Impractical Magic
by Emily Grimoire
This title was previously available on NetGalley and is now archived.
Send NetGalley books directly to your Kindle or Kindle app
1
To read on a Kindle or Kindle app, please add kindle@netgalley.com as an approved email address to receive files in your Amazon account. Click here for step-by-step instructions.
2
Also find your Kindle email address within your Amazon account, and enter it here.
Pub Date 1 Oct 2024 | Archive Date 14 Oct 2024
Avon Books UK | Avon
Description
Perfect for readers of Pumpkin Spice Café, Erin Sterling and Lana Harper.
In Oak Haven, this witch is about to brew up more trouble than she bargained for…
When Scarlett Melrose receives a call from her estranged sisters, she immediately knows something is wrong. The magic at their mother’s inn – and in fact, the whole of Oak Haven – has gone awry, and they need her help to save it.
As the conflicted middle-child, returning home has given Scarlett the heebie jeebies. And to make matters worse, she’s just come face-to-face with charming old flame and handyman, Nate.
When her spell to fix the magic goes horribly wrong, all Scarlett wants to do is flee back to the peace and quiet of her San Francisco flat. But she can’t keep running away forever, and she’ll need all the help she can to solve this magical mess.
With time slipping away, Scarlett must learn that sometimes the greatest spells really do come with the greatest responsibility – especially when love is involved…
***
Perfect for fans of:
Grumpy x sunshine ☀️
Slow burn 🔥
Witchy aesthetic 🔮✨
Cosy small town 🍂☕
Available Editions
EDITION | Ebook |
ISBN | 9780008718695 |
PRICE | £2.99 (GBP) |
PAGES | 384 |
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
This novel is so much more than just about magic and romance; it’s about embracing responsibility and facing the past to find true happiness. The slow-burn romance and the grumpy x sunshine dynamic between Scarlett and Nate were beautifully done, making this story a delightful escape into a world where love and magic are inextricably linked. It left me with a warm, satisfied feeling, knowing that sometimes, the greatest spells are those that heal the heart.
This was a perfect cosy read and would be perfect for autumn months! It really gave that autumn magic vibes and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
I will definitely be looking at buying the physical copy of this as it was really enjoyable!
Scarlett and Nate was a fabulous couple. Although the romance is casual almost it is deep rooted in their history. I loved his dedication to her and that his love never waivers even at the end when he says "he won't wait". I could not put the book down until I knew what happened. Absolutely loved the story and the characters. Excellent read.
“In a region known for its crisp autumn air and cozy clapboard houses and pumpkin-spice everything, Oak Haven was by far the crispest, the coziest, the spiciest.”
🍂 Cosy Small Town
🎃 Family of Witches
🍂 Second Chance
🎃 Spells Gone Wrong
Overall Enjoyment: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 1/2 a 🌶️
World Building: 🌎🌎🌎
Romance: ♥️♥️
Characters: 👤👤👤
“In that moment, she knew, with a bone-deep certainty, that this was what home felt like.”
What I would give to be transported to Oak Haven! This book was such a fun wholesome read, Emily Grimoire gives you this cosy New England setting with these utterly beautiful descriptions that make you want to dive right into the pages. Then if the setting alone doesn’t completely win you over you get this adorable second chance romance! Scarlett and Nate’s ‘will they or won’t they’ history as teenagers made for lots of complicated feelings now that Scarlett has returned as an adult.
“When Nate grinned at her, Scarlett grinned back, and she suddenly realized that there were no bad feelings here, just complicated ones, and she didn’t want the moment to ever end.”
I loved Scarlett’s transformation through this story. She is a character that holds so much guilt and she spent ten long years avoiding it. Now she is forced to confront what happened in the past and heal, in doing so she embraces her magical heritage. Even with this I found this book to be such a fun and lighthearted read, from Scarlett’s quirky family, the many endless Earls and the most hilarious ‘villains’ I think I’ve ever read… I really enjoyed it
“Thanksgiving represented everything they loved about Oak Haven, where traditions were honored, where magic and wonder were celebrated, and where the bonds of family and friendship were strong.”
A return to the magical village and another good read. Nate has waited for Scarlet whilst she lived in the real world and denied her witchiness, now she is back. Scarlet is back as the village is failing,themagic is draining away. This book is all run through with magic and spells and portals, however it it a book about family, and being forgotten and feeling left out at its heart. Nate and Scarlet are will they won’t they for years and this comes to a head. The book weaves the magic in well, a few oddities aren’t are smooth such as the time to unravel the end and the unpicking of scarlet’s guilt but the rest is great,
Really loved this book, super cute and cosy read which is perfect for the upcoming fall season.
I’d defo highly recommend to friends and family
I absolutely loved this book,it’s absolutely perfect for any charmed and Gilmore girls fan,this cute and cosy book will be perfect for those cosy days in and I will definitely be re-reading this during the autumn time
An impractical five-star read, I don’t know with this one, I really enjoyed the whole story, but it took me a little while to get stared as I just wasn’t sure on the writing style at first, it felt weirdly negative, but them the more I read the more I got into the story and was able to put that aside. I think it helped that we got to know Scarlett better, as she was a little whiney at first, I found, and I just didn’t like her at first, I loved her soon after, just not for he first handful of chapters. The learning curve this book went in was what made it five-stars for me, the way they took what they learned and improved the town for its less witchy inhabitants. This had its good points, I liked how Violet was shown and the struggles of a teenage girl in modern times dealing with a mixed-up life, but it also had its negatives as well, and they were glossed over. If you like a cozy witchy story then likelihood is you will enjoy this one.
Oak Haven Witch offers a delightful blend of family drama, romance, and supernatural intrigue. The story follows Scarlett Melrose, a reluctant witch returning to her hometown to confront her past and save her family's inn.
The author skillfully weaves a captivating narrative, filled with enchanting characters and magical twists. Scarlett's journey is both heartwarming and suspenseful, as she navigates her complex relationships and grapples with the challenges of her newfound responsibilities.
Fans of cozy mysteries and paranormal romance will find Oak Haven Witch a charming and enjoyable read. With its well-developed characters and engaging plot, this novel is sure to cast a spell on readers.
I really enjoyed this book, it’s the perfect autumn hug as you watch the rain and leaves fall with a hot chocolate and a blanket and I can’t wait to reread this book in that exact scenario. Scarlett and Nate make a really cute couple who I was routing for all through the story!
Summary: When Scarlett returns to Oak Haven to fix its magic, she faces an old flame, her sisters, and a magical mess.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of this book, all thoughts are my own.
What a sweet, quick, humorous and light hearted read!
Impractical Magic is a story that follows Scarlett and her family, the Melrose’s, who reside a quaint little witchy town called Oak Haven. Thriving off a largely untapped pool of magic entwined in Centuries old Oak trees, Oak Haven is largely inhabited by females, of which happen to be Witches! When something happens to the oak trees and the magic starts malfunctioning, it’s up to Scarlett and the Melrose’s to figure out what is causing it and how to rectify it.
