Books & Bewitchment by Isla Jewell

Tracy’s Rating: 2.5 of 5 stars

Series: Standalone

Release Date: February 3, 2026

Rhea Wolfe’s life takes an unexpected turn after she inherits a real estate trust from her distant grandmother. Faced with the choice of maintaining her ordinary routine or seizing the opportunity to pursue her dreams, Rhea is drawn into a world filled with romance, camaraderie, and a touch of enchantment. The town itself evokes a warm, nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of beloved small-town settings, and introduces a charming cast of characters—including a quirky cockatoo companion and a handyman love interest—who add layers of humor and heart to the story.

Despite its cozy premise and appealing magical elements, the book struggles with pacing and character development. Rhea’s personal growth feels stagnant, and the romance lacks depth and was plagued by repetitive misunderstandings and overly idealized character traits. The dialogue can come across as forced or awkward, detracting from the authenticity of the relationships. Secondary characters, particularly Rhea’s family and her grandmother, are sometimes written in a way that makes them difficult to connect with, and the magical aspects of the plot are not explored as fully as one might hope from a fantasy romance. Overall, this book offers a lighthearted escape perfect for readers seeking gentle, comforting stories with familiar tropes and cozy settings. While the first-person narrative is entertaining enough and features moments of genuine warmth and humor, it ultimately fell short for me. Those who enjoy small-town romances with whimsical touches may find it a pleasant read, but for me it was not what I was hoping for.

*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher/author. All opinions in this review are my own. *