Garden Spells, Sarah Addison Allen

The Waverley family has always been a bit peculiar.  Between the magic apple tree and the gifts each member of the family has, none of them can claim normality.  Claire Waverley has never wanted to and after a tumultuous childhood, has been content to take her grandmother’s place as the now much smaller family’s head.  Her sister, Sydney, is different, and has spent her early adulthood traveling the country, engaging in relationships with dangerous men.  When Sydney fears her daughter Bay is in danger, she returns to Bascom and to her sister, for a reunion Claire never suspected and a pleasing change in circumstances for both women.

If I had to describe this book in one word, it would be enchanting, which is conveniently also on the cover of my copy.  The characters are charming, the small town is very typical of small towns with some magic involved, and the story is compelling (if somewhat predictable).  I wanted Claire and Sydney to put aside their differences.  I wished they’d get past their own problems and embrace happiness when it was offered.  The romantic bits were sweet and suitable.  It’s hard to put the book down; I could predict what was going to happen, but I really liked seeing it happen, too!

All in all, this is a quick, light read that will bring a smile to your face by the end. Buy this book on Amazon.