Keeper of Enchanted Rooms was one of my favorite books of 2022. The whole historical fantasy meets mystery aspect was so unique and well done. It kept me on the edge of my seat.

When I saw the book 2 was available as an arc I knew I had to give it a read as soon as possible!

Book two picks up where book one left off. Merritt is figuring out where he fits into this magical world. Hulda is trying to work out what her role will be at BIKER now that Myra is missing. And there's still the question of whether or not Silas hogwood is actually dead.

Heir of Uncertain Magic has the same feel as book one but the mystery side is a little less mysterious.

The characters are still as quirky and likable as always. Owein is the absolute best. I love him and can feel both the child and dog radiating out of him with everything he does.

I missed the enchanted house aspect but Owein does a great job of filling that quirkiness. The only thing that was really missing compared to book 1 was the minor creep factor that Silas brought.

Overall I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be reading book 3 when it comes out in 2024!

Read if you like:
- Historical Fiction
- Magical Affinities
- Dash of Mystery
- Quirky Pets
- Whodunits
- Family Drama
- Found Family

REVIEW
Thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for this ARC. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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I think I have a favorite couple, Hulda and Merrit are couple goals and they were my favorite part of this book. They're the kind of couple that don't need any spice because they've got enough chemistry already.
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Now, for the book, I loved it and it was easy for me to follow and understand the storyline even it was the second book.
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I also loved the magic, the author was thoughtful enough to put a glossary before the first chapter. I also liked that the magic was realistic and practical
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Finally, the mystery was okay, the MMCs had it tough this time, but it all got ironed out in the end, there was a leadership drama in BIKER(Boston Institute for the Keeping of Enchanted Rooms). I also liked how I was able to get insights into the MCs family members.
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I'll be reading the first book in the series and I can't wait for the next one I the series

Charlie Holmberg’s writing feels like coming home after a long day to your favorite people. I adored the first book in this series and honestly loved this one even more. These are the definition of “cozy fantasy” books. It’s so easy to fall in love with the characters and feel their emotions with them. I am continually impressed by Holmberg’s ability to write about her characters’ emotional states. There were more than a handful of times while reading that I got misty eyed from her descriptions of feelings and her creation of wholesome relationships. At times it feels like she’s poetically portraying my own feelings that I never knew how to voice. She normalizes the uncomfortable emotions that are all part of the human experience in a way that makes them seem beautiful and acceptable. This book is delightful and warm with some magic and a touch of mystery, what’s not to love?

In the Whimbrel House Series, Charlie Holmberg creatively melds historical fiction, magic and the real world. I enjoyed this sequel even more than the first book. The characters developed significantly and felt less stiff. The plot was whimsical and sweet.

Thank you to Net Galley and 47 North for this ARC.

Thank you Charlie N. Holmberg, 47North and NetGalley for allowing me to read this ARC e-book. This is book 2 in the Whimbrel House series, that said I read this book as a stand alone and while I always recommend reading books in a series in order I had no problem catching up and understanding the story without having read the first. Merritt Fernsby has inherited the estate and despite Hulda Larkin (the house tamer) calming the house something is still going on within the estate. This book includes multiperson perspectives and I love how the story was told. It was a great magical/fantasy type read and I'm off to read the first one while hoping this wont be the end of the series.

Thank you NetGalley and 47North for the Arc. I leave my honest review here!

This is the second book of Whimbrel House series. I really love the first book and so excited when I know there is the second one! I really wish to see more Merrit and Hulda development with their relationship. But honestly, for me this book is not as good as the first one.

After epic problem with another powerful wizard in the first book, I can’t compare the problem here with the first one. We get another wizard who wants to be like Silas but I didn’t think it delivered well. At first we focused on how Merrit suddenly got magic in him, alongside with what happen in BIKER, we will see how Merrit try to face his past and learn his magic. And I lost all the found family aspect here. Despite we got Owein as a dog now, I’m not really happy to see their development as family. With Merrit struggling with his new magic, everything is different in Whimbrel House.

The relationship between Hulda and Merrit is not really that good at first. Mostly because of Hulda who always so stiff and didn’t know what to do with her professionalism or her relationship with Merrit. I annoyed with her at first and pity Merrit who always honest with his feeling. Fortunately, Hulda trying to change for better. She become more concerned with Merrit and help him with his problem. But, I still don’t really like how Hulda kind of “obsessed” with Myra after what happen in the first book.

Nothing really special with the conflict and it end well. I think the second book is not necessary to read. If you read the first book and want to stop it doesn’t matter. Because the conflict at first book clearly finish and leave no cliffhanger. And with the ending of this book I think there will be more story from Whimbrel House. But, I’m not really sure whether I want to continue it or not.

I give this book 3 ⭐! I really recommend the first book and if you want to continue seeing Merrit and Hulda, I still recommend to read this one!

