mundane that the magic may as well not have been there at all.
There is a point in the book where it gets real instalovey between the two main characters seemingly out of nowhere, there is no real tension, and then they are saying I love you.
The book was also laughably trying hard to be progressive but came across as just silly and unnatural:
“You’re not a dunce,” Violet said, enunciating carefully. “You have ADHD. Calling yourself a dunce is actually quite ableist.” He frowned. “It is? Even if it’s what I am?” “Yeah, that’s internally ableist,” they said in an exhausted tone. “Ugh, why don’t you know this?” Another shrug. “Well, anyway, whatever I am, I know why I’m here. I’m here because I don’t do my homework. And I often don’t do my schoolwork either, which really annoys the professors. And I get that, but also, I just can’t make it important in my brain? I want to. I try to make it important. But I just … don’t care. Is that wrong?” He shook his head. “I don’t want them to think that it’s personal. It’s really not. I just—” “Have ADHD,” Violet said again. “Maybe,” he agreed. “I mean, I don’t know. I’m not diagnosed, so I’m not sure you should really be saying that. But it does kind of make sense. I’ve done like 7,000 internet quizzes, and they all come up ADHD.”
It was enjoyable enough, I would never read this again and I wouldn’t recommend it to a single person. I don’t regret picking this up, it was an easy quick read, but that’s about it. It doesn’t handle anything well really. The whole plot is about teaching kids to do well on their exams for the sake of Amelia’s job, then somewhere towards the end the plot shifts towards picking a career over love then deciding that’s not what she wanted actually, then shifts back to the school. It was all a bit of a mess tbh that’s all I have to say.
This book was not very good, it was fantasy set in a witch school but felt so unbelievably dull and mundane that the magic may as well not have been there at all.
There is a point in the book where it gets real instalovey between the two main characters seemingly out of nowhere, there is no real tension, and then they are saying I love you.
The book was also laughably trying hard to be progressive but came across as just silly and unnatural:
“You’re not a dunce,” Violet said, enunciating carefully. “You have ADHD. Calling yourself a dunce is actually quite ableist.” He frowned. “It is? Even if it’s what I am?” “Yeah, that’s internally ableist,” they said in an exhausted tone. “Ugh, why don’t you know this?” Another shrug. “Well, anyway, whatever I am, I know why I’m here. I’m here because I don’t do my homework. And I often don’t do my schoolwork either, which really annoys the professors. And I get that, but also, I just can’t make it important in my brain? I want to. I try to make it important. But I just … don’t care. Is that wrong?” He shook his head. “I don’t want them to think that it’s personal. It’s really not. I just—” “Have ADHD,” Violet said again. “Maybe,” he agreed. “I mean, I don’t know. I’m not diagnosed, so I’m not sure you should really be saying that. But it does kind of make sense. I’ve done like 7,000 internet quizzes, and they all come up ADHD.”
It was enjoyable enough, I would never read this again and I wouldn’t recommend it to a single person. I don’t regret picking this up, it was an easy quick read, but that’s about it. It doesn’t handle anything well really. The whole plot is about teaching kids to do well on their exams for the sake of Amelia’s job, then somewhere towards the end the plot shifts towards picking a career over love then deciding that’s not what she wanted actually, then shifts back to the school. It was all a bit of a mess tbh that’s all I have to say.
August 3, 2025
Spellfire by Agatha Willow is a sapphic witchy story following Bryn, a witch from a family of sirens, who comes into possession of her old professor’s library after her passing. Little did Bryn know that her high school crush, Amelia, is now the headmistress and is desperately looking for a new teacher for Grimoire Academy’s spellcasting classes to take over after the loss of the beloved professor. Bryn is thrust into the role of professor, trying to navigate waiting for her editor to ask for the outline of her second spellcasting novel, helping Amelia keep her job as headmistress despite the governor’s board wanting to replace her, and her feelings for Amelia that truly never left.
