Sea of Charms: A Spellshop Novel by Sarah Beth Durst

The gorgeous cover of this mostly cozy fantasy novel invites you into the richly detailed world of the Crescent Islands. Set in the world of The Spellshop and The Enchanted Greenhouse, this book is a companion novel rather than a sequel. Durst has an amazing imagination and it’s shown in the variety of islands, people, and creatures encountered here. Her books are written for readers needing an escape, if just for a while. Here the themes are sailing, music, finding yourself, and found family.

Marin is a supply runner on her ship Silver, ferrying supplies and messages from island to island. Infrequently and reluctantly, she will take a few passengers. Marin’s goal is to repay the fee her parents paid to build and outfit the ship. Her father bakes delicious peach pies whenever she sails home for a quick visit. Perri, a sea serpent, swims alongside and they are soon joined by Ree, a sentient plant who loves the sea. A winged cat (cats here fly but do not speak) joins the trio, and for a while, the young musician and composer Dax. Marin is silver while Dax has purple hair and crystal horns. Some of their travels inspire new music for Dax and Ree, while other ports of call are a bit dangerous, as is a magical storm. I won’t reveal any of the story’s details, just invite readers of cozy fantasy to come aboard the Silver with Marin and her crew.

The Spellshop is the first book set in the Crescent Islands. The next book, The Magical Cheese Emporium, will be published in January. Enjoy!

Brenda