A very enjoyable listen

I needed a light audiobook to finish the year and I asked my friend Jude for an audio recommendation. I’ve seen this book some time ago but as I’m not a fan of the fantasy genre, I never checked it. I’m glad I did now because it was very entertaining.

Emmy Harlow is a witch that left her magical hometown of Thistle Grove after a bad breakup with Gareth Blackmoore. Now she’s back to follow the family tradition of being an arbiter in a spellcasting tournament. She’s approached by her best friend Linden and the mysterious Talia Avramov to ask for her help in seeking revenge on Gareth Blackmoore who broke all their hearts. As the women plan their vengeance, Emmy can’t help to become attracted to the enigmatic Talia…

Payback’s a witch is a fantasy story featuring the return to hometown trope. Even if you are not a usual fantasy reader, this book is worth your time as it balances magic with action and romance. The world-building is very well written and it’s easy to see this magic town and its inhabitants in your mind’s eye. The characters are also very well fleshed out as well as the chemistry between Emmy and Talia.

The story itself and the spellcasting tournament have many twists and turns and once the action starts, it’s hard to put this book down. The magic parts reminded me a bit of Harry Potter but with a Sapphic love story thrown into the mix. The fantasy elements are light and not creepy at all so it’s ideal for people who are looking for an easy read.

The audiobook version was read by Jeremy Carlisle Parker (who is one of the narrators in Mistakes were Made) and here does a great job once more. There is a good variety of characters and she nailed them all no matter their gender or age. Very enjoyable listen. 5 stars.