The characters were loveable, the plot was written exactly like a cheesy hallmark autumnal movie (which is LOVED) and it was entirely hilarious throughout. I was entranced by the descriptive language used to describe oak haven, and the imagery it conjured of what could possibly be the most perfect town 😍
A beautiful story about family, love, friendship and just all round girl power, Impractical magic is fast paced and enjoyable and is the perfect read for those ‘ber’ months!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this arc. This book is a very cozy fantasy that follows Scarlett who is returning to her hometown after ten years because something is wrong with the town's magic. The blurb that convinced me to read this book compared it to Charmed and that drew me in. This book has complicated family dynamics between Scarlett and her sisters and her Mom. Also has a complicated relationship between Scarlett and her childhood best friend Nate, with whom she had a will they won't they relationship. This book was a cute east read, I recommend giving this book a try if you like Charmed or Gilmore Girls.
“Impractical Magic” was compared to a blend of Gilmore Girls and Charmed, and I believe it really captured that essence. It exuded a cozy, magical autumn feel with a splash of second chance deep rooted romance. I appreciated the bond between the sisters and their strong ties to Oak Haven and how they all came together to find a way to save their magical little town.
The you have the relationship between Scarlett and Nate that developed slowly, creating a will-they-or-won't-they tension that I found engaging. The only predictable aspect of the book was the identity of the culprit behind the town's magical mishap. Overall, I found the book to be an enjoyable read just in time for Autumn!
Thanks NetGalley for the ARC!
This perfectly cozy read for fall has it all. A picturesque inn, quaint little town, and a good looking handyman that makes the best coffee in the town? Oh, don't forget the magic. What more could you want?
Scarlett hasn't been home in 10 years. But after a ominous voicemail from her estranged sister, she races home to see just was trouble has fallen upon Oak Haven.
This was absolutely quirky as hell and I loved every second of it. I love a witchy small town story and this didn't miss. I did get frustrated with the characters and how they communicated with each other. It got annoying rather quickly with how quick they were to turn on each other. I get it, 10 years is a long time to build up some resentment but good lord.
All in all, a wonderful fall time romance.
Thank you to Netgalley and Avon for the eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Impractical Magic was absolutely adorable! Seriously so cozy and just all around the perfect fall read!
I loved this book! Scarlett is a very relatable character when it said
‘The thought of returning home filled Scarlett with a nausea-inducing blend of gleeful anticipation and overwhelming dread. There was so much wonderful waiting for her down in that valley, and so much awful.’
I got that, I wasn’t expecting the book to be funny aswell as romantic and a little sad, I really hope there is more books especially with the spell Nate is trying to conquer at the end.
P.s shout out for mentioning pippi longstocking too many people haven’t heard of her :(
If you are looking for a cute "romantasy" then you have come to the right place. The sibling banter between the 3 witch sisters is so funny to me and very realistic. The slow burn trope is usually one of my least favorite types, but this author did it very well and the ending was very worth it for me! At points, it did seem the author was forcing romance between Scarlett and her lover, but honestly the whole town was so it kind of made sense why it felt this way.
Title: Impractical Magic
Author: Emily Grimoire
Pages: 384
Rating: 5/5*
Arc Copy - review left voluntarily
Publish date - 10th October 2024
It's been 10 years since Scarlett fled from her hometown. After an urgent voicemail left from her sister she returns to chaos. Something's happened to the magic!!
Oh my gosh. I LOVED this. The world building in this book was brilliant! I adored the puntastic names of places. The back story of the Earl's. The inclusion of Spam. Everything about this was so cleverly thought out! There was a little bit of spice and some wholesome romance. With a "will they won't they" slow burn trope. The "whodunnit" was predictable but the rest of the story wasn't. EG portrayed the characters so well in this. You could feel the emotions. I did feel the ending was rushed a bit as I wanted to stay lost in this book for an age.
A beautiful debut!! If you're looking for your next cosy autumn read. - then get this on your pre-order!! (Link will be in the stories)
Will you be reading it??
*Note from me: I never want to dim people's shine. It's brave for the author to put themselves out there in the public eye. Books/stories are personal preferences. What might be my cup of tea may not be yours. And vice Versa! Keep on creating!
I really enjoyed this! I loved the slow burn romance, the setting and the main characters! This is the perfect autumn read and one I think I’ll definitely return to. It’s cosy and uplifting and I highly recommend it! Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for my ARC
I’ve just finished the latest spooky romance. If you are a fan of spooky romance novels, pick up Impractical Magic.
Thank you Net Galley for this amazing ARC! This is just what I needed to get me into the fall spirit. There’s everything you need…a small, women-led, witchy town, bickering sisters, the will-they-won’t-they romance, and of course, general magic-related chaos. Sure, there were some parts that fell a little flat or were rushed/too drawn out, but this is just a little feel good story that I very, very much enjoyed.
Scarlett hasn’t been back to her hometown in ten years, but when her older sister calls for help, she returns. Oak Haven is a place where the women are witches and when people leave they forget the town ever existed. As soon as Scarlett is back she senses that things are different. Something is wrong with the magic in the town and nobody knows how to fix it. Scarlett and her two sisters, including her mom, try to find the solution. She’s also still having feelings with Nate, the one that got away. This has the small town feeling, magic, witches, family, and love. I think this would/will be a good Fall read.
📖📖 Book Review 📖📖l Somehow in all of the time I lived in Boston and have been back to visit, I missed the exit for the magical Oak Haven and I am devastated. Bring it the pumpkin spice and everything nice because this is a town where autumn is beyond any picturesque, quintessential New England town; and magic is alive in the air. But it’s not enough to keep Scarlet from escaping to San Francisco to pursue her dreams away from her sisterly coven. But when alarm bells ring in Oak Haven and her sisters call for help, she returns to her hometown to face her own demons from the past along with the current town troubles. Between the mystery and the magic is a heartwarming tale of returning home and healing with those you love. Impractical Magic is a splendid fall read with the perfect setting and wonderful characters that would lend themselves to a nice little series if you ask me…
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Review is on Goodreads and will be posted on instagram closer to publication date and on Amazon when published!
A great cozy mystery book all ready for Autumn. I fell in love with Oak Haven and its residents (and ex resident Scarlett). The Melrose family are thrown back together when the magic in their town starts to go on the fritz. Scarlett has to deal with the trauma from her father’s death years ago in order to help save her family and friends and the life that they love. I only occasionally read books like this and thoroughly enjoyed it.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
Impractical Magic by new to me author E. Grimoire, published by Avon Books is the perfect autumn, cozy small town story.
Scarlett is reluctantly returning to her hometown only to learn some surprising things. Time didn't stand still for Oak Haven.
Blurb: In Oak Haven, this witch is about to brew up more trouble than she bargained for…
When Scarlett Melrose receives a call from her estranged sisters, she immediately knows something is wrong. Their mother’s inn has been in trouble, and they need her help to save it.
As the conflicted middle-child, returning home is giving Scarlett the heebie jeebies. And to make matters worse, she’s just come face-to-face with charming old flame and handyman, Nate.
When her spell to break the curse goes wrong, all Scarlett wants to do is flee back to the peace and quiet of her San Francisco apartement. But she can’t keep running away forever, and she’ll need all the help she can to solve this magical mess.
With time slipping away, Scarlett must learn that sometimes the greatest spells really do come with the greatest responsibility.
"In a region known for its crisp autumn air and cozy clapboard houses and pumpkin-spice everything, Oak Haven was by far the crispest, the coziest, the spiciest."
And this, ladies and gentlemen, is how I fell in love with autumn all over again.
I could quote sonnets from this book and its gorgeous description of Oak Haven, but I don't want to spoil it. All I can say is that this book has me extra excited for September 1st so that I can throw on a sweater, grab a PSL, and re-read this autumnal delight.
