The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst

Genre: Fantasy, Romance | Publication Date: July 9, 2024 | Narrator: Caitlin Davies

☕ Quick Take:

The Spellshop is a cozy, low-stakes fantasy with delightful magical companions, charming town life, and a slow-burn romance that warms the heart.

📖 Synopsis:

Kiela has spent most of her life as a librarian in the Great Library of Alyssium, safe among her precious spellbooks and away from the pressures of social interaction. Accompanied by Caz, her sentient spider plant, she’s been content to live a quiet life. But when revolution brews and the library burns, Kiela escapes to the island of her childhood, clutching whatever magic she can salvage.

Hoping to lay low and survive, Kiela soon realizes that her old hometown is in disarray. Magic from the empire has been draining power from the island for years, and Kiela's work at the library is partly responsible. Determined to make things right, Kiela opens a spell shop—despite the risks. Sharing magic with the common folk is illegal, and the consequences are severe. But as she integrates with the quirky townspeople and grows closer to her handsome neighbor, Loren, Kiela starts to break down her own walls and create the life she’s always wanted.

💭 My Thoughts:

This book is the definition of cozy fantasy, and I found myself lost in its warm, cottagecore world. Kiela’s journey from seclusion to finding a place in her community was both heartwarming and relatable, especially for anyone who’s ever struggled with social anxiety. I loved watching her form connections, especially with her magical companion, Caz.

Caz, the sentient spider plant, deserves all the praise. His witty personality and unwavering loyalty made him such a fun character. Every scene he was in brought a smile to my face, and his dynamic with Kiela was just precious.

The world-building in The Spellshop is beautifully done, with magical creatures that feel whimsical and fresh. From centaurs to winged cats, the diversity of beings added so much charm to the story. The magic system was also intriguing, but I especially appreciated how it didn’t overshadow the more personal, quieter moments in the narrative.

In terms of the romance, Kiela and Loren's relationship was a slow-burn delight. Their interactions were so endearing, especially with Kiela's awkwardness and Loren's patience. It was the perfect complement to the cozy, low-stakes adventure unfolding around them.

I listened to the audiobook version, and Caitlin Davies’ narration truly brought this story to life. Her portrayal of Kiela’s quiet determination and Caz’s lively personality was spot-on, making this a fantastic audio experience.

🌟 Final Thoughts:

If you're looking for a gentle fantasy full of magic, charming characters, and a cozy atmosphere, The Spellshop is a must-read. It’s perfect for fans of low-stakes fantasy with a dash of romance and delightful magical creatures.