The Witch Handbook to Magic and Mayhem

Stolen Spells #1

by Tish Thawer

Five sisters share one business like no other. Warded by fae magic, this shop’s inventory shifts to meet the needs of its customers, summoning the sister whose expertise is required.

With Lily behind the counter, it’s a candle boutique. Aster manages the bookstore. Crystals are Iris’s specialty. Fern sells flowers and herbs. And Daisy tends to the apothecary and oils.

It’s a seamless system until a particularly perplexing customer crosses the threshold and causes the store’s magic to go haywire. As it wildly shifts between facades, one thing becomes obvious: it’s up to the “flower girls” to save this handsome stranger from the ominous threat closing in, if they hope to regain control of their magical shop again.

“Thanks for shopping, and remember… Practice safe hex!”

Genres: Fantasy, Witches, Paranormal, Romance, Ebooks, Fae, Magic

218 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 18, 2023

About the author

#1 Bestseller in Historical Fiction
Top 100 Bestselling in Paid Kindle Store
Best Cover Award Winner
Readers’ Choice Award Winner
Best Fantasy/Sci-Fi Novel Winner (x2)

www.TishThawer.com
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Author Tish Thawer writes young adult fantasy and paranormal fiction. From her first paranormal cartoon, Isis, to the Twilight phenomenon, myth, magic, and superpowers have always held a special place in her heart.

Best known for her Witches of BlackBrook series, Tish’s detailed world-building and magic-laced stories have been compared to Nora Roberts, Sam Cheever, and Charlaine Harris.

Tish has worked as a computer consultant, photographer, and graphic designer, and has bylines as a columnist for Gliterary Girl media, RT Magazine, and Literary Lunes Magazine. She currently resides in Missouri with her husband and two of her three wonderful children, and operates Amber Leaf Designs, an online custom retail store, and Amber Leaf Farms, a lavender and flower farm that opened in 2022.

A common FAQ: "How do you pronounce her last name?"

Answer: Think "Bower" or "Thow-er". It's Persian!

Reviews

[Melanie THEE Reader · Rating 2 out of 5]

1.15 stars

The only thing I liked about this book was the cover. What…an unpleasant experience. This was a Stuff Your Kindle download because I thought that a book about witchy sisters who owned a magical shop would be a perfect read for spooky season. I was hoping for something with “Practical Magic” vibes. Reader, this book did not have those vibes. The “heroine” Lily is a brat and when she’s not stomping off and having a tantrum, she’s being straight up rude for no reason?!? *Sighs deeply* Then there’s the bland ass love triangle that’s introduced halfway into the story 🙃Anyway, this is a series I have no interest in finishing because I have no interest whatsoever in spending more time with Lily. Maybe she experiences some character growth? Doubtful.

I laughed when another character told Lily to "EMBRACE WHO YOU ARE" so I did find some joy in it. Although, the author probably didn't intend for me to laugh at that part but oh well.

[Phillippa · Rating 2 out of 5]

Thanks for shopping, and remember… practice Safe Hex!”

Five witch sisters share the family business, a shop warded by Fae magic which shifts depending on the customers needs. Each sister had a particular type of magic and a shop to go with it. One day a customer crosses the threshold and things turn to chaos.

This was a “stuff your kindle” buy. I read this because the blurb sounded like the perfect sisterly, witchy, autumn read.. but the shop and sisters barely featured! Instead we mainly followed one of the sisters on a journey with more fae influence. With some interesting references to British towns ..

I think the story has great potential and could’ve been amazing, but to me it all just felt very rushed so I didn’t actually get on with the characters unfortunately.

Love the premise, and I was intrigued enough to keep reading to the end.

[Charlotte · Rating 1 out of 5]

Very juvenile writing. It’s clear the author had a rough outline for a story, but couldnt be bothered to really flesh out characters or built an intriguing story.

I would have abandoned it, but was vaguely interested in where the story was going to end up. I shouldn’t have bothered, as this book was filled with unimaginative tropes and follows the outline of every other bland YA fantasy.

[Daytona Fotney · Rating 3 out of 5]

Is this book the next literary masterpiece? No. But did I have fun? Yes. It was a fast read and pretty cute! My biggest critique is that I find the main character lily annoying. She is very much so an unwilling participant in this quest, and she makes sure you know it.

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

There aren’t enough words to describe how much I love this story. The sisters are fantastic. The story is simply just magical. With plenty of twists and turns, this story is one that you will not want to put down.

[~Cyanide Latte~ · Rating 1 out of 5]

I saw a lot of reviews talking about how this book was a "stuff your Kindle" pick-up for them and that they couldn't stand it. That things happened way too fast to the point the book reads like a first draft or (the more common remark) that it reads like the really long outline of a book. That the concept of the magically-changing shop, the sisterhood and the "handbook" itself that the novel is named for are all barely present within the store, relegated to the backdrop and set dressing and the story's MacGuffin. That this seems to be marketed as adult (or New Adult ) fiction but reads even worse than YA or Middle Grade with how bare bones the writing is. That things just happen in rapid succession with no rhyme or reason. And that most of all, the main character was bratty, her behavior makes no sense, she changes her mind on a dime, the magic isn't explained in any detail, and there's a sudden love triangle shoved into the latter half of the book that really comes in from left field and overshadows everything and it didn't need to even be there.

I'd first found this book while looking for Kickstarter campaigns to back, and I like to back writers who are trying to get their books out there or get them re-released for new readers in new formats. When I do this, I usually try to give the book itself a chance. It seems only fair, and when I saw this one, despite the reviews, I had hope. After all, if it's a re-release in a new edition, maybe the author will have taken the time to improve on the book! Many do.

I'm disappointed to report this isn't the case here. Every review stating these things about the book and why it's a letdown and not worth your time are correct. Nothing was changed, added or improved upon from what I can tell, based on what I've read in the copy I have vs the reviews on here. And it's a damn shame, as the initial concept was very interesting. I had been interested and hopeful. Now I'm just sad.

[Lilli · Rating 1 out of 5]

I have a bad habit of forcing myself to finish a book even if I really do not like it. This is one of them. Not only is the story uninteresting and filled with every fanfiction trope under the sun, but the quality of the writing itself is inadequate.
I loved the premise so much and the beginning had hope. The concept of the magical shifting store and the sisterhood was lovely, too bad 99% of the story happened outside of it.
The main character is annoying and seems only be skilled at throwing tantrums. The male love interests are flat, one dimensional living stereotypes.
Many times the author does not "show" what we should be seeing or what happens, instead makes a lazy pop-culture reference to describe it.
I'm also quite certain the writer has never been to England before.

I feel bad for giving a 1 star review but I wanted to put this book down due to the quality of the story and storytelling so many times I feel like I cannot justify giving it more than this.

[Chelsea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wish we got to part 2 faster! While the plot was fast moving, at times part 1 dragged on. The main character isn’t my favorite, she seems a little childish at times but that only means there is room for her to grow within the next book. Part 2 was amazing! Once I got to part2 I finished the book within an hour lol sad to wait for the next one for the conclusion of the story but I will be reading it as soon as it’s released!

[Autumn Campbell · Rating 1 out of 5]

I’d give this 0 stars if it were possible. This might actually be the worst book I’ve ever read. It’s too fast paced, there’s no emotion, and there’s no description or world building. The main character is insufferable, rude, and has anger issues. The “plot twists” also make no logical sense. The writing is just terrible, and this seems like an outline of a story, not an actual story. Don’t waste your time.

[Kellie Nylund · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book a lot. The characters were enjoyable and plot was fast paced mostly, some parts of part one slowed down a little bit. I’m interested in how Lily’s character growth will progress and see how she’ll adjust to the new world around her.

I can’t wait for book two. This is my first time reading this author’s work and I enjoyed her writing. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Hope Wolf · Rating 5 out of 5]

This tale of witches and Fae is absolutley captivating. It has mystery and intregue. I loved following along to see where the witches would find their next clue. All the characters were well put together and well written. This story is a great one for fantacy lovers.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Librarian Bee · Rating 3 out of 5]

A fun quick read

I enjoyed this quirky wild adventure of witches and magical fae. ✨️ although I didn't really like Lily that much as she was annoyingly immature in many ways. I don't think I'll keep reading as I wasn't fully invested emotionally with the characters. But I would recommend this to someone who wants a fun witchy read with a little romance!

[Stacey Rourke · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Tish Thawer has me under her spell once more! With stunning imagery, engaging characters, and an intriguing plot that will have you on the edge of your seat, The Witch Handbook to Magic and Mayhem should be on your must-read list for 2023!” -Award-winning Author, Stacey Rourke

[Jennie · Rating 4 out of 5]

good

This was a good witchy fae book I liked the story just wished for a little more details but other wise it was a good read I can’t wait to see where the next book leads too because the ending that was a good surprise

[PagesOfRaleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

At times it was a little hard to follow but I really enjoyed this one. It was quick paced and just pulled you in from page one. The cliff hanger is the reason for my current suffering…I need to go find the second book NOW!!!

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

super quick read, im not sure if im going to read the second book because i didn’t feel a super strong connection to the characters and the plot twist wasn’t well done

[Amanda Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love, love, love this book. Broke my heart towards the end as I got attached to the characters. I cannot wait for the next book!! Beautiful story💕💕💕

[Sarah · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was an alder girl from the start let that be known

[Anna E · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved this book and how it blended witch and far worlds. Some of the plot was fast paced and could have used more world building which is what would have given it 5 stars for me. Overall I enjoyed the book and was a great quick read cannot wait for book #2.

[Kristy Parris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a new fan of this author and can’t recommend her work enough! This is the 4th title I’ve read and I can NOT wait for the second book in this series! Lily was likable enough but, I mean, Alder?? SWOOOOON! I love a good plot twist and every book I have read from this author has delivered.

[Jennys_library · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Witch Handbook to Magic and Mayhem by Tish Thawer is book one in the Stolen Spells Duology. Sister witches run a magical store that changes to the customer's needs and hides secrets that lay below. One day, a stranger shows up, causing complete chaos in their store and starting a chain of events that leads one of the sisters to the adventure of a lifetime!

This was such a cute, adventurous, witchy story. The idea behind the shop and the way each sister was connected to it was so unique. The magic system was simple, but it fit the story really well and made magic more believable.

They story has adventure, twists, magic, witches, fairies, a stolen book, and one bed trope. It was a quick and easy read, and I look forward to reading the next book!

[Paisley Haskell · Rating 1 out of 5]

Update on 11/23/23 - Opened my kindle today & turns out I was only 1 page from the end...so I did actually finish !!! The remaining 13% was sneak peak of the sequel
DNF @ 87% honestly was so bad and skimmed most of it to try to get through it but I just couldn't take it. I thought it was going to be about a cute witchy shop but then they went on a multi-realm adventure and scattered a bunch of random tropes and plot points that just weren't well executed or thought out

[Isra Sravenheart · Rating 5 out of 5]

I inhaled this in two days!! It is whimsical, has witches, fae. Magic. Secrets. Intrigue. And most of all I couldn't put it down.

BTW this was a Sept 2023 syk book I picked up purely on the cover and it did not disappoint.

[Clauds · Rating 2 out of 5]

Spoiler: this book feels like the first draft.

2.5
The premise of the story was great: five sisters sharing a shop that shifts to meet the needs of its customers: from candles to flowers and even a bookstore. When a customer causes the shop's magic to go crazy, it's up to the girls to save him.
It sounded so good and I was so excited to read it, but I was pretty disappointed.
The whole story felt rushed, and the writing seemed very childish. It's not often I say that books needed more pages, but this is one of those moments. It felt like a big info-dump. The sisters and the shop are not even that relevant to the story.
Halfway through, we are introduced to a love triangle that came from nowhere. It lacks depth. I liked Alder as a character, he felt the most solid, especially after getting to know a little of his backstory
The main character, Lily, was very unlikeable, always showing up with an attitude and being mad, stomping her feet and angry crying.
The overall plot was okay, even if it was so rushed. I would have loved to get more details on the characters and the action, more emotional and deep moments.

[Rebel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great characters and the descriptive imagery makes it feel like you can actually see yourself there. A definite seat of you pants ride with a great plot. It would be great to have a business that actually, literally, caters to the customer. Whatever they're looking for, the store becomes to suit that need. A cute fun read. A few surprising twist.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tish]

“Thanks for shopping, and remember… Practice safe hex!”

[Wendy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was very well written and draws you in from the get go. So much so that when you finish this one you can't wait to jump into book #2. It's a book about the witches and fae people the dark and the light. It's a great book. I don't want to spoil anything for you. Just read it. You will not be sorry you did.

[Lauren · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was such a cute book and an easy read. I fell in love with the characters and am dying to read more.

[Alex Womack · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magical

I was enraptured by this book and it's fantastic characters. I would recommend if you have a love of fae.

[Mel · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was a "Stuff your Kindle" day download and lemme just start with this: I've got things to say.

Firstly, I liked the premise of this book a lot. The blurb calls the sisters "the flower girls" which I thought was super cute! It's not even mentioned in the book. I actually had forgotten that bit until I realized all the sister are named after plants. I was really hoping to get more about the magical store the sisters run but it was very fleeting. I wish there had been more because what we do get was well done and written in a way that could be visualized well.

Parts of this book felt rushed to me. The pacing was off. Not often do we say a book could benefit from MORE pages but this is an exception to that. At points I truly went "wait what?" and had so many questions about the steps that led to the situation unfolding. The relationship of the main character, Lily, and her sisters/mom felt like it was done pretty well. They felt connected and like a family to me. The relationships didn't feel forced. That cannot be said for every relationship on this book. I found myself frequently questioning HOW these relationships were working the way they were. I didn't even root for the love interest at any point in the book because I just didn't understand how they even got to the point they were into each other? Felt very one dimensional. There are other characters this applies to as well but no spoilers.

The climax of the book was extremely rushed and felt disingenuous for the story. Characters just disappeared without explanation suddenly? There's a weird chase but not? And Lily wanders off alone and that's it? I haven't don't even know what happened. One second I was preparing for a final confrontation of some kind only for there to be running and *fin*

Basically, this book was a quick read. It had an interesting plot but the details were lacking. I'm glad I snagged it during a promotion 😬