In Impractical Magic, Scarlett Melrose must return to her enchanting little hometown that she's been avoiding for the past few years, after receiving a worrying (and somewhat cryptic) phone call from her estranged sisters. As she reluctantly ventures back home, Scarlett is shocked to find that the magical town she left behind is now in disarray - and it's up to her to fix it! Trying to rectify the magical mayhem that has ensued becomes all the more complicated as she battles with feelings of guilt from the past as well as the reappearance of her old flame, Nate.
This novel is a blend of coziness, autumn vibes, magic, and second-chance romances. We see Scarlett transform from a reluctant heroine to someone who begins to embrace her magical roots, and I loved her quirky family and the slow-burn romance. The descriptions in this book are impeccable and it really does feel like a combination of Gilmore Girls x Charmed! So if you're looking for a cozy, magical read with a touch of romance and a dash of family drama, pick this up!
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this ARC.
Firstly, thank you so much for letting me read impractical magic early.
This cosy autum book was perfect, had that cosy feeling of Gilmore Girls with Hocus Pocus
We follow Scarlett battle the love for her family, and riddled in guilt from losing her father. But her town needs her and the rest of the witches to find out why the magic has stopped working.
I loved this book! I hope I read more from the Melrose sisters in the future
This was definitely a slow burner, but a great change of pace between heavy, lore-ridden fantasy sagas!
I loved the idea of the witchy town and its cosy characters and autumnal setting. Nate and Scarlett were fun to read and I loved following their development. Overall, I wish ithad perhaps fleshed out the magic problems a little more, but it was a fun and cosy read.
Cosy mystery strikes again with this cute, magical tale. Scarlett returns home after a ten year hiatus only to find the town in disarray! I really enjoyed the bickering between the sisters and I thought Nate sounded great. I absolutely thought Kelly was a bitch and it wasn’t until writing this review I saw her for being the “Emily” of the story. The book wasn’t about solving the mystery in the end. It was about family dynamics. The description is correct in saying if you love Gilmore girls and Charmed you will love this.
Thank you NetGalley for giving me this book to read and review!
10 years ago Scarlet Melrose leaves the magical town of Oak Haven after a tragic accident. Now she has returned, can she let go of the guilt of the past and save the town she called home?
This was a cosy read, ideal for the autumnal/fall months. The second chance will they won't they romance that runs through the story with Scarlets childhood friend Nate is well paced. However, the main plot is the mystery behind the towns magical mayhem that is causing problems, and how can Scarlet and her two sisters help fix it. The characters are established well enough, with scope to grow them further and the Melrose family dynamic is one that I'm sure many reader will resonate with.
The story ends well, but several plot points leave the book open for a sequel, maybe even two. A possibility that i find very intriguing.
I have rated this 4 ⭐, it was closer to a 3.5⭐ but i can only give a whole star and it was worth more than 3.
Fun Fun Fun!
Cozy. Whimsical. Very much Gilmore Girls and the Good Witch. Mystery. Magic. Family. Great characters.
Read when the night cools down, wrap yourself up in a soft blanket, and sip on some hot cider!
4/5 stars!
I received this as an ARC and I just want to say that I loved this book. It was so cozy and cute. It explored some difficult concepts when it came to Scarlett’s feelings of guilt and inadequacy.
Scarlett is a witch from the town of Oak Haven, who fled 10 years ago to San Francisco. She receives an urgent message from her older sister asking her to come home because the magic has gone haywire. Reluctantly, she makes the trek home to discover that not much has changed since she last left. Her mother is still harsh and her sister’s witty, but her almost love? He’s turned into a hunk! This story follows Scarlett’s time back home and she rediscovers her first love and faces the things that made her flee in the first place.
I love a good second chance romance. Nate and Scarlett were always meant to be. And the way he stayed in the grove for a whole year put the icing on the cake. He never rushed her, even though she was hot and cold. He literally followed her lead and would follow her anywhere.
The dynamic between the sisters is what you would expect from teenagers. That’s something that I didn’t quite like. Generally, the personalities would mature after 10 years, but it seemed the sisters literally picked up where they left off. Not the mention the way Scarlett immediately felt inadequate around her mom. Her mother has a terrible way of expressing her concern and love. But not everyone can be perfect, so I did find her mom to be relatable.
The plot was pretty easy to follow and the culprit was pretty easy to sus out. You didn’t quite know the depth of all the treachery and it left a lot of questions that could be answered in a second book, perhaps following the love story of a different sister?
Such a great story! Loved reading this just in time for halloween! Overall a cute and quick read for halloween
Impractical magic was a fun read, but it managed to tackle the subject of grief in a good, well researched way.
I liked the idea of magic needing the woodland to thrive.
The romance was nice but fairly slow going. I did really like the ending and I wanted the main characters to end up together.
**Book Review: *Impractical Magic***
*Impractical Magic* is the perfect read for anyone seeking cozy fall vibes, complete with a dash of witchcraft, heartwarming friendships, and small-town charm. Set in the enchanting town of Oak Hollow, a quaint little witchy haven where magic lurks around every corner, this novel exudes autumn warmth in every page, making it the ideal book to curl up with on a chilly day.
The story follows a lovable young witch who is struggling to master her powers while juggling the demands of her magical lineage. The town itself feels alive, with cobblestone streets, bustling local shops, and a close-knit community of quirky characters that make Oak Hollow a place you'd love to visit. The author does an excellent job of weaving together magic and mundane life, giving the story an almost tangible coziness that mirrors the beauty of fall.
What stands out most in *Impractical Magic* is how well-written it is. The prose flows effortlessly, with vivid descriptions that bring the magical town and its inhabitants to life. The characters are charming and relatable, and their relationships—whether familial, romantic, or platonic—are warm and genuine. There’s a sense of nostalgia in the way the book captures the magic of small-town life, layered with just the right amount of whimsy and witchy wonder.
For fans of magic, friendship, and heartwarming stories set against the backdrop of a vibrant autumn landscape, *Impractical Magic* is a must-read. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to light a candle, pour a cup of tea, and immerse yourself in its cozy, magical world.
Warm and cute.
I wouldn't mind rereading it next year around the autumn season again...
But it needs some good editing and more relatable dialogue and phasing, I think.
Thank you to NetGalley, Avon Books and author Emily Grimoire for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Small town girl Scarlett has avoided going back home to her family. When her sisters ask her to come back, she knows there must be trouble. Upon arrival she runs into her ex boyfriend and discoveries he’s her family’s handyman.
With the help of her family Scarlett must get to the bottom of whatever is messing with the magic in her hometown… while catching feelings for her ex.
This was a cute fall read, it gave me the same feelings of how cozy I feel when I watch the show Good Witch. If you enjoy that Hallmark show (and the movies that came before it) you’ll love this book!
Some things felt a tad over explained in the beginning but I eventually got over it. I would recommend this anyone looking for a fun relaxing read this fall.
This book did exactly what it promised. I would highly recommend this book to book clubs looking for an atmospheric fall read. I definitely felt the Gilmore Girls-meets-Halloweentown vibes and loved every second of it. Was the writing the most compelling? No. Was the story light, enjoyable, exciting, a little mysterious, and pumpkin-spiced? Absolutely yes.
What a great cosy witchy book! I really enjoyed this book and it’s perfect for the upcoming season! Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book.
