Kirkus Reviews QR Code
BACK IN A SPELL by Lana Harper

BACK IN A SPELL

From the Witches of Thistle Grove series, volume 3

by Lana Harper

Pub Date: Jan. 3rd, 2023
ISBN: 978-0-593-33610-6
Publisher: Berkley

Reeling from heartbreak, a witch finds new love with someone entirely unexpected and has to decide who she truly wants to be.

Nineve “Nina” Blackmoore steps into the spotlight in the third installment of the Witches of Thistle Grove series. Dumped by her fiancee, Nina feels unmoored, and the winter season is adding to the blues. She is convinced by her best friend to go on a low-stakes date to get back into the groove, and bar owner Morty Gutierrez, pansexual like Nina and fluid with his gender expression, fits the bill. Although they're attracted to each other, the date doesn't go well. But the next day, when Morty—hitherto unaware of the existence of witches—wakes up with magical ability and Nina’s own magic is inexplicably stronger, the pair are thrown together once more. As they explore these new powers, their feelings grow, and Nina starts to evaluate other relationships in her life. The delightful lore of charming Thistle Grove continues to grow in this evocatively written story, although this tale is quieter than the previous installments, with most of the focus on internal emotions, personal growth, and response to trauma. The bond between Nina and Morty allows them to experience the other’s emotions, which amplifies their connection and also makes the bedroom scenes sublimely hot. While the romance is important, the meaningful and inspiring broader story is of Nina learning about herself and choosing what to stand up for.

Another enchanting visit to Thistle Grove.