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Spells for Lost Things
Willow has never felt like she belonged anywhere and is convinced that the only way to find a true home is to travel the world. But her plans to act on her dream are put on hold when her aloof and often absent mother drags Willow to Salem, Massachusetts, to wrap up the affairs of an aunt Willow didn’t even know she had. An aunt who may or may not have been a witch.
There, she meets Mason, a loner who’s always felt out of place and has been in and out of foster homes his entire life. He’s been classified as one of the runaways, constantly searching for ways to make it back to his mom; even if she can’t take care of him, it’s his job to try and take care of her. Isn’t it?
Naturally pulled to one another, Willow and Mason set out across Salem to discover the secret past of Willow’s mother, her aunt, and the ambiguous history of her family. During all of this, the two can’t help but act on their natural connection. But with the amount of baggage between them—and Willow’s growing conviction her family might be cursed—can they manage to hold onto each other?
From the New York Times bestselling author of Love & Gelato comes a poignant and romantic novel about two teens trying to find their place in the world after being unceremoniously dragged to Salem, Massachusetts, for the summer.
There, she meets Mason, a loner who’s always felt out of place and has been in and out of foster homes his entire life. He’s been classified as one of the runaways, constantly searching for ways to make it back to his mom; even if she can’t take care of him, it’s his job to try and take care of her. Isn’t it?
Naturally pulled to one another, Willow and Mason set out across Salem to discover the secret past of Willow’s mother, her aunt, and the ambiguous history of her family. During all of this, the two can’t help but act on their natural connection. But with the amount of baggage between them—and Willow’s growing conviction her family might be cursed—can they manage to hold onto each other?
From the New York Times bestselling author of Love & Gelato comes a poignant and romantic novel about two teens trying to find their place in the world after being unceremoniously dragged to Salem, Massachusetts, for the summer.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published September 27, 2022
401 people are currently reading
25035 people want to read
About the author
Jenna Evans Welch
6 books6,034 followersJenna Evans Welch was the kind of insatiable child reader who had no choice but to grow up to become a writer. She is the New York Times Bestselling author of LOVE & GELATO and the upcoming LOVE & LUCK. When she isn’t writing girl abroad stories, Jenna can be found chasing her children or making elaborate messes in the kitchen. She lives in Salt Lake City, Utah with her husband and two young children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,515 reviews
October 4, 2022
awww, i think this actually might be JEWs best written book. each sentence is purposeful, meaningful, and just so, so lovely. and the story itself is everything that is wonderful with the YA genre.
it focuses on the limitless possibilities of youth and the ability to forge whatever path you want, the comfort of family (whether its the one that you are born into or the one that finds you), the sweetness of friendships that become first loves, and the magic of small towns.
also, i think fans of astronomy and the human connection to space will really enjoy mason as a character. all of the quotes i would have highlighted if i annotated books came from his chapters.
but overall, a very sweet, if not innocent, story that has a lot to offer.
↠ 4.5 stars
it focuses on the limitless possibilities of youth and the ability to forge whatever path you want, the comfort of family (whether its the one that you are born into or the one that finds you), the sweetness of friendships that become first loves, and the magic of small towns.
also, i think fans of astronomy and the human connection to space will really enjoy mason as a character. all of the quotes i would have highlighted if i annotated books came from his chapters.
but overall, a very sweet, if not innocent, story that has a lot to offer.
↠ 4.5 stars
March 18, 2025
**4.5-stars rounded up**
Willow dreams of traveling the world. Her first big move would be a study aboard program in France for her entire Senior year, but her Mom puts a big kibosh on that idea before it even gets off the ground.
Feeling confused by her mother's detached nature, Willow is further surprised when her Mom tells her they need to leave immediately to travel to Salem, Massachusetts, to settle the estate of an Aunt that Willow has never even heard of. Her mother had a sister!?
Yeah, Willow had no clue. Her Mom doesn't talk a lot about her early life, but this is pushing it even for her.
Not really having an option in the matter, Willow goes along for the journey. In a way it's what she wants, to travel. She's intrigued by the quirky little town they discover and the people, even quirkier.
Mason has been in and out of the Boston foster care system for a while. Some placements have been okay, some have been bad, but his end goal has always remained the same. He needs to get back to his Mom. They belong together.
Mason was removed from his mother's care because she is an addict, who has been unable to care for him. Now he is getting ready to go into a new placement. It's a little different this time, as the woman, Emma, was once best friends with his Mom.
Emma lives with her husband and their four daughters in Salem, Massachusetts.
They're both new in town, strangers to everyone, but when their paths randomly cross one night under the bright New England stars, it seems like Willow and Mason were fated to know one another.
The two become fast friends as he helps her try to solve a mystery involving her mother's family. All the while she's helping him with his own life without even realizing it.
Y'all, this book left me speechless. It's definitely a slow burn, but man, did it creep up on me with a vengeance. The last few chapters held so many moments that brought tears to my eyes, choked me up, left me gasping with the beauty of it all.
I have read all of Jenna Evans Welch's other novels and have enjoyed them all, giving both Love & Gelato and Love & Olives 5-stars, but this book has a power behind it that none of those had.
Those are great books, but this is a special book. It's a heavy hitter that has the ability to open hearts and minds to perspectives that may not have been considered before. That's some serious stuff.
Both Willow and Mason are on the cusp of adulthood and both have visions of what they want their futures to be like. Unfortunately, both of them are struggling with unresolved family issues that could put a serious damper on their abilities to thrive.
I loved how they came together at the right time and were able to both gain insight from one another that helped them with their own path.
Although their circumstances are completely different, I think they found unlikely allies with one another and that was something they both desperately needed.
In addition to the hard-hitting Contemporary story, I loved just the overall feel of this book. Due to the setting, which plays such a role in this story, it really has a great, cozy Autumn vibe.
