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Dust Spells
She thought a dust storm was getting in the way of her dreams, but there are storms more deadly than dust. Ever since the dust storms arrived and turned her world upside down, ambitious Stella Fischer spends her mornings hiding moonshine in laundry stacks for delivery before returning home to help her sisters―Lavinia and Mattie―run their family home turned boarding house, hoping to make enough money to finally escape to Hollywood. She has no time for distractions, especially from Lloyd, the handsome drifter who works as a hired hand at the boarding house. When the group decides to forage for building materials at an abandoned cider mill, they discover a magical passage that sends them back to the mill in its prime. There, they meet Archie, a man trapped in the realm who can conjure lavish parties and bring back a world of joy and splendor. But Archie isn’t all he seems, and Stella must discover the truth before a storm more deadly than dust destroys her and everyone she loves. For readers who love The Twelve Dancing Princesses fairy tale or enjoy The Diviners by Libba Bray, When the Moon Was Ours by Anna-Marie McLemore, and Hotel Magnifique by Emily J. Taylor.
272 pages, Hardcover
Published May 7, 2024
17 people are currently reading
3359 people want to read
About the author
Andrea Lynn
1 book40 followersAndrea Lynn is the author of the upcoming YA novel, DUST SPELLS, which like most of her books, involves romance, ghosts, and a dash of magic. She grew up performing on the stage but now directs behind the scenes as a high school English and Drama teacher. She lives in Winfield, Kansas with her two sons and loves tea, comfy hoodies, Broadway musicals, and of course, books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
April 19, 2024
This review was originally posted on The Moonlight Library
Dust Spells by Andrea Lynn is a young adult historical fantasy novel that I think is best described as 12 Dancing Princesses meets The Diviners by Libba Bray. It's set in the 1930s in the Dust Bowl and tells the story of three sisters and one vagrant who discover a magical world where not all is as it seems.
The book has an intricate plot that combines elements of the supernatural, horror, and mystery, with a touch of romance. While you can recognise the original inspiration of 12 Dancing Princesses, there are only 3 sisters, but the story of them being drawn to a world that offers freedom, comfort, and joy so different from their everyday lives of hard work in an almost apocalyptic world due to the massive dust storms and drought has its similarities. Both the real-world setting and the magical world are drawn in vivid detail, and I could very easily see the raucous parties, grand mansions, and feel the oppression of the dying town that had once thrived where the girls lived.
The writing itself was masterful and I often found myself stopping to marvel over the way the author chose particular words to craft her narrative, and strung them together seemingly effortlessly to create on-page magic:
"Over the last three years, Stella had grown used to the jagged scars that covered the left side of Lavinia’s face: a patchwork of puckered, white gashes that clawed their way from beneath her left eye to the hinge of her jaw, as if she were a porcelain doll whose left side had been smashed and pasted back together by a hasty, trembling hand."
But it wasn't just the technical writing that I loved. The main character, Stella, is the kind of main character I just adore reading about. She has her strengths and weaknesses, and as someone blessed with good looks, she knows how to use them to her advantage, even though they sometimes seem more of a curse with unwanted male attention. This makes her blossoming relationship with vagrant Lloyd absolutely adorable, because while he makes no effort to hide how attracted he is to her, he is always very respectful of Stella and what she wants, and I really enjoyed seeing Stella's confusion over meeting a man that didn't just treat her like a piece of meat. I also really enjoyed their witty banter, and sometimes the romance was so utterly delightful that it made my own heart beat faster.
While the first part of the novel spent some time building up to the inciting incident, I loved every second of it. I felt completely immersed in the world, and I loved seeing Stella's day to day life. I also loved the paradoxically complicated yet very simple relationship Stella had with her two sisters, Mattie and Livinia. While they were effectively orphans, they loved each other fiercely, even though they fought and disagreed. It felt like a real sibling relationship to me, exacerbated by the harsh reality of living in the Dust Bowl. By the time we found the magical world, I was ready to see them enjoy themselves, and part of me even hoped that nothing would ever go wrong and they could just go on being happy forever.
I really don't want to give too much else away, but if you liked The Diviners because of the era and the mystical aspect, I really think you'll enjoy Dust Spells and its supernatural mystery. This is easily a 5 star read for me!
I received a copy of this book from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Dust Spells by Andrea Lynn is a young adult historical fantasy novel that I think is best described as 12 Dancing Princesses meets The Diviners by Libba Bray. It's set in the 1930s in the Dust Bowl and tells the story of three sisters and one vagrant who discover a magical world where not all is as it seems.
