Spellbound Beneath Sapphire Skies: A Cozy Fantasy Novella

by Amber Leigh Larrain

Willow is floundering in New York City. She lost her job, her boyfriend, and her way. When she hears that her dear aunt has passed, it is almost too much to bear. But with the loss comes an unexpected chance to change her life. Her aunt has made her acting manager of a mysterious bookshop within the Sapphire Forest, which she soon discovers is full of enchantments.

Mythical creatures of every kind inhabit the town. Playful books with a mind of their own find the reader who best fits them. No one is lost as magical pathways appear leading those where they need to go.

Willow is not a reader, and unlike everyone else in town she has no magical abilities. Though she feels out of place and unfit for the job, love for her aunt leads her to try. As she attempts this temporary role something awakens inside her, and it's more than just a love of books. She finds friendship, comforting moments, and confidence. More importantly, she may even find herself. But can she overcome feeling like she has nothing to offer such a special place?

Spellbound Beneath Sapphire Skies is a new cozy fantasy story and first in the Sapphire Forest Series.

Genres: Cozy Fantasy

88 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 18, 2025

Reviews

[Leann (TheBiblioTourist) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute cozy story involving a magical setting, a inherited bookshop, budding friendships, and a sense of belonging. I wish it was more than just a novella.

[Chasing Silhouettes · Rating 4 out of 5]

"You can't see the stars until you free yourself of the trees."

2 hours 10 mins
Audiobook Review

Cozy Fantasy Novella

"It’s decided it was meant to be read by you. That book will change something within you."

This is such a cute, cozy read. Willow had no direction in life, she though herself to be a failure. Through a magical bookshop and colorful characters, her eyes are opened to a whole new world... and purpose. She finds herself and a family, working through grief whilst helping those within the community. It is a heartwarming story of discovery and unleashing the magic within one's self.

"Sometimes we need a little guidance to see that in fact we can do anything on our own.... You just need to be open to succeeding."

Audiobook courtesy of author via IG Giveaway.

[Dawn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very good book. I felt like I was part of the story. loved it!

[Jessica Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first page, Spellbound Beneath Sapphire Skies had me completely hooked. There’s a magic in its words that felt instantly relatable like the author somehow cracked open a window into my own heart. I was only a couple of pages in before I found myself crying my eyeballs out... in the best, most cathartic way.

The story effortlessly balances emotional depth with joy. Between the giggle worthy moments and the tear streaked ones, there’s a rhythm that pulls you along like a familiar lullaby. It swept me back to the cozy nostalgia of movies like Halloweentown, Twitches, and Hocus Pocus. That warm, whimsical fall magic we all secretly crave.

What really stood out to me was the sensitive, accurate representation of anxiety and panic disorder. It wasn’t romanticized or glossed over; it was real. And that mattered. As someone who’s experienced similar struggles, seeing that part of myself on the page felt affirming and healing.

Speaking of healing, this book is packed with inner child restoration. It made me want to wrap my younger self in a cozy scarf, serve her a cinnamon roll made by a centaur, and tell her everything was going to be okay. And the fall aesthetic? Absolutely gorgeous. I swear I could smell the crisp leaves and cinnamon, and I half expected Siri to start playing Taylor Swift’s Red album every time I turned the page.

There’s also this beautiful thread of empath representation. Finally, a character who feels everything and isn’t shamed for it. Watching the journey of self discovery unfold was empowering and tender and just... soul soothing.

And the ending? Perfectly happy, without feeling rushed. But still, somehow, I was left wanting more… in that aching way you feel when you know a book has carved out a space in your soul.

[Dana Sessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amber Leigh Larrain has written a wonderfully, magical book! It most definitely fits its description as a cozy fantasy. Her writing is done very well, bringing the story's characters to life and inviting the reader in. As I was reading, it was as though I was also a patron of the book store and could feel the magic around me. Willow is very relatable and you can't help but to route for her. I highly recommend this book! I look forward to reading more of Amber Leigh Larrain!

[Laila]

ENG
Spellbound Beneath Sapphire Skies is, in my opinion, a kind of palate cleanser. I read this (very short) book after finishing a rather intense thriller, and it was really wonderful to be able to go to sleep without having a nightmare afterward.
A girl has to take care of her aunt's magical bookstore and, in the process, she learns to see life and herself through different eyes. The story is simple and sweet. I liked how it touched on the subject of grief at one point and how easy it was to read. It did feel a bit repetitive at times, I do have to say.
The cozy fantasy genre is something I find difficult to get into, but it's through this story that I can see its appeal: sometimes we need something that is pure comfort, that gives us something nice and sweet to disconnect from everything, and this book achieves that.
I highly recommend it if you want something short and cozy to pass the time or unwind.

