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Magic in the Moonlight
After an awkward-almost kiss ten years ago, her older brother's best friend is back and more distracting than ever.
Laurel tried to kiss Nate when they were teenagers, and he flat-out rejected her. Then he left the island and never came back. Okay, so it was because of family drama and not because he was horrified his best friend’s little sister tried to lock lips with him. But Laurel can’t help re-living that embarrassment when Nate returns to the island grown up and gorgeous.
Laurel certainly hasn’t been pining for him this whole time. She’s been busy running her small boutique, collecting a fabulous vintage wardrobe, and mastering her magical ability to read the emotional energy of objects. No time for worrying about the past.
Except, suddenly, Nate is everywhere. Family dinner. Stopping by with her favorite treats. Getting hired by Gran to renovate Laurel’s cottage. It’s awfully hard to prove you’re a competent, fully-grown woman who’s so over a man when he’s your personal handyman tearing down your walls. If only she could tear down his image of her as the lonely little tagalong from his teen years. Having the confidence to make a move is even harder when she discovers he may already have feelings for someone else.
Laurel’s Gift is reading the emotional past of objects, so why is it so hard to understand her emotional present?
Laurel tried to kiss Nate when they were teenagers, and he flat-out rejected her. Then he left the island and never came back. Okay, so it was because of family drama and not because he was horrified his best friend’s little sister tried to lock lips with him. But Laurel can’t help re-living that embarrassment when Nate returns to the island grown up and gorgeous.
Laurel certainly hasn’t been pining for him this whole time. She’s been busy running her small boutique, collecting a fabulous vintage wardrobe, and mastering her magical ability to read the emotional energy of objects. No time for worrying about the past.
Except, suddenly, Nate is everywhere. Family dinner. Stopping by with her favorite treats. Getting hired by Gran to renovate Laurel’s cottage. It’s awfully hard to prove you’re a competent, fully-grown woman who’s so over a man when he’s your personal handyman tearing down your walls. If only she could tear down his image of her as the lonely little tagalong from his teen years. Having the confidence to make a move is even harder when she discovers he may already have feelings for someone else.
Laurel’s Gift is reading the emotional past of objects, so why is it so hard to understand her emotional present?
- GenresUrban Fantasy
216 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 20, 2021
4 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
November 27, 2021
Such a cute story
I thought this story was so cute, and I also especially loved the added magical elements to it. There’s a lot more to it than first seems, and the characters were so lovable and cute together.
I thought this story was so cute, and I also especially loved the added magical elements to it. There’s a lot more to it than first seems, and the characters were so lovable and cute together.
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November 20, 2022This book is nothing like anything I have read in a long time, but my neighbor wrote it (!!!!!!) so I had to give it a try! It was such a fun read and definitely a book I’d recommend to YA readers. I’m so amazed and proud of you Julie!!!!!!
September 15, 2021
One of my favorite genres is urban fantasy. Sadly, I have the hardest time trying to find books in this genre. The majority of them are either geared towards YA or are simply not clean. Y'all. I was SO excited to discover the Magic of Moonrise Cove series. It has swept me away and has given me that much needed break from reality. I am so glad that I don't have to leave Moonrise Cove anytime soon! This place is... well... magical! 😍
Confession time. The "Brother's Best Friend" trope is usually a hit or a miss for me. It has never been in between and there's been more misses than hits. Thankfully this one was a hit! *whew* Haha. Don't ya just love when that happens?
Laurel and Nate have known each other since they were kids. She's had a crush on him for years but, for Nate, she's always been "Simon's Little Sister". It's been 10 years since Nate left the island and now that he's back, Laurel isn't quite sure how to handle it. All she wants to do is avoid him as long as possible. But between a handsy scarf and her Gran, avoidance doesn't last very long. Things were a bit awkward between Laurel and Nate in the beginning. But it doesn't take long for them to pick up where they left off all those years ago.
I enjoyed their journey from friendship to something more. They were so good together. I loved watching Nate take care of and support Laurel when she needed it the most. Y'all. That man deserves a medal! Laurel was a bit slow on the uptake and there were a few times I wanted to shake her and say "Wake up woman! How can you not see what's in front of your face?!" 😂 Thankfully she figures it out before it's too late.
While I really enjoyed the book and had a hard time putting it down, there was one thing that kept me from giving it the full 5 stars I wanted to. What is that one thing? Kisses. I needed more kisses. I missed melting into a big ol' pile of gooey goodness and letting out all the dreamy sighs. Now don't get me wrong. There were some definite dreamy sighs escaping while reading the book, but I just wanted a bit more.
I am absolutely loving this series! It is SO fun! I find myself wanting to devour all of the books as fast as I can but then I want to read them slowly so I can savor every minute of them. The struggle is real y'all! 😂
Ms. Barker has officially added herself to my "authors to watch" list. She had me staying up way past my bedtime because I just had to know what happened next! I can say, without a doubt, I'm definitely looking forward to reading more books by her!
