Cozy Fantasy Must-Reads

“The House Witch” by Delemhach is a delightful concoction of humor, fantasy, and romance. Picture this: Finlay Ashowan, a house witch with domestic powers, whipping up magical meals for the royal household of Daxaria. But life in a royal castle isn’t all about food, especially when trying to keep your magical identity a secret.

The tale truly unravels when Fin’s cover starts slipping. Between clashing with not-so-chivalrous knights, ensuring the pregnant queen’s safety, and dealing with a royal mage’s wrath, intrigue is the daily special. And did I mention there’s a kitten familiar named Kraken causing its brand of adorable havoc?

Oh, the magic of stumbling upon unexpected adventures! “The House at the Edge of Magic” by Amy Sparkes is a whirlwind of enchanted escapades. Imagine being Nine, a determined pickpocket, only to pinch a curious house-shaped trinket and find yourself thrust into a world far removed from the mundane. I mean, if I found a mini-house that could expand into a grand, chaotic mansion, I’d be all in!

Within this sprawling residence, Nine meets an ensemble of quirky characters. From a young, hopscotch-loving wizard named Flabberghast to a troll housekeeper hilariously obsessed with his feather duster, the home is brimming with charm and chuckles. But, beneath the laughter lies a pressing quest: to break a potent spell that is binding its residents. Their hope is pinned on Nine, and in return, a fresh start might await her.

In the heart of the charming village of Pigsend lies the Weary Dragon Inn, where the beds are warm, and the mysteries are just the right amount of peculiar. Meet Bev, the inn’s owner, a figure shrouded in a forgotten past, who’s carved a snug niche for herself, serving patrons her famous rosemary bread. I’ve often thought of how calming it would be to run a small inn, especially in a place as inviting as Pigsend. But life at the inn isn’t just about baked delights.

Enter the curious case of earthquakes and sinkholes. Now, I’ve had my share of strange occurrences, but having the ground give way under me? That’s another level! These disruptions, unsettlingly close to the Weary Dragon Inn, propel Bev into detective mode. With the safety of her town and her cozy inn at stake, she’s determined to unearth the truth behind these geological enigmas.

Venturing into the vibrant city of Thune, you’ll find a rather unconventional coffee shop run by none other than Viv, an orc barbarian. Having traded her life of monster-slaying for espresso brewing, Viv’s journey from fearsome warrior to budding barista is nothing short of inspiring. I remember a time when I tried to transition from one hobby to another, and while it wasn’t as dramatic as Viv’s shift, it had its own set of challenges.

“Legends & Lattes” offers a refreshing brew of humor and heart. As Viv introduces the city to the aromatic allure of coffee, she faces obstacles from her past and present. Yet, what warmed my heart were the relationships she formed along the way. It’s a testimony to the idea that new beginnings, however challenging, can lead to profound connections.

In “The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches”, Sangu Mandanna crafts a world where magic meets mystery, and unexpected bonds form amidst enchantment. This witchy book follows the reserved Mika Moon, one of Britain’s few witches, who finds solace in an online world where she playfully showcases her “pretend” magical prowess. But when an invitation from the elusive Nowhere House beckons her to mentor three budding witches, her life takes a turn she never anticipated.

Nowhere House is not just a venue; it’s a realm of possibilities. It’s here that Mika becomes intertwined with a diverse array of characters. From fledgling sorcerers to Jamie, the enigmatic librarian whose guarded demeanor masks a depth of emotions and intentions. As Mika discovers the layers of the house and its inhabitants, she grapples with her emerging feelings for Jamie, the complexities of magic, and the nuances of a family she didn’t realize she yearned for.

In “Can’t Spell Treason Without Tea”, Rebecca Thorne presents a delightful concoction of fantasy, intrigue, and sapphic romance set against the backdrop of a world where ambition meets quiet dreams. Reyna, a dedicated guard to the Queen, and Kianthe, a mage of unparalleled power, share a simple wish: to leave behind their demanding roles and open a quaint bookshop teeming with warmth, tea, and tales.