Magicians versus witches as the oak grove is under seized and magic runs amok. Can the witches save the town? Will Spam take over the kitchen? And will the two of them ever get together? A fun ride to find out.
I was excited to read this book as I loved the title, cover and blurb. If you love stories about magic this is the book for you,
Scarlett returns home to Oak Haven after 10 years away. She fled to San Francisco after the death of her Father for which Scarlett blamed herself.
Oak Haven is no ordinary place. It’s a magical town that’s not on any maps and anyone who finds it forgets their visit the moment they leave, Scarlett returns home to find magic in trouble and she needs to work with her sisters and Mother to fix it before the magicians take over.
I had a fun time reading this. It is very halmark and sometimes that is what you need! I had a great time. The writing style is alittle hard for me to get thought and feels very forced at times but i can look past it for a fun read.
thank you netgalley and publisher for a copy!
This was the perfect read for the start of fall! I loved all the small town Gilmore Girls vibes and am always a fan of a character having to return to a home that they were trying to get away from! The plot was amazing, I was gripped from the start! As for the romance, I LOVE a good second chance and this one did not disappoint! I cannot wait to see what's next for Emily Grimoire!
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon for providing an advance ready copy in exchange for my honest review.
Let me start by saying that this book was cute and I enjoyed it. If you’re looking for something lighthearted and cozy, Impractical Magic is a great choice - the imagery used to describe the town and its magic, especially during autumn, is perfect. And so many of the town’s characters are lovely.
That said, the main character is extremely unlikeable, as is her family for the most part. Scarlett’s self-blaming and guilt is too much of a focus and really doesn’t allow her character to develop beyond that. I can’t remember any other descriptors of her, other than this constant self hatred. With that, the family’s resentment toward her is also a bit extreme. These negative feelings seemed out of place in a book where the scenery was so lighthearted and cozy.
This book is also a bit long, in my opinion, and it started very slow. I wanted more details about the history of the struggles with magic, the main conflict and plot line, the magicians, etc. The book really picked up toward the halfway point, but then it felt rushed when things started to get interesting. I found myself thinking that there was a lot of detail in areas that weren’t moving the story along, but when I wanted details about the magicians and the trees, they weren’t there.
Last thing I’ll say is that there were some cringey parts that felt a bit like the author was trying to prove relevance or knowledge of current trends, in a “how do you do fellow kids?” kind of way. Some of the pop culture references just felt really out of place to me.
All in all, I really did enjoy this as a light fall read and I would recommend it to friends, with the caveat that the atmosphere and peripheral characters are what make the story.
A fantastic book about a young witch that returns home to find the magic in her quaint little town all screwed up. Scarlett must find herself and realize she is the answer to fixing the magic.
This book is a quaint little read and is full of witches and a little bit of romance. I'm ready for the movie or tv show.
I definitely recommend this book.
This is such a cute read and just in time for fall! Scarlett's sisters summon her back to her hometown to help figure out what has gone wrong with the magic around town. Scarlett dreads going home, but knows she has to help. She runs into an old flame and has to navigate avoiding Nate while trying to help her family and the town. This is a cute, fluffy fall read. Loved it!
Thank you to Avon BooksUK for the ARC on NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
Scarlet Melrose is called back to her hometown Oakhaven by her sisters as something is wrong with the magic in their hometown. What follows is a really fun and cute Halloween/Fall read.
I enjoyed this novel, for fans fiction with Halloween, Witch or fall vibes
Scarlett Melrose is a witch, one that ran away from her hometown and her entire family 10 years ago, she hasn’t been back, until now. After a phone call from her sister basically summoning her back to her hometown to help with the current crisis, of magic going wrong. Scarlett wants to get it over with and slink back to her life. It isn’t helped at all by her could have been something, maybe, one day, old flame she almost had with Nate, who’s aged magnificently in the 10 years since she left. Things go from bad to worse after her fix goes horribly wrong. So can Scarlet actually help solve the problem with magic?
I will admit I loved this book, it was fun, it was a great story with magical mayhem and all those great small town vibes. I loved that the town was a giant secret and had the forgetting spell. The magic system was great, well explained throughout the book and fairly simple to follow.
I will say my favourite bit of the book was the characters, they are fab and actually I think I enjoyed them all even the one I got bad vibes from. My favourites were obviously Scarlet and Nate but I also loved Zanir and Aphra just as much.
The storytelling was great, It is well paced with good dialogue scenes mixed in. I did guess where the books was going and I had my suspicions on some characters, which all played out as expected, but I didn’t go into this wanting to be surprised about the storylines direction. It was a joy to read and in the beginning I really enjoyed the cute nods to other magical books / systems from other fictional works. Such as the title. However these little nods quite quickly turned into something that felt a bit more forced and in one instance there was a whole chapter dedicated to a single quote from Gilmore Girls, I totally get that it was a big inspiration for the book and it’s setting and contents, However I feel this chapter was very much played upon to meet that reference rather than being a very important piece of the puzzle. Another instance saw a very intentional addition to the end couple chapters where another reference is placed. This also felt like it was mentioned to meet a quote rather than nicely rounding the story being told out. So I have docked my rating down to four stars as this book could have been epic without the forced references. While we are on the subject, I have my suspicions that Emily Grimoire is possibly a pen name, although I could be totally wrong, the opening page of the book is her life story and it has a very, striking resemblance to that of a rather famous character from a TV show called Emily.
With all that being said, this book is a wonderful autumn/ Halloween read and its release will be perfectly timed for October 1st. I highly recommend for any romance readers who love a small town vibe and witchy characters. It was very good and a great, easy read to enjoy.
Thanks NetGalley and Avon Books for the ARC of this book.
This is a super cute romantasy with a few romcom and finding your way home vibes. The writing was really nice and I appreciated the authors storytelling style. The characters were well rounded for the most part. The reason this is a 4 star read for me is there were just so many unresolved threads at the end of the story for something not billed as first book in a series. I was left with so many ‘but what about’ thoughts at the end I was sure there would at least be an epilogue but no the book was just done. It doesn’t distract from the story, and if you aren’t the type to care that every little thing is wrapped up you probably won’t even notice.
This book features Scarlett and her family; her coming home and finding herself (and obviously saving the town). Her struggles to fit in and forgive herself featured prominently and was presented in a relatable way. The love interest started off feeling a little one dimensional but as the story progressed his own story was fleshed out and I grew to really love him.
This was a super cute read and overall I recommend.
𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ★ ★ ★ ★
𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗔𝗧𝗘: October 01, 2024
𝗔𝗥𝗖 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪:
Do you love a cozy read you can devour while sipping on a hot pumpkin spice or hot cocoa 👀…this book is for you. I absolutely love this time of the year when spooky season books start coming out and when I saw Impractical Magic I jumped so fast at the opportunity to read it. This book was so fun and so very cute! I truly love the writing style of our author and this was my first book by them. The backdrop for this couldn’t be better and I loved watching our characters grow and develop throughout the book. I will continue to read more to come out by Emily Grimoire. Definitely a book I’ll be recommending and needs to be on your TBR.
𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗣𝗘𝗦: Cozy, Small Town, Second Chance, Witches, Grumpy Meets Sunshine, Gilmore Girl Vibes
Thank you Netgalley and Avon Books UK for my ARC copy.
I loved this book I think it's the perfect Autumn read. I really enjoyed watching the relationships grow throughout the book and loved all the witchy vibes. This will 100% be added to the Fall Reads I recommend to people.
