★Robb, Kate. This Spells Love. Dial. Dec. 2023. 352p. ISBN 9780593596531. pap. $17. PARANORMAL ROMANCE

DEBUT After being dumped by her boyfriend of four years, Gemma Wilde gets inebriated and takes her quirky aunt’s suggestion to try the instructions in an old mystical book to wipe away her painful memories of her ex. When the love-cleanse spell actually works, Gemma finds herself in another timeline where she owns the clean-beauty and health boutique she’s always secretly dreamed of, but her best friend Dax, who helped her with the spell by sealing it with a kiss, doesn’t know her. As Gemma embarks on her unexpected alternate path, she grows into a main character to root for. Knowing how important Dax is to Gemma, fans of the friends-to-lovers trope will fall in love with the abundant romantic moments between the two as they rediscover their deep connection. Alongside enjoyable witticisms and banter, the well-characterized supporting cast and essential sisterly support are all present in both timelines. VERDICT Offering a satisfying slow burn that transforms into delightful heat, the dazzling chemistry in this life-altering rom-com shows how love that transcends dimensions is worth the risk. This debut is an essential purchase for romance shelves.