“The books had to be protected, first and foremost. She had to prioritise what was most important, after all. And it would be nice if no one noticed that she’d kind of, sort of, stolen them.”

I loved this book. I loved its coziness, it’s kind characters and all the warm vibes: it felt like a hug!

After escaping the flames of their beloved Great Library with the few book they could manage to save, librarian Kiela and assistant Caz, run from the dangerous city being overtaken by the rebellion to the - hopefully - secure island of Caltrey, where Kiela is originally from. Hiding the books is top priority - after all, one could see it in the wrong light and think they stole all hose magical tomes and spellbooks, which is very illegal! - and trying to blend in is imperative. There, she sets up a jam shop that sells jam and… spells! Wait, not spells, remedies! Unofficial authorised spells are also illegal - she opens up a secret spellshop, hoping to be able to help the island and its people.

I loved the small town vibes, where everyone knows everyone, where people have each other back, where there is kindness around every corner. Kiela is a little bit awkward but she’s quite sweet, caring and very funny. Larran - the noisy handsome neighbour - is extremely kind and good and I LOVE GOOD GUYS! Caz, the sentient spider plant is possibly my favourite character, he is very funny and has no filter! We have a lot of different characters from all ages and they’re all just lovely - except Fenerer!

I felt that this book was all about finding your place in the world and a place to call home. It’s about helping others and share the knowledge that can indeed help others. It’s about putting your doubts on the side and be courageous to open your heart to other people.

There is a little bit of a small town romance, he falls first and loads of magic and books! This was such a cosy lovely fantasy and definitely perfect if you also loved/enjoyed Emily Wilde or A Far Wilder Magic!