Of Pixies and Pekoe: Owls, Tea Shops, and Other Magical Nuisances

Owls, Tea Shops, and Other Magical Nuisances #2

by Shari L. Tapscott

The author of A Vampire's Guide to Gardening and Obsidian Queen brings you a lighthearted fantasy full of humor and romance, set in a cozy contemporary fae town in Vermont. Welcome to Moss Hollow.

Welcome to Merriweather Tea Shop, where the tea is piping hot, gossip flows like Earl Grey, and a family of gnomes has inconveniently moved into the back garden.

My name is Kit, and I’m the new proprietress. I know next to nothing about tea, but that’s all right, because I’ve hired my owl to help. Except Rowan isn’t an owl anymore, and our friendship isn’t as simple as it used to be.

But that’s the least of my concerns right now. My focus is on my business ledger, which apparently isn’t supposed to be negative. I’ve quickly discovered that running a business is expensive, especially when I can’t touch my aunt’s fortune for another three years.

So, what’s a smart pixie to do when a mage with questionable intentions shows up on her doorstep with a dust pendant and a generous proposal?

Well, I don’t know about a smart one, but I know what I did… And maybe it wasn’t my best idea…

Owls, Tea Shops, and Other Magical Nuisances is a rom-com style contemporary fantasy. The perfect lighthearted escape, this story is sure to delight readers who enjoy cozy magic and humor.

The books in this series feature smoldering-but-sweet, closed-door romance. (Passionate kisses and some innuendo, but no spicy scenes.)

Genres: Fantasy, Urban Fantasy, Romance, Fae, Adult, Magic, Fiction

Audible Audio

First published February 2, 2026

About the author

Shari L. Tapscott writes young adult fantasy and humorous contemporary fiction. When she's not writing or reading, she enjoys gardening, making soap, and pretending she can sing.

She loves white chocolate mochas, furry animals, spending time with her family, and characters who refuse to behave.

Tapscott lives in western Colorado with her husband, son, daughter, and two very spoiled Saint Bernards.

Join Shari's newsletter, and be one of the first to learn about new projects, upcoming releases, sales, and specials.

Reviews

[Renee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Libro.fm for this ALC in exchange for an honest review.

Same narrator as the first book which I think does help the overall enjoyment of the book. Her voice is warm and conveys emotion well. Mostly, though, it's the warmth in her voice that really enhances what is already a warm and cozy fantasy book.

This is the second book in the series. In this book, we see the relationship between Rowan and Kit start to develop while her relationship with Ash cools. Frankly, I think Rowan is a much better fit than Ash. However, they find out their feelings for one another? They may not be real. So now what to do?

Overall, a good book but it didn't really feel like it resolved much. Kit made some decisions that were quite stupid and that annoyed me as she's not been stupid before but rather inexperienced. This was not a naivety issue; it was clearly poor decisions even when she had the information. But yes, my biggest issue was that nothing introduced was completed and this felt like an in between book and should have resolved at least one of the storylines. We did not get that here. Overall, it was an easy book but has some issues. Three stars.

[A.M. Hogue · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it!!

Of Pixies and Pekoe was such a fantastic book!! It ended, and I was like, "Wait. What? That went by way too soon." I was immediately sucked in right until the last page, and I can't wait for the 3rd book! How will Kit and Rowan finally be together?!! Oh, the anguish of waiting!!
Thanks for another fantastic clean romance with all those swoony kisses!

[Laura Fincher · Rating 5 out of 5]

"He's warm. Solid. And he smells faintly of laundry detergent. Shamelessly, I snuggle in. I could live here. Set up residence in his arms. Change my address and forward my mail."

This book was just as charming and cozy as the first one, but with more emotional depth and character development. I love this series so much and wish the next one was out so I could see how things end between Rowan and Kit!

True to Shari's vibe, there is a little bit of uncertainty and heartache between the two main characters, but also a lot of light and fun. There were so many sweet scenes that brought tears to my eyes! I'm also very emotionally invested in the lives of every citizen of Moss Hollow. I'd like every side character to have a series of their own. Even Ash. Who is annoying yet perfect comedic relief, somehow?

