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A Mage is Sometimes Late
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July 31, 2026
Thank you so much to the author for the eARC in exchange for an honest review! Perhaps I am a bit biased because I enjoy the fantasy genre so much but A Mage is Sometimes Late is an extremely good book!
Set in the same world as Turbulent Magic it’s the perfect standalone! If readers enjoyed Turbulent Magic they’ll definitely enjoy A Mage is Sometimes Late! I definitely recommend this book to all fans of fantasy and whimsy!
I enjoyed all of Benji’s mishaps and adventures! I enjoyed seeing Benji create new friendships and growing those friendships. Overall, Benji is a relatable character that we get to see learn and succeed as he starts his academic journey later than most after many failed attempts.
The magic and whimsy of the story kept me wanting to read nonstop. I dreaded putting the book down in order to do actual work. I cannot wait for this book to come out so that I can own my own physical version! Please, if you enjoy cozy fantasies and easy reads this book is for you!
Set in the same world as Turbulent Magic it’s the perfect standalone! If readers enjoyed Turbulent Magic they’ll definitely enjoy A Mage is Sometimes Late! I definitely recommend this book to all fans of fantasy and whimsy!
I enjoyed all of Benji’s mishaps and adventures! I enjoyed seeing Benji create new friendships and growing those friendships. Overall, Benji is a relatable character that we get to see learn and succeed as he starts his academic journey later than most after many failed attempts.
The magic and whimsy of the story kept me wanting to read nonstop. I dreaded putting the book down in order to do actual work. I cannot wait for this book to come out so that I can own my own physical version! Please, if you enjoy cozy fantasies and easy reads this book is for you!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I was reading on the dock, and more than once I called out across the water to whoever was swimming to come listen to a line, then turned around and made my sister put her own book down so I could read it to her too.
A Mage is Sometimes Late by E.M. Peterson is fantasy with a cast whose ages, magic types, and species are never pinned down or explained away, which somehow makes the found family at the center of it feel bigger instead of harder to follow. They come together to rescue a sentient plant from certain death, and every one of them risks their own future to do it. That premise alone tells you what kind of book this is: tenacity, acceptance of people who are nothing like you, and a group of characters who show up for each other without needing a reason spelled out first.
One quote that had me pulling people away from the water came from a side character with a violent past. Someone tells him they never expected such a gentle response from him, and he says, "It takes a lot of scars to get this gentle." That line stopped me cold on the dock. It is the kind of thing that applies just as much to real people as it does to a fantasy side character, and I have not stopped thinking about it since.
I read this one on vacation, and by the time I finished, three different people in my life were already asking where they could get their own copy. This is going on my permanent shelf. It has intrigue, real friendship, conflict that matters, magic that feels woven into the world instead of bolted on, and enough fun in the middle of all of it that I never once felt like I was working to get through a chapter.
Finding out at the end that this was not E.M. Peterson's first book felt like a gift. I get to go find the rest of the backlist now.
This is a fantasy for readers of any age who want a found family quest with a plant worth risking everything for, characters who defy easy categories, and at least one line you will want to read out loud to whoever is closest, even if they are treading water twenty feet away.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book.
What's the last book quote you stopped everything to read out loud to someone?
A Mage is Sometimes Late by E.M. Peterson is fantasy with a cast whose ages, magic types, and species are never pinned down or explained away, which somehow makes the found family at the center of it feel bigger instead of harder to follow. They come together to rescue a sentient plant from certain death, and every one of them risks their own future to do it. That premise alone tells you what kind of book this is: tenacity, acceptance of people who are nothing like you, and a group of characters who show up for each other without needing a reason spelled out first.
One quote that had me pulling people away from the water came from a side character with a violent past. Someone tells him they never expected such a gentle response from him, and he says, "It takes a lot of scars to get this gentle." That line stopped me cold on the dock. It is the kind of thing that applies just as much to real people as it does to a fantasy side character, and I have not stopped thinking about it since.
I read this one on vacation, and by the time I finished, three different people in my life were already asking where they could get their own copy. This is going on my permanent shelf. It has intrigue, real friendship, conflict that matters, magic that feels woven into the world instead of bolted on, and enough fun in the middle of all of it that I never once felt like I was working to get through a chapter.
Finding out at the end that this was not E.M. Peterson's first book felt like a gift. I get to go find the rest of the backlist now.
This is a fantasy for readers of any age who want a found family quest with a plant worth risking everything for, characters who defy easy categories, and at least one line you will want to read out loud to whoever is closest, even if they are treading water twenty feet away.
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book.
What's the last book quote you stopped everything to read out loud to someone?
