I am a huge fan of T M Cromer’s work, and absolutely loved the Thorne Witches books. So when the opportunity came to review her new series on behalf of the Book Dragon I did not hesitate, and eagerly settled into a night of romance, and of course magic.
Pints & Potions did not disappoint, and whilst the focus, has in the main, shifted away from the Thorne Witches to focus on the O’Malley family, and the undoing of an ancient curse, I was delighted to see the cross over of other members of the Thorne Family, whom I have come to love. In particular, the return of the enigmatic Alastair Thorne, who has always been a favourite character of mine. With a bad boy image, but a heart of gold and a talent for matchmaking, Alastair always brings a smile to my face, when he becomes involved in the affairs of his family, and lends fate a helping hand.
In traditional T M Cromers style, Pints & Potions delivered on the romance, magic, intrigue, drama, danger, power, & the beautiful family bond and love amongst the O’Malleys and the Thorne’s which makes them a formidable adversary, to those that seek to cause harm. More brash and forthright than the Thornes, the O’Malleys are likeable, and interesting characters, with elements that spark a reader’s curiosity and thirst to know more. Especially about the O’Malley family heritage, and their mysterious grimoire that seems to have a mind of its own! I would have loved to have read more about this in Book One, but I am sure that my appetite for this information will be sated in the subsequent books of the series.
With a new Divine Goddess introduced, who favours the O’Malleys, working alongside the Goddess Isis (whom readers are familiar with from the Thorne Series), to guide the O’Malleys and Thorne’s along their path; and a psychic child who is a conduit to the Divine, Pints & Potions is a highly recommended read for anyone with a romantic heart, strong family values and a fascination for magic.
My only critique is in relation to the initial pacing of the book. At times, I felt events had skipped ahead a little too quickly, and on occasion were too sudden in their introduction to the reader. Although, later chapters settled into a pace that, whilst fast, the reader was able to keep up with. This did not in any way spoil my enjoyment of Pints & Potions, but I do consider worthwhile in noting for those readers who are not used to this style of writing.
I am awarding Pints & Potions, Book One in the Unlucky Charms series a strong 4.5 stars.
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