My first Heather Fawcett book absolutely did not disappoint this was absolutely such a perfect, whimsical fantasy that honestly ended up really gearing up in action levels towards the end which kind of gave it a really unique vibe that I really enjoyed. i think it also was really fun to have a 'normal, human' character as the main character in a world full of magic and how regular people would be negatively affected by magic in real life i think that was a unique premise that I don't often read about. The prose and 'whimsy' magical element kinda reminded me of a cosy translated korean or japanese fic which i personally really enjoyed, and I found it really fun that by the end of the novel it had almost turned into a semi-high fantasy with a time travel element (that was wrapped up really nicely) as well as a lot of 'magical battles' between the magicians.

Agnes is one of my favourite mature-age FMC's in a fantasy novel, her backstory with Robin was so perfect and I thought her character was just so warm and loving. Her relationship with Eloise was also so heartwarming Eloise was a perfect supporting character. Agnes and Havelock's relationship was SO CUTE I thought it was a perfect 'slowburn' in the way that you could tell it was coming but also you could see the hesitation from both character's just due to who they are and their past, their relationship growth was really cute. I would've liked a bit more from Valerie her motivation as a villain felt a bit unconvincing to me but also i know that definitely wasn't the focus of the novel so I kinda understood. As a whole I'm now even more excited to read Emily Wilde and more of Heather's works !

Cantankerous cats, grumpy magicians and an enchanted oven. I thoroughly enjoyed this spellbinding, cosy story.

In a world where only a handful of humans are born with magical abilities, magicians are known for breaking the law, trading in illegal artefacts and duelling in the middle of the street with no regard for their destruction. Agnes, an optimistic owner of a cat charity is forced to relocate after a duel gone wrong and finds herself tangled up, much to her dismay, in a magical situation.

All Agnes wants to do is rescue cats off the street and re-home them, but she gets a lot more than she bargained for when she meets her new landlord.

I loved this story so much. It was wholesome, warm but filled with a bit of adventure and magic. The story kept a steady pace and I found it so easy to immerse myself into this story. The writing was wonderful, there were so many descriptive words that really painted the scenes in your mind. There's a minor story of romance woven through this but its not spicy or anything so don't be expecting any smut. It's still has moments that give you butterflies though.

Overall I really enjoyed this an absolutely will be getting a physical copy upon release.

I read this as an ARC via netgalley

I’ve been manifesting the cosy fantasy comeback of 2026 and THIS book delivered everything I wanted and more. 🐾✨
Agnes Aubert’s Mystical Cat Shelter by Heather Fawcett is my most anticipated cosy fantasy read of 2026, and getting to dive in early felt like being wrapped in a warm blanket with a cup of tea and a purring cat on my lap.

This story is whimsical, charming, and delightfully magical in the softest, most comforting way. From the enchanting little village to the mischievous, personality-packed cats (some with more… talents… than expected 👀), every page felt like stepping into a world I didn’t want to leave.

If you love gentle magic, found-family vibes, quiet mysteries, and books that feel like a slow exhale, add this one straight to your 2026 TBR. I’m already obsessed. 💕🐈✨

Thank you so much to @heather_fawcett , @hachetteaus, and @netgalley for the ARC copy — I feel so lucky to have read this early!