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Review: A Mage is Sometimes Late
If you're looking for a cozy fantasy filled with found family, magical academia, and heartwarming friendships, this book is a delight. Benji is an easy protagonist to root for as he navigates life at Thelspoint University, learning not only about spellwork but also about himself and the people around him.
The real strength of the story is its focus on Benji’s new found friends. His loyalty to his friends gives the book its emotional core, and watching their bonds grow through everyday moments and magical mishaps is quite enjoyable. I loved Benji’s friendship with the teaching assistant, Nella, in his plant-working class. His determination to help her when she finds herself in trouble showcases his kind and dependable nature.
Rather than relying on high-stakes battles or world-ending threats, the story embraces the quieter joys of magical college life—classes, friendships, teamwork, and small acts of courage. The cozy atmosphere makes it an easy, comforting read while still offering enough tension to keep the pages turning.
Overall, this is a charming cozy fantasy with lovable characters, a welcoming magical setting, and a strong emphasis on kindness and community. If you enjoy low-stakes fantasy, magical schools, and stories where friendship is the greatest magic of all, this is definitely one to add to your reading list.
I would like to thank the author, E.M.Peterson for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
If you're looking for a cozy fantasy filled with found family, magical academia, and heartwarming friendships, this book is a delight. Benji is an easy protagonist to root for as he navigates life at Thelspoint University, learning not only about spellwork but also about himself and the people around him.
The real strength of the story is its focus on Benji’s new found friends. His loyalty to his friends gives the book its emotional core, and watching their bonds grow through everyday moments and magical mishaps is quite enjoyable. I loved Benji’s friendship with the teaching assistant, Nella, in his plant-working class. His determination to help her when she finds herself in trouble showcases his kind and dependable nature.
Rather than relying on high-stakes battles or world-ending threats, the story embraces the quieter joys of magical college life—classes, friendships, teamwork, and small acts of courage. The cozy atmosphere makes it an easy, comforting read while still offering enough tension to keep the pages turning.
Overall, this is a charming cozy fantasy with lovable characters, a welcoming magical setting, and a strong emphasis on kindness and community. If you enjoy low-stakes fantasy, magical schools, and stories where friendship is the greatest magic of all, this is definitely one to add to your reading list.
I would like to thank the author, E.M.Peterson for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
Thank you to the author for providing me with an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
A Mage Is Sometimes Late is a cozy fantasy that was a light, enjoyable read with a magical university setting that was easy to get lost in.
One of my favorite things about the book was Benji's perseverance. After fourteen attempts to get into the university, finally becoming a first-year student made him feel relatable rather than overpowered. It was refreshing to follow a main character who had to work for every bit of progress instead of naturally excelling at everything. The magical university atmosphere was charming, and the writing made it easy to picture yourself there. I also really enjoyed the side characters, who added plenty of humor and helped balance the story.
There were a few things that kept this from being a higher rating for me. Benji occasionally came across as younger than his age, making him feel a bit childish at times. I also wasn't a fan of the added swearing later in the book. Without it, I think this story could have appealed to an even wider range of readers. The pacing was on the slower side, with most of the action and the resolution happening in the final chapters.
Overall, I enjoyed this cozy fantasy. If you're looking for a relaxing, easy fantasy read with an underdog main character and a magical school setting, this one is worth checking out.
⭐️ Rating: 3.5/5
Favorite Quote:
"It takes a lot of scars to get this gentle."
Thank you to the author for providing me with an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.
A Mage Is Sometimes Late is a cozy fantasy that was a light, enjoyable read with a magical university setting that was easy to get lost in.
One of my favorite things about the book was Benji's perseverance. After fourteen attempts to get into the university, finally becoming a first-year student made him feel relatable rather than overpowered. It was refreshing to follow a main character who had to work for every bit of progress instead of naturally excelling at everything. The magical university atmosphere was charming, and the writing made it easy to picture yourself there. I also really enjoyed the side characters, who added plenty of humor and helped balance the story.
There were a few things that kept this from being a higher rating for me. Benji occasionally came across as younger than his age, making him feel a bit childish at times. I also wasn't a fan of the added swearing later in the book. Without it, I think this story could have appealed to an even wider range of readers. The pacing was on the slower side, with most of the action and the resolution happening in the final chapters.
Overall, I enjoyed this cozy fantasy. If you're looking for a relaxing, easy fantasy read with an underdog main character and a magical school setting, this one is worth checking out.
⭐️ Rating: 3.5/5
Favorite Quote:
"It takes a lot of scars to get this gentle."
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC of this book!
3.75/5 ⭐️
This was such a fun spin on the usual “magical school” theme! I really liked how Benji being in his late 20s was explored, especially at the beginning when he finally got into the university. The feeling when you finally achieve something you’ve been working towards for years is so incredibly bittersweet, and I really liked how the author let us sit with the thought that Benji didn’t really know who he was once he was admitted.
