Add to your TBR list ASAP! This is such a cute rom com with a little sense of magic. It reminded me of the movie 13 Going on 30 but better. The sister banter and character development felt so relatable. And Dax is very swoon-worthy, making me wonder how Gemma ever thought they could be just friends.

Things I loved:
• A mention of a corgi (see pictures of my Stella)
• Margaritas as a necessary post-break-up item
• A little bit of spicy romance
• Friends to lovers trope
• A witty narrator
• An obsession with donuts

Thank you Netgalley for an advance e-copy of this book, all opinions are my own.

Ahh, this was such a wholesome romance! I loved it so much.

First, it was giving me strong Again, but Better vibes. I love the idea that somewhere out there, someone is living a slightly different life than me, and I love books that tackle the "what if I did x instead" idea about life. In this case, the main character wondered about if she dated the wrong guy for the last four years, then got to live out that what if life.

It was not all good things though! Of course she had to tackle living in a parallel universe where the main character obviously made different choices, but throughout the book you see that those choices affected the characters around her too. If she never met her first boyfriend, it caused a snowball of changes for parallel Dax, and that led Gemma to really reflect on her past and the experiences that led to the start of the story.

I liked the implications of "what if" she never dated Steven, but I also liked seeing how dating him led to some good changes in her life, despite the relationship ending in the original universe. It goes to show that even if you regret a decision in the moment, there had to be something good that came out of it. All experiences matter!

Then there is Gemma and Dax, oh how I loved them together. Their chemistry and banter is top notch, and I loved seeing them grow together in the parallel universe. And since slightly different choices were made, Gemma really got to learn new things about this guy she thought she knew over the last four years. Plus, there is some spicy scenes in the book too, but they did not take away from the overall story.

All in all, I enjoyed reading this and the ending is quite heartwarming. The characters were messy and had some good character development, the banter is top notch, and there is a happy ending to boot. I am glad I came across this one, it was well worth the read!
Content warnings: alcohol, cursing, sexual content

Thank you NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

This Spells Love is a magical romance that follows the story of a heartbroken Gemma who wonders how her life would’ve been if she had never wasted four years of her life with her ex. Following her aunt’s antics, she performs a love-cleansing spell with her sister, her aunt, and her best friend Dax. What she doesn’t know at the time is that the universe has a funny trick for her as she finds that her wish gets granted in the worst way she can imagine: her best friend Dax has no idea who she is.

I was hooked on this book when I read the synopsis and saw the stunning cover. This book was close to sci-fi with its concept of parallel universes and it was so entertaining to get into that world and discover how one thing can change the continuum of space & time. I love when romance is used with other genres and This Spells Love did an amazing job of combining the two genres. Another thing I really liked was how the “message” presented itself as a result of every choice Gemma made instead of someone telling her what she was supposed to do. She had her loved ones guiding her, but in the end, it was her re-discovering herself and accepting that every choice we make (good or bad) leads to a result for a reason because life is more complicated than good or bad choices. It’s about what you do after said choices and where they lead you.

Kiersten and Livi were both very complex characters. I loved how even though Gemma was the main character, we got to see Kiersten’s growth alongside Gemma. The book portrays Kiersten’s journey as a mom of 3 and a sister who always puts Gemma’s needs first until one day she remembers the woman she wanted to be. She goes after what she wants to do with her life while Gemma finds a balance between giving Kiersten the space she needs and preserving their sisterly dynamic. I loved how supportive Gemma and Kiersten were of each other, they and their morning walks with their donuts were so cute. I loved how Wilde Beuaty turned into Wilde Sisters Beauty, combining both of their dreams. Aunt Livi was a very mysterious character in both universes. I’m pretty sure she had a feeling about everything that happened to Gemma with all her riddles and spells. Dax’s side of the family was also very fun to read. Dougie and Brandon were so cute and I loved how Dougie was rooting for Gemma and Dax. Dougie's parties were also very fun to read. Sunny was such a lovely nice character. It was refreshing to read a genuinely nice sunshine but badass character.

Gemma and Dax. I absolutely adore best friends to lovers. I loved every single thing about their dynamic. How their bond literally went beyond time and space. Gemma’s introduction to alternative universe Dax was hilarious. Dax still falling for Gemma even after that introduction was even more amazing. It’s like they were literally made for each other. I loved how they were both afraid of losing each other if things don’t work out romantically but the prospect of living without each other was so much worse. Gemma got to see how taking that once step matters and can change things for the better. I also loved how vulnerable they were with each other. Dax was such a perfect man (you can't blame Gemma for falling in love, I would too). I loved how after seeing Wilde Beauty, Gemma knew she needed to have that project in her universe. I loved how supportive Dax was in both universes and likewise Gemma was willing to risk her own happiness just to see Dax live his dreams. It was so amazing to read Gemma's growth as she learned to take risks and follow things through.

If you’re looking for a heart-warming, cozy interdimensional romance with a dash of magical realism, This Spells Love is the right book for you.

"This Spells Love" by Kate Robb is a delightful and enchanting romantic comedy that casts a spell on readers from the very beginning. Gemma's journey of heartbreak, friendship, and self-discovery is infused with humor and charm, making it a truly enjoyable read.

The novel kicks off with a relatable and engaging premise - a love-cleansing spell performed in a drunken moment of desperation. Kate Robb skillfully crafts a story that effortlessly blends the magical and the mundane, resulting in a refreshing and unique take on the romantic comedy genre.

As Gemma wakes up to find her life completely transformed, the narrative takes an unexpected turn. The development of the plot, with Gemma's ex erased from her memory and her once-best-friend, Dax, now a near-stranger, creates a fascinating dynamic that keeps readers hooked.

Gemma's attempts to reverse the spell and regain some normalcy in her life lead to humorous and heartwarming situations, making her journey of rediscovery both entertaining and emotionally resonant. The growing chemistry and connection between Gemma and Dax are beautifully depicted, drawing readers deeper into their blossoming romance.

Kate Robb's writing style is witty, engaging, and filled with clever banter, enhancing the overall appeal of the book. The well-developed characters, including Gemma's sister, kooky aunt, and best friend, Dax, add depth and authenticity to the story, enriching the relationships and interactions between them.

As Gemma contemplates the possibility of Dax being "The One", the novel explores themes of self-discovery and the unpredictability of love, leaving readers pondering the true nature of destiny and the importance of seizing the present moment.

"This Spells Love" is a stellar romantic comedy that will leave readers with a smile on their faces and their hearts warmed by its enchanting tale. Kate Robb's skillful storytelling, endearing characters, and heartfelt moments make this novel a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone seeking a heartwarming and magical love story.

What a fun, swoony, heart-flittering book. This is the perfect friends to lovers story. I couldn’t put this one down! Highly recommend.

If you're looking for a charming romance with a touch of magic, this book is an absolute must-read!!

Reeling from a breakup, Gemma jokingly does a love cleansing spell with her aunt and sister after a few too many margaritas. (We've all been there!) But when she wakes up the next morning, she's in an parallel universe, never having dated her ex, and her best friend, Dax, doesn't recognize her. In order to return to her old life, she has one month to befriend Dax and convince him to kiss her. However, as she devises her plan, she finds herself falling for him, and starts questioning whether she truly wants her old life back.

Thanks to NetGalley, Random House Publishing, and Kate Robb for allowing me access to this book. All opinions are my own.

Overall cute feel good book - but I will admit that the supporting cast including even the love interest Dax came off a a cardboard cut out for most of the book. He was simply a prop for the MC, same with everyone else. They were just her supporting cast and she was pretty unlikeable tbh as a airhead that just took and took and took from everyone around her, but they all still loved and supported her? Idk, I didn’t really get it. But she does grow and change - in the last like 5% of the book, so it turned out pretty ok in the end. It’s a fun little alternative reality romance but don’t expect anything more than that.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a review copy.

This book is so perfectly adorable, charming, and fun. I highly recommend picking up a copy and I can’t wait to read more books by Kate Robb in the future. Fingers crossed she’s working on her next one now 🤞🏼! Also, Frank was the real MVP and my favorite character. Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!

Oddly enough, this is the second book I've read this month with a FMC named Gemma in a time loop/alternate reality situation. I enjoyed this though. I was a little confused on the timeline but maybe that was just me. The overall concept was what really drew me to this book though. It's kind of a second chance romance but also not really since the two main characters were never together in the first place. I liked being able to see both "real" and "alternate reality" Dax through Gemma's memories of the situations she found herself in. It was a really fun read! There's a few spicy scenes but they don't overrun the book so I think it's a really good balance. I definitely recommend this book!

Gemma has just had a devastating break-up. With the help of her beloved aunt and sister, she tries a magic spell to forget her ex. The next morning, the consequences are beyond anything she could’ve imagined- including the removal of her best friend from her life. As Gemma retraces her steps and sees how life could’ve played out if she had never met her ex, she must choose whether to stay in this new world or return to her old one.

It took me a little bit to get into this book. Once the spell was cast and Gemma had to navigate the alternate future, then I felt pretty hooked. Gemma is a fun heroine who is seeking love and has perhaps been missing what is right in front of her. I loved her close relationships with her sister and aunt. Even in an alternate universe, her family was there for her. Dax and Gemma have a nice and relatively straightforward romance in the alternate world. This Spells Love is a cozy, cute romance that deals with alternate worlds.

This Spells Love would be perfect for fans of Ann Aguirre (The Only Purple House in Town), Sliding Doors, and romances with a what-if twist.

Thank you to Kate Robb, Dial Press, and Netgalley for a free ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Total Rating: 4.00 stars
Method: Kindle / electronic copy

What would you do if you drunkenly cast a spell and woke up the next morning to find yourself in a world where it worked?

I loved how realistically the entire situation was handled, and just how much of a fool Gemma made out of herself at times; made her feel realistic and I could see myself making those same mistakes. It really felt like she grew and learned more about herself throughout the entire story, and more about her friends and family along the way. Every character in this book felt so realistic and as though they are people I could walk past every day on the street. Did Gemma at times feel a bit immature in her decisions and not at all like a fully-fledged 27-year-old adult? Yes. But I didn't find it bothersome enough that I ended up disliking her as a character, which has happened before.

Going to be honest, I'm usually more of a fantasy girl and when I initially started this book I was a little sad that there wasn't more of a practical magic vibe to the book and more witchy vibes. But once I set that aside I quickly fell into this story and was in love with the characters and the realistic way that everything was approached. It ended up being a very realistic take on how a person would react if magic suddenly worked in the real world. Gave me very Freaky Friday vibes.

I do want to say that one thing that bothered me was the constant mention of things that could easily date the book. Like the pandemic and specific phone/car models, etc. I always enjoy reading fiction a bit more when it's less steeped in reality. And down the road mentions of those things will age the story, which I don't generally enjoy. At least it mostly refrains from mentioning any specific social media sites. Unless the book is specifically set in a past timeframe that's so far removed from my own, and they need to include those little nuances to set up the time of the story, I don't want to read specific things that date a story as it can completely take me out of the imaginary world bubble.

Was the book perfect? No, but I had a ton of fun reading it. The cover art is super cute and the book doesn't feel too long, though maybe a bit too short - as I felt like the end could've used just a bit more detail and insight into things. I would recommend this one to anyone though who is in it for a fun quick read.

Thank you to Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!

I can tell Kate Robb is going to be one of my new faves for contemporary romance with a touch of magic. Within the first few pages, I knew I would love Kate’s voice, which has a wry charm and energy I could comp to any of the witty, bantery romcom greats.

Sometimes, we all wish we’d taken a different path in life. Risk-allergic Gemma makes that wish over a spell involving jerk chicken thighs and a kiss from her best friend Dax. It feels like a harmless drunken antidote to getting dumped by a guy she would have sworn was safe…until she wakes up the next morning in some other Gemma’s life. Gemma will have to figure out how not to screw up the dream job she suddenly has but doesn’t know how to do, and how to make friends with Dax again, all while waiting for the moon to come into phase to try to reverse the spell. But what happens if she falls in love and start thinking about staying right where she is…?

Kate’s humor and talent show on every page of this magical read. There are so many funny and true lines (which I will not spoil, although please believe I want to!). Gemma is supremely relatable in her journey to reconciling the risks and rewards she’ll need to take to have the life she’s always wanted, and Robb is serving top-quality book boyfriend with vulnerable, thoughtful, incredibly hot Dax. Get this book on your TBR for October 2023, ASAP!!

Thanks to Netgalley and The Dial Press for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.

this was okay, but read a little juvenile and i didn't feel connected to the characters or what happens to them at all. i can see other reader enjoying this a lot tho!

— thanks to the publisher and netgalley for the free digital ARC.

3.75 rounded up to 4

Thank you to NetGalley and Kate Robb for a chance to read this ARC

This book was really enjoyable. Is it a concept that has been done before? Yes! But Robb does it well and it yields an adorable engrossing debut novel with a swoon worthy Dax and an adorable (slightly flighty) Gemma plus a handful of sidekick-worthy additional characters.

My 2 criticisms are the fact that Kiersten and aunt Lily were very quick to simply accept Gemma's "I'm in an alternate reality " declaration and the end was more abrupt than I like. Would have liked a little more wrap up. Overall however those 2 things are super minor!!

Who wouldn’t want a chance to relive their lives by making different choices? But as the old adage goes, be careful what you wish for.

This Spells Love by Kate Robb gives us much to love with this fun story. Drunk magic, quirky characters, a gorgeous guy whose friendship means everything. The chemistry between best friends Gemma and Dax is spot on in both realities.

Someone must have put a spell on me because I fell in love with this book. 4.5 ⭐

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group – Random House for this complimentary ARC. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #ThisSpellsLove #NetGalley

Okay, now this debut novel-it gives RomCom movie feels. It has that vibe that makes me feel like a film; it’s witty, cute, with the appropriate amount of sparks. Also the main characters Gemma and Dax are freaking adorable. It really makes you think too all of us have thought about doing a complete life do over thinking it will solve all of our problems…but does it? The friends to lovers vibe is endearing sweet and inviting and the chemistry is good to last the whole book. Such a great read!

Okay this was actually so adorable. I was worried the whole magical element wouldn't work. I don't usually read like "magical" romance, though not sure this truly apply since it's more just a "spell." There are no witches here. Dax was absolutely my favorite. He's just such a cutie and everything about was perfect. The end had me grinning so hard for him. Probably one of my fave friends to lovers book.

This book is amazing! I love the concept of “reliving” your life and making different choices. I loved all the characters! They were hilarious, strong and intriguing. The romance in this is 10/10!

“Sometimes the best risks are the ones you take with your heart.”

This Spells Love by Kate Robb was a wonderful, engrossing read!

I have not read a new adult book with this type of alternate reality plot line before and I was surprised how much I enjoyed it! I really liked our MCs- Gemma was funny and heartfelt, and Dax was swoony. The story was the perfect blend of romance and magic. I thought that it was nice that they did not go too hard into the magic bits- the navigation in her new timeline felt organic and not overdone. I also enjoyed the humor within this story and her relationship to Kiersten and her aunt Livie. Solid supporting characters!

What I would have liked more of is getting to know Gemma and Dax’s relationship a little more before the alternate reality came into play. While I did enjoy getting to learn about them through her re-meeting him, I feel like the story would have had a much more emotional punch for me personally if we knew him well before the world shifted. That is my only minor thing with the story. You can see how he is smitten in the beginning but I feel like he is a little stilted and awkward with her and he is not like that at all in the alternate timeline so it almost felt out of character for me just a little? But also too, he probably was uncomfortable and pining so much that it caused him to be that way. I don’t know- I am conflicted on my own opinion hahaha.

I thought that Gemma was really a relatable character- while to some she may come across a little juvenile, I found that she was very real and emotionally charged in her choices throughout the story. I think that leading with your heart is how most people are wired, but when we see it on the page a lot of people are like wow that is silly. I don’t find it to be silly! I think that is the realist we can be. Love me a person who is not afraid to wear their heart on their sleeve.

I also loved how cute the cover was. I was not disappointed in this read at all! Read it nonstop and finished it in one sitting. Really a funny read full of heart. I am excited to read whatever Kate Robb writes next!

🌟🌟🌟🌟.25/5🌟

Thank you to Random House Publishing Group and NetGalley for providing an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!

Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to read this book! I really really enjoyed it. Gemma and Dax relationship was my favorite. They were best friends who became lovers. I feel like the spell she did was definitley to show her just how in love with Dax she’s always been. She got out of her own way and let herself love him. Aunt Lilli is the best, so witty and funny! Kiersten is also the best sister, she knew Gemma always settled and never went after what she wanted and I’m so glad she did! Such a cute friends to lovers, comedy/romance novel!