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Spells for Life and Death #2
Quiet Spells
Ghosts passed through the cottage sitting on the peak of Townsend Hill like passengers in a train station. Some, Teddy Ingram knew, stayed longer than others.
More than half a year has passed since the disappearance of Gemma Eakley and Teddy Ingram still has no clue as to whether she is alive, dead or something worse. With Gemma's young daughter left in his care Teddy haunts the rural haven of Townsend like one of its many spirits.
But then Aurelia – his beloved ex-rival – returns with the news that her own mother is dead – and a ghost forms from the pages of her farewell to give the would-be lovers a They won’t let me rest.
One coven's efforts to reverse the looming extinction of witches involves resurrecting the dead. Meredith's old coven wants to know what secrets she took with her to the funeral pyre; did she have the key to fixing their botched attempts at necromancy?
From the acclaimed author of Modern Divination comes the dark and magical concluding part of the Spells for Life and Death duology.
More than half a year has passed since the disappearance of Gemma Eakley and Teddy Ingram still has no clue as to whether she is alive, dead or something worse. With Gemma's young daughter left in his care Teddy haunts the rural haven of Townsend like one of its many spirits.
But then Aurelia – his beloved ex-rival – returns with the news that her own mother is dead – and a ghost forms from the pages of her farewell to give the would-be lovers a They won’t let me rest.
One coven's efforts to reverse the looming extinction of witches involves resurrecting the dead. Meredith's old coven wants to know what secrets she took with her to the funeral pyre; did she have the key to fixing their botched attempts at necromancy?
From the acclaimed author of Modern Divination comes the dark and magical concluding part of the Spells for Life and Death duology.
507 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 3, 2026
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2101 people want to read
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November 8, 2023Thank you to the author for sending me a copy of this book!
"Imagine that these paper birds were me and you—I’d have folded us together"
Returning to the world of Modern Divination from a new angle, Agajanian once again takes their readers on a journey of hope, love, and loss. In book two we have: less tea, less academia, and less banter, but more swords, more Catholic guilt, and lots more bird content.
CW: grief, emesis, suicide (past), alcohol consumption, death of mother, dead body, blood & gore, blood magic, violence, abusive parents, religious trauma, character death
"Imagine that these paper birds were me and you—I’d have folded us together"
Returning to the world of Modern Divination from a new angle, Agajanian once again takes their readers on a journey of hope, love, and loss. In book two we have: less tea, less academia, and less banter, but more swords, more Catholic guilt, and lots more bird content.
CW: grief, emesis, suicide (past), alcohol consumption, death of mother, dead body, blood & gore, blood magic, violence, abusive parents, religious trauma, character death
October 2, 2025
Quiet Spells managed to be both quiet and loud in the best of ways.
This is a dark academia urban fantasy set in and around Cambridge.
My rival. My torment. My lover.
In book one we had rivals to lovers done right. In Quiet Spells, we had two characters with dark pasts who fit together so well that they are scared to get too close in case they break it.
Add into that Teddy being a caregiver to the cutest little girl and the past rushing up to haunt them (literally).
If you liked the beautiful, bawl-you-over-with-love prose of book one, you will be fed with this.
Imagine that these paper birds were me and you–I’d have folded us together. With sharper creases.
We have everything to make this an emotionally charged duology: letters, emails, yearning and longing and belonging.
Like, tell me that Teddy never expected to miss, Schwartz’s constant white noise doesn’t hit you right in the feels.
Both characters are made to spiral, to self-destruct. Can they find the quiet with each other?
He knew there was love you could die for and love you could kill for, and both would lead him, sword in hand, to his knees in a plea of devotion.
I loved little Lou. She doesn’t play a big role except to bring everyone together. She needs the support and love of those around her. They have to put away their own grief, anxiety, misgivings in order to make the world seem okay for a child.
Also, as someone who had growing pains, especially with shortened calf muscles, I appreciated the inclusion.
One part that did catch my eye again and again was the switching of names our two main characters call each other. From Teddy, to Theo, to Ingram. From Rory, to Aurelia, to Schwartz. Even at the end when you’d think they would settle on a loving nickname.
I had another minor quibble with a reveal that felt underutilised and too convenient and accepting for the character involved. This book was quite long as it was. I wonder if more had been cut.
The ending also felt very sudden compared to the slow-build of the rest of the book. I know a climax is supposed to go out with a bang, but I felt slightly whiplashed and thus, didn’t feel the emotional connection to the fallout.
The epilogue was lovely.
Physical arc gifted by Tor.
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This is a dark academia urban fantasy set in and around Cambridge.
My rival. My torment. My lover.
In book one we had rivals to lovers done right. In Quiet Spells, we had two characters with dark pasts who fit together so well that they are scared to get too close in case they break it.
Add into that Teddy being a caregiver to the cutest little girl and the past rushing up to haunt them (literally).
If you liked the beautiful, bawl-you-over-with-love prose of book one, you will be fed with this.
Imagine that these paper birds were me and you–I’d have folded us together. With sharper creases.
We have everything to make this an emotionally charged duology: letters, emails, yearning and longing and belonging.
Like, tell me that Teddy never expected to miss, Schwartz’s constant white noise doesn’t hit you right in the feels.
Both characters are made to spiral, to self-destruct. Can they find the quiet with each other?
He knew there was love you could die for and love you could kill for, and both would lead him, sword in hand, to his knees in a plea of devotion.
I loved little Lou. She doesn’t play a big role except to bring everyone together. She needs the support and love of those around her. They have to put away their own grief, anxiety, misgivings in order to make the world seem okay for a child.
