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Antique Magic
Magic and romance meet at Spirit Antiques!
Bridget "Brie" St. James wasn't looking for excitement. She just needed a part-time job while she finished grad school. Hired to be the assistant at an antique shop, she soon realizes there is more to her new place of work than meets the eye. Way more. Spirit Antiques caters not only to humans, but an array of mythical and mystical creatures.
Brie quickly makes friends with the witches, fairies, incubuses, and other unique customers at the seemingly sentient store, but more than anyone, it's the shop's handsome and mysterious owner Ezra who has her attention. But as their bright romance blooms, a dark spot from Ezra's past emerges. An ancient and dangerous warlock has returned to claim his former pupil. Now it's up to Brie to bring the magical community together to free her new love interest from the confines of a centuries-old blood contract.
With her newfound family, the graduate student has all the magic she needs, but will it be enough? Antique Magic is the first book in the Magic, Love, and Mischief series.
Bridget "Brie" St. James wasn't looking for excitement. She just needed a part-time job while she finished grad school. Hired to be the assistant at an antique shop, she soon realizes there is more to her new place of work than meets the eye. Way more. Spirit Antiques caters not only to humans, but an array of mythical and mystical creatures.
Brie quickly makes friends with the witches, fairies, incubuses, and other unique customers at the seemingly sentient store, but more than anyone, it's the shop's handsome and mysterious owner Ezra who has her attention. But as their bright romance blooms, a dark spot from Ezra's past emerges. An ancient and dangerous warlock has returned to claim his former pupil. Now it's up to Brie to bring the magical community together to free her new love interest from the confines of a centuries-old blood contract.
With her newfound family, the graduate student has all the magic she needs, but will it be enough? Antique Magic is the first book in the Magic, Love, and Mischief series.
400 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 30, 2022
2 people are currently reading
185 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 1, 2022
A great read. The first thing a reader will find is a very strong group of protagonists, who are friends first. They play off each other as the plot develops. During the highest points of action and tension, their personalities are clear and drive the plot.
The author shines at describing the characters in sparse and colorful language. Example, Wes: “Brie leaned over the counter and ruffled his hair. One part of her palm rubbed against the shaved part while the other side got his smooth locks."
Things to enjoy: the self-sarcasm Brie sprinkles throughout the plot endears the reader to her. Action scenes are paced perfectly, the word choices great, and the balance of action to the plot perfect. The best surprise? is the sleeping music box.
Favorite scene? The ceremony for Maddy—poignant and real.
It ends with:
“As the stars came out and they danced, Maddy burned.”
Highly recommended. And only book 1 of the series.
The author shines at describing the characters in sparse and colorful language. Example, Wes: “Brie leaned over the counter and ruffled his hair. One part of her palm rubbed against the shaved part while the other side got his smooth locks."
Things to enjoy: the self-sarcasm Brie sprinkles throughout the plot endears the reader to her. Action scenes are paced perfectly, the word choices great, and the balance of action to the plot perfect. The best surprise? is the sleeping music box.
Favorite scene? The ceremony for Maddy—poignant and real.
It ends with:
“As the stars came out and they danced, Maddy burned.”
Highly recommended. And only book 1 of the series.
February 29, 2024
This book had me hooked between the cover and the promise of an otherworldly romance within the walls of a quirky antique shop. But what I wasn’t prepared for was the mystery within the pages! It was a whirlwind. As much as I tried to pace myself, I could. I HAD to find out what happened! It was such a unique and fun story that’s a SERIES of romances! I’m so stoked. Off to buy book 2!
December 15, 2022
The reading of the audio book is so poorly done I had to return it! However the story's premise was very interesting and I decided to give the ebook a try instead. This is a fun story and suprisingly good for a first novel, but save your money and avoid the audiobook.
April 18, 2023
I did not expect to enjoy this book as much as I did. Romantic fantasy is far from my preferred genre, but this book was good.
What works well:
The strongest element of the story, and of the author’s universe, is the universe itself. Things are happening here and now on planet Earth, and the fantasy element is woven into the realistic element very believably. Our Heroine, Brie St. James is a college student looking for extra work. She takes a part time job at an antique boutique that is way more than meets the eye. This shop serves as a hub for various supernatural creatures to procure goods and services that they need to secretly coexist with their human neighbors. Not a trope that I’m overly familiar with (maybe it’s a smaller, more eclectic version of Diagon Alley), but one that is executed well, with enough details and backstory to help the reader truly accept that this sort of fantasy world can plausibly exist in our own world. With such a strong foundation of world-building, I was able to accept some of the lesser developed elements of the story.
