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That Magic Mischief

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A heartbroken amateur witch is in over her head after casting a spell that actually works-will the handsome Irish artist she fancies come to her rescue?

What was the point of being a witch if Annabelle Walsh couldn't manage a spell to fix her broken heart? As a dedicated dabbler in all things esoteric, she figured she could speed up her healing process when she's dumped out of the blue by her boyfriend... but nothing's working.

An idle wander into an unfamiliar new age shop adds the bit of magic in her life that she'd been looking for: an interfering, mischievous Pooka called Callie who's determined to turn Annabelle's life around- mostly by turning it upside down.

Suddenly, Annabelle's too busy to brood, and her writing career begins to take off; in fact, it's during a brainstorming session for an off-off-off-off Broadway theater production that she meets Jamie Flynn, an Irishman in New York who seems to be keen at first sight, if not in love quite yet. As Annabelle gets her life back on track, she starts to see the difference between a real life, a real career, and a real man... and all it took was a little magic mischief.

306 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2021

1 person is currently reading
42 people want to read

About the author

Susanna Allen

5 books89 followers
Also writes as Susan E. Conley


Susanna is a graduate of Pratt Institute with a BFA in Communication Design and counts The Village Voice, New York Magazine, and Entertainment Weekly as past design experiences. Born in New Jersey, she moved to Ireland for twelve months—in 1998. She is the author of the Shapeshifters of the Beau Monde series, published by Sourcebooks: A Wolf in Duke’s Clothing, an Amazon Editor’s Best Book of the Month, is available now; A Most Unusual Duke debuts in December 2021.

Writing as Susan Conley, she is the author of Drama Queen and The Fidelity Project, both published by Headline UK; Many Brave Fools: A Story of Addiction, Dysfunction, Codependency…and Horses is available from Trafalgar Square Books. Susanna is living her life by the three Rs—reading, writing, and horseback riding—and can generally be found on her sofa with her e-reader, gazing out a window and thinking about made-up people, or cantering around in circles. She loves every minute of it.

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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
Profile Image for Sonja Charters.
2,797 reviews141 followers
October 30, 2023
It's been an absolute joy to read this over the month as our Read-Along book choice.

After a messy break-up, Annabelle finds that she's struggling to get over her ex. Even her best friends can't pull her out of the slump she's in.
As an ameteur witch, when she comes across a new witchy shop, she can't resist peeking inside - but finds a bit more than she bargained for - and she leaves with a sneaky, mischievous pooka who thinks it can sort her life out for her!

I absolutely loved everything about this book!

I love reading about crystals, spells, myths and folklore, so was really drawn into this right from the start!

Annabelle was a great character to explore. When we first meet her, she seems so down and it was great to see how she reinvented herself (with some magical help!), getting what she wanted from life in both business and personal terms.
The relationship she had with her friends was just brilliant. The dynamics showing how opposites attract and I loved the way they all supported each other, even through their little tiffs.

There were quite a few characters to get to grips with - Each with their own part to play and their own quirky personalities.
Wilson obviously playing the villain and doing it so well. I disliked him, but he fitted into the storyline perfectly.

Annabelle and Jamie together, were pretty frustrating, but what a great journey. It was obvious that we'd be getting out happy ever after and I just wanted them to kiss already.....but the Will they? Won't they? moments were so funny.

The whole pooka (Callie) story added a new dimension to your standard cute romance and I loved all the mischievousness that they added to the story.

This was such a lovely, easy read and I'm so hoping that there will be more to follow. Things were definitely left open for there possibly being a sequel (or even a series!?) - I'd love to see more of Annabelle and Jamie's adventures in Ireland.
Profile Image for Amorina Carlton.
Author 2 books38 followers
October 31, 2023
I don't know what I was expecting from this one, but it's not what I got! This was an exciting page turner, but not in the sense of an action thriller. No, I just needed to know what silly antics Annabelle, Callie, and Jamie were going to get up to next!

I'm not sure how I missed that the main character shared her name - unusual spelling and all - with my daughter when I picked this one up. When I started reading I was quite apprehensive. Because how awkward was it going to be if this book turned spicy and my daughter's name was in it? Luckily, considering I'm not a big spice fan, this book kicks off with a broken heart and is pretty chaste. My kind of book. But if you're a spicy romance fan, probably not yours. I'm a big believer though that a lot can be done outside of the bedroom, and Allen delivers heartily in that regard.

Annabelle the character is a quirky, self-deprecating fledgling witch who stumbles into a rather odd situation that changes her life forever one strange afternoon. The author did a fantastic job of making this fantastical situation seem so commonplace that it fit right into the streets of New York. I didn't think she was in need of professional help like her friends did. At no point did I think the plot twist was going to be that she was actually in a delusional situation.

I really enjoyed the breadth of different characters represented in the book, and how it showed that different people can find common ground and even friendship and kinship with one another. Annabelle's friendships reached across the spectrum of personalities and ages, and she inspired loyalty and kindness in people long before there was any magical intervention.

This was a delightfully cozy read that helped me recoup my faith and joy in humanity after several deep, dark reads. Don't get me wrong, I loved those too. But sometimes a cozy romance is what you need. And thanks to Allen, paranormal ones are definitely on my radar now.
Profile Image for Book Reviewer.
4,874 reviews447 followers
April 19, 2024
In That Magic Mischief, by Susanna Allen, readers are treated to a delightful blend of romance, humor, and a touch of the mystical. The novel centers around Annabelle, an amateur witch grappling with the upheavals of life — a sudden breakup and joblessness. Her encounter with a mysterious witch leads her to acquire a hazelnut-turned-Pooka, a shape-shifting creature from Celtic mythology tasked with helping their human find love.

The story weaves its charm as Annabelle's life becomes a whirlwind of new job opportunities and unintentional run-ins with a talented Irish artist, the antithesis of everything she seeks in a man. The Pooka, with its mischievous agenda, adds layers of humor and enchantment, transforming her life into an unforeseen adventure. Annabelle's journey is not just about finding love; it's a path of self-discovery, resilience, and openness to new experiences. This novel excels in blending the fantastical elements of Celtic mythology with contemporary life, creating an engaging world where magic seems almost plausible. Annabelle's character is particularly commendable for her unwavering dedication to her friends and her willingness to embrace love despite past heartaches. The narrative also subtly underscores that while magic might initiate connections, it is the personal choices of the characters that truly shape their relationships.

That Magic Mischief offers an absorbing narrative. I do feel that a deeper exploration of Jamie’s perspective would have added richness to the storytelling. Nonetheless, this book is an excellent pick for those seeking a light, magical romance. Allen's skillful writing and well-crafted characters ensure an enjoyable read for enthusiasts of paranormal romance with a humorous twist.
Profile Image for Mia Reads Romance.
597 reviews31 followers
October 28, 2023
I picked That Magical Mischief because I have enjoyed other titles by Susanna Allen and I was intrigued by the idea of a witch with a broken heart trying to fix it. I really liked how the magic worked in this book. I liked that the magic had a sense of mischief and wasn't above being a little petty. Unfortunately, I struggled to connect with Annabelle. She is so into the mystical and then when she starts to experience it she doubts it and tries to claim her success is all due to her. Also when her friends tried to help her she was really annoyed. I understood her reasons but in general I felt like she was attached to being the victim. Like in her previous relationship she ignored red flags because she didn't want to deal with it and then was shocked when the guy broke up with her. I also was a little confused about when this book was set. The heroine was 30ish but had a landline and had people's phone numbers memorized. Maybe it was supposed to be set 10 years ago or so? It had the feel of the chick lit novels written around that time (thinking like devil wears prada). I recommend this one for a reader who was a big fan of the chick lit genre and wants to read one with some magic thrown in.

Thanks to Love Book Tours and Susanna Allen for providing me with this book in order to do my review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Lynsey.
757 reviews34 followers
November 21, 2023
'That Magic Mischief' was a cosy and fun read that was perfect for an October read! Now I don't really read either spooky witchy vibes or romance really so this was a leap of faith but I am glad that I picked this one up! It was such a comfort read if you know what I mean. Tucked up in bed, hot water bottle, popcorn and this to transport me to weird old New York!
What was the point of being a witch if Annabelle is unable to heal her own broken heart. She has tried everything and it's not until she stumbles into a new-age shop that she finds that bit of magic she has been lacking! She now has an interfering pooka dictating her life and everyday decisions! Soon she is too busy to brood about her ex, her writing career is taking off and there is a sexy Irish man on the horizon. But what does the pooka really want with Annabelle...
This book was a fun and easy read and I liked the main storyline. In fact, I wish there was more of it, as I would have liked a bit more development in the friend's lives and seen more action in Ireland. But that's me being greedy.
This was really a coming-of-age book but when you are in your late 20's - I enjoyed that as I definitely didn't know what I was doing at that age! I loved all the Irish myths and legends and I had never heard of a pooka so l did a lot of googling! Fascinating stuff.
Let me know if you pick this one up!
Profile Image for bookhaven__.
977 reviews58 followers
January 9, 2023
That Magic Mischief
By
Susanna Allen

