R. Sullins' Oohs, Ahhhs, and Orbs is a delightful blend of magical realism, mystery, and romance that captivates readers from the very first page. The novel is a testament to Sullins' ability to weave complex narratives that are both enchanting and suspenseful, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.

At the heart of the story is Brigette, a witch who has inherited a quaint little shop from her grandmother. This shop is not just a setting but a character in its own right, filled with the aroma of herbs and the sparkle of magical trinkets. It serves as a sanctuary for Brigette, a place where she can immerse herself in the world of spells and witchcraft. Sullins does an excellent job of painting a vivid picture of this magical emporium, making it easy for readers to imagine themselves browsing its shelves.

Brigette's life, however, is far from perfect. Despite the comfort of her shop and the company of Mortimer, her grandmother's familiar, she is haunted by the absence of her grandmother and mother, who are off exploring the world. This sense of longing and loneliness is palpable throughout the novel, adding depth to Brigette's character. Sullins skillfully explores themes of loss and independence, showing how Brigette grapples with her desire for connection while fiercely guarding her autonomy.

The plot takes a thrilling turn when witches in the community start getting murdered. This mystery element is where Sullins truly shines, crafting a narrative that is both gripping and unpredictable. The tension is heightened by the arrival of a detective, who also happens to be Brigette's fated mate. This twist adds an intriguing layer to the story, as Brigette must navigate her feelings for the detective while trying to solve the murders.

The romance between Brigette and the detective is a slow burn, filled with witty banter and undeniable chemistry. Sullins avoids the trap of insta-love, instead allowing their relationship to develop naturally over the course of the investigation. This approach makes their eventual union all the more satisfying, as it feels earned rather than forced. The detective is a well-crafted character in his own right, with a mysterious past and a strong sense of justice that complements Brigette's fiery independence.

One of the standout aspects of Oohs, Ahhhs, and Orbs is its exploration of the concept of fated love. Sullins delves into the complexities of this idea, questioning whether destiny is enough to sustain a relationship. Brigette's initial reluctance to embrace her connection with the detective is both relatable and refreshing, as it challenges the notion that love is always easy or straightforward. This theme is handled with nuance and sensitivity, making it one of the novel's most compelling elements.

In terms of character development, Sullins excels at creating multidimensional characters who feel real and relatable. Brigette is a particularly strong protagonist, with her blend of vulnerability and strength making her an engaging and sympathetic character. Her journey from self-imposed isolation to embracing love and connection is beautifully portrayed, and readers will find themselves rooting for her every step of the way.

Comparatively, Oohs, Ahhhs, and Orbs shares thematic similarities with other works in the magical realism genre, such as Sarah Addison Allen's Garden Spells and Alice Hoffman's Practical Magic. Like these novels, Sullins' work combines elements of magic with everyday life, creating a world that is both fantastical and familiar. However, Sullins sets her work apart with the addition of a murder mystery, adding an element of suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Overall, Oohs, Ahhhs, and Orbs is a captivating read that seamlessly blends magic, mystery, and romance. R. Sullins has crafted a story that is both enchanting and thought-provoking, with well-developed characters and a plot that keeps readers guessing until the very end. Whether you're a fan of witchy tales, murder mysteries, or love stories, this novel has something for everyone. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and the magic that can be found in the everyday.

For those looking to immerse themselves in a world of spells, intrigue, and fated love, Oohs, Ahhhs, and Orbs is a book that should not be missed. Its rich narrative and compelling characters make it a standout in the genre, and it's sure to leave readers eagerly anticipating R. Sullins' next literary offering.