Book Summary and Reviews of Stay for a Spell by Amy Coombe

Reader Reviews

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Sweeney, Kathryn

What a terrific discovery!
I flew through this book and can't wait to read others in this new cozy fantasy romcoms category!

Marijana_Bankovic

Everyone's (best) nightmare?
Who wouldn't want to live in a book store? Princess Tanadelle gets her wish granted. I really enjoyed this fairy-tale for adults book, with just the right amount of magic and fantasy. The characters are wonderful, the story flows beautifuly, and the ending is nicely wrapped up.

Melissa_R

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.

Margot

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.

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.

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!

...19 more reader reviews