Book Review: Squib by Helen Harper

 Big Thanks To Tantor Audio for an advanced listener copy of Squib by Helen Harper.

Squib is a novel I'd recommend for anyone who wanted to dip into paranormal romance, but was not sure how they really feel about PNR!  It is an excellent, palate cleanser novel after a heavy read, and although there was some violence, and mentions of a possible war in the future, this really fell very heavily into the realm of Cozy Paranormal Fantasy/Romance. 

Mallory is a squib, a person with no magic.  She's chosen to live in Coldstream which is full of magic, and she's happy there. A ray of sunshine, she has a business of trading in information and secrets.  Mallory does not accept cash payment, just payment in favors, which seems quite clever, but I did wonder all along how she managed to eat.  After all, it would take loads of time to settle on a grilled cheese sandwich sized secret every time one want one.  Anywhooo-  Mallory is well regarded and has a great business going in this magical town.  

All this changes rapidly with a chance encounter with Alpha Werewolf  McTire.  He's obviously an Alpha and a bit bossy.  Mallory is more of a free spirit, but at her core, she's a business woman, so when he proposes a business deal, she accepts.  She's to find him his perfect First Mate. Tricky business as the First Mate is somewhat akin to a "First Lady" and must meet a lot of requirements. 

As Mallory and McTire spend more time together, sparks fly - but  will Mallory and McTire fan the flames or dim them?  You'll want to read to find out!  Mallory is fun, sunny, smart and sassy.  McTire is of course broody and bossy and prone to impulsive behavior. 

I did find the town of Coldspring to be enjoyable to read about. There's magic, and lots of magical creatures all going about daily lives, which was well done and a lot of fun.  To me the book did read a bit like a Young Adult novel - and I thought it was one until that one last scene!  I think this is likely appropriate for todays 16-18 year olds and beyond.  

  This cozy Paranormal romance was narrated by award winner Ruth Urquhart.  I was delighted to find out that she is a real human who was nominated  for a Voice Arts Award, as there was some discussion on the interwebs about AI use for narration of this book and I do not support synthesized voices in finished copies of books.   Her accent was charming, and I really found that the narration flowed, making this book an "easy listen" for me. 

I will say, personally, I am not a fan of the cover. It has an AI look to it, and no cover designer is specifically listed.  It is very possible this is a real graphic design art work. I have reached out to the author on her page and will update if she gives me an artist to credit. 

STATS

First Published : January 13, 2026

Pages: 298

Available as an Audio Book : YES (~8.5 hrs) 

Trigger Warnings: violence, blood, medical situations, Paranormal sexual situations  (mild) , magical situations, lack of coffee,   (not a complete list- be responsible!)