Tag Archives: Witches

Felidis by Tanith Lee

Book Review, , , , , ,

Overview

Under My HatTitle: Felidis
Author: Tanith Lee
In: Under My Hat (Jonathan Strahan)
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Easy reading, Fantasy, Witches
Pace: Medium
Format: Short story
Publisher: Hot Key Books
Year: 2012
5th sentence, 74th page: There was still a lamp burning in the lower room.

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Synopsis

Radlo is on a journey when a passerby stops him on the road to warn him not to go into the forest. He says an evil young woman with the eyes of a cat and covered in fur lives there. Thinking the man is mad, Radlo continues on his way, and when he reaches the other side of the woods, he finds a village. There, the people seems to like the cat-girl. Annoyed by all these tales he’s not even sure he believes, Radlo goads his way into meeting the cat-girl, and is shocked to find she’s real. Felidis looks exactly like the man on the road said, and she lives with dozens of cats, one of whom appears to be her favorite. Fascinated by her, he spends the night at her house, intending to leave the next day, but soon, one day turns into several, and several days into seasons. Radlo can’t seem to bring himself to leave Felidis and thinks he may be falling in love with her, but she says that she has no interest in marriage. After spending so much time with her, Radlo knows that she is a witch, but he has no idea how she works her magic. Before he finally leaves, Felidis offers to grant him a request in exchange for all he’s done for her. If she won’t give him her love, Radlo wants to know how she does magic, but the truth may surprise him.

Thoughts

One of the things that I love about short stories is the way in which they generally get turned completely on their heads. Or at least, some of the best ones – like Lee’s Felidis. A furry, clawed witch girl saves a boy. He falls a little in love. Then he finds out her truth. Which is completely unexpected and brilliant.

It took a little while for this story to gain traction, and for me to see where it was going. At the beginning of the story actually, I was finding it a little boring and fully expecting to put it down in disgust within moments. However, just at that crucial turning point, it dragged me in. Felidis was suddenly in the story with her cat companions and her mystery developed.

This was a really well written, slightly obscure short story. Unlike others, I don’t want to dive back into the world again, but I will happily read this tale again and again.

 <- Barrio Girls Review Witch Work Review ->
Image source: Frances Hardinge

The Education of a Witch by Ellen Klages

Book Review, , , ,

Overview

Under My HatTitle: The Education of a Witch
Author: Ellen Klages
In: Under My Hat (Jonathan Strahan)
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Easy reading, Paranormal fantasy, Witches
Pace: Fast
Format: Short story
Publisher: Hot Key Books
Year: 2012
5th sentence, 74th page: Lizzy scoots, and her father puts the little chair from her bedroom right on the seat of the car.

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Synopsis

Lizzy Breyer’s parents take her to see the movie, Sleeping Beauty. Unlike most little girls her age who are enthralled by Sleeping Beauty and her prince, Lizzy is entranced by the wicked witch Maleficent. Her mother takes her to the toy store, where she chooses a Maleficent puppet to buy, and she imagines that it talks to her. When Lizzy’s baby sister is born, everything changes for Lizzy. She is no longer the center of attention, which makes her feel angry. As her obsession with Maleficent grows, Lizzy begins acting out at school and soon discovers an ability within herself to cause mischief and mayhem just like the witch she idolizes.

Thoughts

At the beginning of this story, I thought that it was really sweet that a young girl found solace in Maleficent when her family welcomed a new baby. After all, I totally get feeling an attachment to Maleficent – she is one of my favourite Disney villains. But, as with many short stories, it took a completely unexpected turn. And quite a sinister one.

I’m a bigger sister, so I’m sure that there were bumps in the road when, at two and a half, my baby sister came on the scene. I certainly remember there being many, many, many arguments as we grew older (they still occur frequently for that matter). But, I would never resort to witch craft to lash out at others. And (I hope), the teething issues weren’t as bad as they were for Lizzy. Since she turns from cute girl with no understanding of why she’s not the centre of attention to a slightly crazy little child. I’m actually glad the story ended on such a cliff hanger, since I don’t really want to know how it ended!

 <- Witch Work Review The Threefold World Review ->
Image source: Frances Hardinge

Barrio Girls by Charles de Lint

Book Review, , , ,

Overview

Under My HatTitle: Barrio Girls
Author: Charles De Lint
In: Under My Hat (Jonathan Strahan)
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Easy reading, Fantasy, Witches
Pace: Medium
Format: Short story
Publisher: Hot Key Books
Year: 2012
5th sentence, 74th page: They keep it up for hours.

