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Spellstruck
Not yet published
Expected 29 Sep 26Win a free print copy of this book!
15 days and 03:28:43
100 copies available
U.S. only
From beloved author Martha Waters, a lightly magical, enemies-to-lovers rom-com about the owner of a speakeasy supplying magical drinks and an enforcer of the ban on magic who must team up when potions begin to go awry, proving that chemistry isn’t just for cocktails.
In an alternate version of 1920s London, vestiges of England’s magical past exist, but the use of magic has been outlawed, leading families still with powers to operate illegal speakeasies for a public still hungry for magic. Vesper Holloway runs her family club, where a dash of spell powder or an enchanted cocktail can add a little extra intrigue to the evening. But one night a man drinking a Flotation Fizz that should allow him to levitate a few inches finds himself bumping his head on the ceiling. Word among the magical elite is that such accidents have been happening more frequently, and the club owners are worried that the danger will spread.
Enter Maxwell Ashbridge, a onetime friend of Vesper’s brother, who has joined the government agency tasked with enforcing the ban, and who has a personal vendetta against the magical elite. But he does not have a vendetta against Vesper; in fact, he finds her rather enticing. He promises her immunity for her club, if she teams up with him to help gain entry to other establishments and find out who is responsible for the contaminated magic threatening her family business. But their investigation does little to quell the chemistry they share. As accidents continue and the fight to repeal the ban gains ground in Parliament, Vesper and Max will have to decide—is the magic between them worth fighting for?
In an alternate version of 1920s London, vestiges of England’s magical past exist, but the use of magic has been outlawed, leading families still with powers to operate illegal speakeasies for a public still hungry for magic. Vesper Holloway runs her family club, where a dash of spell powder or an enchanted cocktail can add a little extra intrigue to the evening. But one night a man drinking a Flotation Fizz that should allow him to levitate a few inches finds himself bumping his head on the ceiling. Word among the magical elite is that such accidents have been happening more frequently, and the club owners are worried that the danger will spread.
Enter Maxwell Ashbridge, a onetime friend of Vesper’s brother, who has joined the government agency tasked with enforcing the ban, and who has a personal vendetta against the magical elite. But he does not have a vendetta against Vesper; in fact, he finds her rather enticing. He promises her immunity for her club, if she teams up with him to help gain entry to other establishments and find out who is responsible for the contaminated magic threatening her family business. But their investigation does little to quell the chemistry they share. As accidents continue and the fight to repeal the ban gains ground in Parliament, Vesper and Max will have to decide—is the magic between them worth fighting for?
352 pages, Paperback
Expected publication September 29, 2026
9 people are currently reading
4023 people want to read
About the author
Martha Waters
11 books1,684 followersMartha Waters is the author of To Have and to Hoax and To Love and to Loathe. She was born and raised in sunny South Florida and is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. By day, she works as a children's librarian, and loves sundresses, gin cocktails, and traveling. Sign up for her newsletter for periodic book news and reading & travel recs: http://tinyletter.com/marthawaters
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Crossdressing to get inside a gentleman’s club? Fun!
Shagging inside a tiny cupboard? So hot!
Him finding any excuse to seek her out? Be still, my beating heart!!
✎ᝰ.┊My Thoughts:
As a first-time reader of this author, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I absolutely loved reading about this world. The dynamic between Vesper and Max was definitely the highlight for me. Their chemistry felt natural and kept me hooked. For those who care about it, this is a moderate spice/open door read. There is one explicit scene, but it’s short.
Overall, the plot and the characters were so charming. Also, I really want a book about Freddie next!!
˖᯽ ݁˖┊What worked for me:
I love the forced proximity trope, so it’s not really a surprise that I swooned whenever they were forced to act coupley. Delicious stuff!
˖᯽ ݁˖┊What didn’t:
The constant use of dialogue tags (informed, agreed, explained, admitted, etc) for anything and everything sometimes pulled me out of the story.
✔ ┊Read this if:
You want a high-charm historical fantasy with a dash of mystery and a lot of heart.
─ ✦ ────
✎ᝰ.┊ pre-read: New author to me! I love the idea of a magical speakeasy in the 20s. Ready for some witty banter and enchanted drinks!
⬫ ⬪ ⬫
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc!
Shagging inside a tiny cupboard? So hot!
Him finding any excuse to seek her out? Be still, my beating heart!!
✎ᝰ.┊My Thoughts:
As a first-time reader of this author, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I absolutely loved reading about this world. The dynamic between Vesper and Max was definitely the highlight for me. Their chemistry felt natural and kept me hooked. For those who care about it, this is a moderate spice/open door read. There is one explicit scene, but it’s short.
Overall, the plot and the characters were so charming. Also, I really want a book about Freddie next!!
˖᯽ ݁˖┊What worked for me:
I love the forced proximity trope, so it’s not really a surprise that I swooned whenever they were forced to act coupley. Delicious stuff!
˖᯽ ݁˖┊What didn’t:
The constant use of dialogue tags (informed, agreed, explained, admitted, etc) for anything and everything sometimes pulled me out of the story.
