Small Town, Big Magic

This spellbinding magic-infused rom-com from Nicole Helm (the North Star series) and Megan Crane (the Alaska Force series), writing as Beck, brings modern witchcraft away from the typical New England setting, with quirky protagonists, stoic love interests, and fanciful interpretations of history in tow. Emerson Wilde has backup plans for her backup plans, and she’s determined to see her beloved hometown of St. Cyprian, Mo., thrive. But there’s more to St. Cyprian than meets the eye—as Emerson learns when a vicious attack by magical beasts awakens her innate magical power and her best friends let her in on a secret: they’re all witches. A decade ago, Emerson’s magical memory was wiped after she failed to show enough potential during a magical aptitude test. Unused to being unprepared, Emerson struggles to make sense of this new world order, control her abilities, solve the mystery of her power’s resurgence—and reckon with the chemistry that’s reignited between her and Jacob, a member of her coven. Beck delivers a wonderfully realized heroine with a voice so clear readers will feel like one of her friends. This is sure to be a hit with any fan of paranormal romance. Agents: (for Helm) Helen Breitwieser, Cornerstone Literary, (for Crews) Holly Root, Root Literary (Aug.)