A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping: An Enchanting Escape
One of my most anticipated reads for this year, A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping by Sangu Mandanna, turned out to be a delightful journey that I couldn’t put down! As a fan of The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches, the promise of another charming tale revolving around magic and found family had me eagerly awaiting its release. Mandanna’s knack for weaving in elements of humor, love, and the magical everyday is as enchanting as ever, capturing my heart from the very first page.
At the heart of this whimsical story is Sera Swan, a fifteen-year-old prodigy whose journey unfolds with layers of intrigue and emotion. After a disastrous resurrection spell, Sera finds herself exiled from the British Guild of Sorcery, forced to run an inn with her great-aunt Jasmine while grappling with the remnants of her once-mighty magic. This setup beautifully encapsulates one of the book’s main themes: the sacrifices we make for the ones we love and the complexities of belonging. The characters—Sera, her charming young nephew Theo, Matilda the hilarious meddling gardener, and Clemmie, the talking fox—form a quirky tapestry that is a joy to behold.
Mandanna expertly balances the lighthearted with poignant moments, creating a world that feels simultaneously enchanting and familiar. The pacing kept me engrossed; it flowed like a gentle river, inviting me along on Sera’s journey. There’s laughter, particularly from Nicholas, the wannabe knight whose adoration for Sera is hilariously awkward, and also heartwarming moments, most notably in the beautiful bond depicted between Sera and her autistic niece Posy. I found the representation both refreshing and honest, reminding me of my own cherished memories with similar experiences.
As for the writing style, think of it as a warm hug wrapped in vivid imagery and told with a twinkle of humor. One of my favorite lines had me chuckling, showcasing Mandanna’s gift for infusing humor into even the most precarious situations. The interactions among the characters felt genuine, and I couldn’t help but chuckle at their distinctive quirks. The audio version narrated by Samara MacLaren elevated the experience to an entirely new level! Her ability to differentiate accents and personalities brought the story—and its humor—to life.
However, my only qualm lies in a brief sex scene that somewhat jarred with the frequently innocent tone of the narrative. Additionally, the bittersweet conclusion left me reflecting on its implications for Sera and her found family. While it was beautifully done, I found myself wishing for a more definitive ending.
In conclusion, A Witch’s Guide to Magical Innkeeping is a treasure for anyone who loves enchanting tales of found family, laughter, and a sprinkle of romance. Its rich characters and charming dynamics will tug at your heartstrings, making it an especially delightful read for those seeking warmth and understanding in their literature. I highly recommend this book to readers who appreciate heartfelt stories and magical adventures—just prepare to fall in love with Sera’s whimsical inn and its cast of lovable misfits!
★★★★ ½
Thanks to Berkley Publishing, NetGalley, and author Sangu Mandanna for this digital ARC, and to my library for providing the audio version. This delightful read is out now!
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