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Synopsis

Ruby & Vida consider themselves “vampire-girls” due to the popularity of a book/movie series featuring vampires. Until they meet a “vampire witch” one night and decide they don’t like her — now they’ll be witch-girls and deal with this nasty thing.

Thoughts

I’ve never quite understood the teenage obsession with Twilight. Sure, I read it when I was a teenager, I didn’t mind it (back then), but I was never obsessed with the idea of a vampire boyfriend. Or being a witch, or really any of the books that I read – I just liked the stories. So, reading about Vida and Ruby’s disenchantment with this world was really quite enjoyable. The obsession annoys me, so their departure from it was fun.

Gangsters, vampires and witches make a really interesting combination in this story and the idea of growing up in a trailer park just helped to make it a little more enthralling and dark. An interesting late night read that gave me some very twisted and creepy dreams… after all, the girls ended up killing with kindness.

 <- Little Gods Review Felidis Review ->
Image source: Frances Hardinge

An Unwelcome Guest by Garth Nix

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Overview

To Hold the BridgeTitle: An Unwelcome Guest
Author: Garth Nix
In: To Hold the Bridge (Garth Nix) & Troll’s-Eye View (Ellen Datlow & Terri Windling)
Rating Out of 5: 5 (I will read this again and again and again)
My Bookshelves: Australian authors, Easy reading, Fantasy, Witches
Pace: Fast
Format: Short story
Publisher: Hot Key Books
Year: 2015
5th sentence, 74th page: ‘Won’t do any good, but I’ll call,’ said Jenny.

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Synopsis

Garth Nix has a brilliant spin on the traditional tale of Rapunzel… and how to get rid of spoilt brats.

Thoughts

I love new spins on old stories. After all, there is something about faery tales that brings us back again and again and again. And An Unwelcome Guest is a brilliant way to reimagine Rapunzel. Nix’s spin on such a classic left me outright laughing and grinning. It was cute, funny and not at all what I was expecting.

Like the well-known Wicked, An Unwelcome Guest takes the villain of the tale of Rapunzel (the wicked witch) and makes her good. It then twists Rapunzel into a spoilt brat under some kind of weird compulsion. Her rescue into an attempt to kick her out. And the happy ending a small girl running away in tears with her soccer boots still on. Like I said, it was a great way to twist and turn a well-known faery tale into something more and in my opinion, thoroughly enjoyable. Certainly much more humorous than the original tale anyway.

<- The Curious Case of the Moondawn Daffodil Murder Review The Highest Justice Review ->
Image source: Goodreads

Ginger by Caitlin Kittredge

Book Review, , , , ,

Overview

strange-brewTitle: Ginger
Author: Caitlin Kittredge
Series: Nocturne City #3.5
In: Strange Brew (P.N. Elrod)
Rating Out of 5: 3.5 (Liked this)
My Bookshelves: Paranormal fantasy, Werewolves, Witches
Pace: Fast
Format: Short story
Publisher: St. Martin’s Griffin
Year: 2009
5th sentence, 74th page: I pulled the magick down to me, feeling it spiral from my forehead to my fingers.

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Synopsis

The sweet, quiet sidekick finds her own strength and power.

Thoughts

Sunny was a very sweet heroine in Ginger, and a great counterpart to her far more volatile cousin. The balance between these two characters was enjoyable, and Sunny’s ability to hold her own (even when she doubts that she can) reminds us that strength comes in all shapes and sizes. Even in those who are naturally meek and uninterested in conflict of any shape or form.

The political intrigue and use of the American Justice System in the telling of this story added a layer of interest to a tale that is otherwise a little forgettable. The characters are relatable and enjoyable, but the overarching storyline was not as spine tingling and attention grabbing as the rest of the short stories in the Strange Brew collection.

 <- Signatures of the Dead Review Dark Sins Review ->
Image source: Goodreads

Hogwarts: A Complete and Unreliable Guide by J.K. Rowling

Book Review, , ,

Overview

hogwarts-a-complete-and-unreliable-guide

Title: Hogwarts: A Complete and Unreliable Guide
Author: J.K. Rowling
Series: Harry Potter Companion Book
Rating Out of 5: 3.5 (Liked this)
My Bookshelves: Urban fantasy, Witches
Pace: Slow
Format: Anthology, eBook
Publisher: Pottermore
Year: 2016
5th sentence, 74th page: ‘Their appearance can also turn flames blue.

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Synopsis

Hogwarts An Incomplete and Unreliable Guide takes you on a journey to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. You’ll venture into the Hogwarts grounds, become better acquainted with its more permanent residents, learn more about lessons and discover secrets of the castle . . . all at the turn of a page.

