A cozy, funny YA fantasy perfect for fans of Rainbow Rowell and Sarah Rees Brennan, about a baker’s apprentice who must embrace her magical talents in a world where magic is seen as useless.

SOMETHING CLOSE TO MAGIC
by Emma Mills
Atheneum BYR, June 2023
(via JABberwocky Literary Agency)

It’s not all sugar and spice at Basil’s Bakery, where seventeen-year-old Aurelie is an overworked, underappreciated apprentice. Still, the job offers stability, which no-nonsense Aurelie values highly— until a stranger walks in and upends Aurelie’s careful life forever. The stranger, who turns out to be a remarkably bothersome bounty hunter named Iliana, asks for Aurelie to use her Seeking abilities to help rescue Prince Hapless, the charming-but-aptly-named prince. Even more dangerous are the feelings she’s starting to have for Hapless. The more time Aurelie spends with him, the less she can stand the thought of going back to her solitary but dependable life at the bakery. Must she choose between losing her apprenticeship—or her heart?

Emma Mills is the author of several young adult novels, including Foolish Heats and First & Then. When she is not writing, Emma can be found editing scientific manuscripts, tending to her large collection of succulents, and deep diving into various fandoms. Emma lives in St. Louis with her dog Teddy, who is best described as a big personality in a tiny package.