Author: Tracy

Avid reader (and reviewer) of historical romance, historical mystery, fantasy, romantasy and paranormal mystery

Disenchanted by Lucy Jane Wood

On By TracyIn Contemporary, Paranormal / Fantasy, Part of a Series, Romantasy, Tracy's Reviews, Young AdultLeave a comment

Disenchanted (Rewitched, #3)Disenchanted by Lucy Jane Wood

Tracy’s Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Series: Rewitched #3

Release Date: September 8, 2026

Sage Hemlock is a reluctant (and grumpy) witch who avoids her magic because of past heartbreak and fear, choosing instead to focus on her work at the local museum, her studies, her library, and her cat. When she accidentally releases a curse, thinking that it was a spell to bind her powers, her town begins to transform with fairytale-like elements, such as a gingerbread cottage, beanstalk, a talking cat and even Prince Charming in the form of her best friend and co-worker Casmir.

Her siblings and Cas try to convince Sage to embrace the magic, but as the magic spreads through Port Sylvan, Sage must investigate the book, face the coven’s attention, and uncover the mystery behind the curse before the people she cares about are trapped by the storybook magic surrounding them. Sage will struggle to confront the powers she has avoided, connect the curse to the town’s magical history, and find a way to protect her community.

I thought this was warm, charming, cozy fantasy, with a wonderful fall and Halloween vibe. I especially enjoyed the fairy-tale magic, the small-town setting, and the way Sage’s personal growth stayed at the center of the story. The slow-burn connection between Sage and Casimir felt sweet and natural, but I think it could have moved a bit faster. Overall, the book’s mix of witches, family, whimsy, and emotional healing made it feel inviting from start to finish. This is the third book in the series, but each book is easily read as a standalone title and can be enjoyed in any order. For readers who enjoy cozy fantasy with magical chaos, grumpy/sunshine and an autumn feel, I would recommend this book.

*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. *

 

The Lost Perfumes of Paris by Christine Wells

On By TracyIn Historical Fiction, historical-romance, Standalone Title, Tracy's Reviews, Women's FictionLeave a comment

The Lost Perfumes of ParisThe Lost Perfumes of Paris by Christine Wells

Tracy’s Rating: 4 of 5 stars

Series: Standalone

Release Date: September 8, 2026

Élodie Limeaux is a determined and talented young perfumer striving to establish herself in her family’s fragrance business despite facing constant resistance from her father, Fabrice. Inspired by the legacy of her late mother, Aurore, a celebrated perfumer, Élodie gradually develops confidence in her abilities and learns to trust her own instincts. Marcelo Caspari begins as an assigned collaborator but proves to be a knowledgeable and passionate partner whose appreciation for perfume matches Élodie’s own. Their relationship develops alongside the story, while supporting characters, particularly Élodie’s father, create many of the challenges that drive her personal growth.

Set primarily in Paris and Grasse during the 1950s, the novel follows Élodie as she enters a prestigious competition to create a fragrance that captures the essence of Paris. Hoping to honor her mother’s legacy and secure a future for the family perfume house, she agrees to work with Marcelo under the sponsorship of the Caspari family. As they research perfume history, explore the city for inspiration, and develop their scent, Élodie must also contend with family conflicts, professional discrimination, corporate obstacles, and the secrets contained within her mother’s journals. The competition serves as the central storyline while the search for personal independence and professional recognition unfolds alongside it.

I found this to be an engaging and well written historical fiction novel that blends perfume artistry, romance, and women’s empowerment in a compelling way. The vivid descriptions of fragrances, fashion, and mid-century Paris created a rich atmosphere, while Élodie’s journey from self-doubt to self-assurance made her easy to root for. I especially enjoyed the partnership between Élodie and Marcelo, whose shared creativity added depth to both the romance and the story’s central challenge. Overall, this is a beautifully written novel that offers an interesting look into the perfume industry while delivering a heartfelt and satisfying character-driven 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. *