If I could picture the perfect Fall, cozy read to snuggle up with it would be this book. I loved the chaos and the magic and loved following the town in their attempts at fixing the trouble. Maximillian’s character was so clever and had me giggling every time he changed his accent.
Watching Scarlett and Nate figure out their relationship was so enjoyable. You can’t help but fall in love with Nate’s patience while he waits for Scarlett to figure out where ‘home’ was.
I LOVED the ending! It had me frantically turning the pages, and if you read it you will know why! A whole YEAR???!! Sheesh!
I recommend this book absolutely 100% go get it. And then snuggle up next to a fire and enjoy the calamity that lies within these pages!
Thank you NetGalley and Emily Grimoire! I am happy to leave this review that is solely my opinion. <3
Honestly everything I am wanting in my fall book reading season! The witches, the fall town, the amazing character development. I really felt like as the book went on I connected more and more with the family, and even just the people in the town. I did want to include a couple quotes here that I highlighted while reading that just really made this a five star read just based on the writing:
-"behind a veil of autumn leaves, which made a patchwork quilt of crimson, amber, and evergreen" - I just thought this was the most beautiful way to describe foliage.
-"she suddenly realized that there were no bad feelings here, just complicated ones, and she didn't want the moment to ever end" - BEAUTIFUL
-"This wasn't the overwhelming loss of control, -- this was serene, unafraid - like something that was meant to be. As if every unspoken longing, every stolen glance, every missed opportunity had culminated in this single, perfect moment. As if a missing part of herself had finally clicked into place."
Just the perfect fall read in my opinion. ADD THIS TO YOUR FALL TBR! Thank you to NetGalley & Avon Books for the opportunity to read this book.
Such a cute, comfy book. Read in one sitting! Love the cozy magical town vibes alongside facing your fears. Perfect book for the fall season.
"Impractical Magic" is a charming cosy autumnal read. Set in the matrilineal magical small town of Oak Haven, New England, the story follows Scarlett Melrose, the screw-up middle child who returns home after a decade to confront her past mistakes and resolve a magical crisis.
Grimoire's enjoyable prose brings the cosy setting to life, The fluffy novel blends family drama, second-chance romance, and a hint of magical mystery, creating an engaging narrative that explores themes of self-discovery, reconciliation, and standing up for yourself. The book almost reminds me of My Big Fat Greek Wedding in the best way.
The book's strengths include its quirky characters, atmospheric writing, and quick world-building. One nitpick: the use of "muggle" for non-magic users feels slightly unoriginal, and could invoke negative feelings for some readers. It's a minor flaw in an otherwise enjoyable read.
Perfect for fans of Gilmore Girls and Practical Magic, this cosy autumn tale offers an ideal blend of magic and small-town charm. It's best enjoyed on a crisp autumn day with a warm blanket and a pumpkin spice latte.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for allowing me to read an ARC of Impractical Magic by Emily Grimoire.
After 10 years, Scarlett returns to her hometown of Oak Haven, a truly magical, New England town whose idyllic setting is now under attack as magic begins to fail for reasons unknown. When this lands Scarlett back in the middle of her talented but complicated family, and Nate the boy she once thought was hers, Scarlett can no longer run away from the complications of her past.
The magical Stars Hollow comparisons are there for a reason! The small town New England, pumpkin spice, light a candle and curl up in a blanket in front of a fireplace with a cozy witchy book and a cat curled at your feet vibes are endless. When that is the easy and comfortable mood you are looking for, this book delivers. My biggest challenge with this book was the family, particularly the mother and older sister, I get that families are complicated and Scarlett made some mistakes as well but damn, it was plain and simple unhealthy, and I wish we had seen more of an acknowledgement and growth in that area.
Overall, this is a beautiful story about family, love and friendship and I really did enjoy it. I think it's absolutely perfect for this time of. year. If you are a fan of the Gilmore Girls or Charmed, this one is definitely for you as well. The characters were loveable and were built on as the story went on. It was overall quite fast paced including a slow burn romance - such a cute and cosy read.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I found this book fun and enjoyable. The plot kept me guessing and the romantic tension was just enough. I did not care for the cruel attitude of both the older sister and the mother for most of the book. I found it depressing and distracting from the overall magic of this story.
This was a really cute book. It's part romance, part cozy mystery. Portal magic, magic gone crazy, small-town fantasy, family drama. There's so much in here and it's just fun. There's a little tension, but not a lot. Perfect for a cozy. On top of that, it gives you all the fall vibes you can want. And it gives you the character growth you're looking for, the healing, and the promise for more. Much enjoyed!
Oh, I just adored "Impractical Magic"! It’s one of those stories that feels like a warm hug—perfect for curling up with tea by the fireplace.. The leading lady returns to her small hometown, convinced her past defines her after 10 LONG years. But as any mother would tell you, the past is just a chapter, not the whole story!
You can see the happy ending coming a mile away (and isn’t that comforting?), with a slow-burn romance that feels as cozy as fresh-baked scones. The foreshadowing? Clear as day—but sometimes, knowing it’ll all work out is exactly what we need.
If you love tales where characters discover their worth, and happy endings feel like a warm bed waiting, this book is a must-read. Trust me, darling—this one’s all heart!
An entertaining fantasy book centering on witchcraft to keep a town safe from the outside influences of the modern world. Set In New England there's plenty of eccentric and quirky things going on which made me smile. Somewhat different to books I normally read, refreshingly so. I did get rather annoyed and frustrated with the main female character, Scarlett who seemed unable to listen to others whilst keeping an enormous chip on her shoulder. Some romance but totally bonkers most of the time time. Light, non serious read to escape with.
This was a great cozy fall read. It gave me all of the Halloweentown vibes. This book follows a secret town that you can visit, but you won’t remember that you visited it or be able to find it on a map. In this town, the witches are the only ones with magic. If the men leave the town they have a short amount of time before they, themselves forget about the town. There’s a whole magic versus magicians storyline. The town’s magic source is in jeopardy and the town’s oldest magical family has to race to save it. There was a point towards the end that seemed a little silly, but it’s just a small portion. Overall, this was a cute fall vibes read. Check this one out when it comes out!
A witchy paranormal romance with great characters. It kept me hooked from start to finish. A great book to read around Halloween time.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review.
With time slipping away, Scarlett must learn that sometimes the greatest spells really do come with the greatest responsibility – especially when love is involved…
Impractical Magic by Emily Grimoire is a captivating paranormal romance that I devoured in just one day! Who wouldn't want to escape to a magical village of Oak Haven where secrets lurk beneath the surface? This enchanting tale has earned the author a spot on my list of favorite paranormal romance writers.
It is a must-add for fans of romance with a magical twist. The characters are expertly crafted, with Scarlet and Nate’s chemistry being particularly compelling. While the romance is steamy, I appreciated that it didn't overshadow the plot. I'm hoping for a follow-up book to revisit these characters and continue their story.
If you're drawn to paranormal romance with a hint of mystery, add “Impractical Magic” to your reading list – you won't be disappointed!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Avon Books UK, and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Scarlett returns to her home after 10 years, when there is a threat haunting her village and she must help. This was an adventure, there were twists and turns. The story was mainly action, I came in with the wrong expectation, anticipating mostly romance. It’s definitely lighter on the romance so if you don’t want a full love story, this is definitely your thing. Her and Nate were adorable, and with the scenes they did have together it was obvious they’re meant for each other.
Oak Haven is a cozy, seasonal, witchy village that makes you feel like home. The setting of this one is perfect and you felt as if you belong. Everyone is friendly and has a role in the town. It suits the story.
The plot was interesting and I definitely found myself wanting to figure out what happens. The mystery reveals itself in such a shocking way. It was seasonal, warming and always such a fun read
Thank you Netgalley, Avon Books UK, and Emily Grimoire for gifting me with a digital copy of Impractical Magic
I loved the general idea behind this book. Not only am I a fan of Gilmore girls and charmed but honestly it reminded me a little of Halloweentown! What a perfect cozy fall mix! Also, being from New England, I can imagine the perfection of each season being perfectly decorated, since the town is run by magic. Only the females have magic (go us). People leave the town, and if the men leave for too long they forget. Scarlett was away for along time and beckoned back by her sister since something in the town is wrong, the magic is off.
This has family, magic, community and mystery. It was a wonderful read!
I want to start this review by thanking Netgalley, Avon Books UK, and Emily Grimoire for gifting me with a digital copy of Impractical Magic in return for an honest review. I am so happy to say that I loved this book and had a hard time putting it down. Honestly, I did not want it to end. The cover is what drew me to the book in the first place because it is so cozy, autumnal, and witchy looking. Really, what isn’t to love? Then I noticed in the corner that it said perfect for fans of Gilmore Girls and Charmed, which had me asking right away for the ARC. I am so glad that I have had the chance to read this one before it hits shelves. Emily Grimoire really delivered on the cozy fall vibes.
This story takes place in New England in a small town known as Oak Haven. This town is like no other town simply because it is run by magic. Seriously, there is actual magic in the air in Oak Haven. The town is always perfectly maintained and decorated for each season, and the smell of the town is the coziest of smells. Oak Haven is run by witches. The town is full of them, and only females are able to do magic. The men of the town hold no magic, but that does not seem to upset them because they all appear content with their lives. Anyone who enters this town once they leave it will not be able to remember a thing about it, no matter how much they loved their stay. The town is kept safe because of a forgetting magic that was placed upon it years before, and this spell is in every part of the town, right down to the crosswalks. When the men of the town leave it for more than three days, they will simply forget it along with everyone they know, whether friends or family; their memories will be gone.
Scarlett Melrose (one of the main characters) has been away from this little autumnal paradise for ten years, and she has no intention of returning anytime soon. It isn’t until her oldest sister reaches out and tells her that something is wrong and she needs to get home now. It is not long before Scarlett leaves California and heads back to New England, where she notices that something is definitely off the second she hits the town. The off feeling she has only gets worse when she walks into her family’s Inn. The signature smell is off, just as it was in town. Not to mention that she has been warned not to use her magic because the magic has been unpredictable. Granted, she hasn’t used it in the ten years she was gone, but it can’t be that bad, right? Scarlett soon discovers just how unpredictable the magic is when she tries to move a piano with it. It is up to the Melrose family to figure out what is happening with the magic. It is clear that if it isn’t fixed soon, the whole town will be struggling. Since the Melrose women come from a long-standing line of witches in the town’s history, it is up to them to figure out what is going on with the magic. The responsibility rests upon their shoulders.
This story is not only full of magic and coziness, but it is also full of second chances, discovery, spells gone wrong, and finding your place in the world. I loved the complicated relationship that Scarlett has with her quirky family and the realizations that she came to toward the end of the book. I thought the author did a great job with the descriptions of the town, and it really made me want to live there. I think that the way the author handled the magic was great. I also enjoyed learning about the different witches that reside in the town, along with the sense of community and belonging. The mystery of what was happening with the magic in the town and the steps taken by the community to try and solve the problem kept me interested. The slow-burn second chance romance I found to be sweet (I mean, he waited forever for her) and meeting all the endless Earls made me smile. Once you read the story, you will understand what I mean about the Earls. If you are looking for a story to get you into the autumnal vibes, then please give this book a go because I do not think you will be disappointed. I know I wasn’t, and I may have suffered a bit of a book hangover after I finished it. The story was just so darn good.
Trigger Warnings:
Talk of Parental Death
Missing Person
Extreme Guilt
⭐⭐⭐½
Thank you to NetGalley for the advance copy of Emily Grimoire's "Impractical Magic." This charming novel is an absolute delight and perfect for fans of shows like Gilmore Girls and Charmed.
The book exudes an adorable, cozy vibe that’s incredibly comforting. Grimoire’s writing creates a warm, inviting atmosphere, full of whimsical magic and endearing characters. The small-town setting and close-knit community feel like a hug in literary form, making it an ideal read for those who love a touch of enchantment mixed with heartfelt connections.
While the overall experience is delightful, there are moments when the plot feels a bit predictable, and some storylines could have been developed further. Nonetheless, the charm of the characters and the enchanting world they inhabit more than make up for these minor issues.
In summary, "Impractical Magic" is a lovely, feel-good read that combines cozy magic with endearing character dynamics. It’s a perfect choice for anyone looking to escape into a heartwarming, magical world, and I’m excited to see what Grimoire has in store next.
The fall spooky vibes of this book are so perfect! And a while a second chance romance isn’t always my favorite, this was a very sweet story about coming home too.
This was such a cute read, it really did give pumpkin spice cafe vibes and in LIVING for it!
A super cute and great book to kick of the spooky season
/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Impractical Magic
Author: Emily Grimoire
The spooky season reads continue! Thank you so much Netgalley and Avon for this ARC! This was a super cute, and cozy romance read. Scarlett had been summoned by her sisters to help her mother’s cursed inn. As soon as she walks in to her old home, she runs into her ex boyfriend Nate who is now the family’s handy man. You need to go in to this book expecting what it is.. fluffy and cute witchy romance read. I thought the second chance / childhood friends to lovers romance was super cute. The spells and curses was perfect to get me in the mood for spooky season. No word on this being a series yet but I think it would be a great one. 🧙. This book will release on 10/1!
I really enjoyed this book. It has a very fall cozy vibe to it and was the perfect read for September.
Scarlett has been gone for 10 years when she is asked to return to help figure out why magic has gone awry in their small town. I enjoyed the relationship between the sisters, although I believe a little too much emphasis was put on the fact that Scarlett had been gone for ten years, I also enjoyed the explanations of the different types of
magic.
With a little bit of romance and mystery this book is a feel good, easy read. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC of this book.
not for me unfortunately! i felt the story lacked depth and heart. characters need to be fleshed out more and given more plot
Impractical Magic is a fun, fall read with a witchy twist. This was such a quick read, I couldn't put it down once I started, they story just flowed so well. This returning home story makes for a cozy autumn read.
Scarlet's conversation with the Uber driver first thing pulled me into this book. I loved how throughout the book they would make little jokes about how no one would remember being there.
Although the main plot was serious the author did an amazing job of making the story and the characters so much fun. I enjoyed that the romance element was mostly a sub plot and didn't feel forced on you.
This is one of my new top favorite fall books and I will eagerly be waiting to see what comes next from Emily Grimoire.
My only con with this book is that the ending felt rushed, the story was built up so beautifully just to end the story with flashes of scenes.
Book Review: Impractical Magic by Emily Grimoire
Impractical Magic is a delightful blend of whimsy, romance, and mystery, with just the right dash of magical charm. From the moment I started reading, I was drawn into the quirky, magical world that Emily Grimoire has crafted. The characters are vibrant and full of personality, and I especially loved the unique magical elements sprinkled throughout the story.