The book has an intricate plot that combines elements of the supernatural, horror, and mystery, with a touch of romance. While you can recognise the original inspiration of 12 Dancing Princesses, there are only 3 sisters, but the story of them being drawn to a world that offers freedom, comfort, and joy so different from their everyday lives of hard work in an almost apocalyptic world due to the massive dust storms and drought has its similarities. Both the real-world setting and the magical world are drawn in vivid detail, and I could very easily see the raucous parties, grand mansions, and feel the oppression of the dying town that had once thrived where the girls lived.
The writing itself was masterful and I often found myself stopping to marvel over the way the author chose particular words to craft her narrative, and strung them together seemingly effortlessly to create on-page magic:
"Over the last three years, Stella had grown used to the jagged scars that covered the left side of Lavinia’s face: a patchwork of puckered, white gashes that clawed their way from beneath her left eye to the hinge of her jaw, as if she were a porcelain doll whose left side had been smashed and pasted back together by a hasty, trembling hand."
But it wasn't just the technical writing that I loved. The main character, Stella, is the kind of main character I just adore reading about. She has her strengths and weaknesses, and as someone blessed with good looks, she knows how to use them to her advantage, even though they sometimes seem more of a curse with unwanted male attention. This makes her blossoming relationship with vagrant Lloyd absolutely adorable, because while he makes no effort to hide how attracted he is to her, he is always very respectful of Stella and what she wants, and I really enjoyed seeing Stella's confusion over meeting a man that didn't just treat her like a piece of meat. I also really enjoyed their witty banter, and sometimes the romance was so utterly delightful that it made my own heart beat faster.
While the first part of the novel spent some time building up to the inciting incident, I loved every second of it. I felt completely immersed in the world, and I loved seeing Stella's day to day life. I also loved the paradoxically complicated yet very simple relationship Stella had with her two sisters, Mattie and Livinia. While they were effectively orphans, they loved each other fiercely, even though they fought and disagreed. It felt like a real sibling relationship to me, exacerbated by the harsh reality of living in the Dust Bowl. By the time we found the magical world, I was ready to see them enjoy themselves, and part of me even hoped that nothing would ever go wrong and they could just go on being happy forever.
I really don't want to give too much else away, but if you liked The Diviners because of the era and the mystical aspect, I really think you'll enjoy Dust Spells and its supernatural mystery. This is easily a 5 star read for me!
I received a copy of this book from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
February 3, 2024
There was so much I loved about Dust Spells. I rarely reach for any type of historical fiction, but the time period and the moonshine had me. I think the moonshine aspect had me picturing the entire book in Tennessee or North Carolina, so every time Kansas was mentioned I was like “wait where are we?!” 😂 I loved the setting though and the time period. Imagine Alice in Wonderland mixed with that show Once Upon A Time, but make it dusty. Also, Lloyd is perfection. The whole first half of the book was 5 stars to me. It started going downhill after that. Quickly. The plot is all over the place. I wish one idea would have been picked and ran with instead of all 53 ideas. Any one of the 53 would have done, just one though.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 19, 2024
I cannot say enough how wonderful it is to enjoy a story from an authentic Kansas voice. I had no idea how much I needed to hear a Kansas story written by a Kansan for it was utterly satisfying.
Without a better term coming to mind, I thoroughly enjoyed this stories use of "Fairy Tale Logic." Choosing the right fables, legends, and fairy tales without diluting or editing their coarseness left for a sincere and grounded fantasy with worthwhile surprises for the reader.
Recommending this book to as many fellow Kansas librarians I can!
Without a better term coming to mind, I thoroughly enjoyed this stories use of "Fairy Tale Logic." Choosing the right fables, legends, and fairy tales without diluting or editing their coarseness left for a sincere and grounded fantasy with worthwhile surprises for the reader.
Recommending this book to as many fellow Kansas librarians I can!
January 30, 2024
If it were possible I'd give this book a 5 million star rating. It had me hooked from page one. This is my favorite book so far this year!
March 26, 2024
Twelve Dancing Princesses meets the dust bowl in a lovely novel with the love between sisters at its core.
Dust Spells follows Stella Fischer, a teenager who wants to be a Hollywood star … but she’s currently stuck in Kansas making illegal moonshine to fund her dreams. Stella lives with her family—her sisters Lavinia and Mattie—and has no time for distractions. But then she meets Lloyd, a handsome drifter who helps them fix up their boarding house. The sisters and Lloyd get materials from an abandoned cider mill and their world turns upside down. They discover a magical passage that sends them back in time when the mill is in its prime. They meet Archie, a man trapped in the realm who conjures lavish parties and lush events. But everything is not as it seems and Stella has to uncover the truth before everything she loves is destroyed.
I loved the setting! I’m a sucker for the 1930s dust bowl time period (as well as the 1920s—especially in NYC). The frequent threat of the dust storms and the dry landscape made for such an atmospheric and tense tale. There’s a certain desperate quality to books set in this time period and it makes it so captivating as the characters struggle to make ends meet or fulfill their dreams.
The characters were really great. I loved that Stella was so ambitious and confident and steadfast in her desire to become a Hollywood actress. Her relationship with her sisters was lovely and I truly adore sister stories! I loved Mattie and her interest in fairytales/folklore and the sprinkled in tales into the narrative was so fun. I felt so much for Lavinia and her struggles. All the sisters arcs were so well done and I loved seeing where they ended up at the end. I also loved Lloyd. He was so great and swoony. His lines were so perfect!
The plot was super interesting and I enjoyed the retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses. The world/realm they transport into was really cool and the explanation behind it was well done and unexpected.
Would definitely recommend checking this one out of you love fairytales, romance, and sister stories!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Dust Spells follows Stella Fischer, a teenager who wants to be a Hollywood star … but she’s currently stuck in Kansas making illegal moonshine to fund her dreams. Stella lives with her family—her sisters Lavinia and Mattie—and has no time for distractions. But then she meets Lloyd, a handsome drifter who helps them fix up their boarding house. The sisters and Lloyd get materials from an abandoned cider mill and their world turns upside down. They discover a magical passage that sends them back in time when the mill is in its prime. They meet Archie, a man trapped in the realm who conjures lavish parties and lush events. But everything is not as it seems and Stella has to uncover the truth before everything she loves is destroyed.
I loved the setting! I’m a sucker for the 1930s dust bowl time period (as well as the 1920s—especially in NYC). The frequent threat of the dust storms and the dry landscape made for such an atmospheric and tense tale. There’s a certain desperate quality to books set in this time period and it makes it so captivating as the characters struggle to make ends meet or fulfill their dreams.
The characters were really great. I loved that Stella was so ambitious and confident and steadfast in her desire to become a Hollywood actress. Her relationship with her sisters was lovely and I truly adore sister stories! I loved Mattie and her interest in fairytales/folklore and the sprinkled in tales into the narrative was so fun. I felt so much for Lavinia and her struggles. All the sisters arcs were so well done and I loved seeing where they ended up at the end. I also loved Lloyd. He was so great and swoony. His lines were so perfect!
The plot was super interesting and I enjoyed the retelling of The Twelve Dancing Princesses. The world/realm they transport into was really cool and the explanation behind it was well done and unexpected.
Would definitely recommend checking this one out of you love fairytales, romance, and sister stories!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 30, 2024
3.5/5 stars
This story is a blend of historical fiction, fantasy, and fairytale retelling set against a backdrop of The Dust Bowl and The Great Depression.
Stella and her family struggle in this transformed world to make ends meet and to survive. The arrival of Lloyd, a charming drifter, adds a new dynamic to their lives, especially as they uncover a magical passage that transports them to a bygone era of excess and luxury. The juxtaposition of the gritty reality of their daily struggles with the allure of the past creates a compelling story. Lynn skillfully captures the desperation of the period while infusing the story with moments of magic and wonder.
The relationship between Stella and Lloyd is a highlight of the story, offering a sweet and genuine romance that unfolds between two complex characters amidst the chaos of their circumstances. Lloyd's character adds warmth to the story, and his interactions with Stella are both tender and poignant.
The modern dialogue, phrases, and sensibilities occasionally disrupted my immersion in the historical setting, but the overall story remained engaging and enjoyable. This is a charming and short read with an interesting blend of elements that I really enjoyed.
Thank you so much to @camcatbooks for the copy. This review is based on a complimentary pre-released copy and it is voluntary. Thank you to @andrealynnwrites and @storygramtours for the opportunity to read and review!
This story is a blend of historical fiction, fantasy, and fairytale retelling set against a backdrop of The Dust Bowl and The Great Depression.