Also, as someone who had growing pains, especially with shortened calf muscles, I appreciated the inclusion.
One part that did catch my eye again and again was the switching of names our two main characters call each other. From Teddy, to Theo, to Ingram. From Rory, to Aurelia, to Schwartz. Even at the end when you’d think they would settle on a loving nickname.
I had another minor quibble with a reveal that felt underutilised and too convenient and accepting for the character involved. This book was quite long as it was. I wonder if more had been cut.
The ending also felt very sudden compared to the slow-build of the rest of the book. I know a climax is supposed to go out with a bang, but I felt slightly whiplashed and thus, didn’t feel the emotional connection to the fallout.
The epilogue was lovely.
Physical arc gifted by Tor.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
October 22, 2025
A bitter sweet ending to the conclusion of, perhaps, my new favourite duology.
To say I love these characters doesn’t quite do justice to how I feel. Teddy and Rory are beautiful and timeless characters with a love story that is so delicate, I’d be afraid to touch. Modern Divination gave me yearning and Quiet Spells delivered moments of pure loveliness.
I want to live in Isa Agajanian’s words. Every description and thought was crisp and intentional. Their writing really itches every part of my brain and wraps me up in a blanket. Whether it was moments of high intensity or small quiet scenes, it didn’t matter because the writing in this book is my favourite thing. I want to read every love letter hidden in Rory’s drawer. I want to hear all the private confessions Teddy whispers into Rory’s neck at night. I just want to live forever with these words and characters…
but I can’t because it’s OVER!
The ending was perfect and heartbreaking and I’ll need weeks to recover. I won’t spoil it but how dare you Isa!?! I was not prepared to cry the way I did.
This duology has made me love love. I’m so happy I get to live with this story in my heart for the rest of my life because it’s everything to me.
5/5 ⭐️
Release Date: 22nd January 2026
[ Thankyou my loves @bookbreakuk / @torbooksuk for gifting me an early proof ]
To say I love these characters doesn’t quite do justice to how I feel. Teddy and Rory are beautiful and timeless characters with a love story that is so delicate, I’d be afraid to touch. Modern Divination gave me yearning and Quiet Spells delivered moments of pure loveliness.
I want to live in Isa Agajanian’s words. Every description and thought was crisp and intentional. Their writing really itches every part of my brain and wraps me up in a blanket. Whether it was moments of high intensity or small quiet scenes, it didn’t matter because the writing in this book is my favourite thing. I want to read every love letter hidden in Rory’s drawer. I want to hear all the private confessions Teddy whispers into Rory’s neck at night. I just want to live forever with these words and characters…
but I can’t because it’s OVER!
The ending was perfect and heartbreaking and I’ll need weeks to recover. I won’t spoil it but how dare you Isa!?! I was not prepared to cry the way I did.
This duology has made me love love. I’m so happy I get to live with this story in my heart for the rest of my life because it’s everything to me.
5/5 ⭐️
Release Date: 22nd January 2026
[ Thankyou my loves @bookbreakuk / @torbooksuk for gifting me an early proof ]
Want to read
November 13, 2025I cannot wait for this bloody book to be released
Want to read
August 4, 2023Want it... Need it... Must have it... Give it to me 🤚🏻
January 25, 2026
oh how I love these characters, this world and the atmosphere surrounding them.
I will say I think this book is more character development over actual plot, yes this is still tied into book one with some main plot points following through and some additional ones- but overall the point of this story was two young people who are tied to one another knowing that they can get through anything this world has to throw at them as long as they can do so together.
It’s seeing how you can be thrown to the ground and kicked but still somehow find the energy to stand and fight for those you hold dear, and how you will break your back to keep them safe.
I thought this book, as the first, was beautifully written and atmospheric with so many emotional elements <3 I truly did adore it
I will say I think this book is more character development over actual plot, yes this is still tied into book one with some main plot points following through and some additional ones- but overall the point of this story was two young people who are tied to one another knowing that they can get through anything this world has to throw at them as long as they can do so together.
It’s seeing how you can be thrown to the ground and kicked but still somehow find the energy to stand and fight for those you hold dear, and how you will break your back to keep them safe.
I thought this book, as the first, was beautifully written and atmospheric with so many emotional elements <3 I truly did adore it
January 20, 2026
slow and somewhat meandering, but with beautiful writing and some of the best yearning ever. overall a solid end to a great duology!
[gifted ARC but all thoughts are my own!]
[gifted ARC but all thoughts are my own!]
December 6, 2025
Modern Divination is one of my favorite contemporary fantasy romances, so picking up the sequel was a must for me. Sadly, Quiet Spells didn’t enchant me the way the first book did. It was still an enjoyable reading experience, very beautifully written, and I was happy to be back with Rory and Teddy, but ultimately there were several elements that let me down.
In short, Quiet Spells is a story about people longing for one another, not always able to reconcile what they want with what they are obligated to do. It is about emotions that are not easy for either Aurelia or Theodore to express. I knew it was not going to be a fast-paced book (the first one was not either), but the pacing still lost me at times. The first half of the novel felt extremely prolonged. I loved the focus on yearning. Teddy’s and Aurelia’s struggles and internal monologues were beautifully written and emotional, but the amount of effort it took for them to voice their feelings and reach out to one another made me question their character development at the end of book one.
The second half felt more dynamic, with the characters spending more time together, which aligned better with what I expected from this installment. Plot-wise, some elements felt a bit too convenient, especially toward the end. The ending itself felt quite rushed, though that may be partly because the rest of the book moved so slowly by comparison.