The plot moves at a good pace, with enough twists to keep things interesting without feeling rushed. The magical components felt well-integrated into the world, adding a sense of enchantment without overpowering the character development and relationships. The romance was sweet and playful, balancing out the mystery and adventure in the plot.
If you enjoy lighthearted, magical reads with a mix of romance and mystery, Impractical Magic will be right up your alley. Emily Grimoire has created an enchanting tale that leaves you wanting more, and I’m definitely looking forward to her future works!
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the ARC! and Emily!
I actually really enjoyed this! It was a cute cozy tiny bit spicy fall read. The self deprecating and the family drama got a bit annoying but overall this was a cute story. The final conflict was odd and I feel like the timeline could’ve been shorter but overall I liked this. Pick this up for a fun easy read this spooky season!
This book felt like a warm hug! When they said if you like Gilmore girls you will like this book… they were not kidding! I love that this book got me in the fall spirit even though it’s 99 degrees outside.
A big thank you to Avon books for this review copy!!!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it was everything that I wished ‘The Pumpkin Spice Cafe’ had been last year for me…a whimsical, slightly cliche, small town, autumnal romance but this time with witches and magic!!!
I instantly fell in love with the small town setting and the little references to Gilmore Girls that were sprinkled in; He runs a hardware store with a little nod to how he makes great coffee and should sell that too…and has a sign behind the counter ‘featuring a magic wand in a red circle with a slash, and the words "NO SPELLS."’ sound familiar?
My one negative was that I thought that the pace picked up towards the end a bit too much compared to the start and we jumped over some things quite quickly to get to the end. I would have happily read more pages to have fleshed out these things a little more but that being said, this was definitely an enjoyable and cozy read, perfect for the upcoming autumnal season!!!
Gilmore girls meets practical magic! An absolute must read this fall season! I loved every character and the charming townsfolk. Such a fun and cozy read that should be on every fall lovers to read list!
A fun cosy small town romance read that is perfect for Autumn. I loved it. The chemistry between Scarlett and Nate was fantastic.
Thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for the eARC.
If you’re a big fan of fall or seasonal romance, you’ll like this one! It has alllll the Gilmore girl, autumn cozy vibes. I think witchy, magical novels are hard to do. But this wasn’t a bad one!
Ok so I really enjoyed this book. It was fun and lighthearted and a perfect cosy autumnal read.
Scarlett has come back to her home town after a self imposed exile for 10 years, when she is requested back by her sisters to help save the town after all the magic has turned into chaos. Scarlett plans to leave as soon as this mess is cleaned up, but in the process she has to face things from her past which have stopped her from returning for all this time.
This book includes a slow burn, second-chance romance that kinda felt like a side story to the main plot. I would have liked more of this romance story line as I was left wanting extra detail about this, especially their relationship before Scarlett left as it’s mentioned a lot but not delved into. Nate makes for a super interesting character and the storyline between them flowed really nicely, I just wanted to read more of it and to really explore their connection and what keeps drawing these two together, time after time.
Also, the town of Oak Haven was perfectly cosy and enchanting, I wished to be there along with the characters. The description and world building was something I really enjoyed about this book!! It’s just a lovely witchy super enjoyable read that I devoured super quickly!
This really is for fans of Gilmore Girls and Charmed and I couldn't put it down. It's the person returning-home cosy, witchy book for autumn and is a lot of fun.
I really enjoyed the explanations of different types of magic, as well as the family dynamics. The romance angle was a bit predictable and I think it could have had more fire to it but it was cute - any guy who waits 10 years for someone deserves a happy ending.
The magician aspect was interesting too and I hope that it's going to be looked into more in a sequel. I'd love a book for each of the sisters as they're all such strong but different characters.
If you enjoyed The Witches of Thistle Grove series, Hex Appeal and The Ex Hex, this should be your next read.
This was a fun fall read. The setting is great, Oak Haven really came to life and the autumn aesthetic really came through. The mystery was light and fluffy, if quite predictable, but fun nonetheless. I disliked Scarlet for most of the book, she was very self pitying, and caused herself (and everyone else) a lot of easily avoided problems. I liked the romantic side plot, it was quite sweet but definitely isn't the main focus of the book. Overall this is a quick and enjoyable read for the autumn season.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this eArc in exchange for an honest review.
A cute fall read that had me laughing a lot. I enjoyed the snark, humor and some pop culture references. All in all it was a sweet story about coming home when you feel unwelcome and finding where your true home is. Family drama and romantic drama abounds. Will recommend for my fall book lovers. Thank you for the opportunity to read it!
*Received as a free ARC*
A very comfy cozy witchy book for fall! I enjoyed this a lot. Scarlett is very interesting and I think a lot of the characters malign her more than she deserves. I will say, as much as I enjoy Gilmore Girls, the small town aspects of this book would have been more interesting and realistic if they didn't feel copy pasted from the show. I already watched it, I don't need version 2.0 witches. But if that's what you're looking for, here you go!
Oak Haven is a town where magic is still present and is where Scarlett's sister and child hood crush reside. People who live here never leave, except Scarlett did just that after a horrific accident resulting in her father's death which she blamed on herself. After her sisters told her that she was urgently needed back home since magic was going haywire, she reluctantly returns. There she has to face her past trauma with her family as well as her childhood crush.
Crazy thing begin happening in Oak Haven like books attacking people in the book store, needles becoming polyamorous, flamingos in people's yards. It is up to Scarlett and her sisters to solve the problems and figure out who is behind releasing dragonflies that are throwing the balance of everything off. While I was suspicious of the culprit from the start, I really enjoyed reading about how it got to that point.
I enjoyed Scarlett reconnecting with her childhood crush Nate. I do think Scarlett was a bit too stubborn, but her reasons were justifiable. I like that they were able to move past the tension and all of the other problems that seemed to be preventing them from moving forward.
This was the perfect cozy read for the fall season. I enjoyed every bit of it and I liked that the chapters were short enough for me to sneak a chapter in here and there throughout the day. The characters were very well thought out and all stood out individually. Thank you Netgalley, Avon Books UK, and Emily Grimoire for an arc of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a an enjoyable read. It was definitely a cozy mystery that would be a good fall read. Scarlett was a good main character full of flaws. I enjoyed the chemistry between Scarlett and Nate and enjoyed seeing both of their character growths throughout the book. The setting was a cute charming magical town and the townspeople were all entertaining. It definitely would appeal to fans of Gilmore Girls. All in all a fun read.
I really enjoyed this book! Is it a work of literary fiction that will change your worldview?... Well, no. Is it a cozy fall read that will give you the feels?... Hell ya!
Scarlett - the middle child of three witchy sisters - is summoned back to her hometown of Oak Haven after ten years of living in San Francisco as a "muggle. Her hometown embodies all the elements of a female-witch-driven society, including pumpkin-spice everything, small-town vibes and a memory spell that makes visitors forget where they've been. But, things are going horribly wrong in this picturesque town as magic wreaks havoc on its citizens. They need Scarlet's help, but she harbours a secret guilt over the death of her non-magic dad ten years earlier when they last needed her help.
Honestly, this was a perfect book to read in the fall with its cooler days and darkening nights.
