The Thrift Shop

by Steven Anthony Charles

Behind a bright red door on a random concrete wall on an ordinary street in New York, or Birmingham, or Tokyo is a thrift shop like no other.

You don’t come to shop here, the shop comes to you. It beckons to you from where fate meets reality. If you get the call, and one of its many, wondrous items selects you to be a part of its history, you will experience a magic like no other. A boon to you, your family, and friends, or if you are not so lucky, a bane upon your name. Either way your fate was sealed before you were born.

Enter Devon, a young boy, his life one misery after the next, when he encounters this thrift shop, and takes fate into his own hands, upending the delicate balance of history not yet written.

The fate of the world is now in his hands. Devon must face true evil and win, or humanity may be thrown into another Dark Age.

202 pages, Paperback

Expected publication February 16, 2026

About the author

Steven Charles was born in 1972 in Staten Island, NY. He taught himself how to read at a young age by having his mother read Danny and the Dinosaur over and over again until he could read it himself. He moved to Westchester, NY, when he was 10, where he eventually went to Manhattanville College to study music. He moved around, spending some time in Connecticut and Hawaii, before moving back to the mainland where he met his wife, Daniela, who was visiting the US from Brazil. After a short, long-distance courtship, he asked her to marry him by reciting a Sonnet on the beach on New Year’s Eve in Brazil. They now live in Florida with their four kids where he works as a Workday Consultant during the day and an author by night.

Reviews

[Jenée · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved, loved, loved every minute of this book! My heart goes out to Devon who lost his father at the age of 13. Now 15 he isn’t living his best life. Running from bullies he finds himself in a thrift shop that is anything but ordinary. The thrift shop is rather magical in that is holds ordinary objects that call to people and have the ability to alter their life either positively or negatively. Needless to say Devon is offered a job here and life is never the same.

There was not a slow moment in this story. It’s touching and has the ability to make you stop and think about what could have been and is.

I’m grateful to have read this book as an ARC. I’d classify this book in the genre of magical realism right up there with The Midnight Library, The Book of Doors, and Remarkably Bright Creatures.

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

I thought this book was fabulous. It's a super fast-paced read that keeps you interested. Devon, the main character, is a typical teenage boy who faces believable challenges with bullies and his mother. The book is similar to Stephen King's Needful Things, but is written for a young adult audience and isn't excessively dark. I thoroughly enjoyed it and definitely recommend it!

Thanks to Book Sirens for sending me an advanced copy to read and review

[Lauren · Rating 1 out of 5]

I ONLY finished this book because I got it as an arc and wanted to make sure I could give it a complete review and had an expectation that my opinion might turn around. It never did. To start, the book description sounds so cool. I was expecting something like a Doctor Who episode. But everything interesting that happens, all the interactions with the people that come to the shop, the “cataclysm” and negative impacts on the world that almost launch the world into a dark age as mentioned in the description, all happens off page. It is described in very short terms with Devon reading it in his journal or looking back on his life, but that is it.

There is more about this kid’s boners and his time masturbating than there is the fantasy world that is promised in the description. I know I’m probably not the target audience, but it was excessive.

And, assuming the target audience is YA, 14-18 year old boys, there is a lot that I found to be pretty problematic. I looked at it the whole time thinking on whether I would want my son to read this when he was older, and the answer is no. It normalizes abuse with Devon’s mom abusing him, Devon throwing things at his girlfriend when he’s mad, her slapping him, and him gaslighting and manipulating his girlfriend AFTER explicitly mentally planning to manipulate her with a “guilt trip.” There is also the issue of how he ends up getting his girlfriend. When he initially asks her out, she tells him she is a lesbian. He gets mad, storms out, remains mad at her for the rest of the night and throws things. He tells an adult about this, and the adult tells Devon that she isn’t ACTUALLY a lesbian and encourages him to confront her. He does and it turns out she was just “nervous” because she really liked him so she lied about being a lesbian. I found this to be completely unacceptable in a book targeted to teen boys. There are enough issues with people not taking no for an answer and not understanding consent. Whether the reason given is that a girl/woman is queer or not, even if her answer is no, we really need to have no means no normalized and by having this confrontation occur in the book and having it work out in Devon’s favor is so problematic.

The book also normalizes physical fighting as a solution to problems. Devon resolves several of his problems by getting into fights, and smacking another kid in the face with a tray results in him finally getting a friend. This is another thing I thought was an issue.

Devon has had an, objectively, terrible life. But everything in his life seems to start going better for him when he starts behaving badly. He faces minimal to no consequences, and there isn’t even a lesson learned other than to say “people aren’t all good or all bad” and you need to accept people how they are. And the bad things that are used for the bad traits are all abuse. While that message might be good, the way it is presented and defended is terrible, and I would give this zero stars for that if I could. It draws you in with the promise of a cool fantasy book, and then doesn’t deliver.

[Jess Adams · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Steven Charles and BookSirens for this ARC

This review contains NO spoilers! And all that is said is my honest and non-biased opinion.

I am not going to give spoilers or massive details of what happens in this book. That would be silly and counterproductive!

Release date for this book is 16th Feb 2026

Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶🌶 some sexual talk, not in great detail, natural feelings and thoughts of mid-teens.

This book does contain the following:
- death
- talk of death
- talk of suicide
- some violence against teens (non sexual)
- grief
- divorce
- talk of possible infidelity
- teen on teen physical assaults
- blood & vomit
- PTSD in advanced form
- fate/ magic/ destiny
- first love
- bullying
- life decisions
- cancer

I was so pleasantly surprised by this book! I have not felt a rollercoaster of emotions for a book in a while!
I laughed, I cried, I got angry, I got scared.

There was so much too unpack in this book, with an underlining deaper meaning, I really hope Steven wrote this with that in mind, because I felt it. It connected so well with a new/ mid teens' struggles they go through coming of age and becoming an adult, with a magical/ mystical/ murderous story.

Thank you so much again to Steven Charles and BookSirens Stunningly mystical, marvellously magical, tantalising twists and perfectly down to earth!

[Marypat · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an intriguing concept. This was a well written & executed story. I was completely enthralled with the storyline & characters. I would definitely recommend to others who like to travel outside the typical storylines.

[Jessica Corley · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review….This was such a good book. It follows a young boy who discovers a thrift shop like no other.
He's experienced a deep tragedy in his life, losing his father, and it shows in every part of his world. He's bullied, has no friends, and his mom has to work constantly just to make ends meet.
His life feels heavy and heartbreaking.
The story gave me a strong sense of nostalgia and parts of the book made me think of The NeverEnding Story, a movie I loved as a young girl. I found myself wanting to jump into the pages and help this boy through his struggles.
The thrift shop and the people he meets because of it slowly begin to change his life for the better. Just when things start to improve, more tragedy strikes. Faced with devastating news, the boy makes a choice that could alter time itself... but the thrift shop has rules, and it will not allow that decision to go unchallenged.
This story is emotional, imaginative, and touching, blending grief, hope, and a bit of magic in a way that really stayed with me.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC directly from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Devon is a 15 year old boy who has experienced more tragedy in his short life than most. He lost his father to gruesome suicide and ended up living in poverty with his mom in the slums of New York. Devon is bullied constantly and has no friends. He is running away from bullies chasing him around New York when he stumbles into a magical thrift shop that flips his life upside down.

This standalone story brought together teenage angst, realities of living in a big city barely surviving, and the magic that history can bring to anyone’s lives. The thrift shop is meant to find those when they need it the most. The items in the shop call to people when they are ready for them. Of course a shop like this needs a shop keeper. We go through the trials alongside Devon as the shop chooses him and he has to battle his way to living his life while also committing himself to the shop.

This story was well paced and had enough realism to make the magic seem possible. I very much enjoyed reading this.

[Alyssa · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an ARC of The Thrift Shop by Steven Charles, a YA novel about a 15-year-old boy who discovers a mysterious thrift shop full of secrets beyond its dusty shelves. It spirals into a coming-of-age tale with friendships, family revelations, and subtle supernatural elements that keep you hooked—perfect if you like stories where ordinary objects unlock big mysteries.

I enjoyed the story overall; the ending was satisfying, and the twist surprised me. The POV captured a teen boy’s voice authentically, with solid character growth from uncertainty to confidence.

Minor inconsistencies, like the cat Vibrissa being referred to as a she and then a he, and then a she again from the main character's pov after being told it was a he and a few other editing slips, were annoying—but as an ARC, they may get fixed before publication.

A quick, engaging YA read blending mystery and heart—worth checking out!