All in all, if you loved the first book, you should definitely pick up the sequel. This might simply be a me thing, and you may end up loving Quiet Spells far more than I did. I still consider this duology a very strong debut and will gladly read more from Isa Agajanian.
Thank you NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
In short, Quiet Spells is a story about people longing for one another, not always able to reconcile what they want with what they are obligated to do. It is about emotions that are not easy for either Aurelia or Theodore to express. I knew it was not going to be a fast-paced book (the first one was not either), but the pacing still lost me at times. The first half of the novel felt extremely prolonged. I loved the focus on yearning. Teddy’s and Aurelia’s struggles and internal monologues were beautifully written and emotional, but the amount of effort it took for them to voice their feelings and reach out to one another made me question their character development at the end of book one.
The second half felt more dynamic, with the characters spending more time together, which aligned better with what I expected from this installment. Plot-wise, some elements felt a bit too convenient, especially toward the end. The ending itself felt quite rushed, though that may be partly because the rest of the book moved so slowly by comparison.
All in all, if you loved the first book, you should definitely pick up the sequel. This might simply be a me thing, and you may end up loving Quiet Spells far more than I did. I still consider this duology a very strong debut and will gladly read more from Isa Agajanian.
Thank you NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Want to read
July 18, 2025I am confused... is this out?????
Hello?????
Hello?????
January 26, 2026
Title: Quiet Spells
Author: Isabel Agajanian
Synopsis: Ghosts passed through the cottage sitting on the peak of Townsend Hill like passengers in a train station. Some, Teddy Ingram knew, stayed longer than others.
More than half a year has passed since the disappearance of Gemma Eakley and Teddy Ingram still has no clue as to whether she is alive, dead or something worse. With Gemma's young daughter left in his care Teddy haunts the rural haven of Townsend like one of its many spirits.
But then Aurelia – his beloved ex-rival – returns with the news that her own mother is dead – and a ghost forms from the pages of her farewell to give the would-be lovers a They won’t let me rest.
One coven's efforts to reverse the looming extinction of witches involves resurrecting the dead. Meredith's old coven wants to know what secrets she took with her to the funeral pyre; did she have the key to fixing their botched attempts at necromancy?
Review: This sequel has exceeded my expectations! I’ll admit when I read a book and it has a sequel or multiple sequel they don’t always live up to the greatness of the first book! However, this was even better and I left this book feeling so joyous where the characters ended up! I have grown to love and cherish them as if they were my closest of friends! I would kill to read every single love letter that Rory has! When I reached the ending I stared at my walls and couldn’t fathom not reading anymore stories or books on them! It was so beautiful and I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect ending to this wonderful story!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book in advance!
Author: Isabel Agajanian
Synopsis: Ghosts passed through the cottage sitting on the peak of Townsend Hill like passengers in a train station. Some, Teddy Ingram knew, stayed longer than others.
More than half a year has passed since the disappearance of Gemma Eakley and Teddy Ingram still has no clue as to whether she is alive, dead or something worse. With Gemma's young daughter left in his care Teddy haunts the rural haven of Townsend like one of its many spirits.
But then Aurelia – his beloved ex-rival – returns with the news that her own mother is dead – and a ghost forms from the pages of her farewell to give the would-be lovers a They won’t let me rest.
One coven's efforts to reverse the looming extinction of witches involves resurrecting the dead. Meredith's old coven wants to know what secrets she took with her to the funeral pyre; did she have the key to fixing their botched attempts at necromancy?
Review: This sequel has exceeded my expectations! I’ll admit when I read a book and it has a sequel or multiple sequel they don’t always live up to the greatness of the first book! However, this was even better and I left this book feeling so joyous where the characters ended up! I have grown to love and cherish them as if they were my closest of friends! I would kill to read every single love letter that Rory has! When I reached the ending I stared at my walls and couldn’t fathom not reading anymore stories or books on them! It was so beautiful and I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect ending to this wonderful story!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read this book in advance!
December 1, 2025
Give me a minute to pick up the pieces of my soul…
Want to read
January 26, 2024can the author send me the arc or just a copy please trust me i need this so bad… also i just think i deserve it im promoting this book so hard PLEASE
February 2, 2026
Thank you to the publishers for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Quiet Spells is the sequel to Modern Divination, which was one of my favourite reads of 2024. Now, I can also say that Quiet Spells is one of my favourite reads of 2026.
This duology is absolutely beautiful and feels special to me as I know it's a series that has come to me at the right time. Excuse the upcoming sappy-ness, but this book is about love in all its forms. The form Agajanian writes especially well about is romantic love. The love between our main characters, Teddy and Aurelia, is something I know I wouldn't have been able to appreciate so much if it wasn't for my own partner in life. I used to be rather cynical about love, but he showed me that it's very much real once you find it. Agajanian perfectly captures these feelings between Teddy and Aurelia, so much so that I sometimes had to pause to savour the words. Their writing is full of heartache, pain and desire, but also indescribable joy, relief and abundant love.
Teddy and Aurelia are one of the most exquisitely written couples I have had the pleasure to read about. There is nothing quite so beautiful as finding a home in another, and this book captures that in all its entirety.
Since this is a sequel, I won't delve into plot elements for this book, but I can again say that I was consistently immersed and the mysteries kept me hooked throughout. The characters truly propell the story forward, and as I have already talked about (a lot), these characters are captivating and worth every second of your time.