What needs work:
Brie St. James is a character who seems unsure of herself at times, and very confident at other times. This is human nature, of course, but her personality displayed inconsistencies that did not parse with my understanding of her. I still found her to be enjoyable, despite wincing at the sensibility of some of her choices or thoughts. The secondary characters were better developed, with a lot of well-placed humor.
The pacing also had some issues. Some scenes that I though should move more quickly were a little slow, while other critical reveals seemed thrown in the microwave when they should have simmered for a while.
Recommendation:
I’m a sci-fi guy through and through, but I enjoyed this read, despite my critiques above. At the end of the day, this is a debut novel by a rookie author. I know, from having recently completed my own novel manuscript, that writing is HARD. Ms. Disney-Leugers will grow as an author. She will improve her connection with her characters, and to the pace and flow of her stories. And as said above, the world she has created is fun and scary and, most importantly, believable. It will be worth the while of anyone who loves Romance or Dark Fantasy to join her on this first leg of her writing journey and beyond.
What works well:
The strongest element of the story, and of the author’s universe, is the universe itself. Things are happening here and now on planet Earth, and the fantasy element is woven into the realistic element very believably. Our Heroine, Brie St. James is a college student looking for extra work. She takes a part time job at an antique boutique that is way more than meets the eye. This shop serves as a hub for various supernatural creatures to procure goods and services that they need to secretly coexist with their human neighbors. Not a trope that I’m overly familiar with (maybe it’s a smaller, more eclectic version of Diagon Alley), but one that is executed well, with enough details and backstory to help the reader truly accept that this sort of fantasy world can plausibly exist in our own world. With such a strong foundation of world-building, I was able to accept some of the lesser developed elements of the story.
What needs work:
Brie St. James is a character who seems unsure of herself at times, and very confident at other times. This is human nature, of course, but her personality displayed inconsistencies that did not parse with my understanding of her. I still found her to be enjoyable, despite wincing at the sensibility of some of her choices or thoughts. The secondary characters were better developed, with a lot of well-placed humor.
The pacing also had some issues. Some scenes that I though should move more quickly were a little slow, while other critical reveals seemed thrown in the microwave when they should have simmered for a while.
Recommendation:
I’m a sci-fi guy through and through, but I enjoyed this read, despite my critiques above. At the end of the day, this is a debut novel by a rookie author. I know, from having recently completed my own novel manuscript, that writing is HARD. Ms. Disney-Leugers will grow as an author. She will improve her connection with her characters, and to the pace and flow of her stories. And as said above, the world she has created is fun and scary and, most importantly, believable. It will be worth the while of anyone who loves Romance or Dark Fantasy to join her on this first leg of her writing journey and beyond.
December 23, 2022
I really wanted to like this, especially since it was expanded into an original story (originally a fanfic). The premise is great and it would be amazing to see this expanded to read more side stories on our characters, especially Lily and Bertie - I found their story more interesting actually. However, I found it a bit rushed for our actual two MCs, Ezra and Brie. While the author does attempt to do slow burn (and it does do a bit of that), it just seem things fall into "place" too easily to constantly put our two main characters together to build on that slow burn. The FMC's life is constantly in danger while working at the shop, yet she never leaves. The MMC vows that no harm will come to her as long as she's working for him, but she's in danger constantly. In every chapter, she's in danger from a new client. I get that the magical world can be dangerous, but it was too constant that it didn't make sense to me why the FMC would stay. In the beginning, the FMC had to use the bathroom so, so terribly (where she states she's going to "piss myself right here on the floor") that suddenly she forgets all about it when the MMC explains the magical shop she's working in. I get it's a book and this is a fantasy world, but there's gotta be some realism, right? "The time for dignity was gone when a full bladder was concerned." - If I had to use a bathroom this badly, I don't care what is happening; I'm going to find a restroom. It's hard to listen, much less concentrate, AND crush on a guy especially if going to the bathroom was such a concern. The ending was a tad bit predictable, but I liked how it ended though. I do wish there was more struggle between the FMC when she finds out the truth. Again, everything is a bit too easy. Overall though, despite that, it is a good book. It's not going to blow your socks off and it does leave you wanting more (more details, more world expansion, less rushed, etc.).
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 11, 2024
What a lovely, fun and quick read. I seem to be very fortunate to have read a few debut novels lately and each one has impressed me! This is my newest newbie author!
Brie is a grad student, living with her adopted brother Wesley, just trying to get by. And that means finding a job. So when she gets one in an antique shop she's ecstatic, not only do the hours suit but her boss kind of makes her heart flutter. Well, THIS job, and pleasing to look at boss, are not what she expected, definitely did her mind in! I loved her character, even though she's... surprised...at what she encounters, she soon find her stride and befriends a whole array of magical beings. She's just so natural, personable and her scene of humour is right up my street, using snark to cover up her insecurities. I loved her relationship with Wes, true loving siblings, with the teasing banter.
Oh and did I enjoy her budding romance with Ezra, soooo swoony! But then, as wont in a fictional story, this go awry and then the poop hits the fan, leaving Brie to scrape it all off...ok, she's not alone, she does have her new, unusual friends, from fairies to witches to incubus, they rally with her to find a solution to a huge problem. The problem? An ancient evil's calling card, with Ezra being the one called...Ezra is so mysterious, cranky and obviously keeping a monumental secret, a trait the author peppered throughout, giving the reader only what she deemed fit, thus making this a really interesting read to see how it would develop.
I really enjoyed the well placed humour, many a giggles ensued and I thought the world building great, as the bricks rose higher, so did my enjoyment of this world coming to life. There were a few inconsistent pacing issues but nothing that detected from the overall enjoyment of this book. I'm really looking forward to more.
Brie is a grad student, living with her adopted brother Wesley, just trying to get by. And that means finding a job. So when she gets one in an antique shop she's ecstatic, not only do the hours suit but her boss kind of makes her heart flutter. Well, THIS job, and pleasing to look at boss, are not what she expected, definitely did her mind in! I loved her character, even though she's... surprised...at what she encounters, she soon find her stride and befriends a whole array of magical beings. She's just so natural, personable and her scene of humour is right up my street, using snark to cover up her insecurities. I loved her relationship with Wes, true loving siblings, with the teasing banter.
Oh and did I enjoy her budding romance with Ezra, soooo swoony! But then, as wont in a fictional story, this go awry and then the poop hits the fan, leaving Brie to scrape it all off...ok, she's not alone, she does have her new, unusual friends, from fairies to witches to incubus, they rally with her to find a solution to a huge problem. The problem? An ancient evil's calling card, with Ezra being the one called...Ezra is so mysterious, cranky and obviously keeping a monumental secret, a trait the author peppered throughout, giving the reader only what she deemed fit, thus making this a really interesting read to see how it would develop.
I really enjoyed the well placed humour, many a giggles ensued and I thought the world building great, as the bricks rose higher, so did my enjoyment of this world coming to life. There were a few inconsistent pacing issues but nothing that detected from the overall enjoyment of this book. I'm really looking forward to more.
June 3, 2023
Brie is a graduate student, sharing an apartment with her brother and looking for a part time job to help them make ends meet. She finds one working at what appears to be a small, not very busy antique shop. The owner seems to be a cranky, but sexy man, and the clientele are also rather odd, to say the least. And the strangest thing? Even though the store does appear to be open to anyone, part of her job is to chase away any tourists who wander in. What kind of antique shop doesn't want tourists to shop there? Clearly there's more going on than meets the eye.
This was a fun and interesting paranormal urban fantasy novel that I received a review copy to read. The customers of the store are all manner of magical beings, from fae, to vampires and everything in between. Many are friendly (some almost too friendly, like the incubus who visits the store), while others are not so friendly. Including one who actively dislikes her, and leaves her feeling threatened whenever he is around. Why though, comes as a bit of a surprise to her.
This was, in my opinion, primarily a paranormal romance with a number of twists along the way. I thought it a fun story, and one that I believe most people who enjoy paranormal fantasy books would enjoy. Do be aware that there are a few sex scenes in this book. Not many, but they aren't The "fade to black" style.
This was a fun and interesting paranormal urban fantasy novel that I received a review copy to read. The customers of the store are all manner of magical beings, from fae, to vampires and everything in between. Many are friendly (some almost too friendly, like the incubus who visits the store), while others are not so friendly. Including one who actively dislikes her, and leaves her feeling threatened whenever he is around. Why though, comes as a bit of a surprise to her.
This was, in my opinion, primarily a paranormal romance with a number of twists along the way. I thought it a fun story, and one that I believe most people who enjoy paranormal fantasy books would enjoy. Do be aware that there are a few sex scenes in this book. Not many, but they aren't The "fade to black" style.
May 19, 2025
Is this a literary masterpiece? No. Did I enjoy 'Antique Magic'? Yes!
Honestly the writing style isn't the best. It jumps between perspective often in a way that disengages the reader from the characters and the situations. I found it easy for me to bounce through passages. At some points, the dialogue is cringey. Both in what is being said and in how each line was written to be delivered. Regardless, I was happy to finish the story to the end. I'm a sucker for a cute grumpy x sassy romance and the storage room is one of my favorite parts of the book.
Because of the writing style it was hard to connect with the characters. I didn't share Brie's pain or Ezra's worry. I didn't share Brie's fear or even the love between Brie and Ezra. I hardly felt much at all. The relationships mostly felt surface level. The writing wasn't fully for me. It felt at times that I was reading a wattpad fanfic.
BUT the plot itself was a guilty pleasure for me. Quirky witch girl gets a job at an antique shop and falls for the grumpy, yet hot, shop owner? Say less.
The book read like a magical hallmark movie and I was not mad about it. The twists and turns were predictable but like I said, hallmark-esque and still enjoyable!
Honestly the writing style isn't the best. It jumps between perspective often in a way that disengages the reader from the characters and the situations. I found it easy for me to bounce through passages. At some points, the dialogue is cringey. Both in what is being said and in how each line was written to be delivered. Regardless, I was happy to finish the story to the end. I'm a sucker for a cute grumpy x sassy romance and the storage room is one of my favorite parts of the book.
Because of the writing style it was hard to connect with the characters. I didn't share Brie's pain or Ezra's worry. I didn't share Brie's fear or even the love between Brie and Ezra. I hardly felt much at all. The relationships mostly felt surface level. The writing wasn't fully for me. It felt at times that I was reading a wattpad fanfic.
BUT the plot itself was a guilty pleasure for me. Quirky witch girl gets a job at an antique shop and falls for the grumpy, yet hot, shop owner? Say less.
The book read like a magical hallmark movie and I was not mad about it. The twists and turns were predictable but like I said, hallmark-esque and still enjoyable!
February 5, 2024
I was immediately intrigued by Antique Magic's premise - a witchy girl cozying up to the fallen angel owner of a magical antique shop? I was sold. This book didn't disappoint - it was full of sweet slow-burn romance, quirky characters, and snarky banter. I loved Brie's unique backstory, her relationship with her brother, and her all-to-relatable life as a grad student. Ezra was the epitome of dark, mysterious, and charming. I'm a sucker for grumpy characters that open up over time.
In addition, I loved the worldbuilding. New England is such a wonderful setting for paranormal romances, and I loved all the little magical realism details - such as the sentient teacup that refills itself and the obscenely huge storage room that summons flying carpets. The story was a nice balance between cozy simplicity with a bit of drama and action, and the ending was a sweet, satisying one. Definitely a must-read for paranormal fantasy lovers!
In addition, I loved the worldbuilding. New England is such a wonderful setting for paranormal romances, and I loved all the little magical realism details - such as the sentient teacup that refills itself and the obscenely huge storage room that summons flying carpets. The story was a nice balance between cozy simplicity with a bit of drama and action, and the ending was a sweet, satisying one. Definitely a must-read for paranormal fantasy lovers!
April 17, 2024
Fantasy fiction is not normally a genre I read. However I received a recommendation for this book and was excited to give it a try. I was hooked by the first chapter and couldn’t put it down.
I especially liked how Disney-Leugers created such interesting mystical characters. I found myself Googling many of them to get further insight into their origins. Her descriptions of the beings were very spot on.
As I was reading I was imaging what actors could portray the characters if this book was made into a movie.
I did feel that some of the language Brie used was not on line for the character. But other than that I found the book read well. Ms. Disney-Leugers writing style is very easy to read and you don’t realize you are reading a first novel.
I am looking forward to reading the two ither books in this series.
I especially liked how Disney-Leugers created such interesting mystical characters. I found myself Googling many of them to get further insight into their origins. Her descriptions of the beings were very spot on.
As I was reading I was imaging what actors could portray the characters if this book was made into a movie.
I did feel that some of the language Brie used was not on line for the character. But other than that I found the book read well. Ms. Disney-Leugers writing style is very easy to read and you don’t realize you are reading a first novel.
I am looking forward to reading the two ither books in this series.
July 22, 2024
"Your sight tell you that?” His tone was biting. He was feeling too much right now.
Lily shook her head. “No, but hope did. I have hope that you will bring her back."
Bridget St James, ABD PhD candidate starts a job at a tiny old antique store having no idea what's in store for her, or what's stored inside of her.
This book is fantastic and I stayed up too late reading it. Interweaving mythology, theology, wiccan beliefs and outright magic -good or evil- Ezra and Brie's story is magical and I thank Kait Disney-Leugers for her wit and wisdom and very hard work at bringing this world to fruition. Highly Recommended 5/5
Lily shook her head. “No, but hope did. I have hope that you will bring her back."
Bridget St James, ABD PhD candidate starts a job at a tiny old antique store having no idea what's in store for her, or what's stored inside of her.
This book is fantastic and I stayed up too late reading it. Interweaving mythology, theology, wiccan beliefs and outright magic -good or evil- Ezra and Brie's story is magical and I thank Kait Disney-Leugers for her wit and wisdom and very hard work at bringing this world to fruition. Highly Recommended 5/5
December 5, 2022
I thought the story dragged on alittle. The story of Brie and Ezra is good. Follow Brie as she learns about the magical world around her. Follow Ezra as he tries to not feel anything forh Brie. See what happens as other characters start to come into her life. How will she handle everything that she sees, hears, and what has been kept from her.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 20, 2022
I absolutely loved this book, and it wasn’t what I expected in the best way. I expected a quirky history student to be working at an antique store and discover some hidden secrets along the way. Instead I got paranormal wars involving angels, demons, and gods. A love that defies time. A found family that helps the main character, Brie, grow into her true potential. The ending was so heartwarming and I can’t wait to read more books in the series!
December 2, 2022
this was a great start to the Magic, Love, and Mischief series, it did everything that a good urban fantasy should do. The characters were interesting and did everything that I was hoping for. I enjoyed how well Kait Disney-Leugers wrote this. I can't wait to read where this series goes.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 4, 2022
This is a well written book with strong characters and an intriguing storyline. The author does a great job pulling you into the story and kept me reading right to the end. She moves it fluidly with her descriptive scenes and delivers a sweet and entertaining story. Loved and recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
November 16, 2023
Não me lembro exatamente como esse livro me chegou em mãos... acho que fui numa das levas de histórias que começaram como fanfics, no caso, Reylo (Rey/Kylo Ren de Star Wars).
A autora fez um bom trabalho criando um mundo alternativo com magia e contratantes, assim como conseguiu adaptar os personagens secondários. São facilmente identificáveis e há até mesmo outro casal não tão popular: Gingerrose.
A maior parte das características físicas e emocionais foram mantidas, o que certamente vai agradar os fãs. No entanto, a história prima por um certo senso de comunidade que foge à proposta original, dando uma roupagem nova para o que seria, do contrário, apenas mais uma história a engordar os servidores de Ao3.
A autora fez um bom trabalho criando um mundo alternativo com magia e contratantes, assim como conseguiu adaptar os personagens secondários. São facilmente identificáveis e há até mesmo outro casal não tão popular: Gingerrose.
A maior parte das características físicas e emocionais foram mantidas, o que certamente vai agradar os fãs. No entanto, a história prima por um certo senso de comunidade que foge à proposta original, dando uma roupagem nova para o que seria, do contrário, apenas mais uma história a engordar os servidores de Ao3.
October 24, 2022
Intriguing and suspenseful! Well written story line filled with unique characters keeps you captured from the start. Can not wait to see what comes next in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 24, 2022
This is a great urban fantasy! I really enjoyed it.. The romance is sweet... and the story is fascinating and fun..
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 18, 2024
Fantasy romance at its best. An enjoyable read filled with magic, love, and friendship.
December 2, 2024
I loved this story.
Read
March 25, 2025DNF chp3...putting it on hold, might come back to this when I am in another mindset.
dnf
November 14, 2025DNF at 4%. This audiobook narrator sounds so much like a robot. I can’t. It’s sooooo hard to listen to. I literally googled to make sure I wasn’t listening to AI.
May 2, 2025
I had so much fun reading this book and am so excited that it is only the first book in a new series! I also really enjoy discovering a new author that can weave so many worlds and mythologies together practically seamlessly.
When the FMC, Brie, needs a new part-time job and finds the listing for an antique shop not far from where she lives with her brother, she figures, what does she have to lose. Her interview with the MMC, Ezra, is anything but typical. Neither are his customers.
The references to famous people interspersed throughout the book had me laughing as did a certain typewriter, a tea cup and the storage room of the shop.
This was a quick read, but was still rich in its world building, colorful, quirky characters and found family.
I can’t wait to visit this world again soon. As always, Happy reading!
When the FMC, Brie, needs a new part-time job and finds the listing for an antique shop not far from where she lives with her brother, she figures, what does she have to lose. Her interview with the MMC, Ezra, is anything but typical. Neither are his customers.
The references to famous people interspersed throughout the book had me laughing as did a certain typewriter, a tea cup and the storage room of the shop.
This was a quick read, but was still rich in its world building, colorful, quirky characters and found family.
I can’t wait to visit this world again soon. As always, Happy reading!
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews