The Charmed Library by Jennifer Moorman

The Charmed LibraryThe Charmed Library by Jennifer Moorman

Tracy’s Rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Series: Standalone

Release Date: January 6, 2026

Stella Parker has not been lucky in love, after an especially painful breakup, she has been suffering in silence, sharing her deepest feelings in a journal. But today, Stella has decided enough is enough, she sneaks down to the furnace in the basement of the Blue Sky Valley Library and burns her journal. Never in a million years could she imagine what she had unleashed by that simple act, but Stella’s life is about to change forever.

Stella has always had a way with words but took the safe road in college and earned a master’s degree in accounting, then moved to Memphis to work at an accounting firm. But when her father passed away, she returned to Blue Sky Valley, NC and took a job at the library. She was content with her life, until the man she loved broke her heart. She burned her journal hoping to get a fresh start, and things do change, but not like she expected when she starts seeing more magical words than ever and even learns to call the words. But it isn’t until her boss and surrogate father, Artie suffers a heart attack that Stella really feels the magic of the library and learns secrets that will change everything she has ever known!

I loved the book; I was hooked from the start and held captivated to the very last word. Jennifer Moorman was a new to me author and I didn’t know what to expect, but this book exceeded any expectations I had. I loved the writing style, and the author was able to turn Stella into a very relatable character, clearly making readers feel the pain of losing mother as a young girl and her need to protect her heart ever since. She also wants to make everyone happy, even if doing so doesn’t make her happy. But I love that she finally took control of her own life and learned to say no. The story is full of emotion, found family, dear friends, magic, some drama, secrets, surprising revelations, a swoon worthy book boyfriend and an unexpected happy ending. I highly recommend this book – I read the print version and listened to the audiobook – if you can, I would suggest the audiobook – the narrator was amazing and gave life and personality to every character and read at a steady pace. I will definitely be checking out Ms. Moorman’s backlist and looking forward to future titles!

*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. *

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The Hidden City by Charles Finch

The Hidden City: A Charles Lenox Mystery, Book 15Barbara’s rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
Series: Charles Lenox #15
Publication Date: 11/4/25
Period: Victorian – 1879 London
Number of Pages: 304 (Audiobook 8 hrs 8 Mins)

Hidden City is an excellent addition to the Charles Lenox series. It delivers a solid mystery while exploring new tensions in the Lenox household surrounding the suffragette movement. Lady Jane, a staunch supporter of the cause, finds her views creating friction within aristocratic society — even among other women. I also found it compelling to see Lenox grappling with the realities of aging and realizing he’s not entirely prepared for it.

Still recovering from the near-fatal injury he suffered during his last case in America, Lenox receives a note from a retired retainer he’s very fond of. She believes something odd is happening in her rooms, possibly tied to a murder that occurred there years ago. Pushing past his malaise, Lenox begins to investigate and soon uncovers a far larger conspiracy than he imagined. With help from old allies who know London’s hidden corners, he follows the trail of clues to a surprising conclusion.

I listened to the audiobook edition, narrated by James Langton, whose smooth, mellow voice brings the characters vividly to life. His ability to transition effortlessly between characters and accents — from the aristocracy to the common man — enhances the listening experience. The pacing is just right, capturing Lenox’s introspection and melancholy as he faces his own aging.

While the mystery itself is somewhat subdued, the novel shines in its portrayal of change — both personal and societal. Lenox’s unwavering support of Lady Jane and his warm acceptance of his newfound niece show us the man he is becoming and hint at what lies ahead.

Each mystery in the series can be read as a standalone, but readers who start earlier will appreciate the deeper relationships and character arcs. Fans of the series will enjoy Hidden City for its thoughtful themes and emotional resonance, even if the mystery feels a touch lighter than usual.

Happy Reading!

I voluntarily read an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

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