Never having read anything by this author, I went into the book with no specific expectations. As I started the book, I realized that it had a magical theme that that piqued my interest! The setting in Carmel, CA, also added to magical feel remembering how beautiful that area is! I found the writing style simple and easy to read.. it went quickly for me and I liked that. The story itself was also a bit simplistic but the main characters were so sweet and likable that when I reached the ending, I really thought about what the story was trying to convey. It was refreshing to finish a book and feel uplifted about characters that were kind, moral, and giving people and to have good triumph over evil. And that magic can be found wherever we choose to see it—-even in Sourdough bread starter!

Firstly, thank you to NetGalley and 47North for the ARC of this book.

Going into this book, the premise of a magic sourdough starter and a strong female lead character was what drew me to read this story. It seemed whimsical and suspenseful.

It started off engaging as I got to know Fayette, Mrs. Fitz, and Rex. I do have to note that the character development of Fayette and Rex was especially strong, and I enjoyed following their journey.

However, as the plot progressed, I found that certain elements became unclear, with a few narrative gaps that left me feeling a bit lost. While I understand it’s a work of fiction, the portrayal of the 1920s setting didn’t always feel authentic or fully grounded in the era.

Additionally, some of the supporting characters felt underdeveloped, which made it harder to connect with them. Overall, the idea behind the story was cute and fun, but parts of the execution felt a bit muddy. It had potential, but I was left wanting a bit more cohesion and depth.

In 1926, writer Fayette Wynne seeks solitude in Carmel-by-the-Sea to complete her work, accompanied only by her family's sourdough starter. Bitter over its failure to save her mother, she aims to overcome her grief.

During a storm, she rescues actor Rex Hallstrom, and they take refuge in a mysterious house that seems to welcome them. This sentient home recognizes Fayette's unique magic.

As their bond grows, they uncover local legends about the house's cursed origins linked to Hell. Despite its dark secrets, it offers them unexpected solace and renewal.

I have noticed that in the US, authors believe that magical realism means writing about magical food, and I am a little tired of that trope. Magical Realism means so very much more. I did enjoy the other aspects of the novel, but I do hope more authors start using magical realism in different ways, other than food and bakeries.

Okay, who would’ve thought a sentient house would end up being one of my favourite characters? And that I’d love a book with magical sourdough starter? (Scratch that - all sourdough starters are magical, I’ve never quite worked out sourdough)

A House Between Sea and Sky left me utterly charmed. Set in 1920s California, it follows the adventures of grieving movie writer Fayette, who befriends Hollywood megastar Rex at a particularly difficult time in both their lives. They seek shelter in a house that is maybe not a house, in the common sense of the word. It incorporates Russian mythology and history with Old Hollywood intrigue and small town legends.

There’s some pretty solid ace representation (though that specific terminology isn’t used and I’m not a member of that community) in it thanks to our lead character, and a lot of emphasis on the joy and importance of platonic love, down to the delight of finding a new friend who is most definitely one of your people.

I also really want to shout out the amazing research Beth Cato did for this book. The slang, companies, and history have all been meticulously researched. It really made Carmel-by-the-Sea come alive.

I loved the journey Fayette went on, how you could see her grow and change. To me, it was a very cozy read, with enough mystery and mayhem (well, mayhem of sorts) to keep me very interested in. It gave me similar vibes to Travis Baldree’s Legends and Lattes. If you’re into the cozy, descriptions of food that make you hungry, with magical going-ons vibe, you’ll definitely enjoy A House Between Sea and Sky.

I can say that this is a fresh and different take on magical realism with a blend of historical fiction.

Here’s what I find interesting:
- The magical sourdough starter named Mother. It is about 100 years old and has been in the Fayette’s family for generations. When it used for baking by Fayette’s family members, the resulting bread will contain magic that can cure various diseases, and also provide comfort.
- The magical house! The house is situated on the cliff edge and only reveals itself to those it likes. Fayette and Rex, our MCs here, are even invited inside to take shelter and explore. And it has its own POV!
- A mysterious girl named Heidi.
- The silent conversation between the house and the sourdough starter.

One downside, I think, is that there are too many casual conversations. This is likely intended to highlight the friendship that develops between Fayette and Rex. Indeed, their friendship is quite unique. A famous actor and an ordinary writer met because of a tragedy in Carmel, California. At times, I found myself bored with all the conversations.

The main premise about the house's secrets is not explored much. The villain character that made an appearance at the beginning was very captivating and made me curious. However, the conflict at the end was not worth my wait. It felt rushed. I think that the conflict between the villain and Heidi could be improved to be more intriguing.

In general, the premise and magical elements in this book are intriguing. If you enjoy a lot of conversation, this book may be for you!

Thank you to NetGalley and Publisher for the ARC.

This was odd in the best possible way. I never thought a house would be my favorite character in a book, but house and mother said “never say never.” An incredibly sweet, mysterious, and quite addicting read. I love the idea of objects being magically sentient, and Cato’s storytelling was just what I needed right now. A lot of joy was experienced while reading this, so thank you!

The synopsis drew me in as it was a step out of my comfort zone. The writing style was good and clear, but the plot felt a little muddled. The magical sourdough starter didn’t work for me much but that is personal preference. I do appreciate the creativity in it though and think it would work well for others, but it unfortunately was not up my alley.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC!

I like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for allowing this book as a free read.

This is one of those books that have an intellectual vague approach when it comes to the narrative and its characters. If you're a fan of that and in your fantasy stories (or fiction in general) then this may be the proper book for you. It was also the first time I tried to engage myself with this authors writing.

I made it 15% into the book before DNF-ing. The reasons are:

The main female character didn't really get much personality, or you feel like you're seeing things on her level. Everything felt discussed / described as if you were standing behind a see through wall. Look, but don't touch. See but don't hear. I got as far as her finding the male, saving him, taking him back to his party, and then her departing.

There is a fantasy aspect with the sentient cabin, but even still, the cabin - too - felt like it was speaking in a detached, intellectual stand-point.

I was here for experiencing the journey that two people (broken in different ways) become friends and heal, with help of this magical cabin, but I think what I got wasn't really what I was expecting.

Was a fantastic book that i thoroughly recommend and will be buying as I need a trophy version lol. I enjoying the different dynamics at play between the main characters especially towards the end.