And you guys know no review of mine would be complete without a casting. I have one word for these two. Perfection! What do you think?
Confession time. The "Brother's Best Friend" trope is usually a hit or a miss for me. It has never been in between and there's been more misses than hits. Thankfully this one was a hit! *whew* Haha. Don't ya just love when that happens?
Laurel and Nate have known each other since they were kids. She's had a crush on him for years but, for Nate, she's always been "Simon's Little Sister". It's been 10 years since Nate left the island and now that he's back, Laurel isn't quite sure how to handle it. All she wants to do is avoid him as long as possible. But between a handsy scarf and her Gran, avoidance doesn't last very long. Things were a bit awkward between Laurel and Nate in the beginning. But it doesn't take long for them to pick up where they left off all those years ago.
I enjoyed their journey from friendship to something more. They were so good together. I loved watching Nate take care of and support Laurel when she needed it the most. Y'all. That man deserves a medal! Laurel was a bit slow on the uptake and there were a few times I wanted to shake her and say "Wake up woman! How can you not see what's in front of your face?!" 😂 Thankfully she figures it out before it's too late.
While I really enjoyed the book and had a hard time putting it down, there was one thing that kept me from giving it the full 5 stars I wanted to. What is that one thing? Kisses. I needed more kisses. I missed melting into a big ol' pile of gooey goodness and letting out all the dreamy sighs. Now don't get me wrong. There were some definite dreamy sighs escaping while reading the book, but I just wanted a bit more.
I am absolutely loving this series! It is SO fun! I find myself wanting to devour all of the books as fast as I can but then I want to read them slowly so I can savor every minute of them. The struggle is real y'all! 😂
Ms. Barker has officially added herself to my "authors to watch" list. She had me staying up way past my bedtime because I just had to know what happened next! I can say, without a doubt, I'm definitely looking forward to reading more books by her!
And you guys know no review of mine would be complete without a casting. I have one word for these two. Perfection! What do you think?
May 31, 2021
It was an entertaining read, perfect for a long weekend. I enjoyed all of the characters. I wish I had a Nate in my life and not just to do repairs around the house. I would highly recommend Magic in the Moonlight if you want a light hearted romance that leaves you with a smile.
May 22, 2021
When you need a light, sweet romance to soak in a bubble bath with, reach for this one.
Laurel’s your average island girl: capable, smart, resourceful....and oh yeah, she’s got a magical talent for reading emotions in objects.
Nate’s her brother’s best friend, but has been away from the island for the last decade or so after Laurel’s disastrous attempt to kiss him. (Not why he left, but it sure weighs heavy on her mind.)
I thoroughly enjoyed the situations these two found themselves in as they danced around their history, their present fraught with miscommunications, and their potential future. In some ways, this is just another sweet romance, but the addition of Laurel’s magic and the layers and rules Barker built to support it brought an additional depth to the story.
It doesn’t hurt that I’ve been an island girl since birth and could picture most of the scenes in a sunnier version of my beloved Southeast Alaska.
I can’t wait to read more from Barker and Moonrise Cove.
Laurel’s your average island girl: capable, smart, resourceful....and oh yeah, she’s got a magical talent for reading emotions in objects.
Nate’s her brother’s best friend, but has been away from the island for the last decade or so after Laurel’s disastrous attempt to kiss him. (Not why he left, but it sure weighs heavy on her mind.)
I thoroughly enjoyed the situations these two found themselves in as they danced around their history, their present fraught with miscommunications, and their potential future. In some ways, this is just another sweet romance, but the addition of Laurel’s magic and the layers and rules Barker built to support it brought an additional depth to the story.
It doesn’t hurt that I’ve been an island girl since birth and could picture most of the scenes in a sunnier version of my beloved Southeast Alaska.
I can’t wait to read more from Barker and Moonrise Cove.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2021
When I picked up this book I knew what I wanted: a fun, romantic, summertime escape that had some substance. And it totally delivered! It's got just the right amount of intrigue to keep me turning the page while still taking the time to walk through an adorable tourist town so I could enjoy it for myself! The magic fits seamlessly into the world, makes me wonder what kind of witch I would be! Loved the main character - felt like I finally found a romance heroine I could relate to. Would definitely recommend!
May 26, 2021
This book was a welcome respite from reality. It is whimsical, sweet, and engaging. The magical aspect added a unique and interesting element to the story. The setting is idyllic, lovely, and definitely somewhere I’d like to daydream about living. While there are plot complications, gritty realism is absent, and you read knowing everything will be resolved happily. A charming, light, enjoyable read.
May 22, 2021
Jules Barker certainly has a talent for transporting you to another world where magic still exists. This book was such an escape from the world around me that I stayed up way too late reading. It's a quick, easy, and light read that will leave you wanting more. Rest assured, she wraps it up with a beautiful bow and leaves your soul at peace knowing that the characters lived happily ever after. Will be reading this again...and again...and again!!!!