If you are looking for an atmospheric Autumnal read, but maybe aren't a fan of Horror, or spooky stories, this could be a great fit for you. You'll want to grab a hot beverage, some tissues and a cozy sweater as you get swept away by this engaging tale of love, magic, family and friendship.
I definitely recommend it!!
Thank you so much to the publisher, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
I cannot wait to see what Jenna Evans Welch gives us next!!
Willow dreams of traveling the world. Her first big move would be a study aboard program in France for her entire Senior year, but her Mom puts a big kibosh on that idea before it even gets off the ground.
Feeling confused by her mother's detached nature, Willow is further surprised when her Mom tells her they need to leave immediately to travel to Salem, Massachusetts, to settle the estate of an Aunt that Willow has never even heard of. Her mother had a sister!?
Yeah, Willow had no clue. Her Mom doesn't talk a lot about her early life, but this is pushing it even for her.
Not really having an option in the matter, Willow goes along for the journey. In a way it's what she wants, to travel. She's intrigued by the quirky little town they discover and the people, even quirkier.
Mason has been in and out of the Boston foster care system for a while. Some placements have been okay, some have been bad, but his end goal has always remained the same. He needs to get back to his Mom. They belong together.
Mason was removed from his mother's care because she is an addict, who has been unable to care for him. Now he is getting ready to go into a new placement. It's a little different this time, as the woman, Emma, was once best friends with his Mom.
Emma lives with her husband and their four daughters in Salem, Massachusetts.
They're both new in town, strangers to everyone, but when their paths randomly cross one night under the bright New England stars, it seems like Willow and Mason were fated to know one another.
The two become fast friends as he helps her try to solve a mystery involving her mother's family. All the while she's helping him with his own life without even realizing it.
Y'all, this book left me speechless. It's definitely a slow burn, but man, did it creep up on me with a vengeance. The last few chapters held so many moments that brought tears to my eyes, choked me up, left me gasping with the beauty of it all.
I have read all of Jenna Evans Welch's other novels and have enjoyed them all, giving both Love & Gelato and Love & Olives 5-stars, but this book has a power behind it that none of those had.
Those are great books, but this is a special book. It's a heavy hitter that has the ability to open hearts and minds to perspectives that may not have been considered before. That's some serious stuff.
Both Willow and Mason are on the cusp of adulthood and both have visions of what they want their futures to be like. Unfortunately, both of them are struggling with unresolved family issues that could put a serious damper on their abilities to thrive.
I loved how they came together at the right time and were able to both gain insight from one another that helped them with their own path.
Although their circumstances are completely different, I think they found unlikely allies with one another and that was something they both desperately needed.
In addition to the hard-hitting Contemporary story, I loved just the overall feel of this book. Due to the setting, which plays such a role in this story, it really has a great, cozy Autumn vibe.
If you are looking for an atmospheric Autumnal read, but maybe aren't a fan of Horror, or spooky stories, this could be a great fit for you. You'll want to grab a hot beverage, some tissues and a cozy sweater as you get swept away by this engaging tale of love, magic, family and friendship.
I definitely recommend it!!
Thank you so much to the publisher, Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
I cannot wait to see what Jenna Evans Welch gives us next!!
March 18, 2024
➳ 4!☆
🎧 now playing - mastermind & this is me trying
➳ what if I told you none of it was accidental, and the first night that you saw me, nothing was gonna stop me?
this read was SO unexpected. i'm sad its over. i had such an enjoyable time!! from the ambiance to the characters, it was done effortlessly. this is a stunning example of the YA genre. done in a mature & thoughtfulway. i assumed this was gonna be a bit cringe & a 3 star read. boy, i was wrong. 😭
i mean, dont you love books that just surprise you? this story suck you in with a dual POV, family history, & a magical essence in a small town. 2 teens trying to find their place in the world. super bittersweet when i finished 🥹
𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 🪐
↠ the plot:i honestly didn't know where the plot was going to go down. it could've gone so many ways. i liked how this one turned out tho. i wouldn't exactly call it "magical realism" but it had witchy elements & i LOVED how it was set in salem, massachusetts i love exploring different places around the world in books! 🤭
↠ the pacing:on top of that, it was a super fast-paced book! i was intrigued, on both ends. following both our main characters till they had their meet-cute. i LOVE how they connected 😍 it was fate, i swear. but oh, i just loved how it all clicked, what an interesting standalone.
↠ overall experience:LOVE! im glad i picked this up when i did, what a fun summer/spring read, i cant WAIT for that season tehe. but overall,if you're waiting to read this, i recommend! cant say its my entire fav, since this is not my book taste. but it was fun exploring this genre. the story is so wholesome, also talking about deeper topics. but yeah have funn!! 🤭
𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 🪐
↠ willow -"life was a willow and it bent right to your..."ah i loved her character!! her love for traveling is real. manifesting that rn. ALSO - i loved bea, i wish she want to paris 😭 but its ok lmao. & omg her family history & her mom ☹ wow.im crying. her family dynamic is so cool, shes v relatable, im glad shes happier 🥹
↠ mason -aw i hope hes okay now, he deserves sm. him & willow>> fate!! his story js wow. go read it, & i LOVE emma, im so glad he has her. i also love his hobbies: stargazing, journaling, hes so smart. he also grew on me him & willow are so relateable for their ages.
yeah, overall i love all the existing character, books need strong characters for it to be good
↳"he means a beginning like us. and the realization is so big & bursting, so completely right, that it completely outshines every other reason im here."
↳"she jumps into my arms, and then her mouth is on mine, & what im feeling is bigger than anything i've every experienced. a star exploding. atoms reversing themselves." bigger than the whole sky fr.
↳"until then, i keep my eyes on the stars."