Stella and her family struggle in this transformed world to make ends meet and to survive. The arrival of Lloyd, a charming drifter, adds a new dynamic to their lives, especially as they uncover a magical passage that transports them to a bygone era of excess and luxury. The juxtaposition of the gritty reality of their daily struggles with the allure of the past creates a compelling story. Lynn skillfully captures the desperation of the period while infusing the story with moments of magic and wonder.
The relationship between Stella and Lloyd is a highlight of the story, offering a sweet and genuine romance that unfolds between two complex characters amidst the chaos of their circumstances. Lloyd's character adds warmth to the story, and his interactions with Stella are both tender and poignant.
The modern dialogue, phrases, and sensibilities occasionally disrupted my immersion in the historical setting, but the overall story remained engaging and enjoyable. This is a charming and short read with an interesting blend of elements that I really enjoyed.
Thank you so much to @camcatbooks for the copy. This review is based on a complimentary pre-released copy and it is voluntary. Thank you to @andrealynnwrites and @storygramtours for the opportunity to read and review!
May 20, 2024
Dust Spells- beautiful book where prose reads more like poetry at times. Lynn is very intentional with her words and brings the setting and characters to life quite vividly. I wanted to speed read Dust Spells, but allowed myself to enjoy it at a slower pace to soak it up.
I want more Stella and Lloyd. Oh, Lloyd…swoon. ❤️
I loved how the bonds of sisterhood played out. I have three daughters and always love to see how literary sibling character traits compare to my own girls.
“Utter rot. Scantily-clad movie stars and bathtub gin didn’t cause the Depression. If God were going to punish America you’d think he’d have done it for something like, I don’t know, slavery or the Civil War or wiping out the Indians. Not for drinking and dancing and wearing short skirts.” Perfect.
I want more Stella and Lloyd. Oh, Lloyd…swoon. ❤️
I loved how the bonds of sisterhood played out. I have three daughters and always love to see how literary sibling character traits compare to my own girls.
“Utter rot. Scantily-clad movie stars and bathtub gin didn’t cause the Depression. If God were going to punish America you’d think he’d have done it for something like, I don’t know, slavery or the Civil War or wiping out the Indians. Not for drinking and dancing and wearing short skirts.” Perfect.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 13, 2024
Dust Spells by Andrea Lynn was a great read. I love the 1930s dust bowl Kansas setting. It had me reading all the characters, except for Lloyd, in a transatlantic accent like an old movie.
I related well to the Heroine Stella and her relationships with her sister Lavinia and Mattie. I could feel their struggle with trying to make ends meet in the great depression.
The romance between Lloyd and Stella was very sweet. Lloyd often said and viewed things in a way that girls wish guys would talk to them
I like how the sisters started solving the mystery of what happened at the mill and the mention of old myths and legends to solve their problem.
The only thing I wasn't a fan of is the ghost story and the deal that created the magical world they visited. I steer clear of books generally that deal with those things I realize that it was central to the plot.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntary.
I related well to the Heroine Stella and her relationships with her sister Lavinia and Mattie. I could feel their struggle with trying to make ends meet in the great depression.
The romance between Lloyd and Stella was very sweet. Lloyd often said and viewed things in a way that girls wish guys would talk to them
I like how the sisters started solving the mystery of what happened at the mill and the mention of old myths and legends to solve their problem.
The only thing I wasn't a fan of is the ghost story and the deal that created the magical world they visited. I steer clear of books generally that deal with those things I realize that it was central to the plot.
I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntary.
June 17, 2024
Finished this last week, but forgot to update it, whoops.
I enjoyed the story and the writing, which I wouldn't have expected. Specifically, because books about ghosts and mysteries and siblings are not normally what I would read/what I like, I didn't think I would enjoy this book as much as I did. Some good characterization and setting, and intriguing background stories. Might read more from this author if it's more along my favorite genres.
I enjoyed the story and the writing, which I wouldn't have expected. Specifically, because books about ghosts and mysteries and siblings are not normally what I would read/what I like, I didn't think I would enjoy this book as much as I did. Some good characterization and setting, and intriguing background stories. Might read more from this author if it's more along my favorite genres.
April 19, 2024
I was hooked from page one and read this whole book in less than a day. The intricate twists and turns in the plot are so well crafted, no one could have seen the ending coming in its entirety. I had my theories and suspicions, but the actuality was so much more complex and delicious than I could have possibly anticipated.
