The Reimagining of Thornwood House by Jaleigh Johnson Series: Magic of Iskendra #1
Published by Ace Books on 6/09/2026
Genres: Fantasy, Cozy Fantasy
Pages: 391
Format: eARC
Source: the publisher
Purchase: Amazon | Bookshop | Barnes & Noble | Kobo | Audible | Chirp
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A witch and her young ward discover a magical, walking house and learn the true meaning of home in this cozy, enchanting novel from New York Times bestselling author Jaleigh Johnson.
Evelyn Sharpe is accustomed to dealing with natural disasters as a land witch, but she longs for a life with a little less danger for her and her adopted daughter, Ruby. So when the opportunity to take over as Caretaker of Thornwood House—a sentient home that acts as the magical heart of the village of Iskendra—arises, it seems almost fated.
When they arrive in sunny Iskendra, Evie and Ruby find the house is nothing like what they First of all, it has walked away from the address. Thornwood House is also grumpy, guarded, and extremely hesitant to allow the two witches through its doors.
Armed with gentle hearts and wild magic, Evie and Ruby begin to form tentative bonds with the house and the citizens of the small town. But there’s something deeply damaged about the building seeping into the forests surrounding Iskendra, and Evie will have to use all her power to protect the roots she’s started to grow.
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher.
Heartwarming, magical cozy fantasy
You know that feeling when the perfect book comes along just when you need it? That was The Reimagining of Thornwood House for me this spring: a book about hope, new beginnings, moving, healing, and finding a home and a place in your new community. It’s wise, beautiful, whimsical, and utterly enchanting. I loved the main character, Evie, and her adopted daughter Ruby; Thornwood House and the Thornwood; their neighbor Gil; and the magical village of Iskendra, peopled by (mostly) good-hearted people. I loved the different sorts of magic, the secret hidden within the Thornwood, Evie’s fierce love for her daughter, and her patience in dealing with Thornwood House, still grieving its former caretaker. Most of all, I loved how kindness and compassion flows between the characters throughout the entire book. Even the villains of the piece aren’t entirely unsympathetic (with the possible exception of a few bureaucrats), but are simply people with their own fears and desires. It’s written from an adult perspective, but brims with all the enchantment of the best children’s fantasy tales. Healing and comforting, this one is going on my keeper shelves.
Challenges: COYER 2026: Out to Lunch Again; NetGalley & Edelweiss Challenge 2026
Reading this book contributed to these challenges:
- COYER 2026: Out to Lunch Again
- Netgalley & Edelweiss Reading Challenge 2026
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