The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst

If this is an example of the YA/adult cosy fantasy genre, let there be more! It was a real pleasure to find a well plotted novel, filled with original characters, well written and paced.
The book title and its cover are well chosen and give the reader a firm idea of what the story is about. Set in the Crescent Islands Empire, the first page starts with fire! This is a dire situation for the novel’s main character Kiela and her library assistant Caz. The rebels have stormed the city and entered the hallowed grounds of the Great Library, burning ancient books and destroying property as they rampage. Kiela, a young Librarian in charge of the Spellbooks section, and Caz flee the Library (also their home) and the city of Alyssium in a small boat, together with crates of spell books. For an orphan like Kiela (and Caz, who is a sentient spider plant) the only place to seek refuge is a far off island upon which she was born.

What follows are her adventures, from arriving at her family’s deserted cove and small cottage to setting about making a home for Caz and herself, gradually allowing neighbours and villagers into her sheltered life. The main problem is hiding the cache of spell books, as ownership and spell casting are allowed to a rare few. But the island has been slowly declining for want for sorcerers. For Kiela and Caz, and the villagers, to survive, Kiela must decide if the greater good outweighs the needs of one.

This novel was thoroughly entertaining from the first word. Joyful, positive, energetic, original characters in various shapes and forms, all residing amicably with each other. Subtle learnings include how to overcome hesitation, to embrace change, to welcome new beginnings, to trust other people, to overcome perceived and real obstacles and life threatening situations.

Reviewed by Belinda Coombs
Murder and Crime Reading Group