➳ mini playlist
✮ everything i wanted
✮ mastermind
✮ cardigan
✮ exile
✮ betty
✮ clean
✮ talking to the moon
✮ willow
and i can go anywhere i want, anywhere i want, just not home. - so if im dead to you, why are you at the wake? cursing my name, wishing i stayed, look at how my tears richochet
୨୧・・・・୨୧
POST - READ! [mar 14, 24]
um wow?? why did i love this sm. best read in march so far!! super unexpected, i thought this would be a measly 3 stars help. this was a flawless example of the YA genre, every sentence had meaning, it was mature. i needed more. cutest three days ever. RTC! 🤧 whew, that was precious
preview!!
i have no clue whats going on with all the contemporary romance books, BUT this one is like magical realism so 🤭 i remember wanting to read this back in 2022, but sort of outgrew the want, of WANTING to read thishelp so here we are 😀 my mom was able to get this for free along with other books. who doesnt love free books?? and icl the cover is kinda giving. i have some excited march reads, that im WAITING FOR. but ive seen some 5 stars, and the synopsis is great, so lets see how this goes! 💝
"this is magic. this is fate. this is meant to be. she is my sign."
🎧 now playing - mastermind & this is me trying
➳ what if I told you none of it was accidental, and the first night that you saw me, nothing was gonna stop me?
this read was SO unexpected. i'm sad its over. i had such an enjoyable time!! from the ambiance to the characters, it was done effortlessly. this is a stunning example of the YA genre. done in a mature & thoughtfulway. i assumed this was gonna be a bit cringe & a 3 star read. boy, i was wrong. 😭
i mean, dont you love books that just surprise you? this story suck you in with a dual POV, family history, & a magical essence in a small town. 2 teens trying to find their place in the world. super bittersweet when i finished 🥹
𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 🪐
↠ the plot:i honestly didn't know where the plot was going to go down. it could've gone so many ways. i liked how this one turned out tho. i wouldn't exactly call it "magical realism" but it had witchy elements & i LOVED how it was set in salem, massachusetts i love exploring different places around the world in books! 🤭
↠ the pacing:on top of that, it was a super fast-paced book! i was intrigued, on both ends. following both our main characters till they had their meet-cute. i LOVE how they connected 😍 it was fate, i swear. but oh, i just loved how it all clicked, what an interesting standalone.
↠ overall experience:LOVE! im glad i picked this up when i did, what a fun summer/spring read, i cant WAIT for that season tehe. but overall,if you're waiting to read this, i recommend! cant say its my entire fav, since this is not my book taste. but it was fun exploring this genre. the story is so wholesome, also talking about deeper topics. but yeah have funn!! 🤭
𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 🪐
↠ willow -"life was a willow and it bent right to your..."ah i loved her character!! her love for traveling is real. manifesting that rn. ALSO - i loved bea, i wish she want to paris 😭 but its ok lmao. & omg her family history & her mom ☹ wow.im crying. her family dynamic is so cool, shes v relatable, im glad shes happier 🥹
↠ mason -aw i hope hes okay now, he deserves sm. him & willow>> fate!! his story js wow. go read it, & i LOVE emma, im so glad he has her. i also love his hobbies: stargazing, journaling, hes so smart. he also grew on me him & willow are so relateable for their ages.
yeah, overall i love all the existing character, books need strong characters for it to be good
↳"he means a beginning like us. and the realization is so big & bursting, so completely right, that it completely outshines every other reason im here."
↳"she jumps into my arms, and then her mouth is on mine, & what im feeling is bigger than anything i've every experienced. a star exploding. atoms reversing themselves." bigger than the whole sky fr.
↳"until then, i keep my eyes on the stars."
➳ mini playlist
✮ everything i wanted
✮ mastermind
✮ cardigan
✮ exile
✮ betty
✮ clean
✮ talking to the moon
✮ willow
and i can go anywhere i want, anywhere i want, just not home. - so if im dead to you, why are you at the wake? cursing my name, wishing i stayed, look at how my tears richochet
୨୧・・・・୨୧
POST - READ! [mar 14, 24]
um wow?? why did i love this sm. best read in march so far!! super unexpected, i thought this would be a measly 3 stars help. this was a flawless example of the YA genre, every sentence had meaning, it was mature. i needed more. cutest three days ever. RTC! 🤧 whew, that was precious
preview!!
i have no clue whats going on with all the contemporary romance books, BUT this one is like magical realism so 🤭 i remember wanting to read this back in 2022, but sort of outgrew the want, of WANTING to read this
August 29, 2022
This has to be one of my most favorites books by Welch to date.
I adored everything about it. From the hint of magic. to the real life issues that almost anyone, some how can relate to, the family dynamics, in all their different sizes, shapes and forms and of course, the absolutely endearing love this book has. Everything about it was truly magical and I couldn't get enough of it.
I found myself constantly thinking about the characters whenever I had to regretfully put the book down and I was so sad that it ended while at the same time being perfectly happy and content with how it ended. I did not want this beautiful, deep, wonderfully magical story to be over and I know this will be one I will be thinking about long after I have finished it.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
I adored everything about it. From the hint of magic. to the real life issues that almost anyone, some how can relate to, the family dynamics, in all their different sizes, shapes and forms and of course, the absolutely endearing love this book has. Everything about it was truly magical and I couldn't get enough of it.
I found myself constantly thinking about the characters whenever I had to regretfully put the book down and I was so sad that it ended while at the same time being perfectly happy and content with how it ended. I did not want this beautiful, deep, wonderfully magical story to be over and I know this will be one I will be thinking about long after I have finished it.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
September 10, 2022
Review coming soon.
October 28, 2022
I enjoyed this more than Love and Gelato. Jenna Evans Welch, has created a whimsical, magical world worth delving into. I can't do scary books, so this is as close as I'll get to a Halloween book.