Unfortunately for me, this fell flat in a lot of places. I found myself pretty lost in terms of settings, never knowing where exactly the book was taking place, besides the fact that Bryn lives in Denver. I enjoyed a lot of the inner monologue, which if you aren’t a fan of, I would not recommend this book, but I felt that the inner monologue might have taken away from some opportunities to really lay more groundwork for other characters and the rest of the story. There were a couple of different plot lines going with Bryn’s writing, adjusting to becoming a professor, the romance between her and Amelia, and ultimately deciding whether she wanted to be a teacher or not, I wish it was just a little clearer as to which one was the main plot so Bryn’s story felt more linear rather than everywhere all at once.
I’m also not the biggest fan of insta love. While I know that Amelia and Bryn have known each other for years, it still felt like one day they confessed, had sex, and then confessed their love for each other in the span of a few days. However, that being said, I do like their dynamic together, how they are always willing to discuss boundaries with each other so they are both happy and comfortable in their blossoming relationship. The queer and nonbinary representation, as well as the ADHD representation, were wonderful to read. I do hope that this story receives all of its flowers for being so well-cast!
Thank you to Avon UK and NetGalley for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Unfortunately for me, this fell flat in a lot of places. I found myself pretty lost in terms of settings, never knowing where exactly the book was taking place, besides the fact that Bryn lives in Denver. I enjoyed a lot of the inner monologue, which if you aren’t a fan of, I would not recommend this book, but I felt that the inner monologue might have taken away from some opportunities to really lay more groundwork for other characters and the rest of the story. There were a couple of different plot lines going with Bryn’s writing, adjusting to becoming a professor, the romance between her and Amelia, and ultimately deciding whether she wanted to be a teacher or not, I wish it was just a little clearer as to which one was the main plot so Bryn’s story felt more linear rather than everywhere all at once.
I’m also not the biggest fan of insta love. While I know that Amelia and Bryn have known each other for years, it still felt like one day they confessed, had sex, and then confessed their love for each other in the span of a few days. However, that being said, I do like their dynamic together, how they are always willing to discuss boundaries with each other so they are both happy and comfortable in their blossoming relationship. The queer and nonbinary representation, as well as the ADHD representation, were wonderful to read. I do hope that this story receives all of its flowers for being so well-cast!
Thank you to Avon UK and NetGalley for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
August 28, 2025
Spellfire charms with its cozy magic and warm sapphic romance set in a magical academy—perfect for those craving a light, breezy read with whispers of enchantment and second chances. The premise is irresistible: Bryn returns to Grimoire Academy, her alma mater, after inheriting a beloved professor’s spellbook collection. But her reluctant comeback becomes more complicated when she reunites with Amelia—her high school crush and now the headmistress—and is convinced to stay on as a teacher to help save the school.
The book’s strengths lie in its atmosphere and emotional warmth. Many readers have described Spellfire as “a palette cleanser,” a “fun, quick witchy read” with delightful spice and whimsical charm.
The second-chance romance between Bryn and Amelia carries genuine sweetness, and their dynamic—tinged with nostalgia, awkward longing, and playful chemistry—anchors the narrative.
The academy setting itself, with its spellbooks, hidden corners, and tight-knit magical staff, enriches the cozy appeal.
However, as enchanting as the premise is, the execution sometimes feels underdeveloped. The worldbuilding and magic system are often too thin—many readers wished for richer lore, clearer rules of magic, and deeper exploration of the magical world beyond the school halls.
Additionally, some critiques point to a mismatch between the book’s sweeter, cozy tone and moments of rushed pacing—particularly in the romance arc and plot progression.
In short, Spellfire delivers a delightful, comforting read—like reuniting with old friends in a softly lit magical school—but it occasionally stumbles when deeper stakes, more fully-realized worldbuilding, or emotional nuance might have elevated it from pleasant to truly memorable.
Final Thoughts
For readers craving whimsical school magic, sapphic second chances, and gentle romance wrapped in warm academic coziness, Spellfire offers a satisfying escape. It’s a solid three stars—a sweet, enchanting start that hints at so much more potential.
The book’s strengths lie in its atmosphere and emotional warmth. Many readers have described Spellfire as “a palette cleanser,” a “fun, quick witchy read” with delightful spice and whimsical charm.
