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There are currently 22 member reviews
for The Reimagining of Thornwood House
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Linda M. (Ocala, FL)
Cozy Read for a Rainy Day
The Reimagining of Thornwood House is a book that I read in one day. I could not put it down. Not only is this a book about an old, interesting house, the house is sentient and has recently taken to running away on chicken legs. What a visual image that creates! The book has a unique storyline and is populated with some of the most interesting characters that I have encountered in fiction in quite a while. The book had been labeled a 'cozy fantasy' so it's not too scary and the main characters are not in mortal danger. It's got romance, good witches, bad witches and lots of kind, regular folks too. The book will be enjoyed by readers who like fantasy and witchcraft.
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Debra F. (Cudjoe Key, FL)
Thornwood House
I received a free copy of The Reimagining of Thornwood House by Jaleigh Johnson from the publisher, Bookbrowse and Netgalley.
This cozy fantasy follows land witch Evelyn Sharpe and her adopted daughter Ruby as they begin a new life caring for the mysterious Thornwood House—a magical, sentient home at the heart of a small village. What they expect to be a quieter existence quickly turns into something far more unusual when the house itself proves stubborn, wounded, and even capable of walking away. As Evie and Ruby work to earn the house's trust, they uncover deeper magic, hidden damage, and a growing sense that "home" is something you build, not just find.
This book reads like a warm hug with a touch of whimsy. The charm really lies in its atmosphere—gentle magic, a slightly grumpy but lovable house, and that strong thread of found family that runs throughout. The relationship between Evie and Ruby is especially touching and gives the story real emotional grounding. While the pacing can feel a bit slow in the middle and the magic system isn't always deeply explained, the overall tone is comforting and heartfelt. It's the kind of story you sink into rather than race through—perfect for a quiet afternoon in the sun (which I know you're very good at enjoying! ??).
If you enjoy cozy, cottagecore fantasy with heart, a sprinkle of mystery, and a focus on belonging and second chances, this one is a lovely pick.
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Kevin H. (Littleton, CO)
A Feel Good Cozy Fantasy
Thornwood House is acting out. At the heart of the community of Iskendra, it has lost its caretaker and is in a mood. Enter Evie Sharpe to set things straight.
This story is a light, comforting read that explores numerous themes, including magic, family, community, and romance. After what I thought was a slow start with a plotline that took a little getting used to, I really enjoyed the pacing and narration in the second half of the story with an engaging ending.
While I think general audiences will enjoy this book, it will be those fans of romantic contemporary fantasy that will probably really relish this tale. There is a bit of mystery to several of the characters, which makes for a layer of tension on top of the story. The protagonist, Evie, is one that many people will be able to identify with as she navigates the many challenges she faces.
A fun read by a promising author.
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Molly Y. (Lester, AL)
A Whimsical Adventure
What can I say about this book? It is so cozy and refreshing! Our FMC is a land witch named Evelyn, or Evie, who is trying to adopt a young witch named Ruby. Ruby also happens to be a witch. Evie has been denied adoption once, so she takes a different job, being the caretaker of a sentient house, in hopes of being in a better position to adopt. The house has rejected every owner since its last caretaker died. Needless to say, Evie and Ruby face a few challenges with the house. This is a lovely and delightful book that will warm your heart on the rainiest, coldest day!
The characters in the book are fantastical and wonderful. It is very easy to come to love them and care about them. The house itself is a character, although it doesn't speak. There is a mystery or two to unravel. There is a dash of romance. The theme of found family is strong. Overall, I rated this book 4 out of 5 stars. If you enjoyed Howl's Moving Castle, or any fantasy books (possibly leaning towards YA), you will probably enjoy this book. Thank you to BookBrowse and the author for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
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Margaret S. (Lincoln, NE)
Such Imagination!
This book is just exceptional. It jumps into the mystical, with witches and mystical houses. Imagination of the author coming up with the situation and the plot is amazing. I love the house as a living being as I loved our heroine moves from a government witch agency to a small village to become a guardian of a which house. The unfolding is truly fun to watch and get into. I love this book, although normally I wouldn't pick up a book in this genre.
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Shabella G. (Salina, KS)
Beautiful, amazing read
This was such a good read! I wasn't expecting such a wholesome, bonding, amazing, heartwarming experience . This starts in chapter 1 and it builds and builds. This is the book you never knew you needed. Once you read it, you will be forever changed. This is not only about a bond between a mother and a daughter. It is a book about chosen family and how you go about choosing them.
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Carolyn K. (Shelby, AL)
The Reimagining of Thornwood House
The Reimagining of Thornwood House was a warm, cozy, magical mystery. I really became attached to the two main characters and I felt like the sentient house was the best character of all. This was the type of book that made you want to curl up with hot chocolate and get lost in it. This book would be great for even middle school readers who wanted to read cozy fantasy. If you liked The Spellshop by Sarah Durst or Greenteeth by Molly O'Neill, you would enjoy this book. This was a magical, cozy book ultimately about belonging and found family that was a joy to read.