Spells for Lost Things is the story of Willow, a teen, always an outcast. Her parents recently divorced, and the only way she feels she will find herself is if she travels.
Willow's plans are halted, when her mother tells her they are traveling to Salem, Massachusetts to uncover some covered stories from the past. Namely, an aunt Willow never knew she had. Who perhaps is a witch.
While in Salem, she meets Mason, a foster boy whose mother has abandoned him due to her drug addiction. Mason has bounced around from home to home. When Mason and Willow come together to uncover the secret of her aunt's past, they also uncover a spell that may help them find the missing parts of themselves.
Welch did a great job creating this fictional world, while still holding to the truths of our real world. It's a fun story, chronicling the healing power of love and friendship. It's got just enough whimsical elements to be intriguing.
Review of other books by Jenna Evans Welch:
Love and Gelato
Spells for Lost Things is the story of Willow, a teen, always an outcast. Her parents recently divorced, and the only way she feels she will find herself is if she travels.
Willow's plans are halted, when her mother tells her they are traveling to Salem, Massachusetts to uncover some covered stories from the past. Namely, an aunt Willow never knew she had. Who perhaps is a witch.
While in Salem, she meets Mason, a foster boy whose mother has abandoned him due to her drug addiction. Mason has bounced around from home to home. When Mason and Willow come together to uncover the secret of her aunt's past, they also uncover a spell that may help them find the missing parts of themselves.
Welch did a great job creating this fictional world, while still holding to the truths of our real world. It's a fun story, chronicling the healing power of love and friendship. It's got just enough whimsical elements to be intriguing.
Review of other books by Jenna Evans Welch:
Love and Gelato
October 3, 2022
THIS BOOK. My heart is full. This is the type of book to make you fall in love with YA all over again! Set in Salem Massachusetts in the summer…this book is full to the brim with the magic of first love, witchcraft, lost letters and the whimsy of Salem itself.
I didn’t know what to expect other than now I’m going grabby for Jenna’s entire backlist! It’s one of those books where you forget you’re reading because you become fully immersed in the story.
I looooved Willow and Mason. Two teens who feel the weight of broken families and find peaceful solace in each other’s company. Mason is delightful and earnest and everything wholesome and good. I shed tears for his journey and loved his POV immensely. Willow was just as fabulous and I think you should definitely go meet her.
All in all this is the perfect step into fall read. I want to book my trip to Salem Massachusetts and experience the magic of the “one perfect day” in this book. This is a beautiful story that made me smile, and cry and enveloped me in a warm hug.
It is a book about the power of found family and how loving others and letting them love us can be our greatest strengths.
I didn’t know what to expect other than now I’m going grabby for Jenna’s entire backlist! It’s one of those books where you forget you’re reading because you become fully immersed in the story.
I looooved Willow and Mason. Two teens who feel the weight of broken families and find peaceful solace in each other’s company. Mason is delightful and earnest and everything wholesome and good. I shed tears for his journey and loved his POV immensely. Willow was just as fabulous and I think you should definitely go meet her.
All in all this is the perfect step into fall read. I want to book my trip to Salem Massachusetts and experience the magic of the “one perfect day” in this book. This is a beautiful story that made me smile, and cry and enveloped me in a warm hug.
It is a book about the power of found family and how loving others and letting them love us can be our greatest strengths.
September 19, 2022
Awe! I loved this one. It is definitely different than the Love & Gelato series which made it more enjoyable. I love that series don't get me wrong but it was nice to read something that felt new and fresh.
Willow didn't know her mother had such a mysterious past until she finds herself in Salem with three very eccentric aunts and letters from an aunt she never got to meet.
Mason's been searching for his mother for years and now finds himself living in a foster home consisting of his mother's childhood best friend and someone he's never known before.
I enjoyed the contemporary storyline for both Willow and Mason with all the touches of Salem. I thought their stories intertwined perfectly, the characters well developed, and it had the right amount of slow burn. I definitely recommend this to anyone who has loved Jenna Evans Welch's prior books.
Willow didn't know her mother had such a mysterious past until she finds herself in Salem with three very eccentric aunts and letters from an aunt she never got to meet.
Mason's been searching for his mother for years and now finds himself living in a foster home consisting of his mother's childhood best friend and someone he's never known before.
I enjoyed the contemporary storyline for both Willow and Mason with all the touches of Salem. I thought their stories intertwined perfectly, the characters well developed, and it had the right amount of slow burn. I definitely recommend this to anyone who has loved Jenna Evans Welch's prior books.
March 22, 2023
Opaaaa. Que YA tão fofo 🤍
Sobre família e sobre encontrarmo-nos 🤍
Review:
✨️Feitiços para coisas perdidas✨️ foi uma agradável surpresa.
Estava à espera de gostar do livro, mas não desta forma.
Primeiro que tudo, o ambiente foi muito bem construído. Adorei o facto de o livro ter como pano de fundo Salem e adorei conhecer mais sobre esta cidade histórica.✨️
As personagens ficaram com o meu coração, sendo que existiu um desenvolvimento de personagens incríveis. Adorei acompanhar o Mason e o seu caminho. AMEI a sua família e o modo como as relações se foram construído aos pedacinhos. Willow é um bom exemplo de uma personagem que se reencontra e se torna alguém melhor. Adorei saber mais sobre a sua família e acompanhá-la enquanto na sua aventura. PODEMOS FALAR DAS TIAS DELA? AMEI.
Quanto ao enredo, achei-o muito bem pensado e construído. Esta história disse-me tanto que até verti umas lágrimas.
É, sem dúvida, um dos melhores YA que já li nos últimos tempos! 5estrelas, for sure.
Sobre família e sobre encontrarmo-nos 🤍
Review:
✨️Feitiços para coisas perdidas✨️ foi uma agradável surpresa.
Estava à espera de gostar do livro, mas não desta forma.
