A Spell that Enriches the Journey: My Thoughts on This Spell Can’t Last
If you’ve ever found yourself yearning for a deeper insight into the journeys of beloved characters, you’ll understand why This Spell Can’t Last by Amanda Foody caught my attention. This novella serves not just as a bridge between the first novel, These Witches Don’t Burn, and the much-anticipated sequel, This Coven Won’t Break, but also as a delightful exploration of the intricate dynamics between Hannah and Veronica. The moment I realized it filled in the gaps of their New York trip, I knew I was in for something special.
First off, let’s dive into the heart of the novella. Set against a vibrant backdrop brimming with magic and tension, this story captures the complexities of Hannah and Veronica’s relationship. Their bond has always been fraught with intensity, but it’s in this in-between space that we truly see how love, friendship, and rivalry can intertwine. Foody’s portrayal of their emotional struggles and personal growth was both raw and relatable. As someone who’s navigated complicated friendships, I found myself reflecting on my experiences, which added depth to my reading.
Foody’s writing style is unapologetically engaging. The pacing is brisk, yet it feels intentional, allowing us to savor moments of vulnerability among the frenetic energy of the magical world. I appreciated how she weaves humor into the narrative, making the characters feel so real and relatable. Their banter brought a smile to my face, and I found myself chuckling at several lines but also feeling a pang of sadness in the quieter moments.
One section that resonated deeply was when Hannah articulates her fears of losing Veronica. The way Foody encapsulates the human condition through these witchy dilemmas is nothing short of brilliance. The line, “Magic can be a curse, but it can also be the thread that binds us,” lingers in my mind. It perfectly encapsulates the themes of the book—how love can bring together, even amid chaos.
As much as this novella isn’t strictly vital to the series, I believe it enhances the overall reading experience. If you follow the chronological order, diving into This Spell Can’t Last right after These Witches Don’t Burn provides a satisfying understanding of where the characters are headed—and it certainly made my transition to This Coven Won’t Break smoother. However, after finishing the series, I also found merit in reading it as originally published. It felt like a gentle nudge, reminding me of the nuances I might have overlooked otherwise.
For readers who adore character-driven stories with vibrant settings and relatable struggles, this novella is a gem. Whether you’re deeply invested in the Witches series or considering starting it, this addition will certainly enrich your journey. It serves as a reminder that even amidst the chaos of magic, the bonds we form can ground us.
In the end, This Spell Can’t Last isn’t just about what happens in New York during a magical trip; it’s about the emotional connections we forge, and how they shape our destinies. As I closed the final pages, I found a sense of longing for more, and perhaps that’s the spell of great storytelling—a yearning for deeper connections in our own lives. Happy reading!
Discover more about This Spell Can’t Last (These Witches Don’t Burn, #0.5) on GoodReads >>






