The Hocus Pocus Handbook by Ann Aguirre

Tracy’s Rating: 3 of 5 stars

Series: Standalone

Release Date: September 1, 2026

Thea Winter is a human changeling who was stolen from the mortal world at birth raised in the fae wildlands, shaped by both mortal origins and a lifetime among magical beings. She is independent, impulsive, and has a strong desire to protect the wild fae, which often places her at odds with the Winter Court. After Thea is forced into a political marriage meant to serve the interests of the Winter Court, only for the intended spouse and the Summer delegation to disappear. She is sent into the wilderness with Kerboros, the Winter Court’s hunter, to locate the missing party and avoid punishment from those in power.

Kerboros is Thea’s opposite, he thrives on restraint, duty, and is driven by the consequences of his family’s failed rebellion. Together, they fit a grumpy-and-sunshine dynamic, with Thea bringing warmth and chaos while Kerboros carries trauma, loyalty, and hidden vulnerability. Their journey moves through fae politics, magical dangers, folklore-inspired settings, and encounters with other creatures, while also building the foundation for a forbidden romance complicated by obligation, court expectations, and Thea’s unresolved marriage.

This was a cozy fantasy romance with an imaginative fae world, a clear magical atmosphere, and a central pairing that had the right ingredients for an appealing opposites-attract story. I appreciated the folklore elements and the way the book tried to balance whimsy with darker court politics, but the romance did not fully work for me. While there were charming pieces throughout, I wanted more depth from the romantic progression and a stronger connection to the characters that the first-person narrative failed to give me. So, while it wasn’t a hit for me, I am sure there are readers who would enjoy this story.

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