Review:
Susanna Allen's "That Magic Mischief" will take the readers on a rollercoaster ride of Annabelle's Irish inspired, Brooklyn-based adventures. Wilson was Annabelle's boyfriend from the past three years and nine months. One day, he called Annabelle that he was coming to her place. Annabelle knows that her relationship is over now. She couldn't get over her breakup. Even though she is a witch, she wasn't able to fix her heart with any spell.

Callie, a shapeshifting Pooka, wrecks havoc on Annabelle's life. Then there is Jamie Flynn who would capture the reader's heart. Pick a copy of this book to read about the adventures that Annabelle will go on. The story is witty and full of humor. The magical twist in the story would make the readers binge read it. 

I was craving for more of this book once I finished it. Also, the chemistry between Jamie Flynn and Annabelle touched my heart. A little bit of magic could change our life. The narration is smooth and the language used in the book is lucid. The Irish touch that this book has is something I loved. Great work by the author in this book.  I am definitely interested in reading more books by Susanna Allen. 

Rating: 4.5/5
Profile Image for Sudeshna Banerjee.
1,329 reviews39 followers
October 30, 2023
I really adore the cover photo оf this book. It's incredibly cute and perfectly complements the title. This book skillfully combines elements оf fantasy and magical realism, resulting іn an enchanting read. The author's writing skills are highly enjoyable, keeping me engaged and captivated from beginning tо end.

In this captivating story, Annabelle finds solace and support from her friends Lorna and Maria Grazia as she undergoes a healing process. Prepare tо witness the transformative impact оf the shapeshifter Callie's entry into Annabelle's life. Moreover, Annabelle's encounter with Jamie Flynn reveals the true power оf magic.

The characters іn this book are truly fascinating. From Lorna and Maria Grazia tо Jamie Flynn, and оf course Annabelle herself, their presence kept me thoroughly engrossed. The plot іs truly captivating, taking me оn a delightful journey. I particularly loved the electrifying romance between Jamie Flynn and Annabelle. Additionally, the introduction оf Callie added a touch оf humor and intensified the gripping nature оf the story. If you enjoy magic, romance, and Irish mythology, this book іs a must-read. The author has crafted a beautifully written piece.
Profile Image for ericas_bookreviews .
205 reviews7 followers
October 31, 2023
I really enjoyed this read, it was a super cosy fun read, the author perfectly combined the typical woman is dumped, heartbroken & wallowing so friends step in to pull her out of her funk storyline with a good dose of magic & fantasy to create a unique, quirky fun read. I absolutely loved the setting of New York (my favourite city) and how the magical happenings just blended perfectly into the setting like there were a totally normal daily occurrence.

The Characters really made this book for me, they are all so interesting and quirky in their own ways & it was great to read about a group of friends that are so different to each other yet work so well together and are fiercely loyal & protective of each other. The addition of Pooka Callie really added another unique, mythical, interesting, humour filled layer to the story. While Annabelle & Jamie's developing relationship was frustrating to read at times I loved their chemistry & journey & I'm hoping in the future we might see more of their adventure in Ireland as I felt we didn't get enough of it in this book.

If you love Magic, Romance, Friendship, New York, Irish Mythology & Happily Ever After make yourself a cup of tea, curl up under a blanket & dig in.
1,337 reviews63 followers
January 9, 2023
𝑻𝒊𝒕𝒍𝒆: That Magic Mischief
𝑨𝒖𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒓: Susanna Allen

𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘:
That Magic Mischief written by the author Susanna Allen is an interesting read. Annabelle Walsh is the main character of the story. She is a witch. But when her boyfriend Wilson broke her heart, she couldn't manage to fix her broken heart with a spell.

Lorna and Maria Grazia are Annabelle's friends who were there to help her in healing. Read this story to know how Annabelle's life will change when a shapeshifter Callie enters in her life. Annabelle's encounter with Jamie Flynn made her realize what real magic can do.

The characters are interesting. Lorna, Maria Grazia, Jamie Flynn and of course Annabelle kept me hooked to this book till the end. The plot is interesting. I loved and enjoyed the electrical sparks of romance between Jamie Flynn and Annabelle. Also, the arrival of Callie in Anabelle's life made the story funny and gripping. Those who love magic, romance, Irish mythology, etc should go ahead with this one. Well written book by the author.

𝑴𝒚 𝑹𝒂𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒈: 5/5
330 reviews18 followers
January 23, 2023
Book: That Magic Mischief
Author: Susanna Allen

Review:
That Magic Mischief written by the author Susanna Allen is a fantasy story. Annabelle Walsh is a witch. When she received a call from her boyfriend that he was visiting her, Annabelle's intuition told her that it would be about their breakup. Annabelle wishes she could fix her broken heart with a magical spell.

Annabelle's friends Lorna and Maria paid her a visit to help her with the healing. As the story progresses, a shapeshifting Pooka named Callie enters Annabelle's life forcefully. The story became more interesting from this point. Jamie Flynn is the guy who stole Annabelle's heart. She realized what true magic can do.

This is a great fantasy story book. Middle grade readers would be delighted to read this book. The cover photo of the book is eye-catching and designed well. Susanna's writing style is fantastic. I was left craving for more of her work after finishing this book. It would be great to read more romantic fantasy stories by Susanna in the future.

Rating: 5/5
Profile Image for Monika Singla.
374 reviews24 followers
January 23, 2023
Romance and fantasy are my favorite genres. Therefore I picked Susanna Allen's 'That Magic Mischief'. This book is about witch Annabelle Walsh. Her heart was broken by her boyfriend of three years and nine months. Annabelle was frustrated that she couldn't fix her heart with a spell. She wants to heal quickly.

Handsome Jamie Flynn and a shapeshifting Pooka Callie was what Annabelle needed to get over her heartbreak. Jamie Flynn is a painter and Annabelle is a scribe. Jamie is attracted to Annabelle's curvy body, dark blue eyes, nice voice, etc. Annabelle also is more than interested in him.

The characters are lively. The touch of Irish mythology made this book more gripping. Annabelle, her friends, Jamie and Callie's characters wouldn't fail to win your heart. I love the flow of the story. My energy was high the entire time as I read this book. Susanna has a writing style that would hook the readers to their seat until they finish the book.

A great book. If you love stories involving witches, magic, mischief, love, heartbreak then go with this book. It's a book worth reading.
Profile Image for S. Jeyran  Main.
1,646 reviews130 followers
April 13, 2022
That magical mischief is an occult fiction story about witches and wizards. Annabelle Walsh is a young wish going through the heartache of a breakup. She wants the easier way out and is frustrated that she can’t use a spell just to forget about him. But her life is more to offer, and you get to read along and enjoy how Annabelle’s life changes.
I enjoyed Annabelle, but I also found her friends interesting as well. They really made Annabelle shine, adding a certain richness to the story. The narrative is contemporary and is filled with fantasy elements.

I liked the book cover design and believed it reflected the content inside. I think the author is a particular skill in representing the genre at hand and did a fantastic job writing it.

I recommend this book to those who like wizards and fantasy stories.

Profile Image for Nic Harris.
454 reviews15 followers
October 2, 2023
What a delightfully charming and whimsical read this book was.

Although this a romance, it is actually the friendship between the three main characters - Annabelle, Lorna and Maria, that takes centre stage. They are complete opposites to each other, they frustrate each other and argue but they love each other and have each others backs and I loved that about this book- really it’s all about strong female characters and friendships.

Jamie is a sweetie. It was frustrating watching him and Annabelle throughout the story but it all paid off in the end.

The magical storyline was great and I loved seeing the modern take on witchcraft and spirits represented here.

The ending was worthy of any Hollywood romantic film with a grand gesture which had my heart melting.

I really enjoyed this book - such a sweet witchy romance.
Profile Image for kirsty.
1,286 reviews87 followers
October 29, 2023
I really enjoyed this book, I was totally in the mood for a book with cosy and fun witchy vibes and this book totally delivered.
The book is well written with a fun and captivating story line and well developed characters, some of which I loved and some of which I just didn't warm too at first, even though I knew their intentions were good, however by the end of the book they had me in the palm of their hand. My favourite character was Annabelle, I adored her and I loved seeing her grow into herself and what she was destined to be as the story unfolded.
I read this book super quickly because I just couldn't put it down and I was disappointed when it ended. I loved the inclusion of a Pooka within the story, I have Irish blood in me and have heard these legends throughout my life and so I have always been fascinated by them. She was written really well in this book.
I really enjoyed it and would highly recommend for a cosy read over spooky season
Profile Image for Naturalbri (Bri Wignall).
1,393 reviews121 followers
October 31, 2023
I really loved the cover of this book. It’s cute, vivid and very whimsically fun. That, with the blurb, showed that we were in for a fun ride with this book and it did not disappoint. I really enjoyed the variety of characters the author was able to provide. There were so many different personalities and characteristics to get to know and enjoy. Some, I really didn’t trust or like, some i loved and some of the characters I was unsure about. It made for a really well-rounded and realistic, worldly feel. I also really enjoyed the mythology aspect. It dabbled in it slightly, giving me all the more reason to dove in and look up more, which gave me a deeper connection to the story. Overall, it was a lot of fun, a great flow and truly enjoyable to read.
Profile Image for Janna.
780 reviews60 followers
October 27, 2023
What a story! I love the plot. It’s fun and full of hope and romance. It is easy to read and super enjoyable to follow.
The characters are also well thought out and I was fully immersed in their lives. I love Annabelle and Jamie. I wish there was a bit more interactions between them though. But in a way, I guess the Pooka was the center of the story and I absolutely want one for myself!
There could have been more action happening in Ireland but maybe there is book two in the future…
All in all, a brilliant book and I loved reading it!

*ARC received from Love Books Tours. Review was written voluntarily and all thoughts and opinions are my own
1,171 reviews27 followers
August 27, 2023
This was a really fun read! I love the cover of it. It showed me that it was going to be a magical romp in NYC.
The characters of Annabelle and Jamie both share views throughout, but it's mainly told from Annabelles' side.
I wasn't a fan of Lorna or MG until nearer the end, I'd love to have seen more of them, though. They clearly had Annabelle's interests at heart.
The Irish mythology part was really interesting, I'd have loved to have known more, but it was so good.
I loved Callie, so mischievous and fun. A really dry sense of humour and plenty wit.
A great read.
Profile Image for Hairi.
396 reviews13 followers
November 15, 2023
I could do well with the Pooka! It was quite interesting. I enjoyed reading this book although I felt at times, that story was dragged unnecessarily. But as long as I enjoy the book, I don't mind the dragging.

Jamie wasn't what we would expect from a male MC. He was kind of annoying, but much better than the other jerk. So okay.

Annabelle's friends were good. They meant well. Those kind of friends are quite rare in the today's world. It wouldn't take much from the people for plotting and deceiving others.
Profile Image for Lauren Flewett.
495 reviews15 followers
November 2, 2023
This was such a good readalong, I loved it and such an appropriate book for the time of year!

Annabelle was great as a main character, I think everyone could relate to some if not all aspects of her life.

Callie brought the fun and mischief to the novel, it made me want a Callie of my own 😂

If magic and mischief is your thing then this book is right up your street!
Profile Image for Rebecca.
363 reviews14 followers
November 24, 2021
Just finished this book. Huge smile on my face.

THAT MAGIC MISCHIEF is like a good glass of champagne: effervescent, luxurious, goes down smooth. Happy. It made me happy.

Also, it contains the two funniest pages I’ve read in my life.
2,678 reviews88 followers
February 1, 2023
KSKS
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Georgina Candy.
616 reviews20 followers
September 29, 2023
I love this, Annabelle was so sweet and sassy, and really came into herself as the book progressed. I wasn’t a fan of Lorna and adored MG, but warmed to Lorna as the story unfolded. I liked that her friends supported her “witchy” side but also mocked when she mentioned the hazelnut!

The story about the Pooka was intriguing, felt it was a little rushed at the end and more info was needed. Callie was certainly a character, didn’t trust her but enjoyed her bits throughout. Jamie was a great introduction to the book, and popped in just at the right time, bringing some romance along.

A great cosy novel for this time of year, well written and a quick read.
Profile Image for Kiran Bharaj.
24 reviews4 followers
October 31, 2023
A cute, sweet romance story with some witchcraft magic and a dodgy plant. I had some laugh out loud moments whilst reading the book, however, I did struggle to connect with the main character Annabelle. I couldn’t really connect or feel the emotions.

I love the cover of the book, all good colours for a magical witchy book and a great cosy read for the Halloween season.

If you’re into spells and crystals, this book is one for you.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews

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