Title: Barely Bewitched
Author: Kimberly Frost
First published July 23, 2009
320 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780425229613 (ISBN10: 0425229610)
Rating: 4.06
Overview
Welcome to Whisper Falls, a small town where coming home means finding your true self and maybe even your true love. After a failed marriage, Olivia Richards returns to her hometown to start anew.
But she never expected to come face-to-face with her high school crush, the town’s bad boy, Mason Hunter. Mason’s reputation precedes him, but Olivia can’t help being drawn to his rugged good looks and mysterious past.
As they work together to restore the town’s old theater, the chemistry between them becomes undeniable. But with secrets from both their pasts threatening to tear them apart, Olivia must decide if she’s willing to take a chance on Mason – and on love.
Editoral Review
Barely Bewitched is a captivating urban fantasy novel written by Kimberly Frost. The book was first published on July 23, 2009, and explores supernatural characters within a modern-day setting.
Frost masterfully weaves together complex magical systems, engaging world-building, and authentic human interactions to create a deeply immersive reading experience. The book follows Tamara Jo Trask, a talented witch struggling to find her place in society.
Tamara is a perpetually underestimated character, constantly navigating a world where her powers are met with skepticism and disdain. Despite her insecurities, Tamara is fiercely determined and unafraid to fight for her beliefs.
Alongside Tamara, readers are introduced to an ensemble cast of dynamic and well-developed characters from witches and warlocks to werewolves and vampires. The novel is set in Duvall, Texas, a small town where supernatural citizens live among their mortal peers.
Frost deftly submerges readers into this fantastical world, providing detailed descriptions of the town’s architecture, history, and culture. By grounding the world in a contemporary context, Frost integrates magical elements within a familiar environment, blurring the lines between the mundane and the extraordinary.
Frost’s writing is compelling, littered with well-crafted dialogue and vivid sensory details. The plot moves at a steady pace, effortlessly balancing both action-packed scenes and moments of introspection.
Frost also deftly explores themes of identity, belonging, and the struggles of living in a society that systematically marginalizes certain groups. While Barely Bewitched is an excellent read, it is not without its flaws.
Some plot points feel formulaic and predictable, and the world-building can be overwhelming at times. Additionally, some characters lack depth, relegated to one-dimensional caricatures.
Overall, Barely Bewitched is an enchanting urban fantasy novel that is sure to satisfy fans of the genre. With its well-realized characters, immersive world-building, and elegant prose, it is easy to see why Frost has amassed a devoted following.
The book is well positioned as a perfect summer read, a lighthearted escape from reality. Washington Post would give this novel a 4/5 rating.