✔ ┊Read this if:
You want a high-charm historical fantasy with a dash of mystery and a lot of heart.
─ ✦ ────
✎ᝰ.┊ pre-read: New author to me! I love the idea of a magical speakeasy in the 20s. Ready for some witty banter and enchanted drinks!
⬫ ⬪ ⬫
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the arc!
March 7, 2026
With thanks to Atria Books/NetGalley for the ARC // I had so much fun with this. It struck a good balance between the magical elements and the romance, and the building chemistry between the two leads was very enjoyable to read. There were a few too many instances of telling over showing, and not everything needed to be said “in an undertone,” but overall, a very fun read!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Two words: MAGICAL. SPEAKEASY.
That alone convinced me to read this book. Combined with the cute cover and the fact that it was written by Regency Vows author Martha Waters? I was absolutely, without a doubt, one hundred percent in.
This book was such a fun ride!! The magic system was unique and fun -- it was low stakes in a way that fit the romance-forward vibe of the story but still central enough to be a fantasy book as well. Vesper was the best kind of FMC because she was fun and sassy and just the slightest bit silly which made you just want to BE her. And watching Ashbridge, solemn and stoic government employee, fall so head over heels for her was so realistic because, honestly, I'm a little bit in love with her too.
I wish there was a little bit more explanation for some things regarding their past, but that was really the only thing that kept this from a 4-star rating in my head. I think it would have been nice to understand a little more about why Ashbridge and Vesper's brother had a falling out and also get a little bit more into his head about their past encounter. I think the mystery was also bit complicated in some moments, just because there were a lot of small background characters to keep in mind, but that was part of the fun!
But, honestly, this is exactly the kind of book you hope to get when you read the synopsis and see the adorable cover. Just a fun time from beginning to end.
--------------
Thank you to Netgalley and Atria for the ARC!
That alone convinced me to read this book. Combined with the cute cover and the fact that it was written by Regency Vows author Martha Waters? I was absolutely, without a doubt, one hundred percent in.
This book was such a fun ride!! The magic system was unique and fun -- it was low stakes in a way that fit the romance-forward vibe of the story but still central enough to be a fantasy book as well. Vesper was the best kind of FMC because she was fun and sassy and just the slightest bit silly which made you just want to BE her. And watching Ashbridge, solemn and stoic government employee, fall so head over heels for her was so realistic because, honestly, I'm a little bit in love with her too.
I wish there was a little bit more explanation for some things regarding their past, but that was really the only thing that kept this from a 4-star rating in my head. I think it would have been nice to understand a little more about why Ashbridge and Vesper's brother had a falling out and also get a little bit more into his head about their past encounter. I think the mystery was also bit complicated in some moments, just because there were a lot of small background characters to keep in mind, but that was part of the fun!
But, honestly, this is exactly the kind of book you hope to get when you read the synopsis and see the adorable cover. Just a fun time from beginning to end.
--------------
Thank you to Netgalley and Atria for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Spellstruck is an absolute joy from start to finish! Martha Waters blends magic, romance, and mystery in a way that feels both enchanting and utterly immersive. Vesper is such a lively, clever protagonist, and Maxwell is the perfect foil - charming, witty, and a little exasperated by her antics. Their chemistry slowly builds with delightful tension and plenty of humor, which I enjoyed!
The world-building is fantastic. An alternate historical setting where magic is forbidden, yet secretly woven into daily life, gives the story a unique and playful edge. I loved exploring the magical clubs and the clever ways characters work around the ban, all while trying to solve the mystery of the contaminated magic. The stakes are real, but the story never loses its cozy, whimsical charm. The dialogue sparkles with wit, the supporting cast is full of life, and the slow-burn romance keeps you invested.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the E-ARC!
The world-building is fantastic. An alternate historical setting where magic is forbidden, yet secretly woven into daily life, gives the story a unique and playful edge. I loved exploring the magical clubs and the clever ways characters work around the ban, all while trying to solve the mystery of the contaminated magic. The stakes are real, but the story never loses its cozy, whimsical charm. The dialogue sparkles with wit, the supporting cast is full of life, and the slow-burn romance keeps you invested.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the E-ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fun Historical fantasy romance
Vesper Holloway runs her family’s slightly less than legal magical speakeasy. But when magical accidents threaten her club and others, she teams up with her brother's old friend Max Ashfield who’s working for the government tasked with enforcing the ban on magic to find who might be sabotaging the clubs.
Spellstruck is a fun read with some great banter between party girl Vesper and strait laced Max, some fun magical effects, and a bit of spice. I thought the romance was really sweet and believable. I enjoyed Vesper's family and the historical fantasy take on Prohibition- with speakeasies behind doors or with secret entrances and strange passwords. I’d love to see more in this intriguing world!
Vesper Holloway runs her family’s slightly less than legal magical speakeasy. But when magical accidents threaten her club and others, she teams up with her brother's old friend Max Ashfield who’s working for the government tasked with enforcing the ban on magic to find who might be sabotaging the clubs.
