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Miranda Murfins: A Tale of Magical Cookery
In 1915 England, Miranda Murfins is a divorced mother of four, struggling to survive.
Worn down by endless hours in kitchens that never respect her, she is told again and again that she is not enough.
But when injustice crosses a line, her hidden magic erupts.
Desperate, Miranda finds work at a crumbling orphanage, her last refuge.
When the strict headmistress gives her an ultimatum, Improve your cooking or leave , Miranda believes she has reached the end of her strength.
Everything feels hopeless until one night, when a mischievous elf appears with recipes full of magic.
Suddenly, Miranda realizes the her magic was never a curse... it has always been her greatest ally.
To save the orphanage and herself, she must unleash it… before it’s too late.
Not another witch story.
A layered fantasy novel about motherhood, strength and choosing what your fate will become.
Perfect for readers who Comforting, low-stakes stories with warmth, hope, and emotional depthDomestic magic woven into everyday lifeFound family and emotionally rich relationshipsHistorical fantasy grounded in real social struggle
• First Prize, National Literary Writing Contest “Silver Page” (2015)
• Second Prize, Cyprus IBBY for Children’s and Young Adult Literature (2017)
Worn down by endless hours in kitchens that never respect her, she is told again and again that she is not enough.
But when injustice crosses a line, her hidden magic erupts.
Desperate, Miranda finds work at a crumbling orphanage, her last refuge.
When the strict headmistress gives her an ultimatum, Improve your cooking or leave , Miranda believes she has reached the end of her strength.
Everything feels hopeless until one night, when a mischievous elf appears with recipes full of magic.
Suddenly, Miranda realizes the her magic was never a curse... it has always been her greatest ally.
To save the orphanage and herself, she must unleash it… before it’s too late.
Not another witch story.
A layered fantasy novel about motherhood, strength and choosing what your fate will become.
Perfect for readers who Comforting, low-stakes stories with warmth, hope, and emotional depthDomestic magic woven into everyday lifeFound family and emotionally rich relationshipsHistorical fantasy grounded in real social struggle
• First Prize, National Literary Writing Contest “Silver Page” (2015)
• Second Prize, Cyprus IBBY for Children’s and Young Adult Literature (2017)
- GenresFiction
180 pages, Paperback
Published October 26, 2025
25 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
December 3, 2025
I’m not ashamed to admit I love fantasy novels. Hooked at a very early age by the late English author Enid Blyton and her wonderful novel ‘The Magic Faraway Tree’ and in recent years the groundbreaking Harry Potter series by acclaimed author JK Rowling, ‘Miranda Murfins’ is rather more whimsical than the Harry Potter series, but no less charming. Just look at the magic ingredients in this story. An orphanage with a secret world hidden behind an old hearth where ladies cook mysteriously without fire. Cauldrons bubble with recipes that hold the power to change destinies.
In this age of mass-produced literary offerings, with over 20 million novels available on Amazon alone, the competition is fierce and every box needs to be ticked. The cover, the blurb and the all-important opening chapter need to engage the reader instantly. The cover of ‘Miranda Murfins’ is a winner. An imposing lady stirs a cauldron with expectant children gathered at her feet. One can imagine the magic that’s about to begin.
The opening chapter, as with the rest of the novel, is beautifully written. An English Garden setting when four-year-old Miranda sees something, not an animal, a creature, small, enigmatic, moving slowly, almost invisible. Miranda simply stood and watched. As a child, she had that absolute certainty that anything is possible. The creature stares at her for a brief moment, then disappears. It’s a great opening chapter because it subtly draws the reader to irresistibly keep turning the pages.
I enjoyed the way I was drawn into a different time. It reminded me so much of life in the 1950’s; slower and more genteel.
The central character, Miranda Murfins, has enough charisma and charm to launch a series similar to the Harry Potter phenomenon.
What truly sets this book apart is the poetic writing. It’s not fast paced by any means, and as the story slowly unfolds. It’s the curveballs the author inserts that keep the story engaging.
Character-driven fiction is a difficult art form but author A.L. Nelton achieves it with panache and style. I have no hesitation in awarding this outstanding novel 5 stars.
In this age of mass-produced literary offerings, with over 20 million novels available on Amazon alone, the competition is fierce and every box needs to be ticked. The cover, the blurb and the all-important opening chapter need to engage the reader instantly. The cover of ‘Miranda Murfins’ is a winner. An imposing lady stirs a cauldron with expectant children gathered at her feet. One can imagine the magic that’s about to begin.
The opening chapter, as with the rest of the novel, is beautifully written. An English Garden setting when four-year-old Miranda sees something, not an animal, a creature, small, enigmatic, moving slowly, almost invisible. Miranda simply stood and watched. As a child, she had that absolute certainty that anything is possible. The creature stares at her for a brief moment, then disappears. It’s a great opening chapter because it subtly draws the reader to irresistibly keep turning the pages.
I enjoyed the way I was drawn into a different time. It reminded me so much of life in the 1950’s; slower and more genteel.
The central character, Miranda Murfins, has enough charisma and charm to launch a series similar to the Harry Potter phenomenon.
What truly sets this book apart is the poetic writing. It’s not fast paced by any means, and as the story slowly unfolds. It’s the curveballs the author inserts that keep the story engaging.
Character-driven fiction is a difficult art form but author A.L. Nelton achieves it with panache and style. I have no hesitation in awarding this outstanding novel 5 stars.
January 17, 2026
As a lover of historical fantasy, I found Miranda Murfins: The Witch-Cook of the Orphanage to be a deeply intriguing and wonderfully heartfelt journey. Set against the stark, soot-stained backdrop of 1915 England, A. L. Nelton weaves a story that feels remarkably grounded. This isn't a world of flashy spells; it is a world where magic serves as a quiet rebellion against the crushing weight of hardship. At the heart of the novel is Miranda, a divorced mother navigating a society that offers her very little grace. Her characterization is the book’s greatest strength. Her exhaustion is palpable, yet her resilience and fierce love for her children drive every action. Nelton portrays her struggle not as a melodrama, but with a weary realism that makes her eventual empowerment feel earned and deeply intimate.
The "witch-cook" concept is handled with a charming touch. By weaving magic into the act of cooking, the story turns the mundane labor of survival into something quietly miraculous. This domestic magic honors the overlooked labor in women’s lives, suggesting that there is power in the very things society takes for granted. The inclusion of an elf provides a necessary spark of whimsy, but the author wisely ensures it never overpowers the emotional core of the narrative.
What stands out most is the balance between historical hardship and speculative hope. The looming threats—draconian inspectors and the potential closure of the orphanage—create genuine, high-stakes tension. However, the magic never feels like a convenient "deus ex machina" to solve these problems. Instead, it acts as a catalyst for human strength.
Final Verdict
Miranda Murfins: The Witch-Cook of the Orphanage is a touching, imaginative historical fantasy. It blends warmth and struggle in a way that lingers long after the final page. For those who enjoy stories where magic is found in unexpected places and characters who fight for their dignity with nothing but their wits and a wooden spoon, this is a deeply satisfying read.
The "witch-cook" concept is handled with a charming touch. By weaving magic into the act of cooking, the story turns the mundane labor of survival into something quietly miraculous. This domestic magic honors the overlooked labor in women’s lives, suggesting that there is power in the very things society takes for granted. The inclusion of an elf provides a necessary spark of whimsy, but the author wisely ensures it never overpowers the emotional core of the narrative.
What stands out most is the balance between historical hardship and speculative hope. The looming threats—draconian inspectors and the potential closure of the orphanage—create genuine, high-stakes tension. However, the magic never feels like a convenient "deus ex machina" to solve these problems. Instead, it acts as a catalyst for human strength.
Final Verdict
Miranda Murfins: The Witch-Cook of the Orphanage is a touching, imaginative historical fantasy. It blends warmth and struggle in a way that lingers long after the final page. For those who enjoy stories where magic is found in unexpected places and characters who fight for their dignity with nothing but their wits and a wooden spoon, this is a deeply satisfying read.
December 25, 2025
Miranda Murfins: The Witch-Cook of the Orphanage is one of those rare books where the premise alone makes you smile—and the execution actually delivers.
My wife and I watch a lot of cooking shows, and I’m a longtime fantasy reader, so the idea of a desperate cook fighting for her livelihood with the help of magic immediately hooked me-- I even told my wife about the story!
The story feels like a high-stakes cooking competition, with Miranda Murfins battling pressure, judgment, and self-doubt as if she were one bad dish away from elimination.
Set in 1920s England, Miranda is a divorced mother of four trying to keep her job in an orphanage kitchen under a headmistress who offers no patience and only one ultimatum: improve or be gone. The early chapters are intentionally rough for Miranda, and without spoiling anything, it’s clear that failure looms very close. That tension works beautifully.
The turning point—Miranda’s encounter with the elf which did make me think of Ratatouille but only just slightly because this story went in its own direction. I especially loved the introduction of the Culinary Kingdom, which felt like a fantasy twist on a cooking challenge show. Those chapters were pure joy, and I found myself smiling the whole way through.
What impressed me most, though, was how unpredictable the story became near the end. Despite the cozy setup and comforting themes, the final chapters deliver genuine twists and surprises. For a story about a witch-cook—an idea I honestly can’t recall seeing before—the author manages to keep things fresh and unexpected right to the finish. And having to win by cooking-- was like a high-stakes version of "Beat Bobby Flay!" in all the best ways.
This is a cozy fantasy with heart, creativity, and more depth than you might expect, blending motherhood, resilience, and magic in a wonderfully ordinary place: the kitchen.
My wife and I watch a lot of cooking shows, and I’m a longtime fantasy reader, so the idea of a desperate cook fighting for her livelihood with the help of magic immediately hooked me-- I even told my wife about the story!
The story feels like a high-stakes cooking competition, with Miranda Murfins battling pressure, judgment, and self-doubt as if she were one bad dish away from elimination.
Set in 1920s England, Miranda is a divorced mother of four trying to keep her job in an orphanage kitchen under a headmistress who offers no patience and only one ultimatum: improve or be gone. The early chapters are intentionally rough for Miranda, and without spoiling anything, it’s clear that failure looms very close. That tension works beautifully.
The turning point—Miranda’s encounter with the elf which did make me think of Ratatouille but only just slightly because this story went in its own direction. I especially loved the introduction of the Culinary Kingdom, which felt like a fantasy twist on a cooking challenge show. Those chapters were pure joy, and I found myself smiling the whole way through.
What impressed me most, though, was how unpredictable the story became near the end. Despite the cozy setup and comforting themes, the final chapters deliver genuine twists and surprises. For a story about a witch-cook—an idea I honestly can’t recall seeing before—the author manages to keep things fresh and unexpected right to the finish. And having to win by cooking-- was like a high-stakes version of "Beat Bobby Flay!" in all the best ways.
This is a cozy fantasy with heart, creativity, and more depth than you might expect, blending motherhood, resilience, and magic in a wonderfully ordinary place: the kitchen.
January 31, 2026
A. L. Nelton's “Miranda Murfins: The Witch-Cook of the Orphanage” is a quirky, engaging story. Set in 1915 London, Miranda has been abandoned by her husband leaving her to fend for herself and four children as well as her mother and grandmother. She loves to cook but struggles to find, and hold, a job.
At one of these, we first see that things are not quite right. The Dickensian Morgan Stregglossom, "head cook and guardian of tradition," is in charge, issuing orders "with the air of a general presenting a battlefield." Miranda does her best to comply but, under stress, strange things begin to happen: a pot simmers without a fire; a door opens and in floats a piece of dough which stretches and thins itself to perfection. Miranda's magical powers have emerged unbidden. Ms. Stregglossom points to the door and Miranda is unemployed once again.
Eventually, Miranda is hired at the foreboding Lavenshaw Orphanage whose unmanageable children don't like what she serves. Miranda is warned that if her cooking doesn't improve, she will be gone. The orphanage has problems of its own and faces closure. Much depends on a gathering of well-heeled people who will decide Lavenshaw's fate. The meals Miranda must serve will be critical.
Along the way, we encounter potions, a magic ladle, elves, and even a king (not of England). Nelton weaves them all together with well-drawn characters, likeable and not, above all the warm and loving cook, Miranda.
Take a break, put on a pot of tea and enjoy a tasty tale. Serve with muffins, I mean, Murfins.
