Review by Booklist Review
Since her ability to see the present as it truly is was first identified, Ray has worked toward becoming a Council member, someone who can use her unusual talent to help make the world a better place. Laurie wants to become a superstar musician but isn't having an easy time making his dream come true. The two start dating, but Ray doesn't get too close to Laurie, afraid she may accidentally on purpose see truths that he may not be ready for her to know. And Laurie is most comfortable when everyone around him is happy, so he keeps his failures to himself, focusing only on making others feel special. Can the two come together before Ray graduates to full Council and disappears from everyone's memory? Magical abilities--and cell phones--abound in this feel-good romance, based on the webcomic of the same name. The art and colors are as soft as the story is sweet, and the denouement is a refreshing twist on a common trope. Perfect for tweens and teens who like romance comics.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Stirling's romantic debut, based on the creator's webcomic, adeptly blends love and magic on the precipice of change. Brown-skinned, teenage Ray, a Seer gifted with the ability to reveal hidden truths, frequents Marigold's Bakery--whose magic-infused pastries help consumers manifest things such as confidence--to indulge in their signature pastry, Romance. There, she meets barista and aspiring musician Laurie, who invites Ray on a date. Ray, who has always avoided pursuing relationships because her power often reveals more than her partners are willing to share about themselves, tentatively accepts hopeless romantic Laurie's advances, but their respective insecurities and divergent goals challenge the relationship. Together, they discover more about who they are and what they want, and grow as a couple, learning to balance each other's personal and professional dreams. Employing delicate linework and soft, pastel coloring, Stirling's understated art reveals a world brimming with memorable fantastical touches--such as techno-magical phone assistants Stella and Wobble, and Laurie's woes over earning his broom flying license--adding charm and playfulness to this joyful volume. Characters, some queer, are portrayed with varying skin tones and body types. Ages 12--up. (July)
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Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 7 Up--This delectable graphic novel is guaranteed to leave readers smiling as they are transported to a magical town with delightful characters. Ray is a gifted seer who likes to begin every week at the enchanting Marigold's Bakery with some freshly baked romance and a cozy cup of peace. It's not just the spellbinding treats that keep her coming back for more but the charming barista Laurie, who has started to take particular notice whenever she comes in the store. It is a delight to watch the two get together and support each other's aspirations. Ray's powers secure her a coveted spot in the mysterious council that governs their world, and Laurie think he has what it takes to be a famous musician. This story is the perfect amount of sweet without dipping into saccharine. Ray and Laurie are multidimensional characters with lofty goals and individual interests that keep their romance grounded and refreshingly healthy. The beautiful art takes worldbuilding to another level, creating the most enchanting and picturesque city imaginable. VERDICT This adorable web comic turned full-length graphic novel would be a fantastic addition to middle and high school collections. It has the perfect combo of fantasy, realism, and romance.--Michael Marie Jacobs
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Review by Kirkus Book Review
A seer (with limitations) experiences first love as she tries to navigate her future. Unlike traditional seers, Ray can only see a person's present, not their future. Despite the frustrating limitations of her gift, Ray studies at the Council Academy, hoping to join the Grand Council of Sorcerers. As a weekly reprieve, she visits Marigold's Bakery, where the pastries possess spells to help manifest desired emotions or outcomes; Ray always chooses "romance." It is there she meets barista Laurie, the owner's nephew and an aspiring musician. The pair grow closer after Laurie invites Ray to an open mic night with his friends. As Ray contemplates whether the future she's been working toward is truly the right one for her, Laurie is learning how to overcome rejection after rejection in his musical career. Despite life's curveballs, each learns to look inward for answers but also lean into the other. Stirling's graphic novel, adapted from a webcomic, presents readers with an enthralling new world brimming with magic. The bright pastel palette makes it all the more inviting. Steady pacing allows the story to blossom as Ray and Laurie grow as a couple and navigate the disappointments that come with chasing dreams. Brown-skinned Ray is fat with wavy brown hair; racially ambiguous Laurie has straight black hair, black eyes, and light skin. The supporting cast is diverse in race, sexuality, and body type. A sweet romantic fantasy that tackles the uncertain future. (Graphic fantasy. 14-18) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