Spellstruck is a fun read with some great banter between party girl Vesper and strait laced Max, some fun magical effects, and a bit of spice. I thought the romance was really sweet and believable. I enjoyed Vesper's family and the historical fantasy take on Prohibition- with speakeasies behind doors or with secret entrances and strange passwords. I’d love to see more in this intriguing world!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I loved the world that Martha Waters created! I haven't read a book based in the 1920s in a long time and this felt so romantic. In this world, there are magical families & mundane families but magic has been almost entirely outlawed so only small amounts of magic remain. Vesper is a member of a magical family and is charged with running her family's club that occasionally sells magic potions. Max works for the government and is tasked with shutting down Vesper's club. You get dual POVs and get to watch as their differences come together & make magic. I love when a romance is more than just a romance & this is that. Thank you to NetGalley & Atria Books for the arc! ♡𐙚⋆°｡⋆♡
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
🔮 Thank you, Atria Books, for the opportunity to read this ARC 🔮
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I found this to be a quick, fun, magical read. From the first chapter, I was already obsessed with Vesper, her rather first awkward introduction to Max, the 1920s settings. I loved a lot of it, really.
The slow burn between the two was delicious and worth the very end, the wittiness from Vesper had me giggling in a dark room, and the magical world intertwined with the real world felt almost real and familiar.
I kind of wished it was longer, but it was wrapped up neatly with a bow. It reminded me a lot of Enchanted to Meet You by Meg Cabot is likely ALSO why I enjoyed it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A magical speakeasy in the 1920s? Yes, please! Spellstruck was such a delight to read. It blends witty banter, enchanting magical elements, and a touch of romance in a way that feels both fun and immersive. Martha Walters has a real talent for building chemistry between her characters.
Vesper is an absolute standout. She’s equal parts silly and sassy, making her endlessly entertaining to follow. She’s the perfect foil to Ashbridge’s more stoic, reserved nature, and their dynamic really drives the story.
My only wish is that there had been a bit more showing and less telling in places. That said, it didn’t take away from how enjoyable the book was overall.
I’d happily pick this one up again.
Vesper is an absolute standout. She’s equal parts silly and sassy, making her endlessly entertaining to follow. She’s the perfect foil to Ashbridge’s more stoic, reserved nature, and their dynamic really drives the story.
My only wish is that there had been a bit more showing and less telling in places. That said, it didn’t take away from how enjoyable the book was overall.
I’d happily pick this one up again.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5 ⭐️
This book was the best of all my favourite genres. I love magical fiction/fantasy, mystery, and romance. Give me a book with all three and I'm in!
Set in the 1920s, Vesper is a very progressive woman from a magical family - and Max is a FLEA trying to shut down all magical clubs. They end up working together and of course, sparks fly.
An added bonus is that the author Martha Waters used so many fun words. As a word nerd, I have so many words highlighted on my kindle copy. Superb!
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This book was the best of all my favourite genres. I love magical fiction/fantasy, mystery, and romance. Give me a book with all three and I'm in!
Set in the 1920s, Vesper is a very progressive woman from a magical family - and Max is a FLEA trying to shut down all magical clubs. They end up working together and of course, sparks fly.
An added bonus is that the author Martha Waters used so many fun words. As a word nerd, I have so many words highlighted on my kindle copy. Superb!
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a quick and fun read! Vesper and Max had great chemistry and the story had some mystery and magic which I really liked! I wish the last chapter had more about “what’s next” for them but I’m a sucker for an epilogue so it wasn’t a dealbreaker. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it won’t be the last!
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the eARC of Spellstruck in exchange for an honest review!
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria Books for the eARC of Spellstruck in exchange for an honest review!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Lovely, Lovely, Lovely! Sweet story, perfect mix of sweet romance and cozy mystery. Low spice, but it was perfect for the story. Ending was maybe slightly predictable, but still absolutely perfect. I would have been disappointed if it ended a different way. The dialogue was the perfect mix of period language and humorous sassy. The characters were well rounded and grew during the story. I was immersed in the world. Fabulous book I would absolutely recommend and read over and over again!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a really fun, cute book and I loved it!
The main character, Vesper, was craft and intelligent. Mail, main character, Ashbridge, supported her very well.
The story was clever and fast paced. Brought a smile to my face. I love the combination of detective story and fantasy. I liked the 1920s setting.
I would definitely read other books by this author and would recommend it. I really enjoyed the story.
The main character, Vesper, was craft and intelligent. Mail, main character, Ashbridge, supported her very well.
The story was clever and fast paced. Brought a smile to my face. I love the combination of detective story and fantasy. I liked the 1920s setting.
I would definitely read other books by this author and would recommend it. I really enjoyed the story.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
Martha Waters sizzles in a new setting in this 1920s London-set fantasy romance! A magical speakeasy owner must find who's spiking her illicit cocktail potions with the help of her brother's magic-hating ex-best friend. Glamorous, sultry goodness I couldn't put down!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
As far as books where the conceit is "what if magic degenerated to the point where it was just drugs," this one is highly entertaining. I like Martha Waters' writing and her characters are very fun. 4.5 rounded up because I'm nice.
I received a free ARC from NetGalley.
I received a free ARC from NetGalley.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews