endless_tbr_list's reviews
331 reviews

An incredibly interesting look into the history of one of evolution's biggest wins - teeth. There's still a lot we don't know about teeth, but what we do know makes for quite a compelling read. From their initial appearance hundred of millions of years ago, all the way through to today, teeth have, and continue to, play a huge role in the success of vertebrates. Whether discussing dinosaurs or fish, bats or humans, teeth, as both weapons and tools, are critical when it comes to survival, and their fossilized remains have helped us learn so much about the inhabitants of the world we live in. Well written and wonderfully read, this book is humorous, educational, and thoroughly enjoyable!

Thank you to Hachette Audio, Algonquin Books, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.

In the midst of a revolution, Kiela and her assistant Caz, a sentient spider plant, have been forced to flee from the Great Library they call home and seek shelter on the small island where Kiela was born. It has been years since Kiela's parents left their home in search of a better life in the city of Alyssium, but their small cottage still stands and is the perfect home for Kiela, Caz, and the few crates of spell books they were able to rescue before the library burned completely. Now, starting over with little more than an overgrown garden, Kiela realizes she can't survive on what few provisions she has, she's going to have to talk to people. However, Kiela is really not good with people, and the appearance of her attractive but nosy neighbor doesn't help matters, not when she's trying to keep hidden the piles of saved (though technically stolen) imperial spell books in her bedroom.

Forgotten by the sorcerers whose magic their land and crops rely on, the island, with it's dying orchards and dried up springs, has fallen into a state of disrepair. The islanders have done their best to survive, but without magic, which the Empire banned for all but their sorcerers, there's little hope for ever returning to the prosperous lives they once knew. Or, there was, until a librarian and her books washed up on shore.

Filled with charming characters, found family, and plenty of magic, The Spellshop is an absolute joy to read! Kiela is a wonderfully awkward introvert who is determined to save the people who saved her, and I love her for it. Then there's Larran who is such a kind and sweet man and deserves nothing but goodness in his life, and that goodness is named Kiela. A perfect balance of lighthearted and serious - there's so much heart in this book that I simply could not stop smiling. If you're looking for your next cozy fantasy read, this is it!