Dust spells effortlessly captures the magic and romance of the Golden Age of Hollywood set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression. Stella’s journey of self discovery is both heartfelt and compelling. Her relationship with her three sisters feels genuine, the love and conflict palpable.
I also loved the give and take between Stella and Lloyd, the handsome drifter. Their blossoming relationship unfurls with wit and candor, heat, and all the big screen magic of a Greta Garbo romance.
Couple the masterful story telling with a dash of folklore, fairy tales, and vengeful spirts and you’ve got the perfect rainy day read.
Dust spells effortlessly captures the magic and romance of the Golden Age of Hollywood set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Dust Bowl and the Great Depression. Stella’s journey of self discovery is both heartfelt and compelling. Her relationship with her three sisters feels genuine, the love and conflict palpable.
I also loved the give and take between Stella and Lloyd, the handsome drifter. Their blossoming relationship unfurls with wit and candor, heat, and all the big screen magic of a Greta Garbo romance.
Couple the masterful story telling with a dash of folklore, fairy tales, and vengeful spirts and you’ve got the perfect rainy day read.
November 4, 2024
I rarely read YA or romance but am a huge fan of Andrea Lynn’s TikTok series on fairytales so had to check this out. This was a lovely story set in a fun and well-researched historical setting. While marketed as a fairytale retelling, this work is highly original. I hope she writes more like this.
September 1, 2024
Andrea Lynn had me hooked from the first chapter. Her characters were written beautifully and had charm that made you root for them. It was clear that research was done on the era chosen! Can’t wait for her next book!! Loved Stella and Lloyd’s story. Well done, Andrea!!!
January 26, 2024
This was a delightful historical fantasy with just the right hint of romance. I enjoyed the sisterly bond of the main characters and the uniqueness of their journey to figure out what was going on at the old cider mill. It was a bit overwhelming sometimes trying to keep track of all the sub plots, but they all came together at the end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 5, 2024
This was definitely one of my favorite reads of the year so far. The premise was so creative and original and I really felt transported back to the Dust Bowl era.
And all the twists? I’m a person who can usually figure out the endings to books before I finish reading, but this book floored me every time. Andrea Lynn is a genius and is now on my auto buy list.
If you like romance, historical settings, stories with a twist, and a little bit of magic do NOT skip this one
And all the twists? I’m a person who can usually figure out the endings to books before I finish reading, but this book floored me every time. Andrea Lynn is a genius and is now on my auto buy list.
If you like romance, historical settings, stories with a twist, and a little bit of magic do NOT skip this one
July 2, 2024
After some technical difficulties I was finally able to read this book. What a riveting and exciting adventure!!! I very much enjoyed the suspense and the story line. The characters were well developed and likeable. I enjoyed the build up and the way the story progressed. I would definitely recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 23, 2024
A really enjoyable, quick read! The pacing towards the end really picked up to where I had to finish the last 100 or so pages in one sitting. I thoroughly enjoyed this read.
July 25, 2024
Dust Spells by Andrea Lynn is a riveting young adult fantasy that strikes the perfect balance between thrilling adventure & heartfelt coming-of-age themes❤️
This historical fantasy masterpiece blends rich medieval detail with enchanting magic✨️
The story centers around three sisters—Stella, Mattie, and Lavinia—each with their own unique strengths & challenges, making their journey both captivating & emotionally charged.
Stella, with her unyielding determination to make it to Hollywood, embodies the spirit of ambition & dreams.
Mattie, gifted with a magical sense, adds a mystical element to the story.
Lavinia, scarred from a devastating dust storm, carries the physical & emotional weight of their past, struggling for acceptance.
The relationship between the sisters is beautifully portrayed💖, highlighting their unwavering support & love for each other despite their differences.
As they navigate the treacherous journey to Archie's world, their unity and resilience are put to test, showcasing the strength of familial love🫂
Lloyd, with his cinnamon roll sweetness, adds a romantic element that is both tender and profound. His relationship with Stella is moving, as his unwavering loyalty & kindness provide a stark contrast to the often harsh & unforgiving world they inhabit. Their romance is slow burn, filled with moments of vulnerability & mutual respect that make it deeply satisfying😌
The journey to Archie's world is filled with dark & suspenseful twists, keeping you hooked🫶
The secondary characters are just as well-developed, each with their own unique characters.