Benji is the sort of main character that Things Happen To, and the cast of characters that Cause Things To Happen to him were so fun and diverse! I’d say my favorite character was probably Maynard. The man has no pores, can turn invisible (ish), and generally only means an average amount of harm. What’s not to love?
I think my only major complaint is that the conflict resolved rather quickly. It was built up throughout the entire book only to be a bit underwhelming and short. I don’t think it necessarily needed to be a giant battle scene with character deaths and the whole shebang, but I would have liked to see the plot twist be explored a bit more than it was.
Overall, however, this was a quick and fun book! I recommend it if you enjoyed things like Discworld by Sir Terry Pratchett and (similar writing style) the Children of the Red King by Jenny Nimmo.
3.75/5 ⭐️
This was such a fun spin on the usual “magical school” theme! I really liked how Benji being in his late 20s was explored, especially at the beginning when he finally got into the university. The feeling when you finally achieve something you’ve been working towards for years is so incredibly bittersweet, and I really liked how the author let us sit with the thought that Benji didn’t really know who he was once he was admitted.
Benji is the sort of main character that Things Happen To, and the cast of characters that Cause Things To Happen to him were so fun and diverse! I’d say my favorite character was probably Maynard. The man has no pores, can turn invisible (ish), and generally only means an average amount of harm. What’s not to love?
I think my only major complaint is that the conflict resolved rather quickly. It was built up throughout the entire book only to be a bit underwhelming and short. I don’t think it necessarily needed to be a giant battle scene with character deaths and the whole shebang, but I would have liked to see the plot twist be explored a bit more than it was.
Overall, however, this was a quick and fun book! I recommend it if you enjoyed things like Discworld by Sir Terry Pratchett and (similar writing style) the Children of the Red King by Jenny Nimmo.
July 2, 2026
This is the same world as Turbulent Magic but you don’t need to read them in a particular order.
This is one of those cozy-adjacent books. There’s too big of stakes for it to be considered actually cozy, but the way it is written, you know it’s going to work out in the end. It has cozy elements (like a tea shop) but isn’t afraid to tackle big questions and dig into character flaws. There’s both questionable enterprises, consequences for actions, and plenty of heart and humor.
Speaking of heart, our MC is persistent and kind and willing to do almost anything for his new-found friends (and the twins). Maybe that’s a bit of a flaw sometimes 😬. He struggles to feel part of everything but in the end finds out his place in the group and the world.
World building is great, the previous book we saw more of the world and only touched a bit on the magic school but this time magic school is where we stay pretty much the whole time. Love learning more about the way the magic system works and how it differs from discipline to discipline.
Peterson just has a way of really creating a misfit character who has flaws but who you ultimately want to root for. I really hope we keep returning to this world.
Thanks to the author for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
This is one of those cozy-adjacent books. There’s too big of stakes for it to be considered actually cozy, but the way it is written, you know it’s going to work out in the end. It has cozy elements (like a tea shop) but isn’t afraid to tackle big questions and dig into character flaws. There’s both questionable enterprises, consequences for actions, and plenty of heart and humor.
Speaking of heart, our MC is persistent and kind and willing to do almost anything for his new-found friends (and the twins). Maybe that’s a bit of a flaw sometimes 😬. He struggles to feel part of everything but in the end finds out his place in the group and the world.
World building is great, the previous book we saw more of the world and only touched a bit on the magic school but this time magic school is where we stay pretty much the whole time. Love learning more about the way the magic system works and how it differs from discipline to discipline.
Peterson just has a way of really creating a misfit character who has flaws but who you ultimately want to root for. I really hope we keep returning to this world.
Thanks to the author for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Fans of Harry Potter who favor a cozier, tea fueled, more senior student experience will thoroughly enjoy A Mage is Sometimes Late.
Our mage who is late to the magical table is the very likable Benji. Through hard work and persistence, not via talent or fate, Benji earns his place at Thelspoint University. Benji is definitely outside his comfort zone and is determined to become a mage, and possibly even make friends. He is starting to make his way and becoming a bit smitten with TA Nella when he runs into a problem. It's a big problem, the kind of problem that could take out a university or worse yet get him expelled.
Benji's tale is told well by E.M. Peterson. Our author writes with a turn of phrase that is clever and subtle which causes the reader to double back on occasion to catch every nuance. A few of my favorite quotes follow.
"Don't aspire to be normal"
"Please don't be startled, ... I mean only the usual amount of harm."
"I've always felt talent was overrated, when you can just keep crashing into the same wall time and again until it falls down."
"It looked like someone had enlarged a bullfrog and then filled its heart with murder."
