SPORTOCHICK’S MUSINGS: A little bit of the old and a lot of the new makes a very interesting storyline.

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An Ancient Witch’s Guide to Modern Dating

by Cecilia Edward

Pub Date Jun 24 2025
Saga Press

DESCRIPTION

An ancient witch explores the thrills—and perils—of online dating with hilarity and heart in a charming rom-com perfect for fans of cozy fantasy and witchy romance.

Meet Thorn Scarhart, a thirty-nine-year-old witch who’s having trouble finding love in the 17th century. Despite the local matchmaker’s efforts and Thorn’s arsenal of powerful love potions, she has yet to fall in love. After the disappearance of her sister and the loss of her mother, Thorn was too caught up in…well, life, to focus on dating. Now, she fears she may have missed her chance.

But, when one of her potion brews backfires spectacularly, Thorn is hurled 350 years into the future, landing in a bustling city where her once-isolated cottage is now a historical museum. While this unexpected leap through time may seem daunting, modern life does have its perks: indoor plumbing, electric kettles, and the world of online dating. At thirty-nine, the odds may not be perfect, but at least they’re not impossible.

With the help of the museum’s new curator—and her charming veterinarian brother—Thorn dives headfirst into the 21st-century dating scene. And as she searches for romance, she might also find herself along the way.

An Ancient Witch’s Guide to Modern Dating is a delightful mix of humor, heart, and a sprinkle of magic. Cozy fantasy lovers will adore this enchanting rom-com, which is a must-read for fans of Sangu Mandanna’s The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches and Erin Sterling’s The Ex Hex.

REVIEW

A little bit of the old and a lot of the new makes a very interesting storyline. The opening takes place in 17th century with Thorn seeking love and a partner through a love potion before she turns 40. Thorn’s only companion is her familiar, Turnip a cat. I instantly understood her loneliness it oozed off the pages. I also got her intense desire to be loved and married.

When she goes into the 21st century by accident I was curious how the witch part of her could survive. The author came up with an suitable storyline that moved the story forward and keeps Thorn’s witch personality viable in the future.

The animals in the story kept the story fun while the evil person keeps everyone on their toes and adds intrigue.

I give it 4 STARS for being quirky.

I received this book for free from Netgalley and Saga Press in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

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