4,1 stars

unexpectedly enjoyable. ( )

Maybe it's more about firsts. Maybe every first is a loss.

There was something quite lovely about this book. Set in Ireland, a sweet f/f pairing, bi rep, great relationships between siblings and friends. Definitely recommend! ( )

I received a copy of this title from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. ( )

In Spellbook of the Lost and Found by Moïra Fowley-Doyle, a small town's annual bonfire is the catalyst for some very unusual occurrences.

A meandering tale with chapters alternating between three points of view, the novel has a unique premise that, unfortunately, quickly becomes repetitious and lacks any type of forward progress. The many soundalike names (Olive, Rose, Ivy, Hazel, Rowan, Laurel, Holly, Ash, etc) make is virtually impossible to tell the characters apart. The chapters are narrated in first person and with the exception of Olive, the voices are so similar, it is impossible to tell them apart. Much of the supporting cast is also somewhat bland with little to distinguish them from the others.

Olive is one of the few voices that is distinct and easy to follow. Her family is also unique and their interactions are truly delightful and incredibly enjoyable. Olive's friendship with Rose (who is rather distinctive) is quite heartwarming and their text messages are hysterical. Olive's sister Emily is also a breath of fresh air and she is wise beyond her years.

Spellbook of the Lost and Found by Moïra Fowley-Doyle's does have some unexpected plot twists and a wonderfully diverse cast of characters. However, readers will need plenty of patience as they work their way through this convoluted, incredibly slow-paced young adult novel. ( )

Updated Review

Actually this book is a solid 4 stars for me. I have to say when I finished it I didn't think it was. This book though has had some lasting grip on me though, enough so i found myself reading [b:The Accident Season|23346358|The Accident Season|Moïra Fowley-Doyle|https://images.gr-assets.com/books/1428338423s/23346358.jpg|42905086] right away, I don't know what to say other than the writing has a quality that makes certain moments so clear you could touch them. The Characters were all given enough story that you wanted to know more but were not let down when you were not given the "more".

Now with that said I do remember the exact moment the pieces clicked together for how the book was going to go and how I completely turned on my PLL brain and pushed the right answer away.
The edge of magic-realism in this book was well worth the read. The book as a whole put me in the mind of a Alice Hoffman-esque book with more modern, young adult/teen feel. I'd almost call it a gateway into the whole wonderful genre

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