Books & Bewitchment by Isla Jewell
Thank you to Isla Jewell, Del Rey, and NetGalley for providing this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own. Commissions may be earned on links in this article.
Book Recap: Rhea Wolfe lost her job, her sisters are in trouble, and her grandmother who she has never met just passed away. That grandmother left her a part of the Arcadia Falls downtown, a town she’s never visited and one she told her mother she would. However, when unlikely circumstances lead her to the small town, Rhea discovers a magical surprise that could make her dreams come true.
Top Tropes/Themes:
📖 Book about a Bookstore
🧙♀️ Magic & Witches
🫖 Cozy Small Town
Spice Rating: 🌶️ (a couple of closed door scenes)
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5 (4.5 stars)
Let’s Talk About It…
I loved this book, but I may be biased for two reasons:
The “books about books” trope is my favorite.
I have a parrot and the main character has a pet cockatoo.
Aside from these things, this book is a great read for anyone who likes witches, small towns, and the cozy comfort of a found family. Throughout the book we get to follow Rhea as she learns what she actually wants out of life and builds her dream life in Arcadia Falls. This is facilitated by an unlikely character that is the perfect person to help her navigate through this life transition.
One of my favorite parts of this book is the small town vibes. Isla Jewell captures the essence of small town life perfectly with a close knit community, their resistance to change, and a healthy skepticism of newcomers (that eventually leads to acceptance). Every member of the community had their role and played it well in the story.
When it comes to romance, I really enjoyed how Hunter approached a relationship with Rhea. While the barrier between them seemed like something that could have very easily been fixed before it started, that moment doesn’t last too long. The care between Rhea and Hunter was refreshing and the closed door take on romance is great for readers who prefer a non-spicy story.
I personally enjoyed this book enough to immediately recommend it to my best friend who also loves cozy reads. If you need a book that is light, funny, and filled with comforting romance, then pick up Books & Bewitchment to take a trip to Arcadia Falls.
