Finding Magic in Grief and Friendship: My Journey with A Curious Kind of Magic

Author: Mara Rutherford

Publisher: St. Martin's Press

Rating: 4★

When I first picked up A Curious Kind of Magic by Mara Rutherford, I was quickly drawn into the enchanting world of Willow Stokes, a 17-year-old struggling to keep her late father's magical curiosity shoppe alive. The mix of cozy fantasy and heartfelt themes of friendship and grief resonated with me deeply, making it a compelling read that I couldn't set aside.

A Whimsical Journey

Willow's character is refreshingly relatable. She mirrors the challenges many teenagers face while dealing with loss and the pressure of maintaining a family legacy. Her moments of selfishness and reluctance to ask for help make her journey all the more genuine. While struggling to manage the shoppe amidst mounting debts, she often finds herself making choices that lead to further complications. It reminded me of real-life situations where one’s pride gets in the way of seeking necessary support.

The introduction of Brianna Hargrave, an outsider in search of a grimoire, adds a much-needed spark of hope to Willow's life. Their friendship evolves gradually throughout the story, highlighting the critical role of trust and support in navigating personal challenges. I found it uplifting to witness how they leaned on each other, especially during key moments, such as when Brianna reveals a painful history involving her family, thus solidifying their bond.

The Supporting Cast

Finlay, another pivotal character, serves as a wonderful contrast to Willow. His kindness and loyalty are heartwarming, even though he doesn't have as dramatic a character arc. He represents the steady support that can often be overlooked during turbulent times. However, it was Brianna's evolving journey alongside Willow that truly captivated me.

Rutherford's writing style kept me engaged throughout, and the pacing felt just right—until the conclusion. The dragon egg heist, while compelling, struck a discordant note in the otherwise cozy story. It raised the stakes to an unexpected level that contrasted sharply with the enchanting tone I had come to adore. The aftermath felt jarring, briefly pulling me away from the magic of the shoppe that Rutherford expertly built up to that point.

Heartfelt Reflections

If you are a fan of YA cozy fantasy novels that embrace a whimsical atmosphere, A Curious Kind of Magic should definitely be on your reading list. The story beautifully illustrates the concept of imperfect characters finding their way to form meaningful relationships. Willow's exploration of grief, paired with her evolving friendship with Brianna, resonates with anyone who has ever sought connection during tough times.

Mara Rutherford has crafted a charming tale that beautifully encapsulates the magic found in friendship and the importance of leaning on others during challenging moments. I wholeheartedly recommend this delightful read for anyone in search of a whimsical escape into a world filled with magic and heartwarming connections.

Thank you St. Martin’s Press for an eARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.