Thank you, Amber Leigh Larrain, for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

ESP
Spellbound Beneath Sapphire Skies es en mi opinión es una especie de limpia paladares. Este libro (super cortito) lo leí luego de terminar un thriller bastante fuerte y fue realmente maravilloso para poder irme a dormir sin terminar teniendo pesadillas.
Una chica le toca cuidar de la librería mágica de su tía y en el medio va a ir aprendiendo a ver a la vida y a ella misma con ojos distintos. La historia es sencilla y tierna, me gustó como toco el tema del duelo en un momento y lo ligero que fue para leerse. Lo que si debo decir que a veces se sentía un poco repetitivo.
El genero cozy es algo que me cuesta adentrarme pero es a través de esta historia que puedo ver el appeal: a veces necesitamos algo que sea puro comfort, que nos de algo lindo y dulce para desconectar de todo y este libro lo logra.
La recomiendo mucho si quieren algo cortito, acogedor para pasar el rato o descomprimir.

Gracias Amber Leigh Larrain por otorgarme una copia de este libro a cambio de una reseña honesta

[Amanda]

A very cute and cozy novella following Willow, a woman who unexpectedly finds herself managing a magical bookshop in a whimsical town tucked inside the enchanting Sapphire Forest. Though she starts off disoriented and unsure of her place, Willow slowly discovers that she does belong even though she doesn’t possess any magic. Surrounded by animated books, mythical creatures, supportive townsfolk, she begins to thrive (as anyone would when surrounded by books and pastries!). Despite feeling like an outsider, she manages to help the town, build genuine connections, and create a sense of found family. This story is a delightful glimpse into the world of the Sapphire Forest, I’d love to see even more depth from the side characters in future installments. Pros: A magical, comforting read and a perfect start to what promises to be a charming series. Con’s: Will have you craving pastries, hearty fire, and a cozy blanket. Thank you to Amber Leigh Larrain for the ARC, all opinions are my own.

[Chelbie Lane · Rating 4 out of 5]

A magical story of self discovery and overcoming the struggle of finding your place in the world.

This powerful little novella touched on mental health and self worth. Our FMC, Willow, was lost in her journey through life in NYC. Not feeling fulfilled, barely making ends meet and completely alone having just lost her last relative, aunt Tilly.

To Willow’s surprise, she is thrust into a new world and has to decide if this new life is what she’s been yearning for.

This novella was nothing short of wholesome. There was a found family microtrope, a coming of age feel and characters that were so relatable & very easy to love.

If you want a feel good, quick novella- this story is for you!🖤

[Kit · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first time I’ve done an ARC read, and what a delightful experience! This is the type of book I’d curl up with a cup of tea and a cozy blanket on a rainy day, and was excellent brain floss when I was feeling overwhelmed myself. The author perfectly captures what it feels like to have anxiety and not feel like you belong, and even touches on grief and loss as well. I hope there will be more in the series, because I fell in love with the characters, and I would love to read more of their adventures

[Kellie- SpicedTeaandChapters · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a sweet and heartwarming story, full of magical creatures, found family, and a fast-paced plot that kept me turning the pages.

I really enjoyed Willow as the female main character. She was so relatable in so many ways. And Faeble? Absolutely, the kind of friend everyone needs in their life. The rest of the characters were just as charming, making the world feel cozy and full of life.

There were a few moments where the story felt a little lighter on detail or the flow shifted, but when everything clicked, it flowed beautifully and pulled me right back in.

Overall, this was such a lovely and magical read, and I’m definitely looking forward to reading more in this series and spending more time with these characters.

