*The Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic* by Breanne Randall is a captivating blend of romance and fantasy. The novel explores the intersection of magical mishaps and emotional healing, following a protagonist whose love life is as unpredictable as her magical abilities. Randall’s writing is both enchanting and poignant, making for a delightful read that balances humor and heart. While some plot elements may feel familiar, the engaging characters and imaginative setting make it a standout in its genre.

when i was approved this book i was in awe!!
i can't believe i read it in one setting.
it was super good , the writing is amazing.
can't wait to read more by the author

The Unfortunate side effects of Heartbreak and Magic is marketed as Gilmore Girls meets Practical Magic. I was so excited to receive this arc but I was sadly very disappointed.

I don't like leaving bad reviews, but the story just did not make sense. The curse was overly explained but not explained enough. Why did everyone in the town know about the curse but not the love interest? Yes, he left the town for a few years, but that doesn't mean he was a complete stranger.

This book was like ordering Dennys at 2 am...it sounded like a good idea at the time, but it wasn't.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this arc in exchange for my honest review.

Writing Style: The writing style did not resonate with me.
Unsatisfactory Opening: The opening chapters did not provide a compelling hook to draw me in.
Lack of Relevant Content: The book did not meet my expectations based on the synopsis or genre.
Personal Preferences: The book did not align with my personal interests or tastes.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
DNF at 56%

A delightful cozy read. The town gave me star hollow like vibes.
I loved her relationship with grandmother and the baking made me hungry.
Perfect autumn read.

This was so good and I just absolutely beg the Universe to make it a movie! Sending this to my sisterhood now!

It took me nearly a year to finally read this but I am glad I did. Sadie and Seth are twins born into a magical family, very similar to the Madrigals of Encanto. Their mother left when they were born and they have lived their lives under a curse as well as with their magical gifts, raised by their grandmother. Sadie's one true love left her 10 years ago and she spent those ten years trying to heal and build a live around her community. Her love comes back, turns her life on its head and combined with her grandmother's illness, Sadie finds her life will be changing forever. A few plot holes here and there (and spots where it drags) but overall it was an enjoyable read.

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Witch fantasy advertised like practical magic but i didn’t get that vibe. Cute story though and I love the banter.

Loved the character build and the story. A great read for escaping away!
I enjoyed the journey as Sadie explores love, magic and family. It’s a great book to share with a book group this coming Fall!

This was advertised as perfect for fans of Practical Magic and Gilmore Girls so I was excited to read it as I love both. Unfortunately, I was disappointed. I didn't get Gilmore Girls, aside from the small town vibe. I was hoping for wit and humor but it fell short. As for Practical Magic, it was only similar in that there was a strong family with magical powers. I found there was too much going on in this book. There were the curses, the particular rules for magic, death, romance and ghosts. I found the magic to be confusing because there was also religion mixed in and the refusal to use the word witch. I also found the fake pregnancy to be predictable and kind of cringey when you consider not only that the fiance was lying but also that Jake was clearly emotionally cheating on her despite saying he was doing the right thing. I also found Sadie unbelievable as a character because she was cursed to have her heartbroken and claimed to be unforgiving while most of the book was her being fairly quick to forgive. I liked the premise of this book but that's about where it ends.

The sweetest novel! I really loved the main character in this story and couldn't help but root for her. You'll love this uplifting book!

I am giving this tittle a 3.5!

My favorite part of this book was the banter and humor. This successfully helped the characters feel like real people with genuine relationships. My favorite relationship was between Sadie and her grandmother. I think that the bonds that Sadie has with her grandmother and friends helped me know what type of person she is.

The romance wasn't anything spectacular. I usually enjoy enemies to lovers, but I guess this was more friends to lovers to enemies to lovers, phew that's a lot.

I enjoyed the environment and ambience. The vibes were giving and I enjoyed relaxing while reading this.

I wanted to like this, but the writing was a bit clumsy and the story wasn’t my cup of tea. Even tho I’m a fan of practical magic this didn’t do it for me at all.

This was an ok witchy fantasy. It's cute, but it didn't break any new ground. I liked the tying in of the cooking/baking with the witchcraft, even if this is a common trope. I loved the grandma character. Overall, this was a pleasant (if fairly generic) read.

A huge thank you to the author and the publisher for providing an e-ARC via Netgalley. This does not affect my opinion regarding the book.

This book was everything it claimed to be! It gave all the warm and cozy feelings that Gilmore Girls and fall Hallmark movies give, with such an enthralling plot.

When this was described as Practical Magic meets Gilmore Girls, it immediately peaked my interest. Boy, was I in for the biggest disappointment. Maybe the magic aspects were similar to practical magic and I did not get Gilmore girl vibes at all. The vibes I did get, however, were overtly Christian/conservative overtones through out the whole thing.

This was okay. I kept seeing it on tiktok and instagram and it was supposed to be pretty good. The ending was bittersweet, but enjoyable.

I am completely obsessed with this book. I couldn't get enough. I was constantly torn between never putting it down & wanting to stretch it out. I hope there are more to come in the future.

I am sorry but I did not enjoy this one bit! I just dont think its the correct genre for me. Please dont let that dishearten you. Please read what makes you happy.