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A review by thatgirlcrystal
This Spells Love by Kate Robb
funny
lighthearted
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Practical Magic meets Sliding Doors.
Magical realism in romance can be hard to write effectively sometimes, especially when the "magical" twist is a well-worn trope like getting a glimpse at the path not taken. Done badly, it comes across either simplistic or overly complicated; the characters either unbelievably oblivious or too genre-savvy. "This Spells Love" by Kate Robb handles this balance excellently and builds an inviting world that I loved immersing myself in.
Robb's characters come across fully formed from the moment you're introduced to them, each with their own clear voice, traits, flaws, and endearing quirks. Gemma catches on to what's going on at the exact right moment -- far enough in to notice the differences, but believably credulous of what's happening. Gemma's dilemma feels real, acute, and genuinely emotional. I wanted to spend so much more time in this world and with these characters -- the highest compliment I can give to a book.
"This Spells Love" is definitely on my top 10 list for the year and Kate Robb has entered my list of authors I'll keep and eye on and immediately add to my TBR in the future.
(This review was of a pre-release ARC thanks to NetGalley)
Magical realism in romance can be hard to write effectively sometimes, especially when the "magical" twist is a well-worn trope like getting a glimpse at the path not taken. Done badly, it comes across either simplistic or overly complicated; the characters either unbelievably oblivious or too genre-savvy. "This Spells Love" by Kate Robb handles this balance excellently and builds an inviting world that I loved immersing myself in.
Robb's characters come across fully formed from the moment you're introduced to them, each with their own clear voice, traits, flaws, and endearing quirks. Gemma catches on to what's going on at the exact right moment -- far enough in to notice the differences, but believably credulous of what's happening. Gemma's dilemma feels real, acute, and genuinely emotional. I wanted to spend so much more time in this world and with these characters -- the highest compliment I can give to a book.
"This Spells Love" is definitely on my top 10 list for the year and Kate Robb has entered my list of authors I'll keep and eye on and immediately add to my TBR in the future.
(This review was of a pre-release ARC thanks to NetGalley)