Review #488
Now that I’m finished, the title doesn’t quite fit the storyline.
I gave this standalone- modern fantasy romance a 4.3/5 stars. The first half had me very hopeful, especially with the plant themes but the second half didn’t meet my expectations.
It’s written in two points of view (that shift mid chapter) in first person narrative.
Aria is a sweet character but didn’t have much depth. Callan was cool but I wanted get to know him more.
Here were my notes live while reading (warning- spoilers):
I love that the set up to Aria’s life is so distinctly crisp with the examples shown from how much she sucks at magic to losing all her jobs, to living alone and away from home. Then out pops her grandma and poof, everything will change.
I’m in love with all the side characters especially 7 year old Catrina. The setting is also awesomely written.
I don’t understand the conversation Aria has with the botanist at the end of chapter 13. Was she trying to get their potion shop to distribute to their customers in case they can’t provide potions if their shop closes?
If so, I don’t understand HOW the other botanist shops would also stay open. Don’t they also need his rare garden?
Woah Callan’d feeling escalated too quickly from enjoying her company to wanting to be with her for the rest of his life.
The segzy scene wasn’t as open door as I had hoped. Then the aftermath had it all fall a little flat.
The second half didn’t have the intensity of emotions I was expecting or wanting. They also never talked about their night together on page.
The plot was cute but Aria barely his any hurdles or obstacles. She went from one task to the next quite simply. Because so much of garden story was dominated by the garden challenge, I feel like the romance got forgotten about and pushed too much to the side. I’m glad she found her magic but even that scene, while laying the grass, didn’t feel emotive enough.
Overall this was an easy, cute read best for a vacation when nothing matters.