Enchanting, as always. A definite easy read for me! This book brought me back into the world of the series without the lengthy exposition of the first, getting back into the drama quickly.

Watch out for this author, everyone. :)

This author continues to impress me, so much so, I'm rushing for her next book! Charlie Holmberg has a way of blending adventure with a sweet romance without losing interest or slowing down a book. I love the way the characters interact, building the relationship and friendship alongside the main storyline, and how she weaves this whole new universe where magic is normal, but not so far from our own lives that we get lost. She is the perfect author to curl up with on a snowy day, but just as good to read on a beach chair in the sun. I have yet to be disappointed by one of her books, and I've read over 6 now!

Keeper of Enchanted Rooms was a recent favorite read, with a fun and creative setting that stuck in my mind for a long time. What a treat to return again to Holmberg's reimagined Rhode Island of the mid 1800s, where boats and other vehicles are powered by magic. The soul of a young boy that was trapped in the walls of Whimbrel House in the first book is now in a dog and makes for some amusing antics, while also tying the household together emotionally. What started as a supposedly haunted house is now a home for an unconventional family that is still learning about themselves and where they fit in the world. While many authors do a fine job of world-building, Holmberg always injects hers with a little something extra, which in this case I can only think of as being 'homey charm.' Thanks to Netgalley and 47North for this engaging ARC.

Actual Rating: 3.5⭐

Heir of Uncertain Magic is the sequel to Keeper of Enchanted Rooms, as soon as I was finished with the first book I immediately start to read the sequel.
I was very excited to read this book, sadly some things are not what I expected.

Let’s talk about the good things first.
The writing style is the same as the first book which I really like, the POV also has a new addition – Owein, in a body of a dog. His POV is adorable and very interesting, I wish there’s more of his POV in this book.

Hulda and Merritt’s relationship is also developing in this book after confessing to each other their real feelings. However, I feel slightly frustrated sometimes with Hulda in their relationship.
I also like seeing how Merritt’s grow and break free from the past that has haunted him for many years. I feel happy for him to finally brave himself and accept his magic powers.

However, the vibes of this book feels different than the first book. This sequel doesn’t have the cozy, whimsical and found family aspect from the first book which is something that I miss.
The plot also has a slower pacing compare to the first book, the progress is slow and it feels a bit dragging at some points.

Overall, it’s still a pretty good story with a quite satisfying ending.
I’m looking forward to see where the story will go from here cause there’s still some questions that needed answers and a new problem might have been waiting for them ….

I received an advanced review copy for free through Netgalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Huge thank you to the publisher and the author!

Another great book from Charlie N. Holmberg. This is a very quick read (I read almost the entire book in one day). I loved returning to all the wonderful characters from the first book. There was a nice mix of emotional drama as well as the main plot. I loved learning more about the magic. I've heard it said that Holmberg's books can sometimes be hit or miss, but this one is definitely a hit! I can't wait to see what Hulda and Merritt do next!

This novel is the second in the Whimbrel House series; the first being The Keeper of Enchanted Rooms. The mischievous magic that upset the balance of Whimbrel House has been tamed by Hulda. But what does that mean for Merritt Fernsby? The romance, magic and intrigue continue in this 2nd book of the series.

*Thank you to NetGalley and 47North for his e-arc.*

Thank you to 47North and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This is the second book in the Whimbrel House series. This book takes place only about a week after the end of Keeper of Enchanted Rooms.

I loved this continuation of the story. I don’t want to give anything away in this review, in case you read it, but it was so good! It’s historical fantasy that takes place in 1846 New England. There’s magic, mystery, suspense, self discovery and reflection and growth, courting romance, quirky/fun/loving characters, and hilarious moments. I’m obsessed with Hulda and Merritt, and this story contains such a unique and fun magic system that I can’t get enough of! I highly recommend this series.

I am so excited that this series is supposed to be 6 books. Can’t wait to see what Charlie has cooked up for these characters in the next book!

Returning to the world of Keeper of Enchanted Rooms, we pick up where the previous story left off, diving back into the world of magic, and the desperate schemes of those who want to control it. Old questions are answered, new questions arise, and what is going to become of Heir of Uncertain Magic?

Ok, so the good stuff first. I love the world of everyday magic that's fading out and the pressure that adds to the characters trying to keep it alive. I love the nobility aspect and tracing heritage through the magic.

I super duper appreciate that the author took the magic system set up in the first book and expanded on it in a way that made sense, organically, throughout the story! SOOO many sequels seem to not do the follow up thing correctly. This aspect was a nail on the head for me. 10/10 well done. Give me more!!

The multiple protagonists are all genuinely likable people that charm with their sincere efforts. And each one feels like their own unique person. One in particular--I won't say who, but if you read the story, you'll know--I became extra attached to and became worried that might mean they might be headed for a tragic ending. I won't spoil things for you about what happens exactly, but their character arc was my favorite.