The Spells for Life and Death duology at a glance:
🫂Love in all its forms
💔Grief in all its messiness
🏡Cottages in all their cosiness
✨️Magic in all its wonder
🫖And tea. Lots of tea.
A wonderful series.
Quiet Spells is the sequel to Modern Divination, which was one of my favourite reads of 2024. Now, I can also say that Quiet Spells is one of my favourite reads of 2026.
This duology is absolutely beautiful and feels special to me as I know it's a series that has come to me at the right time. Excuse the upcoming sappy-ness, but this book is about love in all its forms. The form Agajanian writes especially well about is romantic love. The love between our main characters, Teddy and Aurelia, is something I know I wouldn't have been able to appreciate so much if it wasn't for my own partner in life. I used to be rather cynical about love, but he showed me that it's very much real once you find it. Agajanian perfectly captures these feelings between Teddy and Aurelia, so much so that I sometimes had to pause to savour the words. Their writing is full of heartache, pain and desire, but also indescribable joy, relief and abundant love.
Teddy and Aurelia are one of the most exquisitely written couples I have had the pleasure to read about. There is nothing quite so beautiful as finding a home in another, and this book captures that in all its entirety.
Since this is a sequel, I won't delve into plot elements for this book, but I can again say that I was consistently immersed and the mysteries kept me hooked throughout. The characters truly propell the story forward, and as I have already talked about (a lot), these characters are captivating and worth every second of your time.
The Spells for Life and Death duology at a glance:
🫂Love in all its forms
💔Grief in all its messiness
🏡Cottages in all their cosiness
✨️Magic in all its wonder
🫖And tea. Lots of tea.
A wonderful series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Actual rating: 4.5/5 stars
This book, this book... I don't know what kind of magic the author possesses, but I loved every single minute of reading it! I can't wait to have a physical copy in my hands so I could highlight my favourite sentences and parts - of which there are many!!
The writing is simply beautiful, and there is meaning, intention behind every word, so you really need to pay attention to be able to fully appreciate the depth of it. It's not necessarily a book you can fly through, because the plot is slower, rather character focused, and while there are action scenes, the feeling of urgency is not really there. But this way, you get to fully appreciate the yearning in every single touch, every single look...
We spend book 2 mainly in Teddy's POV (while book 1 was in Aurelia's), which I didn't expect but it was most welcome! The early chapters already broke my heart completely and I was an emotional mess throughout the book, reading about the struggles they go (and went) through, how their relationships to other characters develop and conclude, but it was so worth it!
I listened to book 1, Modern Divination, on audio in preparation for this ARC, and that was a phenomenal experience! So yes, I will of course have to buy the audiobook of Quiet Spells as well and listen to Kristin's narration, which I fully expect will further elevate the experience.
Overall, this book and this duology became easily one of my most unforgettable reading experiences and the biggest sursprises of 2025. I simply can't wait to be immersed in this world again when I reread both books in 2026.
Thank you to Pan Macmillan/Tor, NetGalley and the author for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
This book, this book... I don't know what kind of magic the author possesses, but I loved every single minute of reading it! I can't wait to have a physical copy in my hands so I could highlight my favourite sentences and parts - of which there are many!!
The writing is simply beautiful, and there is meaning, intention behind every word, so you really need to pay attention to be able to fully appreciate the depth of it. It's not necessarily a book you can fly through, because the plot is slower, rather character focused, and while there are action scenes, the feeling of urgency is not really there. But this way, you get to fully appreciate the yearning in every single touch, every single look...
We spend book 2 mainly in Teddy's POV (while book 1 was in Aurelia's), which I didn't expect but it was most welcome! The early chapters already broke my heart completely and I was an emotional mess throughout the book, reading about the struggles they go (and went) through, how their relationships to other characters develop and conclude, but it was so worth it!
I listened to book 1, Modern Divination, on audio in preparation for this ARC, and that was a phenomenal experience! So yes, I will of course have to buy the audiobook of Quiet Spells as well and listen to Kristin's narration, which I fully expect will further elevate the experience.
Overall, this book and this duology became easily one of my most unforgettable reading experiences and the biggest sursprises of 2025. I simply can't wait to be immersed in this world again when I reread both books in 2026.
Thank you to Pan Macmillan/Tor, NetGalley and the author for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
“My rival. My torment. My lover”
Quiet Spells is the sequel to Modern Divination, following the events of the last book, Teddy Ingram is now living in Townsend, taking care of Louisa after the disappearance of her mother, Gemma. When Aurelia comes back bearing news of her mother’s death that might also link to Gemma’s disappearance, it sets off a chain of events that draw back to Leona Sum and the question of witches and their looming extinction.
I really loved Modern Divination and I was so excited to revisit this world again and to fall in love with Teddy and Aurelia, while there were parts of this book that I did really enjoy (the first third of the book was everything I wanted; from the yearning between the two characters, the push and pull of different responsibilities and paths, the desire for belonging and acceptance, I was so emotionally invested) the rest of the book unfortunately didn’t quite work for me.
I feel like one my biggest issues with this sequel was that we didn’t really have much set-up for the villain arc and confrontation, I kind of wish we got more backstory with Aurelia’s mom, Meredith, and her past with her old coven because I think that would have built up more of a foundation, both plot-wise and emotionally, for the last third of the book as the ending felt a bit rushed and I think I was left was more questions than answers to the how and the why’s of the villain’s actions.
Overall, I did love the prose, and the yearning was immaculate as always between Teddy and Aurelia. I did really appreciate the epilogue and it had me tearing up in the end though, and it was a solid ending for all the characters in a way.
