[PRE-ORDER] My Unfamiliar by Mara Rutherford

Release Date: 12/01/2026

grumpy x sunshine • cozy fantasy romance • magical bond • animal familiars • opposites attract

When a familiar matchmaker who can read the needs of magical creatures meets a grumpy mage searching for a new companion, neither expects their connection to be the one that changes everything. Whimsical, romantic, and filled with magical creatures, My Unfamiliar is a cozy fantasy romance about unexpected bonds, growing confidence, and discovering that the most surprising connections can become the most meaningful.

The Vibe

Winslow Green has built a life around helping mages find the animal familiars who complement their magic. Warm, intuitive, and surrounded by an enchanting collection of magical creatures, she knows exactly what her clients need, even when they do not.

Bastian Triplehorn is almost her opposite. A talented mage still grieving the loss of his familiar, he arrives determined to find a new magical partner and get back to training for a prestigious royal competition. Instead, he finds himself unexpectedly connected to Winnie.

Their relationship brings plenty of grumpy-sunshine chemistry, reluctant teamwork, yearning, and magical tension. As they navigate an impossible bond and work toward a competition that could change their futures, Winnie and Bastian discover that understanding someone can be its own kind of magic.

With its cozy atmosphere, whimsical familiars, pink-cottage charm, magical competition, and tender romantic tension, My Unfamiliar is a feel-good romantasy for readers who love their fantasy worlds soft, enchanting, and full of heart.

Spice Level

• 🌶️ (1/5)

Tropes & Tags

• Fantasy romance
• Young adult romance
• Grumpy x sunshine
• Opposites attract
• Magical bond
• Animal familiars
  
• Forced proximity
• Romantic yearning
• Magical competition
• Whimsical fantasy setting
• Found family
• Cottagecore atmosphere
• Dual POV