Andrea Lynn’s writing is immersive, drawing readers into a world where magic & reality intertwine seamlessly. The plot is well-paced, with expertly crafted twists & turns that keep the suspense alive while allowing for deep character development & emotional exploration
If you’re a fan of rich world-building, strong relatable characters, and a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat, Dust Spells is a must-read
This historical fantasy masterpiece blends rich medieval detail with enchanting magic✨️
The story centers around three sisters—Stella, Mattie, and Lavinia—each with their own unique strengths & challenges, making their journey both captivating & emotionally charged.
Stella, with her unyielding determination to make it to Hollywood, embodies the spirit of ambition & dreams.
Mattie, gifted with a magical sense, adds a mystical element to the story.
Lavinia, scarred from a devastating dust storm, carries the physical & emotional weight of their past, struggling for acceptance.
The relationship between the sisters is beautifully portrayed💖, highlighting their unwavering support & love for each other despite their differences.
As they navigate the treacherous journey to Archie's world, their unity and resilience are put to test, showcasing the strength of familial love🫂
Lloyd, with his cinnamon roll sweetness, adds a romantic element that is both tender and profound. His relationship with Stella is moving, as his unwavering loyalty & kindness provide a stark contrast to the often harsh & unforgiving world they inhabit. Their romance is slow burn, filled with moments of vulnerability & mutual respect that make it deeply satisfying😌
The journey to Archie's world is filled with dark & suspenseful twists, keeping you hooked🫶
The secondary characters are just as well-developed, each with their own unique characters.
Andrea Lynn’s writing is immersive, drawing readers into a world where magic & reality intertwine seamlessly. The plot is well-paced, with expertly crafted twists & turns that keep the suspense alive while allowing for deep character development & emotional exploration
If you’re a fan of rich world-building, strong relatable characters, and a plot that keeps you on the edge of your seat, Dust Spells is a must-read
January 15, 2024
I really loved the setting of this book! The author did a great job of describing the atmosphere and making me feel like I was right there with the characters. The plot was very interesting and kept me interested until the end. It was fast paced and kept me turning the pages, I had a hard time putting it down. This book is perfect for anyone who loves a good mystery.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 15, 2025
This book was such a surprise for me! It’s not my typical genre but I loved it. I usually don’t read books with any sort of fantasy elements but this author TikToks really drew me in. The last 20% of the book was so intense I couldn’t put it down!
May 6, 2024
This YA Historical Fantasy novel brings together magic, mystery, and romance in a spellbinding vision of 1930s Kansas that will keep you hooked from the very beginning.
(…from Lloyd’s very first “Sugar.” 😉)
I can’t express the depths to which this book played with my emotions in the best way possible, so I’ll give you a visual: I read this with my legs draped over my rolling office chair, kicking my feet and giggling like a teenager.
Other times, I read a line that made me gasp and put the book down dramatically—and then pick it right back up.
The worldbuilding was so engaging and realistic, and it drew me in immediately. I also loved how character-driven this story was, and how all of their complicated emotions and motives work together.
Speaking of characters…Stella is a gem. She’s practical and strong-willed, but also so caring towards the people she lets in her circle. She makes mistakes and then works to fix them.
Her sisters, Lavinia and Mattie, also shone in the narrative, never being relegated to one-sided characters. I truly loved reading about them and the sister bond the three share.
And the romance! I loved every second of it. It was such a beautiful portrayal of two people hardened by the world around them letting themselves open up to each other.
This is a fantastic book, and I know I’ll be revisiting it again soon! I highly recommend it to fans of Erin A. Craig’s House of Salt and Sorrows and other fairytale retellings.
[I received this ARC from a giveaway, and this is my honest, voluntary review.]
(…from Lloyd’s very first “Sugar.” 😉)
I can’t express the depths to which this book played with my emotions in the best way possible, so I’ll give you a visual: I read this with my legs draped over my rolling office chair, kicking my feet and giggling like a teenager.
Other times, I read a line that made me gasp and put the book down dramatically—and then pick it right back up.
The worldbuilding was so engaging and realistic, and it drew me in immediately. I also loved how character-driven this story was, and how all of their complicated emotions and motives work together.
Speaking of characters…Stella is a gem. She’s practical and strong-willed, but also so caring towards the people she lets in her circle. She makes mistakes and then works to fix them.
Her sisters, Lavinia and Mattie, also shone in the narrative, never being relegated to one-sided characters. I truly loved reading about them and the sister bond the three share.