The second-chance romance between Bryn and Amelia carries genuine sweetness, and their dynamic—tinged with nostalgia, awkward longing, and playful chemistry—anchors the narrative.
The academy setting itself, with its spellbooks, hidden corners, and tight-knit magical staff, enriches the cozy appeal.
However, as enchanting as the premise is, the execution sometimes feels underdeveloped. The worldbuilding and magic system are often too thin—many readers wished for richer lore, clearer rules of magic, and deeper exploration of the magical world beyond the school halls.
Additionally, some critiques point to a mismatch between the book’s sweeter, cozy tone and moments of rushed pacing—particularly in the romance arc and plot progression.
In short, Spellfire delivers a delightful, comforting read—like reuniting with old friends in a softly lit magical school—but it occasionally stumbles when deeper stakes, more fully-realized worldbuilding, or emotional nuance might have elevated it from pleasant to truly memorable.
Final Thoughts
For readers craving whimsical school magic, sapphic second chances, and gentle romance wrapped in warm academic coziness, Spellfire offers a satisfying escape. It’s a solid three stars—a sweet, enchanting start that hints at so much more potential.
July 10, 2025
DNF at 59%
I was so excited for this witchy story, with the beautiful cover by Leni Kauffman and promises of spice and found family, but ultimately I found myself disappointed.
I don't like the writing style, at all. It's simple, pure rambling, the dialogue is mostly unbearable and comes across as completely unnatural and too scripted/over the top obvious.
What do the characters look like? Based on the cover, one is blonde and the other has dark her, but who is who? I assume Amelia is the one in the cape as she's the headmistress, but there are barely any descriptions of the main characters.
There are also references to technology, AI, vaping - it's just too modern for my liking. Mobile phones are one thing, but all the rest just takes me out of the magical place I want to stay in.
The world in general is weird, the magic doesn't seem to contribute anything substantial to the story.
I'm really unclear on where this story is set. I believe it's in the USA as there mentions of California and other US states and cities, then it mentions Welsh - are they in Wales? Are they in the US?
I also just read the most awkward sex scene I've ever come across, and wish I could unread the words my poor eyes were forced to see.
The romance in general is so bland and shallow, these women knew each other back in school and one had a crush on the other, then their feelings just ignite, with no evidence of any substance behind this.
The book deserves maybe 2 stars at this stage, but I just found out the author "doesn't support AI" yet uses it to brainstorm their books?! And decided to post a reel on their Instagram actually saying those words, out loud. So I am absolutely DNFing this right now, and I will not support anyone with this mindset.
*thank you to the publisher for an ARC of this book via NetGalley *
I was so excited for this witchy story, with the beautiful cover by Leni Kauffman and promises of spice and found family, but ultimately I found myself disappointed.
I don't like the writing style, at all. It's simple, pure rambling, the dialogue is mostly unbearable and comes across as completely unnatural and too scripted/over the top obvious.
What do the characters look like? Based on the cover, one is blonde and the other has dark her, but who is who? I assume Amelia is the one in the cape as she's the headmistress, but there are barely any descriptions of the main characters.
There are also references to technology, AI, vaping - it's just too modern for my liking. Mobile phones are one thing, but all the rest just takes me out of the magical place I want to stay in.
The world in general is weird, the magic doesn't seem to contribute anything substantial to the story.
I'm really unclear on where this story is set. I believe it's in the USA as there mentions of California and other US states and cities, then it mentions Welsh - are they in Wales? Are they in the US?
I also just read the most awkward sex scene I've ever come across, and wish I could unread the words my poor eyes were forced to see.
The romance in general is so bland and shallow, these women knew each other back in school and one had a crush on the other, then their feelings just ignite, with no evidence of any substance behind this.
The book deserves maybe 2 stars at this stage, but I just found out the author "doesn't support AI" yet uses it to brainstorm their books?! And decided to post a reel on their Instagram actually saying those words, out loud. So I am absolutely DNFing this right now, and I will not support anyone with this mindset.
*thank you to the publisher for an ARC of this book via NetGalley *
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