Primeiro que tudo, o ambiente foi muito bem construído. Adorei o facto de o livro ter como pano de fundo Salem e adorei conhecer mais sobre esta cidade histórica.✨️
As personagens ficaram com o meu coração, sendo que existiu um desenvolvimento de personagens incríveis. Adorei acompanhar o Mason e o seu caminho. AMEI a sua família e o modo como as relações se foram construído aos pedacinhos. Willow é um bom exemplo de uma personagem que se reencontra e se torna alguém melhor. Adorei saber mais sobre a sua família e acompanhá-la enquanto na sua aventura. PODEMOS FALAR DAS TIAS DELA? AMEI.
Quanto ao enredo, achei-o muito bem pensado e construído. Esta história disse-me tanto que até verti umas lágrimas.
É, sem dúvida, um dos melhores YA que já li nos últimos tempos! 5estrelas, for sure.
January 3, 2023
This book hit me right in the feels, let me tell yah. Love & Gelato will still aLwAyS be my favorite, but this deep, meaningful novel? Let me just say that with it, Jenna Evans Welch has secured herself as the best, good-quality author of contemporary romance I have ever read.
In other words... this was positively splendiferous. A true gem. A diamond in the rough. A book that should be drowning in the thousands of other books just like it but manages to be bright, clear, and utterly unique.
Also, the romance literally made me blush. And if that isn't a sign of some beautifully done sparks then I don't know what is 😏
Hats off to Jenna Evans Welch, and I will impatiently await her next guaranteed-to-amaze novel. (Because seriously, WHY DOES SHE NOT HAVE MORE BOOKS?!)
God bless!
In other words... this was positively splendiferous. A true gem. A diamond in the rough. A book that should be drowning in the thousands of other books just like it but manages to be bright, clear, and utterly unique.
Also, the romance literally made me blush. And if that isn't a sign of some beautifully done sparks then I don't know what is 😏
Hats off to Jenna Evans Welch, and I will impatiently await her next guaranteed-to-amaze novel. (Because seriously, WHY DOES SHE NOT HAVE MORE BOOKS?!)
God bless!
September 18, 2022
ARC
I came close to DNF this book many times but stuck it out to give a full, honest review.
The premise of the book is interesting and could have made for an amazing story if done right. It's what drew me into the book initially. Unfortunately, in my opinion, it wasn't done the way it could have been. The setting of Salem is full of history and was one of the high points of the book but I feel like there were some missed opportunities in using that history to more fully flesh out the story.
Full of stereotypes and clichés in a way that made it pretty hard to connect to the story or the characters. The way women and girls were portrayed specifically rubbed me the wrong way a lot of the time, particularly with Mason's foster siblings. The storytelling a lot of the time came off cheesy, which isn't always a bad thing but when paired with the other issues I have just made reading it not a wholly enjoyable experience. This particular issue was more prevalent in Willow's sections, which I found as a whole less interesting than Mason's.
I did like that the story tackled the issues of addiction and the foster system. Those aren't things that are normally touched on in stories that aren't specifically marketed toward an older audience so that was nice to see.
I came close to DNF this book many times but stuck it out to give a full, honest review.
The premise of the book is interesting and could have made for an amazing story if done right. It's what drew me into the book initially. Unfortunately, in my opinion, it wasn't done the way it could have been. The setting of Salem is full of history and was one of the high points of the book but I feel like there were some missed opportunities in using that history to more fully flesh out the story.
Full of stereotypes and clichés in a way that made it pretty hard to connect to the story or the characters. The way women and girls were portrayed specifically rubbed me the wrong way a lot of the time, particularly with Mason's foster siblings. The storytelling a lot of the time came off cheesy, which isn't always a bad thing but when paired with the other issues I have just made reading it not a wholly enjoyable experience. This particular issue was more prevalent in Willow's sections, which I found as a whole less interesting than Mason's.
I did like that the story tackled the issues of addiction and the foster system. Those aren't things that are normally touched on in stories that aren't specifically marketed toward an older audience so that was nice to see.
March 23, 2023
Adorei adorei adorei 🥹
Definitivamente o meu preferido da autora e nota-se claramente a sua evolução enquanto escritora!
Diria que a história tem um ritmo lento mas as suas personagens são tão bem construídos e sentimos uma empatia tão grande por elas que a leitura torna-se super simples e viciante.
Adorei a história principal mas adorei também a história do Mason e da sua mãe.
Um livro sobre amor, amizade, família, resiliência, superação, de encontrar as coisas pequenas que dão sentido a tudo 🤍
Definitivamente o meu preferido da autora e nota-se claramente a sua evolução enquanto escritora!
Diria que a história tem um ritmo lento mas as suas personagens são tão bem construídos e sentimos uma empatia tão grande por elas que a leitura torna-se super simples e viciante.
Adorei a história principal mas adorei também a história do Mason e da sua mãe.
Um livro sobre amor, amizade, família, resiliência, superação, de encontrar as coisas pequenas que dão sentido a tudo 🤍
November 10, 2023
LOOOOOOVED.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Well this was magnificent and everything I could hope for when I picked it up. I’ve been looking forward to this book since it was announced and it’s an easy must read from me.
I loved the plot surrounding Willow, dealing with the fallout of her parent’s divorce, and Mason, dealing with the foster care system and wanting to know where his Mom is located. Both of these teens flat out needed some LOVE. And by golly, they found that and more. As someone who had to deal with her own parent’s divorce I felt really seen by many of the things Willow mentioned and talked about.
There is a very subtle romance between Willow and Mason that is just the sweetest. Why not at the forefront of the book (don’t think this is a romance please!), it gave both characters another layer to their stories and I adored it all the more. I loved how unassuming and caring they were to one another. Allowing the chance to be seen and heard and just to have someone on their side. My heart was an absolute puddle.