Read if you enjoy:
Cozy Fantasy
Friends to More
Small Town Romance
Sunshine, Tea & Flowers

*Thank you so much to Shari for my complimentary copy! All opinions expressed are my own.

[Morgan Giesbrecht · Rating 5 out of 5]

Shari’s books are like a welcome home hug! 🥹

I’ve been in a massive reading slump (wanting to read everything and yet nothing). Going back to Moss Hollow was a breath of fresh air and pulled me out of a funk.

I love this quirky town and its inhabitants. Kit & Rowan have my heart! 🤭 The twists were twisting and there was no cliffhanger.

I’m eagerly awaiting the next installment, and now I get to go back to being sad that I don’t have any more of Shari’s urban fantasy books left to read for the first time, haha. 😂

[Rebecca Rae Rieseberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I mean, it’s a Shari L. Tapscott book. What more do I need to say? ✨no notes✨

I’ve read a handful of her books (working my way through them ALL) and this one is definitely her coziest, most wholesome, sweetest series! I cry thinking of the wait for the final book - I don’t know if I’ll survive, haha. Sweetest couple ever.

[Laura (cozykindlereads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I LOVE this series. I flew through this in a day, and I wish the next book was already out so I could find out what's going to happen with Rowan and Kitt.
I love this cosy town and all the characters in it it's like a warm hug.

[Hannah Mullins · Rating 5 out of 5]

sweet and funny

I loved these books. I love the banter and the drama. It was an extremely cute read and I enjoyed the fact that there is little spice. Such a nice change of pace.

[Katie King · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kit and crew are back with more tea, magic, and pixie sparkles!

Of Pixies and Pekoe is a fun and cozy read. It has all the romance, friendship, and humor of the first book while also having its share of complications and danger. I definitely didn’t predict some of the issues in this book.

I loved returning to Moss Hollow and learning more about this world and its inhabitants. Of Pixies and Pekoe introduces new characters while continuing to develop returning characters and friendships.

I absolutely loved this book and can’t wait to see what happens in the next one!

[Sierra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reader’s Notes:

*Series or Connected Books?* 2nd of a trilogy & must be read in order

*Point Of View:* Kit

*Any Cursing Or Possibly Offensive Language?* it is mentioned that a character utters a ‘naughty word’, but no actual word is on page

*Romance?* Yes! Just kisses

*Things To Know:*

–there is a kidnapping

Review:

Such a great addition to the series! I loved getting more of Kit, Rowan, and their magical town’s inhabitants! I am so happy with the change in Kit’s romantic feelings from the first book to now. I wasn’t a fan of her first choice and I’m hoping that despite the odd predicament they’re in, she’ll end up staying with the second option (aka the person she’s in love with in this book). I loved so many of their scenes together, but especially the fireflies and in the tea shop ones!

I can’t wait to find out what happens in the third book when it becomes available!

Summary:

Kit is still getting the hang of things when it comes to running her great aunt’s tea shop. Though she’s starting to get the hang of the different kinds of teas and their finicky preparations, she still has a long ways to go. Luckily, her owl – now turned human mage again – Rowan is well versed in all things tea and agreed to help her run the place. If only things stayed easy.

With pricey repairs being needed on the building, low income coming in, and no money to speak of, Kit is getting a little desperate. So when a questionable mage comes in offering to make all of Kit’s problems go away, she just might consider the offer despite its origins…

[RHAPSODY · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 and still hooked - I did a re-read of the first one of Owls and Oolong- and absolutely loved it - I'm not keen of love triangles but you definitely have a favourite from the moment you meet both love interests.
I'm a 100% Rowan and kit - and the second installment of PIXIES and PEKOE Did not disappoint (would I have liked a lot more oh yes a lot more)
The swoon in this book was amped up at my goodness did I blush (I had that snort and squealing moment happen but worth it)
I've enjoyed this cozy little read very much and I look forward to the next.
I just hope we don't have to wait long cause I need a conclusion but I also need the spin-offs because I really want to see more of this world and the characters are so interesting - and a certain person I would really like to see him matched up with a headstrong, no nonsense lady.
I received a ARC for an honest review.