If you like the cozy-fall-witchy genre, you will enjoy this book. I was really worried about starting because I read reviews in which others found Scarlet to be whiny, but I didn't find that at all. She had reasons for her reluctance and lack of self-confidence. All things are addressed throughout the novel. I personally enjoyed watching her navigate her past and move into the future. Her family is made up of endearing but quirky personalities, and they are far from perfect, which I felt made the journey more relatable.
You will enjoy this book if:
🍁 You love seasonally-themed books
🏘️ Enjoy cozy, small-town stories
🎃 Think pumpkin spice should be around all year
❤️ Root for second-chance romances
I will most certainly be adding this to my Fall-Themed recommendation list!
Perfect book to kick off the September fall vibes! I enjoyed the story and am so excited and happy to have gotten the ARC! The witchy vibes and the fall aesthetic were fun to make the season feel more alive. I will say though, I did in some parts struggle to connect with Scarlett because I couldn't relate to them much but I still enjoyed the story nonetheless! I recommend if you're looking for a quick read to kickstart the Autumn vibes in your reading!
In this cozy small town witch mystery Scarlett must return home to save her home town and family from magic gone wrong. She ran away for a reason surrounding magic and has a difficult time trusting herself. However, she feels like the only one who can save the town and magic itself. With the help and support of her high school crush, she realizes she must believe in herself if she is able to save anyone.
All the cosy autumn feels…
Really liked this book - plenty of witchy action with great sisterly banter and a swoony love interest.
Inhaled it in a day so great easy read - perfect for fans of Gilmore Girls meets Sabrina the Teenage Witch! (If there was a series of her in her late 20s!)
This cozy witchy fall story is sooo cute! I had a good time reading it. I related heavily to Scarlett our main character. She comes back to town after 10 years away. We have our typical family traumas and dramas, second chance love story (although it was kind of secondary to the main story), and a lovely fall vibe. This book reminded me of the TV Series, 'The Good Witch'. Was it crazy complex GRRM levels of convoluted and spicy, NO (hence a lot of the lower reviews which aren't fair IMO). Was it fun and a quick read that had me giggling? YES. It was wholesome and I needed that right now as we head into fall. Give it a chance and go in with the mind that its simple, fun and still a good story!
Thank you, Net Galley, the author, and the publisher for this ARC read!
Twee, cuddly and cozy.
The description of "perfect for fans of Gilmore Girls" is apt. This wasn't a book for me and I've taken that into consideration.
This is a very well written, low spice and low drama book for people who enjoy that kind of story, this is a great book.
If you want a cozy fall vibe, this book will hit that mark for you. Scarlett is from a family of witches, but happily living alone and on her own away from her hometown. One day, she gets a call from her sisters about their mother's inn - a curse has been placed on it, and Scarlett needs to return home to lift the curse. Scarlett reluctantly returns home to her estranged family, where she also runs into her former friend and flame, Nate. The curse that Scarlett tries does not work, and while she wants to run away to the comfort of her new city and apartment, she knows she must stay and kick this curse - even if that means relying on those she left behind. This was a fun read for a decent storyline with good characters. The lore was interesting and I loved the magic and spells. This book also incorporated the fall vibe very well.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The perfect fall read! I immediately became obsessed with the characters and story line. Recommending this to all my friends for a fun fall read!
Thank you, NetGalley & Avon Books, for approving this ARC.
This is such a great autumnal cosy read, it's low stakes, closed door rom com set in a cosy magical small town.
Scarlet left her hometown 10 years ago after she blamed herself for her father's death following a spell that went wrong until she is asked to coke home by her sister with an emergency they need her help with.
Scarlet not only has to face her family and the guilt she feels but also her best friend Nate, who, prior to her leaving, were going to see if the friendship could become more.
If you liked the pumpkin spice cafe, freedom valley series & the Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic books you will really enjoy this book.
A perfect autumnal, magical read.
I felt so cosy reading this, I could really imagine the setting and the goings on, I liked the characters and so enjoyed it the lightness of the book.
Impractical Magic by Emily Grimoire was a delightful read. I really hope this becomes a series, maybe even a family saga! The banter between the sisters was fun, and there was a great spark between Scarlett and Nate. I loved how the book explores the town’s history and made me feel like I had walked through it many times. The story is open and inclusive, and while there aren’t many surprises since the plot is hinted at throughout, I found the ending very satisfying. It tied everything together beautifully and stirred up strong emotions while addressing even the smallest problems.
The main character does tend to worry a lot and often blames herself, but her thought process was clear. I didn’t care much for the mother character, as she seemed pretty unlikable. Overall, I give it 4.5 stars. I enjoyed the story a lot and will definitely read the next one if there is one, but it didn’t fully capture my heart.
an absolutely precious lil fall time read. i read this in like, one solid sitting and enjoyed it for what it was. while this was not the most life changing book ive ever read, it delivered on those cozy vibes i search for in a book and with a side of romance, i can’t complain!!
Brilliant witchy book, perfect for the vibe of spooky season. The second chance is so sweet, and I love Scarlett. Love her process to heal and confront her past and her relationships. Cosy vibes and pumpkin spice latte : check
Rating: 3.5⭐️
Spice: 🌶️/5
This book was really cute!! I enjoyed all the pop culture references; they were so fun! Scarlett was a great FMC and Nate was a perfect MMC. This was a cozy, Gilmore Girls style seasonal romance with a cute story. I was invested in the storyline and was excited to see where they ended up. However, the ending was a little strange for me! I don’t want to spoil here. Overall, would recommend as a cute cozy fall read. Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC prior to release!
his is the perfect fall escape!
When Scarlett gets a surprise call from her estranged sisters, she knows something’s up—and it’s not just their complicated family drama.
The magic at their mom’s inn has gone haywire, and Oak Haven, their quirky little hometown, is in serious trouble.
As if dealing with her sisters wasn’t enough, she bumps into Nate, her old flame who just so happens to be the inn’s handyman.
This book had the perfect fall vibes!
The family dynamics were super fun to watch, especially as they evolved throughout the story.
And the romance? Oh, I loved it! The slow burn between Scarlett and Nate was just the perfect amount!
If you’re in the mood for a cozy magical read that reminds you of the fall, you’ll definitely want to dive into this one!
Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books UK for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
I loved this sweet witchy romance that will make you yearn to visit a small town in New England in autumn. There’s plenty of family drama but you always feel the underlying love. I loved the wonderful, friends to more, slow burn romance. The ending felt like a fairy tale and left such a hopeful feeling for all. I read this on Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Magia ✔️
Segundas oportunidades ✔️
Maldiciones ✔️
Familia✔️
Scarlett es una bruja que abandonó que Oak Haven a causa de la muerte de su padre ya que ella se culpa de ello. Diez años después su hermana le llama diciendo que tiene que regresar y ayudar a su pueblo ya que alguien lanzó una maldición y toda la magia de Oak Haven es un desastre y necesita su poder para intentar revertir la maldición.
En su regreso tendrá que enfrentarse a sentimientos que tenía enterrados, como la culpa de lo que le pasó a su padre, un amor que nunca le dio la oportunidad de florecer y trabajar en su relación con sus hermanas y su mamá.
década después su hermana mayor le pide que regrese porque necesitan su ayuda. OH se está infectado por algo malo y la magia se está saliendo de control, como ella junto a sus hermanas, Luna y Delilah son descendientes directos de los fundadores tienen el deber de salvar a su pueblo.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.