At one of these, we first see that things are not quite right. The Dickensian Morgan Stregglossom, "head cook and guardian of tradition," is in charge, issuing orders "with the air of a general presenting a battlefield." Miranda does her best to comply but, under stress, strange things begin to happen: a pot simmers without a fire; a door opens and in floats a piece of dough which stretches and thins itself to perfection. Miranda's magical powers have emerged unbidden. Ms. Stregglossom points to the door and Miranda is unemployed once again.
Eventually, Miranda is hired at the foreboding Lavenshaw Orphanage whose unmanageable children don't like what she serves. Miranda is warned that if her cooking doesn't improve, she will be gone. The orphanage has problems of its own and faces closure. Much depends on a gathering of well-heeled people who will decide Lavenshaw's fate. The meals Miranda must serve will be critical.
Along the way, we encounter potions, a magic ladle, elves, and even a king (not of England). Nelton weaves them all together with well-drawn characters, likeable and not, above all the warm and loving cook, Miranda.
Take a break, put on a pot of tea and enjoy a tasty tale. Serve with muffins, I mean, Murfins.
January 6, 2026
This book has elves, orphanages in peril, a wise grandmother no one listens to, and a cook who must work to feed her kids despite being objectively bad at cooking. Already, we’re off to a strong and slightly unhinged start.
Our heroine, Miranda, is all grit and no seasoning—working hard, trying her best, and producing food that is technically edible if one squints. Enter a mischievous elf (as one does), who proceeds to meddle just enough to unlock her self-confidence, her instincts, and—most critically—her ability to salt things properly. There is also an orphanage facing closure, an enigmatic headmistress, a selectively mute cleaner who clearly knows more than she’s saying, a grumpy gardener, and boys whose parentage raises more questions than the book always answers.
Did I follow every strand of magical tomcookery? No. Did it matter? Also no. What matters is that the food gets better, the orphanage is saved, and Miranda finds her footing—in the kitchen and in herself. The story has a warm, whimsical heart and just enough magical chaos to keep things lively.
If you enjoy cozy fantasy with charm, heart, and a willingness to be a little odd around the edges, this book delivers. It knows exactly what it is—and does it with confidence.
Our heroine, Miranda, is all grit and no seasoning—working hard, trying her best, and producing food that is technically edible if one squints. Enter a mischievous elf (as one does), who proceeds to meddle just enough to unlock her self-confidence, her instincts, and—most critically—her ability to salt things properly. There is also an orphanage facing closure, an enigmatic headmistress, a selectively mute cleaner who clearly knows more than she’s saying, a grumpy gardener, and boys whose parentage raises more questions than the book always answers.
Did I follow every strand of magical tomcookery? No. Did it matter? Also no. What matters is that the food gets better, the orphanage is saved, and Miranda finds her footing—in the kitchen and in herself. The story has a warm, whimsical heart and just enough magical chaos to keep things lively.
If you enjoy cozy fantasy with charm, heart, and a willingness to be a little odd around the edges, this book delivers. It knows exactly what it is—and does it with confidence.
December 2, 2025
Miranda is a deeply affecting character whose determination is as tangible as her moments of desperation. The air of mystery surrounding her keeps the reader on edge; you constantly want to understand what is happening to her and why strange obstacles seem to follow her at every turn. As the plot progresses, the intrigue only grows—extending even to the orphanage itself—and this sustained sense of uncertainty makes the book a compelling page-turner.
The ending is particularly striking. It is unexpected in the best way, and as a reader who enjoys being surprised, I found it very well executed. The setting is also vividly described, allowing the reader to picture scenes with ease.
The book’s weakness lies mainly about the secondary characters which feel underdeveloped; a bit more depth or background would have strengthened the emotional impact and enriched the story.
Overall, The Witch-Cook of the Orphanage is an engaging and enjoyable read. Despite a few minor flaws, Miranda stands out as a unique heroine—one many readers might wish they had in their own lives.
The ending is particularly striking. It is unexpected in the best way, and as a reader who enjoys being surprised, I found it very well executed. The setting is also vividly described, allowing the reader to picture scenes with ease.
The book’s weakness lies mainly about the secondary characters which feel underdeveloped; a bit more depth or background would have strengthened the emotional impact and enriched the story.