"Fortunately, when we're too confused to behave rationally, we can always just drink tea."
Our mage who is late to the magical table is the very likable Benji. Through hard work and persistence, not via talent or fate, Benji earns his place at Thelspoint University. Benji is definitely outside his comfort zone and is determined to become a mage, and possibly even make friends. He is starting to make his way and becoming a bit smitten with TA Nella when he runs into a problem. It's a big problem, the kind of problem that could take out a university or worse yet get him expelled.
Benji's tale is told well by E.M. Peterson. Our author writes with a turn of phrase that is clever and subtle which causes the reader to double back on occasion to catch every nuance. A few of my favorite quotes follow.
"Don't aspire to be normal"
"Please don't be startled, ... I mean only the usual amount of harm."
"I've always felt talent was overrated, when you can just keep crashing into the same wall time and again until it falls down."
"It looked like someone had enlarged a bullfrog and then filled its heart with murder."
"Fortunately, when we're too confused to behave rationally, we can always just drink tea."
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much to E.M. Peterson for the free eARC! I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Oh I adored this book so much. The story primarily follows Benji, a 27-year old who has tried and failed to pass the entrance exam to a prestigious school of magic 14 times, and finally, FINALLY passes. Of all the different magical workings in this world, he seems to show a whisper of magic in plantworking. Between his late start and skill with plants, he ends up meeting a full cast of characters that I fell in love with - Simon & Lucy, Maynard, Jurni, Nella, Tasman, Warren...the list goes on. But E.M. Peterson does an incredible job developing each character enough that you recognize them in the pages and can't help but fall in love with them. There's both family and found family, and a kindling of romance. I loved the academic and greater world that we are pulled into throughout the story and the conflict, while low stakes, kept me engaged the entire time. This is a true cozy, academic fantasy.
Solid 5 stars from me. If you love cozier settings and magic, you will not be disappointed.
Oh I adored this book so much. The story primarily follows Benji, a 27-year old who has tried and failed to pass the entrance exam to a prestigious school of magic 14 times, and finally, FINALLY passes. Of all the different magical workings in this world, he seems to show a whisper of magic in plantworking. Between his late start and skill with plants, he ends up meeting a full cast of characters that I fell in love with - Simon & Lucy, Maynard, Jurni, Nella, Tasman, Warren...the list goes on. But E.M. Peterson does an incredible job developing each character enough that you recognize them in the pages and can't help but fall in love with them. There's both family and found family, and a kindling of romance. I loved the academic and greater world that we are pulled into throughout the story and the conflict, while low stakes, kept me engaged the entire time. This is a true cozy, academic fantasy.
Solid 5 stars from me. If you love cozier settings and magic, you will not be disappointed.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Mage is Sometimes Late by E.M. Peterson is a cozy romp through a magical school that embodies the "This is fine" meme of the dog sitting as the house burns 😆 Benji has attempted to enter a school for mages 13 times with no magic manifesting. Even though he is older than all the other first years, on his 14th attempt he succeeds against all odds.
I was extremely excited to return to the world of Turbulent Magic and explore more of the mage school! Benji was super relatable and I rooted for him all the way. While there were some questionable choices, Benji stuck to his friends and really made the school year memorable. I thought there were some really unique creatures and plants that I haven't really seen in fantasy books! What I love about this cozy fantasy is the stakes are actually much higher than most in this subgenre. It kept me engaged and the pace allowed me sit with the characters and built up the tension!
I would absolutely recommend anyone pick up this book! While you don't have to read Turbulent Magic first, they both go together really well! If you love rooting for the underdog, this one is for you! Five Stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was extremely excited to return to the world of Turbulent Magic and explore more of the mage school! Benji was super relatable and I rooted for him all the way. While there were some questionable choices, Benji stuck to his friends and really made the school year memorable. I thought there were some really unique creatures and plants that I haven't really seen in fantasy books! What I love about this cozy fantasy is the stakes are actually much higher than most in this subgenre. It kept me engaged and the pace allowed me sit with the characters and built up the tension!
I would absolutely recommend anyone pick up this book! While you don't have to read Turbulent Magic first, they both go together really well! If you love rooting for the underdog, this one is for you! Five Stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed this story a lot.
Benji was a very realistic and likable character with a decent amount of depth and growth. The side characters, likewise, were fun to read and experience.
The plot line was fairly simplistic, but in an easy-to-follow way with enough twists to keep you entertained. There was also a good amount of dry humor and banter, which I love.
I have one major complaint: the inclusion of curse words. There are only a handful in the entire story, and they could easily be omitted. If they were not included, I would happily recommend this story as low as middle grade; there is no other content that I find remotely inappropriate for that age, and although the MC is older, I feel middle schoolers could still really enjoy this and relate to Benji. Sadly, with those words in it, I don't feel comfortable recommending it quite that young.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable story. Light, easy read with lovable characters and good humor.
Benji was a very realistic and likable character with a decent amount of depth and growth. The side characters, likewise, were fun to read and experience.
The plot line was fairly simplistic, but in an easy-to-follow way with enough twists to keep you entertained. There was also a good amount of dry humor and banter, which I love.
I have one major complaint: the inclusion of curse words. There are only a handful in the entire story, and they could easily be omitted. If they were not included, I would happily recommend this story as low as middle grade; there is no other content that I find remotely inappropriate for that age, and although the MC is older, I feel middle schoolers could still really enjoy this and relate to Benji. Sadly, with those words in it, I don't feel comfortable recommending it quite that young.
Overall, this was a very enjoyable story. Light, easy read with lovable characters and good humor.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for an ARC of this book. This is a voluntary and honest review.
This story follows Benji, a 27-year-old adult who, by his society's standards, come into magic late in his life and finally gets to attend the prestigious magic academy in his home town. Benji, though he is a "senior first-year", quickly makes friends and gets into a troublesome situation. As the glue of his newfound friend group, he has to find a solution without dying or accidentally destroying his city, and also not fail out of school.
I really enjoyed this cozy, charming book about an adult who repeatedly "missed his letter to Hogwarts" and finally got his chance. Though I do not feel like it is as Harry Potter-like as other reviews say (certainly not a bad thing!), it has shenanigans that take place in the setting of a magical academy. This book has humor, a very light romance, and is the picture of a light and cozy fantasy!
This story follows Benji, a 27-year-old adult who, by his society's standards, come into magic late in his life and finally gets to attend the prestigious magic academy in his home town. Benji, though he is a "senior first-year", quickly makes friends and gets into a troublesome situation. As the glue of his newfound friend group, he has to find a solution without dying or accidentally destroying his city, and also not fail out of school.
I really enjoyed this cozy, charming book about an adult who repeatedly "missed his letter to Hogwarts" and finally got his chance. Though I do not feel like it is as Harry Potter-like as other reviews say (certainly not a bad thing!), it has shenanigans that take place in the setting of a magical academy. This book has humor, a very light romance, and is the picture of a light and cozy fantasy!
July 9, 2026
For starters I would like to thank the author for letting me be an ARC reader for this novel! I’m so thankful for the opportunity.
Now, honestly this book was well written. The magical university has interesting professors, new ideas on magic, and fascinating side characters.
The characters are clearly well developed and planned out, good for their spot in the plot and to move Benji, the main character, forward through his journey. They all have their quirks and the reasons why Benji continues to hang out with them (even when he probably shouldn’t).
Unfortunately the pacing made it not the right book for me. It felt like it dragged and I kept setting the book down and having to circle back to it. I think there are many people out there would enjoy the book, it just wasn’t right for me.
Now, honestly this book was well written. The magical university has interesting professors, new ideas on magic, and fascinating side characters.
The characters are clearly well developed and planned out, good for their spot in the plot and to move Benji, the main character, forward through his journey. They all have their quirks and the reasons why Benji continues to hang out with them (even when he probably shouldn’t).
Unfortunately the pacing made it not the right book for me. It felt like it dragged and I kept setting the book down and having to circle back to it. I think there are many people out there would enjoy the book, it just wasn’t right for me.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC reviewer:
Loved this story from its opening pages. The title is fitting as the MMC, Benji didnt get his magic until later in life. He starts school to become a mage and strikes a deal with a pair of twins. We all know and even Benji it was not going to be a wise decision. Then he discovers underground tunnels where monsters can lerk. Benji runs into one crisis after another. He seems to be a magnet for trouble with a soft heart. A killer plant and an army of insectoids has thoroughly consumed his first year at Mages school. The deal with the twins while itself was an interesting bad decision it did work out to have benefits to their chaos. This story about finding friends, common enemies, and adventures is a nice escape from reality. You wont look at your household plants the same. Do they possess The Knowledge?
Loved this story from its opening pages. The title is fitting as the MMC, Benji didnt get his magic until later in life. He starts school to become a mage and strikes a deal with a pair of twins. We all know and even Benji it was not going to be a wise decision. Then he discovers underground tunnels where monsters can lerk. Benji runs into one crisis after another. He seems to be a magnet for trouble with a soft heart. A killer plant and an army of insectoids has thoroughly consumed his first year at Mages school. The deal with the twins while itself was an interesting bad decision it did work out to have benefits to their chaos. This story about finding friends, common enemies, and adventures is a nice escape from reality. You wont look at your household plants the same. Do they possess The Knowledge?
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to E.M. Peterson for an early opportunity to read A Mage is Sometimes Late!
What a whimsical book with such a fun roster of kooky characters! The magic system was really interesting - plantworks/metalworks/bioworks. Heavy focus on the plant-working. The author does a great job of bringing the reader into the academic setting. The twins and Maynard bring the humor.
I will admit that I did not feel that Benji necessarily acted his age. He is so much older than most of the students but so naive. I also felt that the cuss words were unnecessary. I have no issue with profanity, but Benji’s sudden potty mouth took away from the young adult whimsy and coziness in this case.
All in all, I think the side characters really stole the show in this book along with Rick.
What a whimsical book with such a fun roster of kooky characters! The magic system was really interesting - plantworks/metalworks/bioworks. Heavy focus on the plant-working. The author does a great job of bringing the reader into the academic setting. The twins and Maynard bring the humor.
I will admit that I did not feel that Benji necessarily acted his age. He is so much older than most of the students but so naive. I also felt that the cuss words were unnecessary. I have no issue with profanity, but Benji’s sudden potty mouth took away from the young adult whimsy and coziness in this case.
All in all, I think the side characters really stole the show in this book along with Rick.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author and team for allowing me to read this ARC
I really liked the world this was set in and our MC Benji. I loved how he wasn’t your typical “once in a lifetime” power type. It made him seem completely likable and relatable while still giving the fantasy feel.
I honestly enjoyed all our other side characters as well and would love to read more about them. The reason this is a 3 star for me is the pacing. It felt like things moved very slowly, then something big, and slow down again. Then like 85% in everything happened all at once and things were resolved.
Overall if you’re looking for something with a slower cozy vibe I definitely think this is worth checking out. I believe the characters and their dynamic make up for the other issues I had with the book
I really liked the world this was set in and our MC Benji. I loved how he wasn’t your typical “once in a lifetime” power type. It made him seem completely likable and relatable while still giving the fantasy feel.
I honestly enjoyed all our other side characters as well and would love to read more about them. The reason this is a 3 star for me is the pacing. It felt like things moved very slowly, then something big, and slow down again. Then like 85% in everything happened all at once and things were resolved.
Overall if you’re looking for something with a slower cozy vibe I definitely think this is worth checking out. I believe the characters and their dynamic make up for the other issues I had with the book
August 5, 2026
4.5 stars
This was a fun read and i really enjoyed it. It gave me Harry Potter vibes but more cozier and with lots of tea.
We follow Benji, a 27 year old who has failed the entrance exam to Thelspoint University 14 times, but then finally succeeds in passing. Of all the different magical workings there are he shows a hint of plant magic. What follows are friendships and shenanigans and who cast of characters that you can't help but fall in love with. There's also a lot of different magical creatures and a sentient plant named Rick. I loved the worldbuilding. I loved the school setting. I loved the magic. Warren, Nella, Jurni, Maynard and even Simon and Lucy are easy to fall in love with. The found family was everything. It was low stakes but it kept my attention the whole time.
This was a fun read and i really enjoyed it. It gave me Harry Potter vibes but more cozier and with lots of tea.
We follow Benji, a 27 year old who has failed the entrance exam to Thelspoint University 14 times, but then finally succeeds in passing. Of all the different magical workings there are he shows a hint of plant magic. What follows are friendships and shenanigans and who cast of characters that you can't help but fall in love with. There's also a lot of different magical creatures and a sentient plant named Rick. I loved the worldbuilding. I loved the school setting. I loved the magic. Warren, Nella, Jurni, Maynard and even Simon and Lucy are easy to fall in love with. The found family was everything. It was low stakes but it kept my attention the whole time.
August 9, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from author.
I’m a sucker for a magical university! I loved Benji. His persistence endeared me to him right from the start and I just wanted him to succeed. University is hard and feeling like you have less in common than everyone else makes it harder. I enjoyed how he found his little group of friends (and non-friends). I always felt like the linchpin for different groups so I connected with him in that way. Benji finding all the people who could help them with their task and bringing them all together into a cohesive group had me rooting for them and their crazy plan. Benji reminded me it’s not too late to go after your passions (and to have some adventures while doing so).
I’m a sucker for a magical university! I loved Benji. His persistence endeared me to him right from the start and I just wanted him to succeed. University is hard and feeling like you have less in common than everyone else makes it harder. I enjoyed how he found his little group of friends (and non-friends). I always felt like the linchpin for different groups so I connected with him in that way. Benji finding all the people who could help them with their task and bringing them all together into a cohesive group had me rooting for them and their crazy plan. Benji reminded me it’s not too late to go after your passions (and to have some adventures while doing so).
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you so much to E.M. Peterson for the Advanced Reader Copy. Here is my honest review.
This was such a fun, cozy fantasy read! If you love books like Legends and Lattes and The Spellshop, you will likely enjoy this too.
The first chapter had me hooked. The pace then got a little slower before picking back up again. That said, even when it slowed down a little, the chapters each have fun, clever titles that make you excited to see what’s going to happen next. While sometimes it seemed like there might be parallel side stories occurring, everything had its purpose, and it came together beautifully in the end.
This book had lovable characters and feel-good themes around the importance of kindness, connection, and community. This world of magic was creative, whimsical, and fun to escape into while I read. I recommend!
This was such a fun, cozy fantasy read! If you love books like Legends and Lattes and The Spellshop, you will likely enjoy this too.
The first chapter had me hooked. The pace then got a little slower before picking back up again. That said, even when it slowed down a little, the chapters each have fun, clever titles that make you excited to see what’s going to happen next. While sometimes it seemed like there might be parallel side stories occurring, everything had its purpose, and it came together beautifully in the end.
This book had lovable characters and feel-good themes around the importance of kindness, connection, and community. This world of magic was creative, whimsical, and fun to escape into while I read. I recommend!
August 5, 2026
Rating: 3.7/5.0 ⭐️
Writing: 3rd person past
This book was a very interesting read, even if it’s not the most enaging book I’ve read recently. It gives kind of cozy, minimally thought intensive vibes to me which is sometimes just what I need. It also has a beautiful exploration of the sentience of our world in the form of its incredible magic system (honestly one of my favorites in concept, though I wish for more exploration of it actual casting). It also had plenty of engaging dialogue and fun characters that always had me cracking up.
Totally worth the read if you’re looking for a short fun book with fun characters and a novel plot concept.
Writing: 3rd person past
This book was a very interesting read, even if it’s not the most enaging book I’ve read recently. It gives kind of cozy, minimally thought intensive vibes to me which is sometimes just what I need. It also has a beautiful exploration of the sentience of our world in the form of its incredible magic system (honestly one of my favorites in concept, though I wish for more exploration of it actual casting). It also had plenty of engaging dialogue and fun characters that always had me cracking up.
Totally worth the read if you’re looking for a short fun book with fun characters and a novel plot concept.
August 17, 2026
This is a great cozy fantasy book. What I liked most about it is that it is about a completely ordinary person, who is persistent in working towards his goal of attending university. The characters are interesting and lovable, the plot is interesting and has a few good twists, and there's a good dash of quirky magic and humor in there as well. I loved the magic system and world building too, which was surprisingly sophisticated for a mid-length novel but also seemed to fit into the narrative seamlessly. Altogether, I really enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys cozy fantasy! *I did receive an ARC copy, but like the main character, a review is sometimes late ;)
August 19, 2026
It was nice to revist the world from Turbulent Magic and learn more about the city of Thelspoint and its day to day operations for both the students as well as the ordinary citizens. It was especially nice to see Tal again in a completely different role.
I absolutely loved the Magical University setting! Exploring the university through the eyes of a nontraditional student was fun. Benji brought a unique perspective whilst being thrown into classes with students a lot younger than him as well as with his students his own age and it was fun to watch him befriend and collaborate with both
Thank you to the author for the eARC of the book!
I absolutely loved the Magical University setting! Exploring the university through the eyes of a nontraditional student was fun. Benji brought a unique perspective whilst being thrown into classes with students a lot younger than him as well as with his students his own age and it was fun to watch him befriend and collaborate with both
Thank you to the author for the eARC of the book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Great story, fun characters and a lot of misadventures. It's a story filled with friendship and hidden caverns. Mischievous twins and library studying or napping. Tea shops with friends and caverns holding a secret.
For Benji, this is what he has been dreaming of and it does not disappoint.
Personal opinion: Swearing- not for me.
ARC Review: This book gave me mixed feelings. I wanted to love love it but it just didn't hit the mark for me. There were things I really enjoyed in this book and other things I just didn't like, the language 🤬 for one. All of this is my personal opinion, reading is very subjective.
So for those who want to give it a try, it is fun. I really liked that Benji didn’t give up his dream of attending Mage school, even though he is in his twenties. I liked that he wanted to learn and had a desire to help others. I liked the magic. It's cool to have a special magical ability and there are so many different magical abilities or strengths.
So if you don't mind language, demon like twins, mischief, a character with same-sex attraction very well written and only a small part, cool magic, and mysterious caverns below the town and school, then this story is for you.
For Benji, this is what he has been dreaming of and it does not disappoint.
Personal opinion: Swearing- not for me.
ARC Review: This book gave me mixed feelings. I wanted to love love it but it just didn't hit the mark for me. There were things I really enjoyed in this book and other things I just didn't like, the language 🤬 for one. All of this is my personal opinion, reading is very subjective.
So for those who want to give it a try, it is fun. I really liked that Benji didn’t give up his dream of attending Mage school, even though he is in his twenties. I liked that he wanted to learn and had a desire to help others. I liked the magic. It's cool to have a special magical ability and there are so many different magical abilities or strengths.
So if you don't mind language, demon like twins, mischief, a character with same-sex attraction very well written and only a small part, cool magic, and mysterious caverns below the town and school, then this story is for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
After some heavy reads, A Mage is Sometimes Late was the perfect palate cleanser! This book is fun, humorous, and lighthearted. I enjoyed getting to know E.M. Peterson's characters and exploring the magical world around them. While the story did meander toward the end, I think this complemented the overall whimsical, academic vibe of the book.
I definitely recommend this book to readers interested in a cozy standalone fantasy or readers wanting a quick, wholesome read.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
I definitely recommend this book to readers interested in a cozy standalone fantasy or readers wanting a quick, wholesome read.
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
July 28, 2026
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review!
This book combined some of my favorite aspects of fantasy and cozy fantasy in one: magic school and a teashop.
I very much enjoyed following Benji’s story and challenges in his first year at magic school, as well as how all of the improbable side characters became more and more relevant the the main plot line of the story and added color to every aspect of the story.
Also, Dragon Airlines had me on the floor!
This book combined some of my favorite aspects of fantasy and cozy fantasy in one: magic school and a teashop.
I very much enjoyed following Benji’s story and challenges in his first year at magic school, as well as how all of the improbable side characters became more and more relevant the the main plot line of the story and added color to every aspect of the story.
Also, Dragon Airlines had me on the floor!
September 9, 2026
A fun, whimsical story about perseverance, friendship, and a world destroying plant grown out of control.
Return to the world of Turbulent Magic as we follow the story of Benji, a young man bound and determined to be accepted into the magical university, even if it takes thirteen tries. His first year of university proves to be anything but normal, and we wouldn't read anything less.
One of the things I love most about E.M. Peterson's writing is the relationship dynamics. They feel genuine, messy, and realistic. Couple that with seamless would building and we have a fantastic story.
Return to the world of Turbulent Magic as we follow the story of Benji, a young man bound and determined to be accepted into the magical university, even if it takes thirteen tries. His first year of university proves to be anything but normal, and we wouldn't read anything less.
One of the things I love most about E.M. Peterson's writing is the relationship dynamics. They feel genuine, messy, and realistic. Couple that with seamless would building and we have a fantastic story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A cozy magic university/school experience. I did feel that it started out slow and it finally got rolling into a more complex story. It felt like an every day problem that continually needed tending until a final solution was necessary. I still have so many questions about MAYNARDS BACKGROUND!! So mysterious and so much unknown. I will have yo read more to see if Maynards and his background is further revealed. It was def cozy with a sweet ending
Review of advance copy received from Author
**ARC REVIEW**
I have to say thank you to E. M. Peterson (author) for letting me read an ARC of this book! That being said, the book is very well written. The characters are also developed nicely. However, this was a little too slow paced for me. It seemed drawn out, and I didn't have the feeling that I needed to just read "one more chapter". I think anyone that wants a cozy Little Shop of Horrors vibe read, you are going to love it. For me? It just really didn't grab me.
I have to say thank you to E. M. Peterson (author) for letting me read an ARC of this book! That being said, the book is very well written. The characters are also developed nicely. However, this was a little too slow paced for me. It seemed drawn out, and I didn't have the feeling that I needed to just read "one more chapter". I think anyone that wants a cozy Little Shop of Horrors vibe read, you are going to love it. For me? It just really didn't grab me.
Review of advance copy
A Mage is Sometimes Late by E.M. Peterson was a fun, almost cozy, read. It's a stand alone book set in an established magical world where magic school and flying on dragons are commonplace. I enjoyed the magical everyday setting and how the cast of characters came together. Thank you for the ARC from the author on book funnel!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed this cozy fantasy. Benji who is a tea drinker, goes to Thelspoint university to become a mage. His adventures are full of heart and humor. There he finds found family. I loved the fact that the characters truly support each other. This story features friendship, magic, conflict ,and intrigue. I really enjoyed reading this story.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review
I thought this was a wonderfully cozy fantasy read. It was a fun take on a magical school and about not always fitting the same mold as everyone else. Some people are just late bloomers like Benji!
Definitely recommend if you're looking for a slow pace, easy, cozy read!
I thought this was a wonderfully cozy fantasy read. It was a fun take on a magical school and about not always fitting the same mold as everyone else. Some people are just late bloomers like Benji!
Definitely recommend if you're looking for a slow pace, easy, cozy read!
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