Thank you to Pan Macmillan for the e-arc. All opinions in this review are my own.
Quiet Spells is the sequel to Modern Divination, following the events of the last book, Teddy Ingram is now living in Townsend, taking care of Louisa after the disappearance of her mother, Gemma. When Aurelia comes back bearing news of her mother’s death that might also link to Gemma’s disappearance, it sets off a chain of events that draw back to Leona Sum and the question of witches and their looming extinction.
I really loved Modern Divination and I was so excited to revisit this world again and to fall in love with Teddy and Aurelia, while there were parts of this book that I did really enjoy (the first third of the book was everything I wanted; from the yearning between the two characters, the push and pull of different responsibilities and paths, the desire for belonging and acceptance, I was so emotionally invested) the rest of the book unfortunately didn’t quite work for me.
I feel like one my biggest issues with this sequel was that we didn’t really have much set-up for the villain arc and confrontation, I kind of wish we got more backstory with Aurelia’s mom, Meredith, and her past with her old coven because I think that would have built up more of a foundation, both plot-wise and emotionally, for the last third of the book as the ending felt a bit rushed and I think I was left was more questions than answers to the how and the why’s of the villain’s actions.
Overall, I did love the prose, and the yearning was immaculate as always between Teddy and Aurelia. I did really appreciate the epilogue and it had me tearing up in the end though, and it was a solid ending for all the characters in a way.
Thank you to Pan Macmillan for the e-arc. All opinions in this review are my own.
January 21, 2026
Lovely conclusion that had me crying! 4.5 🌟
I adored Modern Divination, and it really got me interested in more character driven / slower pace books. And this book was a fantastic follow up, with all the same flowy and beautiful prose, and the emotional nature of the writing!
What I loved:
✨ The romance and the yearning! I forgot how much they both yearn! I loved the return to the world through their letters and emails. And how perfectly they just settle into their ‘kind of - relationship’, without it even being discussed. All their little touches, and their emotional bond, really add to it!
🐦⬛ The magical world. I loved seeing more of the magic, especially the ghostly nature of Teddy’s powers! And getting more of a glimpse into Alaric’s world on the council, and Aurelia’s family. It felt like the physical world really grew in this book.
✨ Teddy bloody Ingram! I still love him! Whilst book 1 gave us great insight into Aurelia’s mind and emotional state, this book very much felt like a shift to Teddy. I loved seeing him grapple with his deep emotions. From the guilt with Gemma, what he feels he owes Lou, and his complicated family. There was a lot going on.
🐦⬛ The emotion. And probably one of the most intense relationship elements was Teddy and Alaric, who throughout this book really revealed himself as the true father figure in Teddy’s life, even if Teddy hadn’t quite realised. Which led to all my sobbing!
All in all, a great conclusion. The ending was a tad bittersweet, but the epilogue felt kind of perfect for Teddy and Aurelia. I don’t think they’d have it any other way!
I adored Modern Divination, and it really got me interested in more character driven / slower pace books. And this book was a fantastic follow up, with all the same flowy and beautiful prose, and the emotional nature of the writing!
What I loved:
✨ The romance and the yearning! I forgot how much they both yearn! I loved the return to the world through their letters and emails. And how perfectly they just settle into their ‘kind of - relationship’, without it even being discussed. All their little touches, and their emotional bond, really add to it!
🐦⬛ The magical world. I loved seeing more of the magic, especially the ghostly nature of Teddy’s powers! And getting more of a glimpse into Alaric’s world on the council, and Aurelia’s family. It felt like the physical world really grew in this book.
✨ Teddy bloody Ingram! I still love him! Whilst book 1 gave us great insight into Aurelia’s mind and emotional state, this book very much felt like a shift to Teddy. I loved seeing him grapple with his deep emotions. From the guilt with Gemma, what he feels he owes Lou, and his complicated family. There was a lot going on.
🐦⬛ The emotion. And probably one of the most intense relationship elements was Teddy and Alaric, who throughout this book really revealed himself as the true father figure in Teddy’s life, even if Teddy hadn’t quite realised. Which led to all my sobbing!
All in all, a great conclusion. The ending was a tad bittersweet, but the epilogue felt kind of perfect for Teddy and Aurelia. I don’t think they’d have it any other way!
January 28, 2026
4.5 🌟 rounded to 5
Once again, I am in love with Agajanian’s writing. They know how to make me invested and ready to eat up a book. After reading Modern Divination and loving it, I
was waiting anxiously for a continuation to the story, and I am happy to say that I still love Teddy and Aurelia, possibly even more now, and it was wonderful to see them develop as characters.
This story is delicate and full of loss and grief but also hope and love. It reads at a slow pace however in my opinion the pacing heightens the yearning and even evoques a cosy feeling despite all the things that happen 👀 You see characters coming to terms with their emotions and trying to reconcile those with their own lived experience which has not always been easy. I feel like this sequel was more focused on character development than plot for the most part but I am not mad about it ✨
I love the characters and their personal journeys, Teddy’s care for his loved ones is especially impactful and I am living for all the magic that Quiet Spells gave me!
I don’t want to give too much away as, again, Quiet Spells is a continuation to Modern Divination and I don’t want to spoil it if you haven’t read the first book. But
if you love books with magic, yearning, queer rep, love letters, found family this is the duology for you. ✨
If you need me I will be putting my heart back together and possibly crying in a corner because I need more of Teddy and Aurelia. 🥺
This duology reminded me of Divine Rivals at times so if you liked the Letters of Enchantment series you might want to grab Isa Agajanian’s duology.