And the romance! I loved every second of it. It was such a beautiful portrayal of two people hardened by the world around them letting themselves open up to each other.
This is a fantastic book, and I know I’ll be revisiting it again soon! I highly recommend it to fans of Erin A. Craig’s House of Salt and Sorrows and other fairytale retellings.
[I received this ARC from a giveaway, and this is my honest, voluntary review.]
February 27, 2024
3.5 stars
I really enjoyed reading Dust Spells. Stella, our protagonist, is an intelligent, forward thinking, business-minded woman. All three sisters felt very real and I loved how they loved each other even when they were fighting and arguing.
The build up to the reveal of Archie’s past was also done very well. The sisters caught onto the hints of something being off, and untangled some of his lies one at a time, until they finally got the full story. It definitely kept me turning the page so I could figure it out with them.
I like Lloyd and Stella’s relationship. Their attraction felt genuine and their connection grew steadily and authentically. I will say that the conflict they had seemed to get brushed over pretty quickly, and the same can be said for some other conflicts that felt a little rushed.
My biggest criticism is that Archie seemed like he was meant to be very morally gray and like readers could sympathize with him a little. I didn’t feel an ounce of sympathy or affection for him. Could this be because I didn’t trust him from the beginning? Maybe. But I couldn’t quite see him as a complex, 3 dimensional character because he never felt truly real to me.
Overall, it was an intriguing read. I’m grateful to have been able to read an arc of this book and I plan to read more from this author in the future.
I really enjoyed reading Dust Spells. Stella, our protagonist, is an intelligent, forward thinking, business-minded woman. All three sisters felt very real and I loved how they loved each other even when they were fighting and arguing.
The build up to the reveal of Archie’s past was also done very well. The sisters caught onto the hints of something being off, and untangled some of his lies one at a time, until they finally got the full story. It definitely kept me turning the page so I could figure it out with them.
I like Lloyd and Stella’s relationship. Their attraction felt genuine and their connection grew steadily and authentically. I will say that the conflict they had seemed to get brushed over pretty quickly, and the same can be said for some other conflicts that felt a little rushed.
My biggest criticism is that Archie seemed like he was meant to be very morally gray and like readers could sympathize with him a little. I didn’t feel an ounce of sympathy or affection for him. Could this be because I didn’t trust him from the beginning? Maybe. But I couldn’t quite see him as a complex, 3 dimensional character because he never felt truly real to me.
Overall, it was an intriguing read. I’m grateful to have been able to read an arc of this book and I plan to read more from this author in the future.
May 6, 2025
I understood the plot but it felt like it was not researched enough to create a tangible solution to the problem because Stella’s younger sister, Mattie who is a foreseer pretty much was theorizing and in the end, got it wrong until the villain explained himself. He was selfish and it was obvious he was hiding things ever since Stella and her siblings found out the strange realm. I thought that once the curse was lifted, it would mean that the current nation would no longer suffer from the natural disaster but I guess that only means it’s supposed to happen without interference.
Also, how quickly it was revealed that Stella’s mom was all this time dead inside the villain’s home. I don’t understand how she did not recover since it was mentioned how her blood still looked fresh? I even thought that maybe the villain had to have been killing her daily? But no because the realm did not mean that time was rewinding daily. There was just no time taking place whatsoever.
The dad also showing up in the end of the book without ever revealing himself and why he hadn’t shown up in either months or years was off. The author only wanted to include him for the happy epilogue.
Also, how quickly it was revealed that Stella’s mom was all this time dead inside the villain’s home. I don’t understand how she did not recover since it was mentioned how her blood still looked fresh? I even thought that maybe the villain had to have been killing her daily? But no because the realm did not mean that time was rewinding daily. There was just no time taking place whatsoever.
The dad also showing up in the end of the book without ever revealing himself and why he hadn’t shown up in either months or years was off. The author only wanted to include him for the happy epilogue.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2025
3.5 stars.
A charming story about three sisters in Dust Bowl Kansas. I wouldn't call the story wildly memorable, but rather a nice little way to spend a few hours. The central romance between Stella and Lloyd, the young drifter with a heart of gold, is sweet. Maybe a little idealized as Lloyd is the kind of young man that every girl dreams about. Brave and strong, but also sensitive and able to say the things that we all want to hear.
