A Curious Kind of Magic by Mara Rutherford
The Magic in the Mundane
This book’s title is absolutely perfect—it captures the essence of a story that is as curious as it is enchanting. As a first introduction to this author, I am completely hooked! I read this solid 3.5-star gem in just two sittings, and I’m crossing my fingers that it’s the start of a long series because I would happily dive back into this world.
This is the definition of cozy YA fantasy. It’s the kind of book you want to read by a crackling fire with a warm cup of tea and your softest fuzzy blanket. It left me feeling lighthearted, adventurous, and wonderfully relaxed.
The story follows Willow Stokes, a teenager running her father’s “magic” shop. The catch? None of the items are actually magical—and Willow has her own secret reasons for keeping it that way. Her world is turned upside down when a girl named Brianna walks in. Brianna carries a beautiful but complicated curse: her touch turns ordinary objects into genuine magical artifacts!
Suddenly, Willow’s fake shop is filled with very real power. Alongside a handsome printer’s assistant, the girls embark on a quest filled with hidden magic, mystery, and deep-seated deception. Along the way, they form a beautiful connection as they navigate their unique abilities and learn to trust one another.
Why you should read it:
Vibe: Pure magic, hope, and “snuggled-up” comfort.
Characters: Lovable, authentic, and easy to root for.
Content Warning: Just some light cussing.
If you’re a fan of YA fantasy that feels like a warm hug but still takes you on a wild ride, you won’t want to get off this magical carousel. I absolutely loved the character dynamics and can’t wait to see what this author writes next!
