[Audiobook Review] Back in a Spell by Lana Harper

Publisher's synopsis: Even though she won’t deny her love for pretty (and pricey) things, Nineve Blackmoore is almost painfully down-to-earth and sensible by Blackmoore standards. But after a year of nursing a broken heart inflicted by the fiancée who all but ditched her at the altar, the powerful witch is sick of feeling low and is ready to try something drastically different: a dating app.
 
At her best friend’s urging, Nina goes on a date with Morty Gutierrez, the nonbinary, offbeat soul of spontaneity and co-owner of the Shamrock Cauldron. Their date goes about as well as can be expected of most online dates—awkward and terrible. To make matters worse, once Morty discovers Nina’s last name, he’s far from a fan; it turns out that the Blackmoores have been bullishly trying to buy the Shamrock out from under Morty and his family.
 
But when Morty begins developing magical powers—something that usually only happens to committed romantic partners once they officially join a founding family—at the same time that Nina’s own magic surges beyond her control, Nina must manage Morty’s rude awakening to the hidden magical world, uncover its cause, and face the intensity of their own burgeoning connection. But what happens when that connection is tied to Nina’s power surge, a power she’s finding nearly as addictive as Morty’s presence in her life?  

My thoughts: Sometimes, audiobooks are just background noise while I work. But other times, like with Back in a Spell, I can't get enough of the storytelling and find every excuse to listen: while at work, during my commute, doing chores, getting ready for work. . . .

I just loved these characters and plot in the third Thistle Grove book. Nina had this black sheep of the family/chosen one vibe throughout the story, only made more intense when her magic started getting stronger. And I loved Morty; they might very well be my favorite Thistle Grove love interest. Morty was cool and eclectic - at least until face to face with a Blackmoore. I loved their dynamic, from awkward first dates to known enemies to student and teacher and finally to lovers. Nina and Morty seemed at odds with each other, but they both turned out to be exactly who the other person needed. 

I loved the overall plot as well. Mystical witchcraft sources, power surges, and the haughty Blackmoore family in danger of falling from Thistle Grove's good graces. There was a lot happening in the quiet town, but I loved that all the events only seemed to give Nina and Morty's relationship that much more weight. 

I loved watching Morty and Nina grow closer against the odds, and I loved Nina's magical dealings and what that meant for both her and Thistle Grove. But I did listen to the audiobook of Back in a Spell, so my book experience was highly influenced by the amazing narration of Carlotta Brentan. I thought Brentan did an excellent job with pacing, dialogue and emotion, and bringing both Nina and Morty to life in their own unique ways. This was a great story, made into an enjoyable listen all thanks to the nuances Brentan brought to the audiobook. 

A huge thank you to LibroFM for providing an ALC of this title as part of their January Librarian ALC options! All opinions are my own.

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Release date: 1/3/23

Format: ALC

ALC provided via: LibroFM