Back in a Spell

I’ll admit, I rolled my eyes at first. *Another* witchy rom-com? But *Back in a Spell* won me over by refusing to be cute for cute’s sake. The magic system—where spells are fueled by emotion and precision—isn’t just worldbuilding; it’s a metaphor for the characters’ growth. Nineve’s arc, in particular, is a masterclass in unlikable-but-compelling heroines. She’s privileged, judgmental, and *knowingly* so, which makes her eventual vulnerability hit harder. When she snaps at Morty for botching a spell in front of her coven, Brentan’s delivery is *delicious*—you can hear the seething embarrassment beneath the ice. That said, the middle act drags slightly. The subplot involving Nineve’s family drama feels undercooked compared to the electric main romance, and a few secondary characters (looking at you, Thorn) get short shrift. But Brentan’s performance papers over the cracks. Her timing is impeccable, especially in the audiobook’s standout scene—a disastrous first date where Morty accidentally enchants a sentient cheese board. The humor lands because she *commits*, whether it’s Nineve’s exasperated groan or Morty’s mortified whisper. And the steam? Oh, it’s there—just don’t expect insta-lust. The slow burn pays off in a finale that’s as emotionally satisfying as it is magically explosive. **Who’s it for?** Fans of *Legends & Lattes*’ coziness with *The Hating Game*’s bite, or anyone who wants a romance where the leads *earn* their happy ending. Skip if you prefer your paranormal fluff without thorns.