Yet, escaping their responsibilities proves challenging. When an assassination attempt threatens Reyna, she reevaluates her loyalty to a demanding monarch. As for Kianthe, the weight of her magical prowess has always been a heavy mantle, and she yearns for a reprieve. The lovers thus find refuge in Tawney, a serene town shadowed by dragon territories, where they inaugurate their cherished bookshop.

In “The House in the Cerulean Sea”, TJ Klune weaves a heartwarming tale of magic, acceptance, and the profound bonds of found family. Linus Baker, a diligent case worker at the Department in Charge of Magical Youth, leads a mundane existence ensnared by the rigid confines of bureaucracy. His world is upended when he receives an unexpected assignment: to assess the well-being of six magical children residing at an isolated orphanage overseen by the enigmatic Arthur Parnassus.

Upon his arrival, Linus is introduced to an eclectic group of children, each with unique abilities—from a boy who can turn into a dog, a sprite, and even the Antichrist. Initially overwhelmed, Linus soon realizes that these children, though deemed dangerous by society, yearn for the same things all children do: love, understanding, and a place to call home. Under Arthur’s gentle guidance, the orphanage becomes a sanctuary where the children are celebrated for their individuality.

In “A Wizard’s Guide To Defensive Baking”, magic meets the mundane in a delightful twist. Fourteen-year-old Mona isn’t your typical wizard. Her magic only works on dough, making her a standout in a city teeming with wizards of greater caliber. Bread, muffins, and cookies come to life under her touch, with her sourdough starter, Bob, being her most loyal companion.

However, when a dead body surfaces in her bakery, Mona’s once-simple life spirals into chaos. She finds herself at the center of a dark plot threatening her city. With just her meager baking magic, Mona faces daunting odds, proving that sometimes the most underestimated powers can become a town’s fiercest defense.

In “Half a Soul” by Olivia Atwater, Theodora Ettings possesses only half a soul, thanks to a faerie’s curse. This unique condition strips her of fear and embarrassment, often leading her into unintended scandals. Her aim during the London Season is to blend in. But Lord Sorcier, a peculiar and striking man, learns of her condition and draws her into faerie affairs.

Struggling to maintain her reputation, Dora tries to navigate high society and its challenges. As she spends more time with Elias Wilder, feelings emerge. Can one truly fall in love with just half a soul? This tale, reminiscent of Bridgerton with a touch of Howl’s Moving Castle, immerses readers in a captivating Regency England filled with magic and mischief. Dive into this enchanting world and experience Atwater’s delightful storytelling.

In “Flowerheart” by Catherine Bakewell, Clara’s once-wild magic takes a dangerous turn when her touch fills her father with lethal flowers. To save him, she must master an intricate spell. Her only ally? Xavier, her childhood best friend has become a distant enigma. Xavier’s aid comes at a steep cost, and as Clara grapples with his changed demeanor, she uncovers his hidden secrets.

Their journey reveals a deep-rooted darkness threatening the queendom, and Clara’s potent magic might be the only defense. As stakes rise, Clara must confront her past, her feelings for Xavier, and her own power’s potential.

Dive into the whimsical world of “The Bookshop and the Barbarian,” a self-published fantasy by Morgan Stang. Maribella Waters, escaping turmoil in her homeland, finds solace as the owner of the enchanting Cozy Quill Bookshop. However, her peace is disrupted by unexpected squatters and the larger-than-life barbarian Asteria Helsdottir. This unlikely pair soon find themselves battling the devious schemes of Lady Malicent while navigating a string of quirky town festivals.

This cozy, comedic tale unfolds a sapphic, slice-of-life romance amidst the backdrop of books, seasonal celebrations, and tight-knit community ties. Infused with humor, a fourth-wall-breaking narrator, and even a potential green slime, this novel celebrates friendship, unexpected love, and the sheer joy of literature. Join Maribella and Asteria in this heartwarming adventure, as they forge bonds and uncover hidden mysteries.