Bonnie S. (Bonnie) -
Helpful Score: 13
Absolutely delightful book. A treasure of light fantasy, some romance without the usual romance plot. This book is a nice break from all the heavy, serious, thinking books many of us read. I recommend it for even the hardcore non-fiction readers.
Joanna C. (ColdSnap) reviewed Garden Spells (Waverley Family, Bk 1) (Audio CD) (Abridged) on + 13 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 12
I have to admit that I do agree with some of the other reviewers about the book echoing a little of Alice Hoffman's book Practical Magic as the premise is similar. I did, however, find the characters in this book to be very engaging and interesting. The sisters in this story played well with the secondary characters which did help give this book an individual feel. I particularly liked the way the author made the apple tree in the garden a character (in its own way) in the story.
The book is well thought out, but there is more internal conflict rather than external conflict in this book. If you are a reader who prefers their books with a lot of fast paced action than this book will probably read a little too slowly for you.
I personally loved this book. It was sweet, smart, and had some lovely lines in it that made me want to read more from this author. I can see how it could have been fleshed out a little more, but as this is a fresh author I think this will probably come with time.
The book is well thought out, but there is more internal conflict rather than external conflict in this book. If you are a reader who prefers their books with a lot of fast paced action than this book will probably read a little too slowly for you.
I personally loved this book. It was sweet, smart, and had some lovely lines in it that made me want to read more from this author. I can see how it could have been fleshed out a little more, but as this is a fresh author I think this will probably come with time.
Brodi W. (farfella68) reviewed Garden Spells (Waverley Family, Bk 1) (Audio CD) (Abridged) on + 84 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 6
This is an absolutely wonderful book filled with intrigue and magic. It is about two sisters, Claire and Syndey who have not seen each other in ten years. Syndey and her daughter Bay suddenly show up at Claire's house one dy, needing a place to stay. Claire has an enchanted garden in her backyard complete with an apple tree that will tell you your future or the greatest moment in your life when you eat an apple. I don't want to mention anything else in the book because I am afraid that I will give the good parts away. It is an absolutely amazing book. For me it was a quick read (about 3 hours) but it was positively wonderful. I definitely recommend this book for anyone who has a childlike innocence about the world we live in.
Susan R. (Sue-in-AZ) -
Helpful Score: 6
What an enjoyable book! I loved the characters, loved the light touch with magic, and loved the story.
Kim S. (kimsfocus) reviewed Garden Spells (Waverley Family, Bk 1) (Audio CD) (Abridged) on + 5 more book reviews
Helpful Score: 5
I loved this book. From the first page I connected with the characters and felt a part of the story. The characters in the book are believable and lovable, even the ones you don't want to like. And Evanelle is the Aunt I wish I had! I'd adopt her in a minute!
I think most of us can relate to not feeling like we fit in and as we grow up and mature learning how to become who we are and be happy with and embrace that person. I found the characters to be real people, with real thoughts and emotions, and liked how the relationships were not handled as though easily dismissed or uncomplicated.
I think most of us can relate to not feeling like we fit in and as we grow up and mature learning how to become who we are and be happy with and embrace that person. I found the characters to be real people, with real thoughts and emotions, and liked how the relationships were not handled as though easily dismissed or uncomplicated.