[Amy Harris · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is the second in a trilogy set in the fae town of Moss Hollow. After reading the first book, I basically knew what to expect: lots of magical creatures, smoldering looks, "sparkling" by the Pixie, and chaste kissing. This second installment went a bit beyond that in terms of the romanc. While the actions are still all in the first base vicinity, the descriptions of day dreams and potential to go beyond would make me extremely cautious about putting this in the hands of a teen. I did enjoy the story and this world of Moss Hollow, though some of the details seem off. for example, on Kit's tea shop opening day she wears long sleeves, a vest, jeans, and riding boots. No problem for an autumn day, but this is supposed to be summer and she's a summer pixie. Wouldn't a long, flowy sundress or a short skirt and sleeveless top have been more appropriate for the setting? I also feel like the author takes a lot for granted that her audience has read these fantasy books before "he was so high fae". What does that even mean? *Trigger warning for abduction and assault scene.*

[Jessica Harrison · Rating 4 out of 5]

The 2nd book in the series (and not a standalone), this is a cozy (small-town) urban fantasy. It’s good, but not excellent. Overall it felt a little slow and my interest wandered at times. It’s missing something I can’t quite place, something that kept me from becoming fully invested in the characters.

My primary complaint about book 1 was the excessive and uncomfortable sexual tension. Though not going beyond kissing, the scenes were too lustful and intense. This 2nd book is better than the 1st. It’s still too heated, but not quite as bad… and at least it’s with the MMC this time.

I’ll recommend it for cozy urban fantasy fans, but I’m not as eager for book 3 as I thought I’d be going into the series.

Content:
There is no foul language or sex, and the violence is minimal. Though the book is clean and nothing goes beyond kissing, the scenes are too heated and intense for my taste. There is magic. There is no mention of faith or God.

Trigger warning - a female character is abducted (and rescued)

[Susan1566 · Rating 4 out of 5]

This really is an enjoyable sweet read.
Things are definitely interesting in Moss Hollow. Rowan has been turned back into a mage but something went wrong, his magic and Kit’s have fused together, almost like a mate bond. Is their attraction real or magic? That’s a question throughout the book.
There are a few other problems. Things need fixing up at the teashop but Kit doesn’t have the money. She also wants to help Rowan with his tuition when he goes back to college. Ash is unhappy that she seems to prefer Rowan. And there’s more.
An ill-advised contract with another mage to trade her magic for money just causes more problems.
This book has great characters and interactions, an interesting story, humour, romance and more.
It is a light, easy, enjoyable read.
I’d like to visit the town and sit down for a cup of tea; there are so many different types it’s amazing.
Definitely a good read.

[Kimthebookishbaker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my goodness. First of all, Tapscott upped the stakes with the love triangle so it is not nearly as tame as book one. However, I didn't hate it as much as I expected. I also am firmly rooting for Rowan, which I wasn't sure if that would happen. Also firmly agree with a character in the book that says Ash needs someone firm that's willing to stand their ground and maybe knock some sense into Ash as needed (not a direct quote). I definitely feel for Kit. At a time when life should be going well, she is having a pretty crummy hand dealt to her that has sent her stress level through the roof. Not the least of which is her feelings confusing her and being tied up, the men around who are way too interested in her, and money not stretching as far as she really needs it to. However, the book was amazing and I can't wait to see how Tapscott wraps it all up in book 3! There were so many moments I laughed, I cried, I swooned. It was great.

[Spinneretta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good

Picking up from where book one left off, we find Rowan back in his mage form, while Kit recovers from her magic drain.
There's drama for Kit as she navigates her new situation, and the opening of her tea shop.
Mostly, this book focuses on the repercussions from the spell to rescue Rowan.
There is a small love triangle, mostly resolved quickly, but Kit has some other adventures and the setup for some future ones as well.
This is a fast paced story, on the sweet and cosy side of fantasy. While there are some tense situations, they're actually resolved quickly, making this an excellent comfort read if you want something relaxing. Kit sometimes makes dumb choices and mistakes, but they come from good (if misguided) intentions, and fit well with her "sweet summer pixie" persona.
I'm enjoying this series, and I look forward to seeing where it takes us next!

[Bethany T · Rating 4 out of 5]

Picking right back up where the first book left off, we have summer pixie Kit and former owl-shaped mage Rowan, who has been returned to human form. And he's hot.

While trying to figure out what the new living arrangements should be now that Rowan is no longer a cute owl, Kit finds herself struggling with her confusing and undefined relationship with winter fae Ash. At the same time, her magic sparkled for Rowan and she's having trouble defining exactly what's happening with their relationship as well. It's not helping that he won't stop being so helpful and irresistible.

Again, light on plot. There's not much more going on besides a shady mage looking to siphon some of Kit's magic and perhaps something at the root of the tangled emotions between Rowan and Kit.

This would be a good book for readers who aren't quite into shapeshifter romances but aren't quite opposed. It's a good middle ground. Complete with fated mates, perhaps? (I'm not a fan of the new romance in this book, admittedly.)

Verdict
Still such a fun time. Kit can get a bit annoying by being just so, so clueless and unable to care for herself without the help of a strong, hot man. That is a minor quibble though. I zipped through this book and cannot wait to read the third book.

[Whitney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book 2 in the Owls, Tea Shops, and Other Magical Nuisances series was just as cozy as the first! It was low stakes overall but had some action to keep things interesting. And it was peppered with some “real world” struggles to keep things relatable. My favorite part of this book (and series) is the atmosphere that Tapscott creates. If only Moss Hollow were a real place, I would have my next vacation spot booked. It gives off all the cottagecore vibes while seamlessly tying in a unique fantasy world. And THE ROMANCE! It was so sweet and kept me invested from start to finish. It is so easy to root for the main characters, and I can’t wait to see what happens in the third book later this year. If you are thinking of reading this one I would definitely recommend!

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this is like being surrounded by summer pixie magic, you can’t help but smile. Perfect for the bitter cold winter weather currently outside my door.

I was so engaged in the story I was genuinely surprised when I reached the end.

As you can imagine from the cliffhanger in the first book there was bound to be some drama to come and it was fun to see it play out.

There’s so many lovely side characters too that have really intriguing stories themselves. I hope she might decide to make this a world with a variety of series set in it similar to the Magiford world K. M. Shea has created. Then we can enjoy everything Moss Hollow had to offer through a variety of lenses.

I adore the sweetness of the relationship forming and can’t wait to find out what happens next.

[Lucee · Rating 1 out of 5]

I originally rated this two stars, but dropped it to one after considering my thoughts for a while longer. The first book in this series was charming and easy to read. While Of Pixies and Pekoe mirrored those features, they felt like a pale imitation of what made Of Owls and Oolong fun.

I found myself annoyed more than amused by our MC, Kit, for most of this book. I understand that there has been a lot of change in her life lately, but she just couldn’t get her head screwed on straight, and her emotions often felt disproportionate to their cause. The supporting cast didn’t do much to offset my “meh” feelings towards the protagonist either. They were too distant to develop feelings for, especially in a book so short.

My journey with this series ends here, but I appreciate the fun I had reading Of Owls and Oolong.

[Jennifer Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

amazing story

Ok. So I liked book one but I LOVED book two. The anticipation had ME sparkling throughout this whole book!

Shari has a way of painting a very enticing man (in my opinion). The words she chooses always give me the feels/has me swooning. Mischief, stride, rotten smile…

****Spoiler alert****

I like that she doesn’t sparkle for someone right away. The love triangle is still kind of there but not and I think it fits Kit’s loyal nature the way it plays out from the very start.

Ok but I do love Ash in lawyer mode.

I hate finishing one of Shari’s books but I certainly love reading them! Can’t wait for the next one.

[Shayna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was far too short. I didn’t want it to end.

Maybe it’s mostly because of where I’m at right now, but the emotional aspects of this book are killing me. I was so mad at Ash this book when it became clear that he cared more about how Kit could make him feel than her actual self. And she was suckered into trying to manage how she felt just to not upset him. I hated it so much, and I was so glad when she saw it for herself. The contrast of Rowan rolling with the tides of her emotions and never acting like her sadness was something to deal with and tidy up was such a balm to my heart.

It’s going to be a long wait till the last book.

[Michelle Pomeroy · Rating 4 out of 5]

So, this book picks up right up where the last left off, so this isn’t one of those series where you can jump in half-way through. Read the first book first.
Rowan’s human again, and things just keep getting more and more complicated for Kit. And I don’t mean just romantically. The tea shop is having its issues too, and Kit is struggling to balance it all. She's doing her best, but she's stretched pretty thin and had no idea how it's all going to work out.
This is a clean read and the editing is good. I received an ARC from the author. I was not required to write a review but chose to do so and the opinions stated are my own.

[Darcia Helle · Rating 3 out of 5]

OF PIXIES AND PEKOE is book two in the Owls, Tea Shops, and Other Magical Nuisances series. While still fun, I didn’t enjoy it as much as book 1. This one didn’t have much of a plot. The main focus was on a love triangle, which is a trope I’m not fond of to begin with, and it stretched throughout the entire book. Nothing was resolved, so the story just didn’t feel like it went anywhere. But I love the characters, and I’m hoping for more from book 3.

Natalie Duke is the narrator for this audiobook, as well as the first. I appreciate the continuity, and I love the way she embraces the quirkiness of these characters.

*Thanks to Simon Audio for the free audiobook download!*

[Shara Bowles · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was just an absolute delight! Super cozy with just enough excitement to keep it interesting and the most endearing characters! I really love characters that have a great sense of humor- just as Kit does! The banter between Kit and Rowan is my favorite thing ever. And Rowan is all things loyal, protective, and utterly swoony! It's the perfect combination! Love it!

Content- No bad language, the only violence is a magical mage duel (so very mild), clean/no-spice romance with kisses on lips and neck (mildly described make-out).

[Jeannette Fahl · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's just so perfect

You know, there's some books that you push through and try to get done. Trying to find out what's going on. When I see that I'm at 75% with Shari L. Tapscott's books, I get sad, because my happiness is coming to an end! I'm never upset with her characters. I'm never arguing with them. They're always perfect! Even her books now under Shari Lynn Cook (if you haven't found those, go! Do it now!)
I love this series. I'm seriously considering trying tea instead of coffee!!!!

[Eden · Rating 5 out of 5]

2026 bk 34. The first was so good that I purchased the second late at night and read early into the morning. Now with 2 cousins vieing for her, our heroine must open her tea shop, learn the community, and see how she can help the former owl who may or may not be bounded to her. When an unscrupulous mage courts her for her magic, can she keep her magic, help her men, and survive the possibility of gnomes in her garden. I thoroughly enjoyed the gentle romance, the humor, and the setting of these two book - and now I have to wait for almost a year for the 3rd in the series!

[Mary Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The continuation of this charming series does not disappoint. The story continues in a linear fashion which is good because it's very natural in the way it proceeds. Kit is still not comfortable in the tea shoppe business, and her involvement with Ash and Rowan complicates matters. For the record, I am on Team Rowan! All the other characters of the town have their purpose and are nicely defined and described. Looking forward to where the next book will take us!

[Lauren Johnstun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this 2nd book in the series! I had all the vibes I’m always looking for - humor & wit, swoony romance, just enough drama and conflict to drive the storyline. This has been one of my favorite series from Shari Tapscott!

Getting to know Rowan as a mage and watching Kit’s and his friendship grow was so warm and cozy. I loved grumpy Ansel and getting to know Ryder and Anna better.

I’m looking forward to seeing how this all plays out in the 3rd book!

[Alyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Rowan is in the kitchen... except he's seated at the table instead of on his perch. I mean, obviously. He wouldn't fit up there anymore."

This book was SO fun! I love the characters in Moss Hollow, especially Kit and Rowan! This book picks up right where the first one left off and it was fun to see what happened next. This story has the cozy feels, fun banter, magic, and a little romance!

Contains no bad language and some kissing.

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun continuation of Kit’s story

Kit and Rowan open the teashop. She’s still getting used to him in person form. They discover a side effect of the magic they used that puts them in a difficult situation. It makes for all the fun in the story. I can’t imagine being someone like Kit who couldn’t help but have an immediate physical show of her attraction to someone - her sparkles. It would be embarrassing! It gets her into trouble-not trouble which is, again, part of the fun.