Book Review: Spells Like Teen Spirit (The Babysitters Coven, #3) by Kate Williams
There’s something undeniably delightful about diving back into a world filled with teenage witches, ridiculous plots, and a sprinkle of nostalgic humor. When I picked up Spells Like Teen Spirit, the third installment in Kate Williams’ Babysitters Coven series, I was instantly intrigued. I’ve adored the clever blending of supernatural flair and everyday teenage shenanigans in the previous books, and I was eager to see what mischief Esme and Cassandra would get up to this time. As I turned the pages, I was whisked away into a wild ride reminiscent of Buffy the Vampire Slayer meeting Adventures in Babysitting—and I loved every chaotic moment.
At its core, this installment continues to follow our favorite teen witches as they battle against dark forces and unravel the lingering curse plaguing Esme’s mom. But this time, they’re up against an evil rock band that brings an unexpected twist to the narrative. I found myself laughing out loud at the absurdity of a rock ensemble serving as the antagonist—who would’ve guessed that heavy metal could be so sinister? Williams’ humor shone brightly throughout the book, even if the babysitting angle took a back seat. Honestly, though, I didn’t mind; the characters and their outrageous predicaments more than made up for it.
Esme and Cassandra’s adventures are sprinkled with themes of friendship, resilience, and self-discovery, making their journey relatable on many levels. It was especially heartwarming revisiting the vibrant supporting cast from earlier books, including a charming four-legged companion that I couldn’t get enough of. Williams’ knack for character development really captures the essence of teenage life, juggling friendships, dreams, and a bit of witchcraft—who wouldn’t relate to that?
The pacing kept me engaged, but I did feel like it dipped slightly compared to the second book. While I enjoyed this installment, it didn’t quite reach the laugh-out-loud moments that For Better or Cursed provided—those chickens in the hotel room will forever hold a special place in my heart! Nonetheless, Williams’ consistently humorous writing and 90s vibes kept me chuckling; her quirky references brought a sense of familiarity and warmth that feels like a cozy blanket on a chilly day.
As I turned the last page, I found myself feeling bittersweet. While I appreciate the closure, I’m left wishing for more. The world Williams has crafted is brimming with possibilities—so many demons left to defeat, so many adventures to be had! I couldn’t help but think, “C’mon, Kate Williams, I know you have more in you!”
In conclusion, Spells Like Teen Spirit is a delightful read for anyone who enjoys a mix of supernatural fun and lighthearted humor. If you’ve loved the escapades of Esme and Cassandra in previous installments, this book is a must-read. It’ll resonate with those who appreciate a contemporary twist on classic tropes and who, like me, are not quite ready to leave this enchanting world behind. So grab your wand, pick up this book, and get ready for another whirlwind of hilarity—trust me, you’ll want to join this coven one more time.
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