Book Review: The Enchanted Greenhouse by Sarah Beth Durst


Today’s review is another sequel, well, in this case, a prequel? Or perhaps a story that is a parallel novel to the Spellshop? In any case, this is a cozy fantasy about singing plants, a grumpy gardener, and a talkative librarian seeking second chances.
New York Times bestselling author Sarah Beth Durst invites you to her new standalone novel set in the world of The Spellshop! Follow her to The Enchanted Greenhouse, a cozy fantasy nestled on a far-away island brimming with singing flowers, honey cakes, and honeyed love.
I was excited to receive an early access copy of this audiobook. I found the first book to be entertaining. However, if I had to choose, I think I enjoyed this one more. It follows a very similar formula to the first one, which, as far as cozy fantasies go, is cute and easy to read.
Terlu is this talkative yet anxious librarian who was wrongfully punished for wanting a friend. Her story is very similar to Kiela’s; both feel the anxiety of being punished or discovered for having or doing magic, and also fear ending up alone. I thought Terlu was relatable, yet she had no filter. Understandable after she was stuck being a statue for so long.
I loved how Yarrow and Terlu interacted with each other. Not quite the same as other forced close-proximity stories. But a trope nonetheless. Parts might be cliche, but again, for a cozy read, I can forgive that. It is exactly what is advertised. Ultimately, the message I took was that you might fail at times, but if possible, try again.
The publisher provided my arc via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