May 23, 2021
Sweet, cute, romance
This new author brings a tender sweeteness to the romance genre. The book is well written with a nice to humor and fantasy in one fell swoop. I highly recommend it for an easy summer pool side read.
This new author brings a tender sweeteness to the romance genre. The book is well written with a nice to humor and fantasy in one fell swoop. I highly recommend it for an easy summer pool side read.
January 10, 2022
I really enjoyed this book. This isn't the typical type of book I read, but I thought it sounded light and fun and I thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it. The relationship felt real and the typical tropes found within these types of books felt natural to the story. I found myself laughing out loud on more than one occasion and had a huge smile on my face as the story wrapped up. I especially found the writing to be fantastic with dialogue that felt authentic throughout. Several of the moments within this book even reminded me of some of the Korean dramas I've watched over the years. I am extremely excited about this author and look forward to reading everything else she has to offer:)
February 25, 2022
Very cute concept - Witches and romance
I liked this magical romance in so many ways, but I really struggled with the beginning and other parts of the story. And I mean I almost returned the book. It felt really flat with the dialog and perhaps too descriptive with trying to get the setting right. I had a hard time connecting to the story at times. Again, cute concept and I think this author has talent, but this wasn't a favorite.
Content: Completely chaste read - only some kissing
Language: No language
Religious: No
Happy reading!
I liked this magical romance in so many ways, but I really struggled with the beginning and other parts of the story. And I mean I almost returned the book. It felt really flat with the dialog and perhaps too descriptive with trying to get the setting right. I had a hard time connecting to the story at times. Again, cute concept and I think this author has talent, but this wasn't a favorite.
Content: Completely chaste read - only some kissing
Language: No language
Religious: No
Happy reading!
June 3, 2021
I loved this book so much! It had everything - love, magic, laughs. It literally made me giggle constantly. Laurel is such a delightful character who leaps off the page, and someone I will treasure as a friend and visit often.
August 6, 2021
Fun, lighthearted, romcom, with a hint of magic. It was entertaining and well written. I especially loved the female lead as she was quirky, eclectic, and reminded me of people I know. This was a sweet and clean read and I would recommend it to others.
July 15, 2021
A tender, youthful romance in a fun and unique setting. This book offers a happy getaway from real life in a world of real-world modern magic and a childhood friendship turned into love.
February 9, 2024
I loved this book! Cute, clean little chick lit. It’s fun that this is a multi-authored series too. I’m excited to read another one. I especially loved the little magically bits (:
January 18, 2024
I read this book for a second time and still get the butterflies in my stomach as I anticipate the budding romance between Laurel and Nate.
The magical island of Moonrise Cove has effects on all of its residents, not just the ones with certain abilities. Laurel feels emotional energies in objects. But it doesn't make her an expert, specially when it comes to her own relationships. I am in awe at her magical ability, though, and the ways she can use it to bless others lives.
With just the right amount of anticipation, you won't be able to put this book down. I wasn't able to, for the second time either.
The magical island of Moonrise Cove has effects on all of its residents, not just the ones with certain abilities. Laurel feels emotional energies in objects. But it doesn't make her an expert, specially when it comes to her own relationships. I am in awe at her magical ability, though, and the ways she can use it to bless others lives.
With just the right amount of anticipation, you won't be able to put this book down. I wasn't able to, for the second time either.
July 21, 2021
I don't typically pick up romance novels, but I promised my colleague and friend, Jules Barker, that I would preview her book before it was released. This was an endearing tale of not only a sweet budding romance, but also a story with some fantasy and suspense.
I really enjoyed the details of Laurel's wardrobe, which is totally a Jules's thing, and made me smile. I loved Laurel's gift of sensing emotions and history through touching objects; it gave the story an additional, flavorful plot.
If you're new to the romance genre, or aren't so sure about it, I think this is a great bridge. Wonderful work, Jules!
I really enjoyed the details of Laurel's wardrobe, which is totally a Jules's thing, and made me smile. I loved Laurel's gift of sensing emotions and history through touching objects; it gave the story an additional, flavorful plot.
If you're new to the romance genre, or aren't so sure about it, I think this is a great bridge. Wonderful work, Jules!
January 6, 2025
Small town, witchy vibes in a fun, easy read.
Without getting specific and into spoiler territory, I was shocked to find myself tearing up in the last few pages, which is rare for me.
I know next to nothing about fashion, so a lot of the outfit descriptions didn’t have the full impact they would for someone who could visualize some of those things a bit better, but it definitely shone through as an example of the author’s own personality and love of clothes.
Without getting specific and into spoiler territory, I was shocked to find myself tearing up in the last few pages, which is rare for me.
I know next to nothing about fashion, so a lot of the outfit descriptions didn’t have the full impact they would for someone who could visualize some of those things a bit better, but it definitely shone through as an example of the author’s own personality and love of clothes.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews