The Cottage Around the Corner

A Novel

By: D. L. Soria

Narrated by: Victoria Villarreal

A feisty witch and a handsome mage must put their heated business rivalry aside to save their small town from supernatural forces in this charming contemporary fantasy romcom from the author of Thief Liar Lady.

“Delightful and sweet . . . the magic and the romance both sizzle on the page.”—Raquel Vasquez Gilliland, author of Witch of Wild Things

“Soria’s newest book will wrap readers into a cozy world that they won’t want to leave.”—Library Journal (starred review)

Chanterelle Cottage is Charlie Sparrow’s whole world. The cozy spellshop where she and her moms practice their witchcraft, selling goods and services to the people of small-town Owl’s Hollow, has been in her family for generations.

Okay, business has been a little slow and a recent burglary hit their inventory pretty hard. And the bank may not agree to restructure their loan. But Charlie is talented and savvy, and she’ll keep things afloat once her parents finally let her buy into the business as a co-owner. Still, when a competing magecraft firm opens in town, things start to look bleak. After all, everyone knows there’s room for only one magic shop in Owl’s Hollow.

So what if Fitz, the mage who owns the new Maven Enterprises, happens to be ridiculously handsome in his ridiculously expensive suits? Who cares that, when Charlie can forget for a moment or two that Fitz is her competitor, things between them are as easy as breathing? None of that matters—because Charlie is not going to get involved with the competition. In this battle of the businesses, she’ll do whatever it takes to make sure Chanterelle Cottage is the last spellshop standing.

But when strange supernatural events begin to plague the citizens of Owl’s Hollow, Charlie and Fitz must put their rivalry aside and their magic together to save the town. As they grow closer, it becomes harder for Charlie to keep her carefully drawn line in place—maybe Owl’s Hollow is big enough for a witch and a mage, after all.

©2024 D. L. Soria (P)2024 Random House Audio

Critic reviews

“Soria’s newest book will wrap readers into a cozy world that they won’t want to leave. This fantasy romance is sure to enrapture readers looking for an atmospheric and lovable read.”—Library Journal, starred review

“This cozy outing . . . is sweet and inviting, brimming with magic, intrigue, and community. Fans of forbidden romance will be especially delighted.”—Publishers Weekly

"I wish I could bottle up this book and put it in my morning coffee! The Cottage Around the Corner is a cozy, charming delight.”—Alicia Thompson, USA Today bestselling author of With Love, from Cold World

Loved this cozy fantasy

The Cottage Around the Corner by D.L. Soria is a delightful and cozy blend of contemporary fantasy and romcom, set in the magical small town of Owl’s Hollow. The story centers around Charlie Sparrow, a witch dedicated to keeping her family’s beloved spellshop running, and Fitz, the charming and handsome mage who opens a competing business. As their rivalry heats up, so does their undeniable chemistry.

I absolutely loved the dynamic between Charlie and Fitz. Their banter was sharp, fun, and made the progression of their relationship feel natural and enjoyable. The romance was a perfect slow burn, and I appreciated how their connection developed as they teamed up to solve the supernatural mysteries plaguing the town. The balance between their magical competition and growing feelings was spot on.

One of my favorite aspects of the book was the cozy small-town setting. Owl’s Hollow reminded me of Gilmore Girls with its quirky characters and tight-knit community, but with a magical twist. The representation in this book is also wonderful—Charlie’s family is inclusive, and it felt refreshing to see such a diverse cast of characters.

The mix of magic, romance, and humor made this book a joy to read. It’s the perfect low-stakes, feel-good read for anyone who loves a bit of fantasy with their romance. If you’re looking for a sweet story about magic, love, and finding balance in life, The Cottage Around the Corner is a perfect choice!

Thank you to Del Rey and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I want to go back to Owl's Hollow

I adore this book. I've been on a romantasy tear lately and this came as a recommendation. It did not disappoint.

The characters are well developed, complex and real while the plot never felt drawn out or rushed. There was a perfect amount of tension throughout while giving me just the right amount of breaks to revel in this beautiful, cozy world. If I had the time I would have never put it down.

This book had symmetry, self discovery, romance, conflict and spice in all the right places. It feels whole and complete in a way that makes me feel warm.

It is clear the author knows how to tell an excellent story. I can't wait to read more of their work.