Overall, The Witch-Cook of the Orphanage is an engaging and enjoyable read. Despite a few minor flaws, Miranda stands out as a unique heroine—one many readers might wish they had in their own lives.
January 12, 2026
In this cozy-adjacent fantasy, Miranda Murfins is a divorced mother of four, barely scraping by, who takes a job at the Lavenshaw Orphanage. The book is most interesting in the first chapter, when Miranda herself is at the heart of the story: she’s a delightfully — and relatably — odd heroine, at once mundane and secretly magical. She also brings something unique to the genre of witchiness: the grounded-but-complicated perspective of a mother trying to put food in her children’s mouths while learning the scope of her own hitherto-untapped power. The orphans plague her with devilry and, finally, the stern and humorless headmistress adds more stress to Miranda’s life. Nelton’s writing evokes the feel of early 20th‑century England while interlacing normal life with magic in a way that feels neither clichéd nor stilted. But the book does drag in parts. Some of the relationships, in particular, could have been developed more, along with certain plot points. But that is a minor detail in what is, ultimately, a warm and gently magical novel.
November 26, 2025
This book gently pulled me into another time, it felt like living in the early 1950s, where life was slower, harsher, and quietly strange. The orphanage setting, the food, the fear, and the whispers of magic all come together to create a world that feels both unsettling and deeply human.
What stayed with me was how the story balances darkness with tenderness. Beneath the witch-story and eerie atmosphere lies something very real: hunger, survival, loneliness, and the quiet courage of children. One line especially lingered with me, “When your stomach and your purse are empty, your spirit is too.” It captures the emotional truth of the book beautifully.
The author doesn’t rush the reader. Instead, the story unfolds patiently, allowing mood and emotion to sink in. It feels intentional, as if the author wants readers not just to read, but to feel the weight and warmth of this world.
A thoughtful, atmospheric read that lingers long after the final page.
What stayed with me was how the story balances darkness with tenderness. Beneath the witch-story and eerie atmosphere lies something very real: hunger, survival, loneliness, and the quiet courage of children. One line especially lingered with me, “When your stomach and your purse are empty, your spirit is too.” It captures the emotional truth of the book beautifully.
The author doesn’t rush the reader. Instead, the story unfolds patiently, allowing mood and emotion to sink in. It feels intentional, as if the author wants readers not just to read, but to feel the weight and warmth of this world.
A thoughtful, atmospheric read that lingers long after the final page.
October 31, 2025
The book is a charming blend of everyday life and quiet magic. It follows Miranda, a single mother and cook, whose mysterious culinary powers lead her through personal challenges, magical mishaps, and unexpected turns, especially at the enigmatic Lavenshaw Orphanage.
The writing is poetic and atmospheric, with vivid scenes and a cast of memorable characters. The story unfolds slowly but is full of twists that keep it engaging, from enchanted ladles to invisible soup and a magical inspection that changes everything.
While the pacing may feel leisurely at times, the emotional depth and imaginative storytelling make it a rewarding read. Recommended for those who enjoy character driven fiction with a touch of whimsy and heart.
The writing is poetic and atmospheric, with vivid scenes and a cast of memorable characters. The story unfolds slowly but is full of twists that keep it engaging, from enchanted ladles to invisible soup and a magical inspection that changes everything.
While the pacing may feel leisurely at times, the emotional depth and imaginative storytelling make it a rewarding read. Recommended for those who enjoy character driven fiction with a touch of whimsy and heart.
December 3, 2025
A delightful tale, seemingly touched by magic.
We meet the titular character as she's raising young children on her own. Miranda Murfins is desperate for a job and loves to cook. Might a job as a chef at the nearby Lavenshaw orphanage do? She overlooks the overgrown exterior and short manner of its headmistress to accept a role.
Except her cooking isn't always well-received. Her anger flares into magical acts. And the orphanage she begins to care for is financially distressed.
Miranda's ensuing adventures unite her with a king, elves, and mysterious potions. Her warmth towards her charges and journey of self-discovery will fill readers with the joy.
This sweet book is written for young readers. It's gentle nature will charm all ages.
We meet the titular character as she's raising young children on her own. Miranda Murfins is desperate for a job and loves to cook. Might a job as a chef at the nearby Lavenshaw orphanage do? She overlooks the overgrown exterior and short manner of its headmistress to accept a role.
Except her cooking isn't always well-received. Her anger flares into magical acts. And the orphanage she begins to care for is financially distressed.
Miranda's ensuing adventures unite her with a king, elves, and mysterious potions. Her warmth towards her charges and journey of self-discovery will fill readers with the joy.
This sweet book is written for young readers. It's gentle nature will charm all ages.
December 27, 2025
This book is such a beautiful read. I loved every minute of this adventure. Miranda, her mother, and Dorothy all grow to be characters you feel like you have known forever. The end feels like closure in the best of ways, a coming home, hallmark vibe. It's perfectly written. My favorite quote comes at the end and I guess is a spoiler but I loved how it was written "Her magic was not in potions or spells. It was in her hands, her heart, her resolve. She fought masters, overseers, and, hardest of all, herself. And she prevailed, not with clamour, but with persistence. Like soup simmering: slowly, steadily, and with a little more patience than you think you possess."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 23, 2026
“Miranda Murfins: The Witch-Cook of the Orphanage” is a cute and quirky magical fantasy by A. L. Nelton that takes place in London, 1915. Miranda struggles to get by after her husband left her and their four children. She wants to work as a cook but cannot seem to hold a job. Magic seems to follow Miranda, and she views it as a curse since she has no idea how to control it. She finds a mysterious ladle and is hired to cook for the children in a nearby orphanage. But when the children do not like her food, she may yet again lose her job. Then she meets an elf, who offers her an opportunity she cannot pass up. This is an engaging read with a twisty plot.
January 5, 2026
Miranda is the kind of main character you start to care about without even realizing it. She’s stubborn, tired, caring, and always trying her best in a world that rarely gives her a break. I loved the orphanage setting and how much the story focuses on food, getting by, and small choices. The writing feels gentle and thoughtful. Even though the story moves a bit slowly and some side characters are not as fleshed out, the story’s emotional core stays strong. By the end, it felt comforting instead of flashy, and I finished the book feeling satisfied and quietly moved.
February 23, 2026
This was a sweet and heartwarming book for all ages!
It’s set in old England and follows Miranda Murfins, a mother of four, who finds a job at Lavenshaw orphanage. The orphanage kitchen becomes a special place full of care, small secrets, and a quiet kind of magic.
I liked how easy it was to read and how it mixed emotion with a little humor. The story is about kindness, staying strong, and hope, and it left me feeling warm inside.
If you enjoy gentle magic and a story with a big heart, I recommend this book. I’m glad I picked it up, and I’d like to read more from A.L. Nelson.
It’s set in old England and follows Miranda Murfins, a mother of four, who finds a job at Lavenshaw orphanage. The orphanage kitchen becomes a special place full of care, small secrets, and a quiet kind of magic.
I liked how easy it was to read and how it mixed emotion with a little humor. The story is about kindness, staying strong, and hope, and it left me feeling warm inside.
If you enjoy gentle magic and a story with a big heart, I recommend this book. I’m glad I picked it up, and I’d like to read more from A.L. Nelson.
February 10, 2026
a great read by Nelton
I really enjoyed this. Miranda may be abandoned, but she’s far from defeated. I completely fell into her world — a story woven through time that drew me in again and again. It kept me entertained throughout, and I genuinely didn’t want to put it down. It’s a short read, but in the best way — the kind of book you’ll happily finish in a single day.
I really enjoyed this. Miranda may be abandoned, but she’s far from defeated. I completely fell into her world — a story woven through time that drew me in again and again. It kept me entertained throughout, and I genuinely didn’t want to put it down. It’s a short read, but in the best way — the kind of book you’ll happily finish in a single day.
December 1, 2025
A sweet fantasy read with the perfect blend of bittersweet emotions, magic, fun, and interesting characters. It is the sort of book that leaves a smile on your face once you finish it since the sweetness of the story still lingers.
January 14, 2026
Are you freaking kidding me? I loved this. Fantasy is one of my favorite genres and this one did NOT disappoint. Then, the author added in that special touch on the last page? The recipe for The Witch-Cook’s Magical Tarts... okay.... ingenious.
January 19, 2026
Not exactly sure what I just read but loved it
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews