Author: Sarah Hogle
Reviewed by Chloe Fuksa, Putnam Six Bookstore
Released in October of this year, Just Like Magic is the third novel from author Sarah Hogle but the first holiday-themed one. It would appear to be a typical Christmas romantic comedy – bring fake boyfriend home to family, end up falling in love – but Just Like Magic is so uniquely quirky and different. It has the cliché things, like ice skating and caroling and snowball fights. But also, socks that sing a Polar Express song with each step? A large live-in gingerbread house that appears in the blink of an eye?
The main character, Bettie, was once a prosperous influencer but is now secretly broke and dreading the upcoming Christmas gathering with her family. One night, after a few too many drinks, she accidently summons the Holiday Spirit, personified by a handsome young man named Hall. Bettie initially only uses his magic powers to benefit herself though – asking for wealthy items to keep up the appearance of her prior fame, enacting revenge on the people who have wronged her. But Hall’s enthusiasm and sincerity and warmth – think, Buddy the Elf energy – starts to rub off on her, as well as her family. Rather than bickering at every dinner or treating gift giving as a who’s-the-richest competition, they start showing their true selves and rediscovering the love they have for each other.
Just Like Magic isn’t a perfect book – the humor can be a tad bizarre at times and one scene in particular doesn’t make, frankly, an ounce of sense toward the plot. But if you look past that, it does have great characters – Hall in particular – and some good messages too. It’s a really fun, enjoyable read that will surely get you ready for Christmastime.
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