[Akhila · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spellbound Beneath Sapphire Skies was such a delightful and heartwarming short read!
I especially loved the magical little surprises woven throughout the story, Willow’s charming bookshop, and her journey toward believing in her own success. This novella felt like a warm hug, comforting and delicious, like a freshly baked cinnamon roll. It has all the things I love: found family vibes, genuine friendships, and magic sprinkled throughout.The language is simple, the world-building isn’t overly complicated, and yet it still pulls you right into its spellbinding atmosphere.🧚🏼‍♀️🦄🪄

I only wish it had been a full length novel so I could have lingered in its enchanting world just a bit longer.✨😢🧙‍♀️

[Brandy Pompey · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ Spellbound Beneath Sapphire Skies ✨
by Amber Larrain
This novella was an absolute delight—magical creatures, a cozy little bookstore, and a main character who felt so deeply relatable. Reading it was like wrapping myself in a knitted blanket with a warm cup of tea, while wandering through the enchanting Sapphire Forest.
Amber Larrain captured the weight of depression, anxiety, and impostor syndrome with such authenticity, while also offering comfort, hope, and a gentle reminder that healing is possible. The metaphor for grief was written so beautifully that I felt truly seen in ways I didn’t expect.
Even though it’s short, the story lingered long after the final page. Like the books waiting in that magical shop, this novella was exactly what I needed in my life right now. I can only hope the author takes us back one day—for deeper adventures, new friendships, and (naturally) more books and tea. 💙

[Natasha sebuwufu · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

I don’t usually pick up novellas, but when I heard the synopsis for Spellbound Beneath Sapphire Skies by Amber Leigh Larrain, I knew I had to apply for the ARC—and I’m so glad I did.

This cozy fantasy is full of enchantment, magical creatures, and the dreamiest little bookshop nestled in a magical forest. Despite its short length, it touches on meaningful themes like grief, anxiety, and imposter syndrome in such an authentic and heartfelt way. The way these topics were woven into the story felt comforting, hopeful, and incredibly relatable.

It’s the perfect feel-good read to curl up with in your favorite reading nook, cup of tea (or coffee!) in hand, and let yourself be carried away by a magical, heartwarming tale.

If you love found family, whimsical settings, and cozy stories that leave you smiling, this one’s for you. 💫✨

[Ciara Hartman · Rating 3 out of 5]

So I had mixed feelings about this novella, but I am taking into consideration that this is the authors first time writing this genre, as what she’s written before has been psychological thrillers (which I have yet to read).

I loved the adorable book cover and the title, the blurb made it sound very appealing as well. Once I began reading, I did enjoy the letters from her deceased aunt and how they magically appeared. I also LOVED the idea of a cozy bookshop that appears small from the outside but is huge inside, with each room featuring a different genre!! 😍 And a little bakery/cafe inside the bookshop!

What I wasn’t so keen on was my confusion over the FMC’s response to magical events & creatures, because it seemed at first that the FMC was ignorant to magic and magical beings… but then her reactions to them once they appeared, was almost immediately accepting, as if it wasn’t weird. That didn’t make much sense to me. Also, I understand it’s a novella and therefore expect it to be faster paced, but I felt that this story needed more depth to really understand and connect with the characters. Many parts also seemed pieced together instead of flowing naturally from one scene to the next.

So as I said, mixed feelings on this one. Loved the overall idea, but felt it could’ve been executed better. Perhaps when book 2 releases in 2026, it’ll have more depth and insight into the characters as well as world building.

My Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3/5

Some Quotes I Enjoyed 👇

“… they realized that while being alone had its perks, being with someone who understood you made the world seem a little bit more perfect.”

“Your magic is in how you make everyone feel. You make people feel included, appreciated, and seen.”

- Third person POV
- Magical bookshop
- Each room is a genre!
- Panic attack
- Low self-esteem/self-deprecation
- Loss of loved ones
- Mythical creatures
- Books, pastries & tea
- Non book lover in charge of a bookshop…
- Mention of school bullying
- Minor arguments

[Joansie · Rating 4 out of 5]

✨ 4.5 STARS ✨

Spellbound Beneath Sapphire Skies was the warmest hug I didn’t want to let go of. From the very first page, I was completely 'spellbound', drawn into a world that felt both magical and comfortingly familiar. As a lover of novellas, I read it in a single sitting, though I found myself wishing for at least an extra 50–70 pages or so. So much unfolded within these few short pages, grappling themes of belonging and the tender exploration of anxiety, which caused me to long for just a little more time to grow closer to the characters and their journeys.

The story wrapped me in a cosy, whimsical charm that felt like Sabrina the Teenage Witch meets the enchanting softness of Practical Magic. I adored the way it introduced an array of mythical creatures, each brief encounter leaving ripples of hope and kindness, like the sweet schoolboy who found confidence through a simple, heartfelt job opportunity. These small, magical moments made the world shimmer with possibility.

The writing itself was steeped in creative, vivid imagery, every scene glowing with colour and texture. And for lovers of all things cosy, it offered everything one could hope for: the scent of freshly baked goods, the comfort of hot tea, the sanctuary of a little bookstore, and the healing power of stories and new connections. Gentle, whimsical, and quietly transformative, Spellbound Beneath Sapphire Skies is a book that lingers like the warmth of a hug held close even after the arms have loosened. I hope to receive many more installments one day! (*hint!*)

Note: I would recommend to anyone who is a lover of The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches (cosy/found family) and The Tea Dragon Society (quick read, friendship, discovery and honoring the past).

[Tina A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

💫Spellbound Beneath a Sapphire Sky💫, by Amber Leigh Larrain, is a magical story of healing and friendship I didn’t know I needed! It’s set in a wondrous, delightful, imaginative world where you’ll find mythical creatures frequenting a magical village bookstore.

After Willow’s only living relative passes, she hesitantly agrees to fulfill her aunt’s dying wish which is to run the bookstore her aunt left behind, just until its sale is sorted.

But there are more important things that Willow needs to work through as she anxiously counts the days when she can return to New York. Will her brief stay allow for healing and self-discovery while simultaneously trying to help members of the community who feel as lost as she does?

The imagery that Amber Leigh Larrain creates is fantastical and vividly colorful, and character interactions are so super sweet!!! You’ll find memorable passages that’ll resonate in your heart long after you’ve finished it. If you want to experience the magical splendor of walking through an enchanted forest, or the heartwarming feeling of newfound friends and community and happily ever afters, this truly is for you!

It’s best read with a cozy blanket and a warm cup of aromatic tea or coffee!
✨☕️ 🫖 📖 🛋️🕯️✨

[Lisa Baker-Elliott · Rating 5 out of 5]

#bookreview
Spellbound Beneath the Sapphire Skies
by Amber Leigh Larrain
4.75 ⭐️

OH MY GOODNESS! This is the sweetest, coziest, most magical novella I’ve ever read! This is the introduction to Sapphire Forrest series…. And it is wonderful in every way!

*May contain unintended spoilers!*

Willow is a young lady living in New York…. but she just hasn’t quite found her “spot” in the world. She is at a point in her life where she seems to truly be lost …… when suddenly and unexpectedly she becomes the manager of a magical bookstore in the Sapphire Forrest! And when I say magical…. I mean enchanted books, mythical creatures, and magical abilities EVERYWHERE! (Yes…. There’s a baby dragon!!)

I fell in love with the characters in the Sapphire Forrest and the way they interact amongst themselves. They help each other through loss, love, grief and new friendships in heartwarming ways. (Appropriate for my children ages 10 & 12…. As well as all my family & friends ages 10-100!)

This is a feel good all over kind of story that leaves you ready to learn more about the inhabitants of the Sapphire Forrest. I recommend this to anyone who has a couple of hours to read pure coziness….. grab your warm (or cold) drink and get lost in this novella! I do not think you’ll be sorry.

[Kate · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spellbound Beneath Sapphire Skies
4 ⭐️


✨ARC Review ✨

This cozy themes little novella is not something I would usually pick up but the blurb captured my attention so I knew I had to apply for the ARC and I’m so glad I got chosen for the read.

Our story is about Willow who ends up taking care of her aunts bookstore that is located in a little magical town outside the Sapphire Forest. Though Willow doesn’t have any magical powers of her own, she finds awe own found family and build connections with the community around her. I really appreciate how the author touches on feeling like an outcast and the anxiety that comes with it. I fell in love with all the characters and I really hope we get more adventures from the Sapphire Forrest in the future!

This novella took roughly two hours to reed and is the perfect book to curl up with on a cozy autumn day, or use this novella as a palate cleanser between reads.


Thank you so much to Amber Leigh Larrain for the ARC 🖤 I will be will be on the lookout for future books 🖤

[L.M. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Spellbound beneath Sapphire Skies by Amber Leigh Larrain was a truly delightful read from the very beginning. It carried a warmth that made me want to keep turning the pages, while filling me with a sense of wonder at the mythical creatures that appeared along the way.

I especially connected with Willow, the main character, as she struggles with anxiety. Her experiences felt so real and relatable for anyone who has ever carried those feelings. The fantasy world of Sapphire Forest was just as memorable. Magical and inviting, it drew me in and made me feel like I was part of the family.

At its heart, Spellbound beneath Sapphire Skies is about love, friendship, and finding where you belong. A story that will stay with you long after the last page.

[Diana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Willow is left in charge of her aunt’s bookstore. Her aunt recently passed away and needs someone to look over the shop for two weeks. This was a super cute and cozy quick read. Absolutely loved the magical bookshop. I also loved how the books will call out to you and can sense what each reader needs. All the magical creatures are super sweet as well. Everyone is so friendly and welcoming. This book does a great job touching on topics of grief and mental health. Willow has imposter syndrome and she slowly overcomes this during her time running the bookshop. I saw the twist at the end coming and was very happy with the outcome.
I did receive an arc from the author. This is my honest review.

[Nicole Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is such a cute little heart warming novella! I would say it’s a pallet cleanser really.. it was nice to be able to read something shorter and sweet after a lot of heavier topics and series I’ve been constantly reading lately! It touches on grief a little bit and then mostly on finding ones self. It actually resonates with me a little too even though I don’t live in a magical world lol! But it was definitely a fun cute read! I flew through it..! Definitely recommend reading it if you like heart warming novellas!


Thank you Amber Leigh Lorrain for the ARC in exchange for this honest review! I can’t wait to see what other work you come up with in the future :-)

[Jamie Brandenburg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is a heartwarming tale about finding yourself right where you're meant to be. Willow's life may be falling apart, but her late aunt's enchanted bookshop in the Sapphire Forest gives her a second chance and the touch of magic she never expected.

I absolutely loved watching Willow's journey from self doubt to self discovery. Though she believes she has nothing to offer this magical town, she slowly finds confidence, friendship, and a renewed sense of purpose among the whimsical residents. The story balances humor and warmth, and I laughed several times, falling in love with every single character.

[Amy Brannock · Rating 4 out of 5]

Willow takes over her late aunt's enchanted bookstore in the Sapphire Forest in this charming fantasy novella. With books that pick their readers and a hospitable community of magical creatures all around, the store itself has a life of its own. The narrative has deeper themes of mourning, mental health, and overcoming anxieties, but it is also light, entertaining, and whimsical, making it ideal for a quick, feel-good read. This is a touching and significant book because readers focus on Willow's path from feeling lost and unsure to discovering confidence and belonging.

[Leta Hawk · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an absolutely enchanting, uplifting read! Willow was a very relatable, insecure young woman who was having trouble finding herself. When her aunt made her the caretaker of a magical bookstore in a magical forest, the very nonmagical Willow discovered that she had her own sort of magic.
I'm looking forward to buying copies of this book for my classroom library. I suspect there are a few students who could learn something from this beautiful book.

[Arleigh Salerno · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very cute, quick read! looking for something with magic and can be a little inspiring? look no further... seriously.
an inherited bookshop that brings a magical, comforting feeling. Our main character shows up, learning from scratch but is able to find herself as well as a small community of people who care about her.
This book gave me such good feelings. And I definitely found myself wishing I could be a part of this story.

[Pamela Linstad · Rating 4 out of 5]

Spellbound Beneath the Sapphire Skies was such a cozy, charming read. It’s a short, quick story about a girl whose life is falling apart until she receives an unexpected inheritance that takes her to a magical realm. There, she meets a cast of delightful characters and discovers a magical bookstore that feels like a dream. It’s light, heartwarming, and ends happily—exactly the kind of feel-good fantasy that’s perfect for a single sitting.

[Hallie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed being able to read this as an arc. This was definitely a cute little read.

Willow receives a notification that someone in her family has passed away, and she is then able to visit a bookshop and make it her own. She is initially hesitant to move away from New York until she sees the shop and realizes how much she loves it there.

If I could experience this book for the first time again. I would.

[Ashley Lynch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a wonderful cozy fantasy! I loved all of the life lessons wrapped in. The anxiety and panic attacks were described so perfectly. I loved watching the main character grow and find herself and her true definition of peace and happiness. I was hoping for a little romance to blossom between two of the characters haha. Maybe a sequel? ☺️

[Logan Frazier · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic World of Whimsy

This was a fantastic novella that shows that everyone belongs somewhere. It has a feel of "The Pumpkin Spice Cafe" but in a fantasy world. I hope that this is not the only book Amber writes about the Sapphire Forest. I know that I will be reading if she does.

[Sam Blevins · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story was the absolute coziest!  The book read rather quickly, running you through a whirlwind of emotions.  Some tears may have been shed for the three sisters but it was absolutely beautiful and magical.
Sometimes you just need to escape and that's exactly what this author let you do. 
Highly recommended for anyone looking for a cozy magical read with a lot of heart.