My biggest quibble with the book is related to Lloyd's characterization and other things that felt a bit anachronistic to the time period. I appreciate that Stella had such a forward thinking mindset, but at the same time, it didn't feel realistic for a character of the time. The fact that her entire mindset was more akin to that of a 21st century woman felt off.
(Posting this months after reading so my memories of it are faded. I need to start tracking my reading again.)
A charming story about three sisters in Dust Bowl Kansas. I wouldn't call the story wildly memorable, but rather a nice little way to spend a few hours. The central romance between Stella and Lloyd, the young drifter with a heart of gold, is sweet. Maybe a little idealized as Lloyd is the kind of young man that every girl dreams about. Brave and strong, but also sensitive and able to say the things that we all want to hear.
My biggest quibble with the book is related to Lloyd's characterization and other things that felt a bit anachronistic to the time period. I appreciate that Stella had such a forward thinking mindset, but at the same time, it didn't feel realistic for a character of the time. The fact that her entire mindset was more akin to that of a 21st century woman felt off.
(Posting this months after reading so my memories of it are faded. I need to start tracking my reading again.)
May 8, 2024
Dust Spell" by Andrea Lynn is a magical adventure story that follows Stella Fischer, a brave young woman facing exciting challenges in a world of spells.
The author does a great job developing Stella's character, showing her bravery and determination. The relationships with her sisters and Lloyd add depth to that. As the plot unfolds, Lynn keeps the excitement going with a mix of fantasy and suspense, leading to a thrilling ending.
Overall, "Dust Spell" is a fun fantasy book for readers who enjoy magical adventures. Lynn's descriptive writing and exciting plot make this a great read,I really enjoyed this reading and will highly recommend that book to all fantasy fans.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The author does a great job developing Stella's character, showing her bravery and determination. The relationships with her sisters and Lloyd add depth to that. As the plot unfolds, Lynn keeps the excitement going with a mix of fantasy and suspense, leading to a thrilling ending.
Overall, "Dust Spell" is a fun fantasy book for readers who enjoy magical adventures. Lynn's descriptive writing and exciting plot make this a great read,I really enjoyed this reading and will highly recommend that book to all fantasy fans.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 4, 2026
Beautifully written, with an excellent blending of historical events, Romani folklore that is both respectful and fascinating, I could not put this one down. Lynn’s ability to create complex, intriguing, yet flawed and unequivocally human characters with whom the reader can connect is on full display in this brilliant retelling of a classic Brothers Grimm fairytale ("The Twelve Dancing Princesses", or "The Shoes That Were Danced to Pieces"). Thrilling, well-paced, and brimming with connect-the-dots “aha!” moments, “Dust Spells” will keep you engaged and spellbound from beginning to end. Highly, highly recommend.
February 23, 2024
I enjoyed this book so much! There were so many twists, nothing was predictable. I could not put it down- I read it for for somewhere over two hours straight. I highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a secret gem. I rated it four stars as I felt like the romance was slightly under developed- it happened quite quickly. I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 29, 2024
A brilliant book. Set during the depression in America, the characters are strongly written and wholly believable. The story is very original, I can’t remember reading anything similar, and it’s excellent. The book deals with redemption, death, depression, and the characters grow throughout. The ending is fantastic. I definitely recommend reading this.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 8, 2025
Libby, audiobook, HCPL. About 8 hours long. Great to be a Texas resident using the loan system from this library. Camcat publishing is offering some very unique reads.
The was a mix of historic fiction, with an alternate world. The three sisters struggling in Kansas during the dust bowl set up a relatable background when they find themselves in an alternate world.
Anyone looking for an adventure in the next book they read should enjoy this book.
The was a mix of historic fiction, with an alternate world. The three sisters struggling in Kansas during the dust bowl set up a relatable background when they find themselves in an alternate world.
Anyone looking for an adventure in the next book they read should enjoy this book.
February 16, 2024
I really liked this book. It really brought the great depression and dust bowl era to life. Stella is a believably flawed young lady dealing with survival in a world gone to pieces, and I felt totally immersed in her struggles. I loved the magical realm they stumbled upon, and the plot twists just kept coming. This is definitely worth the read! Well done, Andrea Lynn!
December 14, 2024
As soon as I closed the book I missed Stella. Loved this dreamy, dust-filtered sunbeam Kansas setting. Loved the sisterhood so much. I used this book as my last reading of the day for months. I didn’t want to finish, like Lavinia clinging to Archie’s world, I wished I could hang out with the sisters for longer.
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