Once again, I am in love with Agajanian’s writing. They know how to make me invested and ready to eat up a book. After reading Modern Divination and loving it, I
was waiting anxiously for a continuation to the story, and I am happy to say that I still love Teddy and Aurelia, possibly even more now, and it was wonderful to see them develop as characters.
This story is delicate and full of loss and grief but also hope and love. It reads at a slow pace however in my opinion the pacing heightens the yearning and even evoques a cosy feeling despite all the things that happen 👀 You see characters coming to terms with their emotions and trying to reconcile those with their own lived experience which has not always been easy. I feel like this sequel was more focused on character development than plot for the most part but I am not mad about it ✨
I love the characters and their personal journeys, Teddy’s care for his loved ones is especially impactful and I am living for all the magic that Quiet Spells gave me!
I don’t want to give too much away as, again, Quiet Spells is a continuation to Modern Divination and I don’t want to spoil it if you haven’t read the first book. But
if you love books with magic, yearning, queer rep, love letters, found family this is the duology for you. ✨
If you need me I will be putting my heart back together and possibly crying in a corner because I need more of Teddy and Aurelia. 🥺
This duology reminded me of Divine Rivals at times so if you liked the Letters of Enchantment series you might want to grab Isa Agajanian’s duology.
January 24, 2026
i got the arc for quiet spells from panmacmillanexport a while back not realising it was realising it was the second book in the series before it arrived. then i tried to find the first book from my local library and bookstore, but sadly that search didn't end up the way i hoped.
i put quiet spells on the shelf and decided i would get back to it closer to release day, after i hopefully would have found a copy of modern divination.
then i saw @bialovestoread (ig) post about this series, and after seeing how much she loved these books, i knew i had to start the series. i managed to find myself an audio copy of modern divination using my boyfriend's Spotify account, and im so happy that after all this i found the perfection that this duology is.
audiobooks usually arent a great fit for me, but despite that, i enjoyed modern divination a lot. the magic, the writing, the way teddy and Aurelia's relationship grew and worked, their rivals to lovers moments. everything in this book worked. the love everyone has for each other is beautiful and real. and when everything feels so real, it also hurts like it's real.
i knew i would devour quiet spells, when i finished modern divination, and that book just made everything even better. the way teddy thinks about life and everything, made this book a beautifully written masterpiece. there is just something amazing in the writing and in the characters, and in the magic.
a huge huge thank you to panmacmillanexport for this arc!
i put quiet spells on the shelf and decided i would get back to it closer to release day, after i hopefully would have found a copy of modern divination.
then i saw @bialovestoread (ig) post about this series, and after seeing how much she loved these books, i knew i had to start the series. i managed to find myself an audio copy of modern divination using my boyfriend's Spotify account, and im so happy that after all this i found the perfection that this duology is.
audiobooks usually arent a great fit for me, but despite that, i enjoyed modern divination a lot. the magic, the writing, the way teddy and Aurelia's relationship grew and worked, their rivals to lovers moments. everything in this book worked. the love everyone has for each other is beautiful and real. and when everything feels so real, it also hurts like it's real.
i knew i would devour quiet spells, when i finished modern divination, and that book just made everything even better. the way teddy thinks about life and everything, made this book a beautifully written masterpiece. there is just something amazing in the writing and in the characters, and in the magic.
a huge huge thank you to panmacmillanexport for this arc!
November 23, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for this eARC!!
If I had to sum up this duology, I’d say it’s about people giving things to other people—love, attention, time, and yes, magic. Our antagonist is someone who tried to just take; the central relationship is one where the two main characters learn the beauty of reciprocity.
Teddy is a MMC with so much depth to him which was really lovely to read.
The exploration of parenthood/caring was done with such tenderness and nuance, I really felt Teddy’s struggles and insecurities.
As with the first book, the pace is slow, and the tension is led by characters and relationships. Though I normally prefer a faster plot, something about this writing just worked for me. Honestly my favourite scenes were the conversations, the lulls in the tension, the spaces to breathe.
There is more I’d love to know about the world of these characters, space to explore in future books, but I was nonetheless satisfied with the ending. If there are more sequels, I’d love to read them. If not, the duology still works as is.
Overall, I’d recommend Quiet Spells as a thoughtful, luscious sequel to one of my favourite books this year. I definitely plan to reread, maybe once the audiobook is released, but I will take my time—this isn’t a book to swallow, but one to savour.
If I had to sum up this duology, I’d say it’s about people giving things to other people—love, attention, time, and yes, magic. Our antagonist is someone who tried to just take; the central relationship is one where the two main characters learn the beauty of reciprocity.
Teddy is a MMC with so much depth to him which was really lovely to read.
The exploration of parenthood/caring was done with such tenderness and nuance, I really felt Teddy’s struggles and insecurities.
As with the first book, the pace is slow, and the tension is led by characters and relationships. Though I normally prefer a faster plot, something about this writing just worked for me. Honestly my favourite scenes were the conversations, the lulls in the tension, the spaces to breathe.
There is more I’d love to know about the world of these characters, space to explore in future books, but I was nonetheless satisfied with the ending. If there are more sequels, I’d love to read them. If not, the duology still works as is.
Overall, I’d recommend Quiet Spells as a thoughtful, luscious sequel to one of my favourite books this year. I definitely plan to reread, maybe once the audiobook is released, but I will take my time—this isn’t a book to swallow, but one to savour.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
So grateful to have received an arc for this book because coming back to this world and these characters was delightful. I thought this was a strong follow-up to Modern Divination, upholding many of the same themes and characterisations that made it so special. In particular, I found it really special how grief remained so prevalent. When authors can write about grief's long-lasting effect, I genuinely want to give them a round of applause. Not only this, Isa Agajanian is a really skilled character writer. They managed to flesh out all characters in this book, even minor side characters, with history and personalities that are so easy to connect with. It just makes the world so rich and the relationships between people realistic.
I will admit that this book was quite slow in parts, especially as it was over 500 pages. A lot of it sort of took place in Teddy's inner monologue, rather than the plot progressing through action or dialogue. Don't get me wrong, I loved hearing Teddy's thoughts, yearning, and complexities. But sometimes it felt a bit repetitive to hear certain things just be conveyed through thought. However, to some readers this will be a huge plus!
Thank you NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for sending me this ebook. All thoughts are my own.
I will admit that this book was quite slow in parts, especially as it was over 500 pages. A lot of it sort of took place in Teddy's inner monologue, rather than the plot progressing through action or dialogue. Don't get me wrong, I loved hearing Teddy's thoughts, yearning, and complexities. But sometimes it felt a bit repetitive to hear certain things just be conveyed through thought. However, to some readers this will be a huge plus!
Thank you NetGalley and Pan Macmillan for sending me this ebook. All thoughts are my own.
January 27, 2026
Quiet Spells by Isa Agajanian is a compelling drama, a beautiful love story and a poetic urban fantasy. The characters of Teddy and Aurelia are fascinating in how their relationship evolves and the truths that they share with each other, even as they explore the mystery surrounding the disappearance of Gemma and the death of Aurelia’s mother. The mysteries are engaging but what kept me glued to the page was the emotion between the pair.
I found the disconnect between Aurelia and Teddy fascinating in the beginning, how their communication to each other unraveled and yet didn’t feel like just a plot device to create tension in the relationship. I also love the relationships Teddy has with others as well as Aurelia’s with her father and sister. It was beautiful to see more of her life from America. I also like the way grief, loss and love are all intertwined in the story.
If you love darkly romantic stories about witches and magic and enjoyed the first novel, I highly recommend the sequel, Quiet Spells with its compelling drama. Teddy and Aurelia will enthrall you and the magic will keep you engaged.
I found the disconnect between Aurelia and Teddy fascinating in the beginning, how their communication to each other unraveled and yet didn’t feel like just a plot device to create tension in the relationship. I also love the relationships Teddy has with others as well as Aurelia’s with her father and sister. It was beautiful to see more of her life from America. I also like the way grief, loss and love are all intertwined in the story.
If you love darkly romantic stories about witches and magic and enjoyed the first novel, I highly recommend the sequel, Quiet Spells with its compelling drama. Teddy and Aurelia will enthrall you and the magic will keep you engaged.
November 20, 2025
Quiet spells is such an addictive read, I read Modern Divination and Quiet spells back to back over just a few days.
The writing is beautiful and lyrical, the story has a cozy and comforting feeling to it even though it deals with difficult themes including grief, trauma and issues with self esteem and belonging.
The descriptions of the cottage, library and locations within the book are so detailed and atmospheric that you feel as if you are there.
The plot continued from the first book answering all the questions that were left unanswered, new characters were introduced and we learnt more about our favourite characters from book one.
The yearning in this book is everything, Rory and Teddy’s relationship is so sweet and their chemistry is perfect. They lean on each other through their grief and give each other space when needed. These characters will stay with me for a long time.
It had a beautiful satisfying ending and the epilogue tied everything up perfectly.
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the E-arc of this book.
The writing is beautiful and lyrical, the story has a cozy and comforting feeling to it even though it deals with difficult themes including grief, trauma and issues with self esteem and belonging.
The descriptions of the cottage, library and locations within the book are so detailed and atmospheric that you feel as if you are there.
The plot continued from the first book answering all the questions that were left unanswered, new characters were introduced and we learnt more about our favourite characters from book one.
The yearning in this book is everything, Rory and Teddy’s relationship is so sweet and their chemistry is perfect. They lean on each other through their grief and give each other space when needed. These characters will stay with me for a long time.
It had a beautiful satisfying ending and the epilogue tied everything up perfectly.
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the E-arc of this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
down to the damn wire but we got it done 90/90
The vibes of these books are truly immaculate, the perfect mix of witchy and academia, and the perfect level of pining in the mmc.
I did struggle with the plot a bit, especially in this book, it was difficult to follow what was going on, if there even was anything as most of the book seemed a bit flat. This is a weird note but we almost spent too much time with the main two characters since they were dealing with their own personal problems for most of the book. This shouldn't have been an issue but so much of what was actually going on in the book was happening to other characters and we only get hints that something is going on, or a recap of the events after the fact. I love Aurelia and Teddy, I really do, but for the majority of the book they were just largely inconsequential to everything going on around them.
thanks to netgalley and tor for the arc
The vibes of these books are truly immaculate, the perfect mix of witchy and academia, and the perfect level of pining in the mmc.