Misty eyes found their way to me with some of those ending conversations with parents and guardians. It was incredible and beautiful and pulled at every heart string I have. I loved this book and all it presented. READ IT.
Overall audience notes:
- YA Contemporary + Romance
- Language: very little
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: divorce, a parent with a substance abuse
BLOG || INSTAGRAM
Well this was magnificent and everything I could hope for when I picked it up. I’ve been looking forward to this book since it was announced and it’s an easy must read from me.
I loved the plot surrounding Willow, dealing with the fallout of her parent’s divorce, and Mason, dealing with the foster care system and wanting to know where his Mom is located. Both of these teens flat out needed some LOVE. And by golly, they found that and more. As someone who had to deal with her own parent’s divorce I felt really seen by many of the things Willow mentioned and talked about.
There is a very subtle romance between Willow and Mason that is just the sweetest. Why not at the forefront of the book (don’t think this is a romance please!), it gave both characters another layer to their stories and I adored it all the more. I loved how unassuming and caring they were to one another. Allowing the chance to be seen and heard and just to have someone on their side. My heart was an absolute puddle.
Misty eyes found their way to me with some of those ending conversations with parents and guardians. It was incredible and beautiful and pulled at every heart string I have. I loved this book and all it presented. READ IT.
Overall audience notes:
- YA Contemporary + Romance
- Language: very little
- Romance: kisses
- Violence: low
- Trigger/Content Warnings: divorce, a parent with a substance abuse
September 26, 2023
Oh man, I wanted to dnf this book SO many times. I assumed I would eventually get some magic or the salem cozy mystery ambiance that I was after.
But this is a straight teen melodrama with an aftertaste of some spellwork. And like yeah I get it, there’s a lot
going on in the teenage brain: lots of insecurity, family drama, emotions are swaying, and everything is a big deal!
But the characters themselves felt completly one-dimensional. The plot stood still while the love interest Mason wondered where his mom ran off to while Willow never felt like she belonged, just needs to get away and see the world. Oh, and her mom is a cold bitch.
Like, I kid you not, it was these sentiments repeated over and over again. Nothing about how this story played out made me care or feel any attachment to these two love birds. I also found the witchy aunts were just a copy-paste of so many other books/movies.
90% in and I just shut my brain off and kept reading to say I finished.
But this is a straight teen melodrama with an aftertaste of some spellwork. And like yeah I get it, there’s a lot
going on in the teenage brain: lots of insecurity, family drama, emotions are swaying, and everything is a big deal!
But the characters themselves felt completly one-dimensional. The plot stood still while the love interest Mason wondered where his mom ran off to while Willow never felt like she belonged, just needs to get away and see the world. Oh, and her mom is a cold bitch.
Like, I kid you not, it was these sentiments repeated over and over again. Nothing about how this story played out made me care or feel any attachment to these two love birds. I also found the witchy aunts were just a copy-paste of so many other books/movies.
90% in and I just shut my brain off and kept reading to say I finished.
January 26, 2025
i love jenna evans welch dearly but this was not her best work. don’t get me wrong, the characters were precious, and i would fend off any attackers of them with a stick, BUT…there was something missing. the pacing of the novel was incredibly slow, and the dual POV really held me back from appreciating the relationship between willow and mason. they also suffered from a case of instalove and oddly enough, there were barely any hijinks in the works. ugh. sadness.
October 18, 2022
2.5 rounded up
I just Could Not connect with this book. Mason’s POV was so much more compelling the Willows and I believe it was the only reason I finished this book. I am striking out with Spooktober reads lately.
I just Could Not connect with this book. Mason’s POV was so much more compelling the Willows and I believe it was the only reason I finished this book. I am striking out with Spooktober reads lately.
October 21, 2022
this book was not it.
November 14, 2023
lowk boring and the guy had long hair so :(
October 11, 2022
Spells for Lost Things was an emotional tale filled with family, friendship, love and hints of magic. This book reached into my heart so easily. The characters were so vivid and bright. The story-line made me read this book way too fast. I loved every minute of it, even the moments that made me cry. If you're looking for a sweet young adult story filled with magic, first love, family mysteries and deep emotions, then definitely make for sure you have this one on your tbr!
We alternated the story between Willow and Mason, and both of them were both so easy to connect with. Willow felt adrift in the world. Her passion in life was traveling. With divorced parents who were both too busy to give her their time, Willow felt so utterly alone. Mason was in the system and had been in and out of foster homes over the years. When he landed up being placed with his mom's old best friend and her family, Mason's whole life changed. Yes he still felt alone but he was determined more than ever to find his mom and be back with her again. When fate landed Willow and Mason together, they both grow in leaps and bounds trying to figure out where they both fit in this world. And along the way, love helped them both in unexpected places.
Willow's pain radiated out of her and into readers hearts. Her dad was busy with his new family and her mom was absorbed with her work. Neither had time for Willow. It felt like her parents moved on with their lives after the divorce and Willow was left behind in the dust. And her closest friend was a plane flight away. When her mom dragged her to Salem, to settle an estate for an aunt she never knew she existed, Willow started to get peaks into her mom's life from the past. Willow got to meet her witchy aunts. She read spell books. And was sent on a treasure hunt to break a curse. Willow was focused, had big aspirations and had a kind, gentle soul. She was someone you could talk to for hours and trust with your deepest darkest secrets. She was exactly who Mason needed in his life.
Mason was drowning in pain too. His mom was an addict and that landed him in foster care. When an old best friend of his mom's stepped in and said she would foster him, Mason ended up in Salem too. I loved Emma, his new foster mom. Her, her husband and the three little girls in their house completely exploded Mason's world. With glitter, love and coffee they slowly started to win Mason over. And my heart was bursting for him just to give them a true chance. So I loved when we got to see Mason trying, like breaking into Nova's world. Or when he allowed the two littler girls to play makeup with him. Or even being able to connect with Emma over their love of coffee. Those moments, no matter how quick they were, meant everything. My heart burst with happiness when Mason would smile or relax around his new foster family. But most of all I loved how he instantly clicked with Willow. It was like destiny was in the stars that they were to meet.
