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There are currently 23 member reviews
for Stay for a Spell
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Melissa R. (SPRINGFIELD, PA)
Perfection in Cozy Fantasy
I am not a cozy fantasy reader, but this was just what I needed! So light, so fun...and so me. A bibliophile princess who is cursed to be trapped in a bookstore? A need to unlock her heart's desire to break the curse? Princes sent to rescue her, who all fail miserably at delivering true love's kiss? A band of side characters that had banter, humor, and lightness to every scene?
The characters! A teenage emo assistant who looks like every teenager I have ever known, other than being part dragon; seven bumbling and narcissistic princes, with one who uses the WRONG WORDS every time he forms a sentence; a handsome but cunning pirate who is cursed to fear the sea; a cat who is there, but NOT really there...the list goes on. They are hilarious, sarcastic, and delightful. An ensemble to rival the best fairy tales.
As someone who can honestly say that a bookstore has saved me from the stress and monotony of everyday life, I found this book perfect for me in every way. It is my Princess Bride and my Spaceballs all rolled into one. I finished this book with a warm glow and a feeling of peace that lasted long after the last page. What a gift.
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Margot C. (Memphis, TN)
Fairytale romance from the comforts of home
Amy Coombe's Stay a Spell completely renewed my faith in cozy fantasy. From the very first page, I felt wrapped in a world that perfectly balances fairy tale magic with the quiet, comforting charm of an 19th century English village bookshop. Despite most of the story unfolding within the shop's four walls, I was never once bored. Instead, the setting becomes its own character—full of quirky pets, mutual care, and the peaceful sense of nowhere else you need to be.
What truly makes this story shine is its heart. The found family elements are beautifully woven throughout the narrative, creating relationships that feel authentic and meaningful. Every interaction carries emotional weight, whether tender, humorous, or quietly profound.
And the romance? Sweet, yes—but more importantly, real. Coombe crafts a love story built on vulnerability, respect, and genuine connection, making every heartstring-tugging moment land perfectly. Stay a Spell is a gentle, magical reminder that you don't have to leave home to have everything your heart desires.
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Laurette A. (Rome, NY)
A cozy and feel good read
I absolutely loved Stay For a Spell by Amy Coombe. From the very first chapter, I was drawn into the charming atmosphere and the beautifully written characters. The story blends romance and a touch of magic in a way that feels both cozy and heartfelt.
I don't normally read Fantasy novels, but the "teaser" and setting for this book grabbed my attention and didn't let go. The characters were well written and their chemistry was believable and felt real. The bookstore setting was described so vividly that I felt like I was right there, experiencing every moment alongside them.
What really stood out to me was the balance of warmth, humor, and meaningful themes about love, growth, and taking chances. It's the kind of book that leaves you smiling long after you've finished the last page and I think it would be a good choice for book clubs.
If you enjoy heartfelt romance with a little sparkle of magic, Stay For a Spell is definitely worth reading. I'm looking forward to more from this author…perhaps even a sequel.
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Nina W. (Greenfield, WI)
Stepping into delight
This is not a genre I have considered before but I was thoroughly enchanted by this book! In fact, I relished it. I envy the author's imagination and was delighted by the characters. I had so much fun reading and often laughed as I went. This book has opened new worlds for me. I am grateful to the author for providing me with such an introduction to fantasy. I love surprises!
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Brenda W. (Wilkes Barre, PA)
A charming read!
Stay a Spell by Amy Coombe is a magical and charming read. A cozy, A romance, spells, quirky characters. I love it. I enjoyed the story and it made me feel so good as I was reading. The story captured me, It was my escape from reality. The characters were funny, adorable, well developed. Their different personalities really shone through.
Anyone who likes cozies, YA, romance, magical realism will enjoy this book. I plan on reading more from Amy Coombe.
The writing was smooth and fast. It was like a cup of hot chocolate in story form. I highly recommend this book.
The title fit the story very well.
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Polly VB
Stay for a Spell
This is not a book I would normally pick up. I tend to visualize the characters in a book and I had a difficult time at the beginning doing that for this book; however, I was soon swept up in the story and the exceptional writing. I enjoyed the little details and descriptions and all the emotions conveyed. I would certainly enjoy reading more from this author. This is my first review so I hope it helps someone deciding whether or not to read this book - please do!
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Valerie S. (Mendon, IL)
So much fun!
Stay a Spell is pure fun wrapped in magic. From the very first pages, the story swept me into a whimsical, fairytale-like world that felt cozy, enchanting, and impossible to leave. The magical elements aren't just decorative—they set a tone that feels warm and dreamy, like stepping into a story you wish you could wander through yourself.
I absolutely loved the main character, especially her traveling lifestyle, which added a sense of adventure that made me unable to put the book down. And the bookshop where much of the story takes place? It's a character in its own right—comfortable, alive, and brimming with charm. If you're someone who believes bookstores have souls, this one will steal your heart.
What truly makes Stay a Spell shine, though, is its portrayal of relationships between women. The friendships feel genuine, often complicated, and beautifully layered—no forced drama, just real connection and care. Especially the intergenerational relationships that bloom. And then there's Bash. The male lead is cheeky, rugged, and completely lovable in a way that feels genuine. He's the kind of character you root for without even realizing it.
If you love stories that celebrate community, cozy spaces, and the magic that can exist right where you are—this book will hit the mark for you. This is one you won't want to miss. It's heartfelt, magical, and brimming with the kind of charm that lingers long after the last page!