The romance is sweet, but turned up a notch in this book. Nothing explicit but some suggestive stuff--I didn't mind. lol

There were some dramatic twists I wasn't expecting and I had audible reactions to. The climax had an interesting logic behind it, and I SO appreciate a smart plot ending.

Okay, so the stuff I didn't like as much:

The antagonist seemed a little one-dimensional for me. I wish I could've gotten to know their drive just like we got to know Silas Hogwood in the previous story. I feel like I didn't fully know the WHY behind their schemes, and I like to know the why.

The story dragged a little here and rushed a little there for me. There were parts I thought could've been wrapped up in a quicker fashion, and there were other bits I wish were explored a little more. See above.

And that's it. Those are my likes and dislikes. Overall, a very enjoyable read, and I am SO looking forwards to (hopefully) more books in the world where we can get to know even MORE of the magic and unravel some more of the questions that this book brings up. Especially the HUGE one at the end! (NO, it's not a cliffhanger...just a big ol' tease) 4 stars.

Heir of Uncertain Magic picks up where Keeper of Enchanted Rooms left off. Merritt's newly discovered magic is having debilitating effects on him. Myra has disappeared, leaving Hulda in a tough spot with BIKER. And Owein is now a dog instead of an enchanted house. An unenchanted house has no need of BIKER.

This is a great ending to the duology. Merritt has to confront his past instead of burying it inside, a lesson we could all learn. Hulda has to accept she is worthy of love, another great lesson. Other themes include sacrifice, betrayal, and facing fears.

I enjoyed this book and would recommend it to everyone.

Whimbrel House is becoming a favorite, like the other Charlie N. Holmberg's series I read. This is an excellent addition: a compelling story with a well plotted world buidling and great characters.
The author is an excellent storyteller and never disappoints.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine

It’s been three months since I read “Keeper of Enchanted Rooms” and I had so missed these characters and the many different types of magic in their world.

Merritt and his former housekeeper, Helda, continue to grow their feelings for each other, although Helda is still reserved and at times unsure of how to proceed. Her friend and former boss, Myra, has left BIKER a mess and the magical institute now finds itself under investigation and in search of a new director.

While no longer dealing to manage an enchanted home, Merritt is struggling to decipher the magical powers he recently became aware of and learn more about his genealogical background.

Through these challenges, Merritt and Helda continue to care for their friends living at Whimbrel House. My favorite character in this book was Owein, formerly a young boy now turned into a loving mutt, who can communicate with Merritt. He was curious about the world, unconditionally loyal, and I could really feel his love and care for others, especially Merritt.

Charlie Holmberg’s follow up “Heir of Uncertain Magic” did not disappoint and although I liked it slightly less than the first book I am really hoping more in the series are coming! The writing is beautiful, the setting truly imaginative, and the characters intricately developed to the point that I miss them already.

Charlie N. Holmberg really is a lovely writer. This series has a similar vibe to the Spellbreaker duology. The old-timey, pearl-clutchy, spinsterish, or well on her way to it, MC is a particular favourite of mine. She does the plain Jane character well. There's no suddenly taking off the glasses and becoming some stereotypical stunner. The love interest finds her attractive because attraction is highly subjective and relative. It's very sweet.

Charlie does romance without any raunch, but I didn't feel like I was missing anything. The plot is good, the characters are dynamic and interesting, and the magic system is fascinating. There are intriguing mysteries that keep you guessing

Hulda and Merritt are such a sweet couple, and they go through a lot in this book. Merritt in particular hits a lot of highs and lows. I sincerely hope this series continues, which is hinted at toward the end. I've grown quite fond of these characters, and I'd like to see where their adventure takes us next.

Oh, I do have a complaint. Charlie, you were pushing it with the Owein lifespan commentary. I gasped. I was like.. she wouldn't. Would she? She better not.

You better not.

One man is on a journey to unravel his magical lineage in the next spellbinding novel of the Whimbrel House series by Amazon Charts and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Charlie N. Holmberg.

This was an amazing sequel to Keeper Of Enchanted Rooms. There was so much packed I to this book and I loved every bit of it. Our two main characters both struggled with personal, emotional struggles that played out beautifully. I also love the subtle slow burn romance between the two. Then at its heart is a mystery that ultimately keeps you guessing til the end. @cnholmberg has done another excellent job with this second installment of Whimbrel House. Highly recommend for fantasy book lovers.

Thank you to @netgalley and 47 North Publishing for letting me preview this ARC.

This was a great follow-up to Keeper of Enchanted Rooms!

I am so lucky I've received both of these on @netgalley as I have loved them both!

I was so happy to dive back into this magical, historical world, with these endearing characters! I absolutely love the characters, the plot hooked me immediately (as it did in the first book), and the magical elements are included perfectly.

This was a wonderful follow-up and this is a duology I highly recommend for a magical, wonderful story with a captivating plot that will keep you turning the pages!