Review of 'Magic Uncorked' by Annabel Chase
Release date: January 21st, 2026
Publisher: Storm Publishing
REVIEW
I absolutely adored Magic Uncorked by Annabel Chase! Book 1 of ‘The Midlife Magic Cocktail Club’ is an entertaining and magical surprise that appealed to me. It was the first book I had read by this author and now I am dying to indulge in the rest of the series that are being re-released by Storm Publishing.
This is a story of surprises. When much loved Inga Paulsen, the sharp-tongue quick witted elder of the Friday night cocktail club, dies suddenly, her close friends Libbie, Rebecca, Kate and Julie discover she has been harbouring a pretty big secret. She bequeaths her strange legacy to these women, including her four cats! We are taken on a relatable journey into the hearts of these women who have real life obstacles to overcome. But certain unique ‘magic’ elements within the story, add intriguing ingredients into the mix that set it apart from other romance or contemporary women’s fiction novels. The plot, directions and solutions played out by the characters make it a fun and an incredibly uplifting read that oozes positivity. This unique paranormal sisterhood story charmed me from the start. I could not put it down and read most in one sitting. The healthy dash of clever humour woven throughout made me laugh and the feel good segments set my heart singing! There are trials, yes, but the characters are set up for a powerful transformation. As they become empowered by their late friend’s gift, they will see the value of Inga’s legacy. It is just that some don’t quite know yet what they have, while one seems to be ready for what is to come.
Although we are introduced to all the women dealing with mid-life issues in the close knit cocktail friendship group of Lake Cloverleaf, this instalment focuses on Libbie Stark who comes into her power first when she is hit with some major life altering disappointments. Her dead beat boyfriend deceives her in a way she does not expect and carries on other underhanded activities even after she puts him out of her home. But once Libbie gets a handle on her new strength after she embraces Inga’s gift, she draws upon it to set herself free and to take back her life. Her new catering service for one allows her the creativity and independence she has craved. Plus her magical recipe book offers up some delectable treats and positive solutions that elevate her to a new position. While all this is happening, a quiet romance sparks within her heart as she gets to know the handsome local lawyer Ethan Townsend. He is a great supporting character full of charm, graciousness and understanding. Not to mention open-mindedness, for he legally represents Inga, a woman who is not an ordinary person. His kind interaction with the women who inherit Inga’s unusual legacy is admirable. And his respect for this unusual inheritance makes him a good listener for Libbie, who is the first one of the group to exhibit Inga’s gifts. I imagine the later books will show the other women as they awaken to their new talents as well.
This delightful novel will make you laugh, sigh, think and dance! There’s so much to celebrate in Magic Uncorked as it is whimsical, warm and wondrous on so many levels. I cheered at the victories when these women stood up for themselves! I was reminded of Inga’s shining advice throughout the text when she said, ‘It’s important for women to lift each other up.’ This is such a fun and imaginative story that the hours just flew by as I got caught up in its magic, sparkle and charm. I totally recommend this bewitching paranormal treasure! It will leave its energising mark on your heart and make you smile! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for a review copy.