[Julia Reitzer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC and here is my honest review with no spoilers:

I cannot rave enough about how good of a story the thrift shop is. From the moment I started reading it I was obsessed and had to know and understand what would happen through each instance of items at the thrift shop. What I really loved and enjoyed was the telling of each character story and how they evolved. The love story is adorable and touches your heart. Watching the main character grow and evolve and come into his own remind you of when you’re a teenager try to figure out your way in the world. I would recommend this book to anybody it’s fantastic.

[Gisela Marengo · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Thrift Shop loved the book from the beginning, is magical and emotional. I really enjoyed the reflective story that finds meaning in the overlooked and forgotten. It shows how items can carry deep personal meaning and how people often leave pieces of themselves behind without realizing it. Ginni and Devon story , what he was willing to sacrifice for her and his mom . This was such a wonderful cozy blanket stay in the bed reading kind of book really enjoyed this read .

This book was giving to me as an ARC here is my voluntarily and honest review.

[Mary]

This story is crafted with skill and thoughtfulness, capturing both emotion and imagination. The narrative and its characters draw the reader in completely. It weaves together themes of hope, grief, and a touch of magic. The author offers an insightful exploration of bullying, resilience, and the distinction between need and desire. It is a book I would recommend to others.

[Armando Ramirez · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Thrift Shop by Steven Charles immediately gave me Friday the 13th: The Series vibes with its mysterious store filled with enchanted and cursed objects, but that’s where the similarity ends. This story takes the concept in a completely original direction, weaving whimsy and darkness together beautifully. I was fascinated by how each object could bring either unimaginable joy or unspeakable horror, depending on how it was received.The love story at the heart of the book was especially touching. I loved how the protagonist cleverly found loopholes within the shop’s strange rules to build the life he’d always dreamed of. And Devon’s sacrifice, to give up everything just to dance with his mother, was both heartbreaking and uplifting. That moment summed up the book’s deeper message: sometimes giving everything away gives you back even more.

[Ronnie · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Thrift Shop is such a fun and fascinating read. The idea that the objects choose their owners — and can change fate for better or worse — is incredibly creative and kept me hooked. The story moves quickly, and I was engaged the whole time. I finished it wanting more. Thank you for allowing me to read an advanced reader copy!

[Erin Sweeney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book as an ARC directly from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Devon is a 15 year old boy who has experienced more tragedy in his short life than most. He lost his father to gruesome suicide and ended up living in poverty with his mom in the slums of New York. Devon is bullied constantly and has no friends. He is running away from bullies chasing him around New York when he stumbles into a magical thrift shop that flips his life upside down.

This standalone story brought together teenage angst, realities of living in a big city barely surviving, and the magic that history can bring to anyone’s lives. The thrift shop is meant to find those when they need it the most. The items in the shop call to people when they are ready for them. Of course a shop like this needs a shop keeper. We go through the trials alongside Devon as the shop chooses him and he has to battle his way to living his life while also committing himself to the shop.

This story was well paced and had enough realism to make the magic seem possible. I very much enjoyed reading this.

[Raychel Klotz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of reading The Thrift Shop early, and this one took me by surprise.

A mysterious red door appears just in time to shield a high school boy from his bullies, leading him into a strange thrift shop he does not remember being there. As he hides, the bullies are drawn to different items on the shelves… items that "call" to people. What they don’t realize is that each object carries its own history, good or bad.

Devon lives with his mother, doing his best to navigate bullies, love life, and everyday school struggles. When he starts working at the thrift shop, an item calls to him too. But opportunity does not come free, and only Devon can decide the best path.

The writing gives us a clear, emotional look at bullying, survival, and the difference between need and want. The blend of fantasy, magic, family dynamics, and a backdrop of horror creates a story that's heartfelt and eye opening. Also, the last part turned into a horror fever dream that was awesome!

I Recommend, and wont be going into any thrift stores with red doors.

[Mystyc Metrik · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thought this book was an interesting story, but I'd have liked to see more of the items in the Thrift Shop. Devon, our protagonist, escapes into the thrift shop to escape some bullies, who the shopkeeper allows to choose a "free" item in order to get them to leave. In fact, all items are free if they "call" to a person, as Devon learns when he's called by one. He gets a part-time job there and grows closer to both the shopkeeper and one of the customers, Ginni. However, when presented with a Sophie's choice between his present and his mom's future, he starts a cascade of events that he could never have anticipated. I thought the characters felt not entirely developed, and there was a lot going on - Devon's relationships, his father's suicide, Mr. Growling, Ginni, the shopkeeper, etc. I enjoyed the story but it was more of a huh that's interesting than a riveting page turner. Still kind of an interesting concept, but I think there was some potential that wasn't fully realized. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Mr. Elex Icon · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this story to be very intriguing. While the idea of a used items shop that has magical inventory is not unique, Mr. Charles does a great job of giving it a fresh twist. The items aren't cursed, per se., but... I won't give it away. Let's just say it warps the standard trope enough to keep it familiar but provide a fresh take on it.
The characters were good, believable in their actions and reactions. The protagonist(s) are teenagers, causing their moods and behaviors to vary, as they do in real life. Real world troubles drive our MC, providing a background that most can relate to - high school bullying, divorce, and money worries.
I enjoyed reading The Thrift Shop, and if you enjoy tales that are based in the real world but offer a small glimpse into something bigger and bolder, something magical and elusive, then I know you'll enjoy this story.

[Heather H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Thrift Shop is a contemporary fiction novel that explores themes of personal growth, emotional resilience, and the complexities of human relationships. Like other standout works in the genre, it presents characters whose journeys are marked by genuine compassion and authenticity, inviting readers to engage with their vulnerabilities and strengths. The narrative is expertly paced, balancing moments of drama with quieter, introspective scenes that deepen emotional impact. Through evocative settings and thoughtfully crafted connections, the novel presents a dynamic interplay between tenderness and conflict, ultimately offering a memorable reading experience for fans of character-driven storytelling and those seeking inspiration and emotional resonance.

[Susan Thomson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I like the book, I like that the book is about a thrift shop but it’s magical, and the customers don’t pay anything for the item, the item calls to them and the shop keeper asks them one simple question “did the item calls to you ?” I like that the shop keeper also gives a little bit of history about the item. I like how the main character has to make a very hard decision, I also like how it talks about time bending and curling.

I received an arc copy of the book from the author via bookfunnel in exchange for my honest review

[Kaycee · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the beginning, I found it difficult to keep reading, and wondered if I would be able to complete the book. I kept going and it gradually became better. I liked the ending. In a sense, it is an example of a metaphor for living life, we struggle, we make decisions and choices which have consequences we don't anticipate or even realize. The ending feels a little squished together and I would have preferred a little more expansion.

I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[michelle gilliland · Rating 4 out of 5]

The magic of The Thrift Shop is unique to the individual which I think was great. There were a few twists that I didn’t see coming but they tied everything together nicely. One of my favorite parts of a book is learning about the characters. In The Thrift Shop we not only learn about Devon’s past and why he is the way he is but we are able to see his growth and change. The same can also be said for the other characters. I definitely enjoyed reading this story.

[Sterling Vance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartfelt, Magical, and Beautifully Human
The Thrift Shop is a warm, emotional, and quietly powerful story that sneaks up on you in the best way. The characters feel real, the emotions hit hard, and the mix of mystery, heart, and hope makes it unforgettable. It’s tender, honest, a little magical, and full of soul. Absolutely loved it.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. It was fast paced and I didn’t want to put it down. It reminded me of Matt Haig’s books, in the way it made me think. The main character was very likeable and I found myself rooting for him to have a happy ending.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Thrift Shop was a quick and fast paced read. The mysterious shop and the objects in it have the power to change lives. Devon has a terrible relationships with people but in the end he finds happiness and is willing to do anything to save his mother despite how brutal she can be towards him.

[Kaylee Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m not the type to read books . But my friend told me to read this book and I was immediately obsessed! It’s so entertaining and fun to read . I really recommend reading it and checking out his other book too. PAY ATTENTION TO THIS AUTHOR !

[Delilah Snyder · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thought this was a very interesting read and the plot was really interesting and the characters were also interesting the book is also fast paced but other then that it was a good story i enjoyed it

[Joshua Charles · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was a very intricate and very detailed and got me hooked instantly . I love the book! This author is underrated!

[Candy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very good book!

[Miranda Ramirez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was lucky enough to get a chance to read this lovely book. It was easy to get into and kept me curious about what was coming next.

[Originalninja · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a book that I would normally go for, but I am glad that I got the opportunity to read it. It was a good read for sure, just not the book for me.