Willow and Mason both clang to hope that their future would lead them to greater things. Willow with traveling and Mason being with his mom again. Yet neither of them were living in the moment, it felt like they were constantly waiting for the future to happen. So when they met it was like they both got to take a deep breath. And when they were together, they lived in those moments. It was sweet, kind and honest. And as they opened up, their friendship became deep so quick. It felt real. It felt like I was there with them. And with witchcraft, secrets, fate, and acceptance, they both were on an emotional journey to discover who they both were. While falling in love along the way.
With magic in the air, Spells for Lost Things was such a huge hit! Treasure hunts, spells, acceptance and love made this book impossible to put down! There were moments of laughter and there were also moments where tears kept falling down my face. This book tugged on my heart constantly. And with Willow and Mason, I wanted them desperately to be each other's light in their lives. But at the same time, I wanted their family lives to finally bring them happiness too. Spells for Lost Things was an adorable, emotional tale and I'm looking forward to reading all of Welch's other books!
PS While I wouldn't list this book as paranormal, because the spell/witch aspect seemed like it could be in our everyday world. There were a few things that left me questioning just maybe it was more than a contemporary. Like, how did the aunties know about their loves in food? I truly don't know lol. But I guess anything is possible. ♥
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
“I love this place,” I blurt out.
“Me too,” she says. And then there’s this moment where we smile at each other, and for one tiny second I swear the entire world stands still.
We alternated the story between Willow and Mason, and both of them were both so easy to connect with. Willow felt adrift in the world. Her passion in life was traveling. With divorced parents who were both too busy to give her their time, Willow felt so utterly alone. Mason was in the system and had been in and out of foster homes over the years. When he landed up being placed with his mom's old best friend and her family, Mason's whole life changed. Yes he still felt alone but he was determined more than ever to find his mom and be back with her again. When fate landed Willow and Mason together, they both grow in leaps and bounds trying to figure out where they both fit in this world. And along the way, love helped them both in unexpected places.
How do I tell him Everything in my future feels fuzzy except for you?
Willow's pain radiated out of her and into readers hearts. Her dad was busy with his new family and her mom was absorbed with her work. Neither had time for Willow. It felt like her parents moved on with their lives after the divorce and Willow was left behind in the dust. And her closest friend was a plane flight away. When her mom dragged her to Salem, to settle an estate for an aunt she never knew she existed, Willow started to get peaks into her mom's life from the past. Willow got to meet her witchy aunts. She read spell books. And was sent on a treasure hunt to break a curse. Willow was focused, had big aspirations and had a kind, gentle soul. She was someone you could talk to for hours and trust with your deepest darkest secrets. She was exactly who Mason needed in his life.
There are so many ways a relationship can go wrong, it’s amazing we keep trying at all.
Mason was drowning in pain too. His mom was an addict and that landed him in foster care. When an old best friend of his mom's stepped in and said she would foster him, Mason ended up in Salem too. I loved Emma, his new foster mom. Her, her husband and the three little girls in their house completely exploded Mason's world. With glitter, love and coffee they slowly started to win Mason over. And my heart was bursting for him just to give them a true chance. So I loved when we got to see Mason trying, like breaking into Nova's world. Or when he allowed the two littler girls to play makeup with him. Or even being able to connect with Emma over their love of coffee. Those moments, no matter how quick they were, meant everything. My heart burst with happiness when Mason would smile or relax around his new foster family. But most of all I loved how he instantly clicked with Willow. It was like destiny was in the stars that they were to meet.
Things that Willow and the Night Sky Have in Common:
1. Beautiful
2. Unpredictable
3. Makes you glad to be alive.
Willow and Mason both clang to hope that their future would lead them to greater things. Willow with traveling and Mason being with his mom again. Yet neither of them were living in the moment, it felt like they were constantly waiting for the future to happen. So when they met it was like they both got to take a deep breath. And when they were together, they lived in those moments. It was sweet, kind and honest. And as they opened up, their friendship became deep so quick. It felt real. It felt like I was there with them. And with witchcraft, secrets, fate, and acceptance, they both were on an emotional journey to discover who they both were. While falling in love along the way.
“Every minute with you is magic.”
With magic in the air, Spells for Lost Things was such a huge hit! Treasure hunts, spells, acceptance and love made this book impossible to put down! There were moments of laughter and there were also moments where tears kept falling down my face. This book tugged on my heart constantly. And with Willow and Mason, I wanted them desperately to be each other's light in their lives. But at the same time, I wanted their family lives to finally bring them happiness too. Spells for Lost Things was an adorable, emotional tale and I'm looking forward to reading all of Welch's other books!
PS While I wouldn't list this book as paranormal, because the spell/witch aspect seemed like it could be in our everyday world. There were a few things that left me questioning just maybe it was more than a contemporary. Like, how did the aunties know about their loves in food? I truly don't know lol. But I guess anything is possible. ♥
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
July 10, 2022
thank you netgalley, simon & schuster books for young readers, and jenna evans welch for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review! i’ve been wanting to read love & gelato for a long time and once i was approved for this one i immediately started reading it. this is such a cute book that follows our two main characters, willow and mason, as they’re both in salem, massachusetts for different reasons.
willow is a great character and i could really relate to her desire to travel the world. her family is also very fascinating and unique and their connection with witchcraft and salem was so fascinating! the mystery aspect was also really fun and getting to read the letters from willow’s mysterious aunt sage.
mason has had a really sad childhood, but it’s heartwarming to see him start to connect with his new foster family in salem. his relationship with willow also progresses in a really cute way and i liked how they both started to open up to one another. it’s obvious that they have a lot of chemistry and help each other a lot which was great to see.
overall, this is a great ya book. it has romance, but also complicated family relationships, a little bit of witchcraft, and a mystery. i highly recommend this one!
willow is a great character and i could really relate to her desire to travel the world. her family is also very fascinating and unique and their connection with witchcraft and salem was so fascinating! the mystery aspect was also really fun and getting to read the letters from willow’s mysterious aunt sage.
mason has had a really sad childhood, but it’s heartwarming to see him start to connect with his new foster family in salem. his relationship with willow also progresses in a really cute way and i liked how they both started to open up to one another. it’s obvious that they have a lot of chemistry and help each other a lot which was great to see.
overall, this is a great ya book. it has romance, but also complicated family relationships, a little bit of witchcraft, and a mystery. i highly recommend this one!
February 3, 2025
2.5 Stars
I considered dnf'ing this one several times but kept pushing until it made sense to finish and see if the different relationship developments were satisfying enough to make up for its rough start. I didn't particularly enjoy the witchcraft element. I'd hoped that witchcraft would be an innocent by-product of the Salem, MA setting. Instead, it played a significant role in the characters' lives.
There was understandably more emphasis on Willow's POV when considering the title and setting, but Mason's story had a potential depth that wasn't fully realized. There was also a sweet interaction between Mason and his foster sister that I felt started but then dropped and was never mentioned again. I was much more invested in Mason and the family who took him in.
Story threads were tied up at the end, but unfortunately, at the sacrifice of Mason's further story development.
January 6, 2023
4.5⭐️; Hardcover; YA/Magic;
If you are looking for witches, teen romance, and elders in their birthday suits – this is the book for you!
It is such an adorably heart-warming story but pack with family tension and magic.
And although the sparks between Willow and Mason are lighting up around you, it’s the aunties that are the true stars of this story!
I hope they get their own spin off story because they are a riot. Especially saucy Marigold.
If you are looking for witches, teen romance, and elders in their birthday suits – this is the book for you!
It is such an adorably heart-warming story but pack with family tension and magic.
And although the sparks between Willow and Mason are lighting up around you, it’s the aunties that are the true stars of this story!
I hope they get their own spin off story because they are a riot. Especially saucy Marigold.
October 29, 2022
This was a 4 star read for me until the last 50 pages. I did not expect this book to make me cry, laugh, and to give me chills but dang it did. This book was so sweet and fun but also more heartbreaking than I expected. 5/5 🥹🫶🏼
October 14, 2022
Heartfelt and magical. It makes me want to visit Salem and discover magic too
September 3, 2023
Just lovely. Witchy, with hints of Practical Magic and Now and Then - a love story, a foster story, a family story, a mystery - gentle and sweet and perfect YA witchy magic.
October 7, 2022
One of the sweetest YA books I have read
February 14, 2023
Things that Jenna Evans Welch and the Night Sky Have in Common:
1. Beautiful
2. Unpredictable
3. Makes you glad to be alive.
1. Beautiful
2. Unpredictable
3. Makes you glad to be alive.
March 1, 2025
3⭐️
I enjoyed this book, but it definitely took me awhile to get into it. The plot was definitely interesting, the witch side especially, however the star gazing side, not my vibe. Even though both characters are 16–17ish, soon to be starting college, they felt younger to me. Overall, it was entertaining, and I loved the Salem backdrop!💗
I enjoyed this book, but it definitely took me awhile to get into it. The plot was definitely interesting, the witch side especially, however the star gazing side, not my vibe. Even though both characters are 16–17ish, soon to be starting college, they felt younger to me. Overall, it was entertaining, and I loved the Salem backdrop!💗
October 19, 2022
Willow and Mason both find themselves at Salem, Massachusetts, but for very different reasons. Mason is at a new foster home, but deep down inside he hopes to one day be reunited with his mother. Willow is visiting Salem, because her mom is dealing with an unexpected family inheritance. This surprises Willow as she didn't know about her family from Salem and her mother isn't giving too much away about her mysterious past. When Willow and Mason meet, there is an instant connection between the two. Willow relies on Mason to help her navigate things with her family including a possible family curse. Jenna Evans Welch's Spells for Lost Things is a cute YA magical romance with a strong focus on family.
Read the rest of my review here:
http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...
Read the rest of my review here:
http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.c...
September 9, 2022
Thank you Libro.fm for my ALC...all opinions are my own.
When I tell you I adored this book...I ADORED this book. Jenna Evans Welch is always a good one for me and this time. She outdid herself.
We meet Willow (POV 1) and Mason (POV 2) and get separate back stories as to where they are and what has been happening in their lives up to the moment they both land in Salem, MA. I love them. They are such fantastic characters. The magic sprinkled in was chef's kiss. The setting. Amazing. Honestly, I'm gonna say this was perfection. I did get a little sad at the end as there is some serious stuff going on and it comes to an end in a way I was hoping wouldn't happen. You still get a HEA...but as a mom. I was tearing up a bit.
Overall. If you want a sweet little YA...this is a great choice.
When I tell you I adored this book...I ADORED this book. Jenna Evans Welch is always a good one for me and this time. She outdid herself.
We meet Willow (POV 1) and Mason (POV 2) and get separate back stories as to where they are and what has been happening in their lives up to the moment they both land in Salem, MA. I love them. They are such fantastic characters. The magic sprinkled in was chef's kiss. The setting. Amazing. Honestly, I'm gonna say this was perfection. I did get a little sad at the end as there is some serious stuff going on and it comes to an end in a way I was hoping wouldn't happen. You still get a HEA...but as a mom. I was tearing up a bit.
Overall. If you want a sweet little YA...this is a great choice.
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