I did struggle with the plot a bit, especially in this book, it was difficult to follow what was going on, if there even was anything as most of the book seemed a bit flat. This is a weird note but we almost spent too much time with the main two characters since they were dealing with their own personal problems for most of the book. This shouldn't have been an issue but so much of what was actually going on in the book was happening to other characters and we only get hints that something is going on, or a recap of the events after the fact. I love Aurelia and Teddy, I really do, but for the majority of the book they were just largely inconsequential to everything going on around them.
thanks to netgalley and tor for the arc
November 22, 2025
Ever since reading MODERN DIVINATION, the characters have continued to live in my mind, and I was ecstatic to receive an ARC of QUIET SPELLS, one of my most-anticipated books of the year because of how much I loved the first one. QUIET SPELLS brings the same charm as the first book, picking up six months later and told from Teddy's perspective this time (with a few asides from Aurelia throughout). What I love most about this duology is that it's not afraid to take its time and really let us spend time with the characters, who are rich, complicated, and so 3D that sometimes I expected them to just walk into my living room and start brooding. I love the moody atmosphere, found family, realistic portrayal of trauma, and casual queerness. The Spells for Life and Death duology has secured a place as one of my favorite duologies of all time.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Rating 3.5 stars
3.5 stars does not buy any means mean that I did not enjoy this book.
This is book two in the spells for life and death duology and whereas book 1 was mainly from Aurelia’s point of viewing Facebook was mainly from Teddys
Just like book one this book is not a fast paced book which at times sometimes I struggled with but this is the sort of book that is beautifully written and it’s more about the characters and their feelings than fast placed action
This is described as a dark academia book, but personally I wouldn’t say it’s that dark. I think the darkness comes more from the characters and emotions and dealing with their personal problems.
Whilst I really enjoyed book one I did struggle at times with this book
Thank you so much to Pan Macmillian for the arc of this book if you like emotional witchy vibes that I am sure you will love this duology
3.5 stars does not buy any means mean that I did not enjoy this book.
This is book two in the spells for life and death duology and whereas book 1 was mainly from Aurelia’s point of viewing Facebook was mainly from Teddys
Just like book one this book is not a fast paced book which at times sometimes I struggled with but this is the sort of book that is beautifully written and it’s more about the characters and their feelings than fast placed action
This is described as a dark academia book, but personally I wouldn’t say it’s that dark. I think the darkness comes more from the characters and emotions and dealing with their personal problems.
Whilst I really enjoyed book one I did struggle at times with this book
Thank you so much to Pan Macmillian for the arc of this book if you like emotional witchy vibes that I am sure you will love this duology
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Modern Divination was my top 5* reads of 2024, not gonna lie, it shocked me that Quiet Spells didn't capture me as much. Do I love both of the books? Yes. Do I love Aurora and Teddy? Hell yeah. Teddy's little yearning did annoy me up to halfway until everything started to pick up.
I do feel that the first half was a little tad slow that it put me off reading for few weeks. But it picked up well after. If you are wondering if you still should pick up the sequel, I would say absolutely. Despite the drag-ness of the book, Teddy and Aurora's story were so beautifully woven despite their dark past. The ending, abrupt but I think deserved, idk I always see them to be the kind who would (iykyk). Love, everlasting definitely phrase meant for them
I do feel that the first half was a little tad slow that it put me off reading for few weeks. But it picked up well after. If you are wondering if you still should pick up the sequel, I would say absolutely. Despite the drag-ness of the book, Teddy and Aurora's story were so beautifully woven despite their dark past. The ending, abrupt but I think deserved, idk I always see them to be the kind who would (iykyk). Love, everlasting definitely phrase meant for them
February 2, 2026
3.75 stars ✨ The second instalment of this witchy duology focuses on love and loss and a journey to forgiveness - for others and oneself. We’ve stepped away from the academia setting, there’s less cosy and moody autumnal vibes, not to mention tea (with a side of banter). But in its place we have birds, lots more birds - iykyk - sacrifice, emotional declarations, magic, swords, a dash of necromancy, higher stakes, danger and sacrifice, grief and love and everything in between. All topped off with a heavy dose of beautiful prose and lyrical writing.
The perfect conclusion to this magical duology. And can we just take another moment to shout about Isa’s beautiful writing, please?! It once again had me captivated!
Thank you to Pan Macmillan and Tor for an early proof copy of this book! 🖤
The perfect conclusion to this magical duology. And can we just take another moment to shout about Isa’s beautiful writing, please?! It once again had me captivated!
Thank you to Pan Macmillan and Tor for an early proof copy of this book! 🖤
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January 25, 2026after waiting 3 long years for this book, i read it all in one day. it definitely didn't disappoint but it's not fair to give anything 3 years' worth of expectations.
i may not revisit this one in the same way i've revisited modern divination but that doesn't mean i didn't like it. while i objectively enjoyed changing up the pov, this book just didn't have the same cosy, warm hug energy that characterised book one.
anyway this duology means a lot to me and i really hope more people read it now it's been picked up by a major publisher.
i may not revisit this one in the same way i've revisited modern divination but that doesn't mean i didn't like it. while i objectively enjoyed changing up the pov, this book just didn't have the same cosy, warm hug energy that characterised book one.
anyway this duology means a lot to me and i really hope more people read it now it's been picked up by a major publisher.
March 19, 2024
Just learned that the first book was bought by tor uk, and it's probably getting published next year...
I am quite sad I won't be able to read the continuation of the masterpiece that was the first book, but I'm so happy for the author, Isabel deserves the fame she is set to have...
Congrats Isa 👏 👏
I am quite sad I won't be able to read the continuation of the masterpiece that was the first book, but I'm so happy for the author, Isabel deserves the fame she is set to have...
Congrats Isa 👏 👏
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I really enjoyed Modern Divination so was very much looking forward to continuing this story in Quiet Spells. The writing style is lovely a lilting, and I continued to enjoy the dynamic between Aurelia and Teddy as I did in the first book, but I found the plot itself a bit unexciting and as such found my attention wandering, which pulled my rating down
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