A review by natashaleighton_
The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst

funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.5

Merhorses, Unicorns and cloud bears oh my! A cosy and whimsical, slice of life fantasy that’s bursting with magic, lush island descriptions and a cast of heartfelt, magically diverse characters I couldn’t help but find endearing. 

If you love cottagecore narratives then you’re almost certain to enjoy Sarah Beth Durst’s newest fantasy standalone. Which follows a Librarian and her sentient spider plant assistant, who after fleeing the danger of a revolution, decide to set up a Jam and (secret) magical remedy shop on the island of her birth. 

I adored every second of this! The warm fuzzy, feel good vibes were fabulously strong, and the low stakes action made this such an easy to digest read. Firstly I just have to say, I absolutely adored Caz, the worrisome but protective (sentient) Spider Plant. His bond with Kiela was soo sweet and I enjoyed seeing him learn to thrive in such a vastly different environment to the one he’s become accustomed too (having only ever lived inside a library.) 

Meep, the newly sentient, non-binary Cactus that Caz befriends was such a fun, endearingly energetic character as well, their dynamics with Caz was soo reminiscent of Baby Groot and Rocket Raccoon (from Guardians of The Galaxy) that I found myself eager to see what escapades they’d find themselves in next. 

But, it was Kiela, our introverted librarian and protagonist that really stole the show for me. Her reclusive tendencies and preference for books over people was so relatable, and exploring her emotional development which sees her slowly grow in confidence and learn to open up to the caring, found family-esque community around her (and her cinnamon roll, merhorse herding love interest, Larran) had me feeling like a proud parent. 

Kindness (something our own world sometimes feels like it need more of) is at the forefront of this heartfelt escapist fantasy, with themes of friendship and finding a place to belong taking centre stage. However, we do briefly touch upon deeper issues like magical resource hoarding by the elite (and their gatekeeping of knowledge) which I found surprisingly relevant to our own world’s issues. 

The clever methods in which Kiela, Caz and the inhabitants of Caltrey manage to thwart the unjust system were delightfully entertaining and definitely made certain the cosy, lighthearted tone lasted until the very last page. 

Overall, this was a cosy, feel good read that fans of Legends & Lattes or Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea don’t want to miss. But beware, you’re gonna crave tons of jam and baked goods —so do make sure to stock up beforehand. 

Also, thank you to Olivia and Book Break UK for the incredible proof. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings