In Laura Catherine's "Enemies to Booksellers," Morgan, a powerful mage, fakes her death to escape her villainous employer and start a new life with her beloved henchwoman, Echo. Together, they flee to the enchanting city of Laluna, aiming to open a bookshop in a charming, slightly haunted church. Their quirky team expands with the help of a talented tiefling carpenter and a passionate mousefolk librarian, though a mischievous fire spirit adds a fiery complication. Their idyllic new beginning is threatened by the reappearance of Morgan's old boss and the unexpected arrival of Echo's former companion. This cozy fantasy romance, reminiscent of Travis Baldree and Rebecca Thorne, explores themes of new beginnings, found family, and the heartwarming pursuit of happiness against the odds.
Review Enemies to Booksellers
Oh my goodness, "Enemies to Booksellers" completely charmed me! I went in expecting a cozy fantasy, which I don't usually gravitate towards, but this book completely changed my mind. The premise alone – two women from opposing sides of a hero-villain conflict faking their deaths to open a bookshop together – is pure delightful escapism. And it delivers on that promise in spades!
I was immediately hooked by Morgan and Echo's relationship. Their love story felt real and deeply satisfying; the way they support each other through their individual anxieties and vulnerabilities felt incredibly authentic. While Morgan's tendency to spiral into worst-case scenarios initially grated on me (a relatable flaw, I must admit!), it only served to highlight the strength of their bond and the grounding effect their love had on each other. It’s a testament to the author's skill that even these seemingly negative traits contribute to the overall appeal of the characters.
But what truly elevated this book beyond a simple romance were the supporting characters. Fae, Nigel, Kit, Iggy—each was a vibrant and fully realized individual, contributing their unique personalities and quirks to the wonderfully chaotic energy of the bookshop. Iggy, the fire spirit who wants to eat the books, and Fae, with their witty banter and larger-than-life personalities, quickly became my favorites, providing constant bursts of humor and heart. Their interactions were a joy to read, often stealing the spotlight and leaving me in stitches. The author’s skill in creating such memorable side characters is a testament to her storytelling ability.
The plot itself was engaging, a satisfying blend of mystery, heartwarming moments, and just the right amount of conflict. The cozy fantasy setting allowed for a slower pace, allowing the characters and their relationships to breathe and develop organically. The slow-burn romance paired with the mystery to solve kept me completely enthralled, eagerly turning pages to see what would happen next. While there were certainly challenges and tense moments, the underlying sense of safety and eventual resolution that characterizes the cozy fantasy genre was present, offering a reassuring comfort even amid the suspense. This comforting yet engaging balance of plot and character development made for a deeply satisfying reading experience.
Beyond the plot and characters, the world-building was rich and inviting. The description of the bookshop, filled with plants and wooden ducks, sparked a deep sense of longing in me. I found myself dreaming of that cozy space, its comforting ambiance a perfect representation of the overall feeling of the novel. The whole book just exudes warmth and happiness, leaving a feeling of contentment long after I turned the final page. I wholeheartedly recommend "Enemies to Booksellers" to anyone looking for a heartwarming, funny, and emotionally resonant fantasy, especially those who enjoy stories with strong LGBTQ+ representation. I'm eagerly anticipating the next book in the series and am already wondering what adventures await in the charming city of Laluna.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 1.21 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 481
- Publication date: 2025
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