Thoughts

It was really fun to travel through the halls of Hogwarts again. The breakdown of this story, leading you through the different aspects of the Hogwarts sorting, classes and grounds made me feel like I was opening the first page of The Philosopher’s Stone again (and closing the last of The Deathly Hallows). The rationale behind such things as the different lessons, the presence (and manifestations) of ghosts and the very way in which new students are sorted into each of the four houses provided by J.K. Rowling gave me a whole new insight into a world that will never be able to leave my head, but more importantly, my heart.

The logical way in which Hogwarts: A Complete and Unreliable Guide unfolds makes you feel like you are walking, step by step through your own sorting and, even class selections – a journey that was incredibly organic and enjoyable in its construction. It was interesting to see the ways in which each of the carefully constructed areas and objects within the Harry Potter series was created and just why.

<- Short Stories from Hogwarts of Heroism, Hardship and Dangerous Hobbies Review The Philosopher’s Stone Review ->
Image source: Harry Potter Wiki

Short Stories from Hogwarts of Heroism, Hardship and Dangerous Hobbies by J.K. Rowling

Book Review, , ,

Overview

short-stories-from-hogwarts-of-heroism-hardship-and-dangerous-hobbies

Title: Short Stories from Hogwarts of Heroism, Hardship and Dangerous Hobbies
Author: J.K. Rowling
Series: Harry Potter Companion Book
Rating Out of 5: 3.5 (Liked this)
My Bookshelves: Urban fantasy, Witches
Pace: Slow
Format: Anthology, eBook
Publisher: Pottermore
Year: 2016
5th sentence, 74th page: ‘To Remus’s shock and displeasure, the seventeen-year-old Harry not only declined his offer but became angry and insulting.

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Synopsis

These stories of heroism, hardship and dangerous hobbies profile two of the Harry Potter stories’ most courageous and iconic characters: Minerva McGonagall and Remus Lupin. J.K. Rowling also gives us a peek behind the closed curtains of Sybill Trelawney’s life, and you’ll encounter the reckless, magical-beast-loving Silvanus Kettleburn along the way.

Thoughts

Admittedly, I have read most of these character biographies on the old Pottermore website. However, it was fun to read them again, and the flow with which they are put together was both interesting and organic. Again, the depth of J.K. Rowling’s back stories and the amount of thought which she has put into her characters was enviable and thrilling. The personal comments placed at the end of each tale and the reasoning behind names, diseases and hobbies gave me more and more insight into a world that I am already completely obsessed with.

McGonagall is by far my favourite of Harry’s teachers at Hogwarts, so discovering more of her somewhat tragic past was both saddening and enjoyable. Learning of her history helped to fill in a few gaps about her actions, and I loved that ultimately, she become the new headmistress of Hogwarts. Contrastingly, Lupin’s life ended in tragedy, and it was almost painful to reread about his and Tonks’ marriage in the light of their death.

This was such an easy to read, albeit somewhat tragic collection of tales from the amazing mind of J.K. Rowling and I can’t wait to finish the other Pottermore Presents tales.

<- Short Stories from Hogwarts of Power, Politics and Pesky Poltergeists Review Hogwarts: A Complete and Unreliable Guide Review ->
Image source: Hypable

Short Stories from Hogwarts of Power, Politics and Pesky Poltergeists by J.K. Rowling

Book Review, , ,

Overview

short-stories-from-hogwarts-of-power-politics-and-pesky-poltergeists

Title: Short Stories from Hogwarts of Power, Politics and Pesky Poltergeists
Author: J.K. Rowling
Series: Harry Potter Companion Book
Rating Out of 5: 4 (Really good read!)
My Bookshelves: Urban fantasy, Witches
Pace: Slow
Format: Anthology, eBook
Publisher: Pottermore
Year: 2016
5th sentence, 74th page: ‘As Dumbledore had expected and intended, Slughorn was captivated by Harry Potter, whom he believed (erroneously) to be supremely talented in his own subject.

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Synopsis

These stories of power, politics and pesky poltergeists give you a glimpse into the darker side of the wizarding world, revealing the ruthless roots of Professor Umbridge, the lowdown on the Ministers for Magic and the history of the wizarding prison Azkaban. You will also delve deeper into Horace Slughorn’s early years as Potions master at Hogwarts – and his acquaintance with one Tom Marvolo Riddle.

Thoughts

I’ve always enjoyed the fact that throughout the Harry Potter series, some of the most evil and terrifying characters are that way due to their pursuit of power. This collection of character bios and short stories helped to drive this fact home. From Dolores Umbridge to Horace Slughorn, these characters were either inconceivably evil or just incredibly misguided in their ties to and desire for power. These tales were a great warning against an uncontrolled will to obtain power, regardless of the cost.

I have never really loved politics, or those who are interested in gaining political power – and the tales in this collection of short stories were a great reminder of this fact. No matter what someone’s intentions are, there seems to be a number of ways in which they can become corrupted. I also love the attention to detail that is present in the list of all past Ministers of Magic – two centuries worth of characters and their imprint upon the world of British Magic involves a lot of thought.

Although power and politics are somewhat serious topics, and the characters covered in this bio range from self-centred to truly evil, my favourite tales and chapter in this collection is that on poltergeists. Particularly the presence of Peeves within Hogwarts and his many exploits throughout the years. I particularly loved the imagery provided by the attempt to eject him from the castle.

 <- The Tales of Beedle the Bard Review Short Stories from Hogwarts of Heroism, Hardship and Dangerous Hobbies Review ->
Image source: Amazon

Forked Tongues by Rachel Caine

Book Review, , , , , , ,

Overview

Kicking It

Title: Forked Tongues
Author: Rachel Caine
Series: Holly & Andrew #3
In: Kicking It (Faith Hunter & Kalayna Price)
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect),
My Bookshelves: Easy reading, Strong women, Urban fantasy
Pace: Fast
Format: Short story
Publisher: Roc
Year: 2013
5th sentence, 74th page: And that was when the devil dog opened its red eyes and stepped out of the shadows ten feet ahead of us.

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Synopsis

New York Times bestselling author Rachel Caine has modern-day potions witches Holly and Andrew facing off against a firebrand politician who wears literally killer boots in a Texas-sized rodeo of trouble.

Thoughts

I would love for this short story to be part of a much bigger series – it caught me and fascinated me in the first paragraph. I thoroughly enjoyed the urban fantasy setting and the idea of witches each having his or her own type of power – they have limitations, just like everyone else. Caine was able to build a wonderfully realistic world that sat perfectly within our own.

Holly and Andy are a gorgeous, simplistic couple. I love the simplicity of their relationship in this story and their acceptance of one another – they are able to work side by side to overcome obstacles in a self-efficient, unassuming manner. Combine this wholesome relationship with a gun-toting man of the West who also has witch powers and you have a winning blend.

There are so many stories that remind us that the ‘us vs them’ mentality can have severe consequences and truly hurt the innocent. Caine’s third Holly & Andrew short story is no different. The chief antagonist is the embodiment of using others’ fear of the different to attack and vilify a minority group. Writing about this from the minority’s point of view is a great way in which to remind us that just because someone or something is different, it doesn’t mean that it is bad.

 <- Holly’s Balm Review Kicking It Review ->
Image source: Penguin

Wickedly Powerful by Deborah Blake

Book Review, , , , , ,

Overview

Wickedly Powerful

Title: Wickedly Dangerous
Author: Deborah Blake
Series: Baba Yaga #3, Baba Yaga World #3
Rating Out of 5: 4.5 (Amazing, but not quite perfect)
My Bookshelves: Mythology, Paranormal romance, Witches
Pace: Medium
Format: Novel
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Year: 2016
5th sentence, 74th page: She patted the large leather-bound book that had pride of place in the middle of her worktable.

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Synopsis

Known as the wicked witch of Russian fairy tales, Baba Yaga is not one woman, but rather a title carried by a chosen few. They keep the balance of nature and guard the borders of our world, but don’t make the mistake of crossing one of them…

The only thing more fiery than Bella Young’s red hair is her temper. She knows that a Baba Yaga’s power without strict control can leave the people she cares about burned, so to protect her heart – and everyone around her – the only company she keeps is her dragon-turned-Norwegian-Forest-cat, Koshka.

But when Bella is tasked with discovering who’s setting magical fires on Wyoming’s Black Mountain, she finds herself working closely with former Hotshots firefighter Sam Corbett – and falling hard for his quiet strength and charm.

Sam may bear the scars of his past, but Bella can see beyond them and would do anything to help him heal. Only before she can rescue her Prince Charming, she’ll have to overcome the mysterious foe setting the forest fires – a truly wicked witch who wields as much power and even more anger than Bella…

Thoughts

So far, this is my favourite Baba Yaga novel. It’s the combination of two severely damaged leads (both physically and emotionally), and fire that seems to claw at my heart and make me want to read this story again and again and again. Being terrified to get close to someone is something that I am all too familiar with, and working through this self-constructed barrier is something that Bella does amazingly well throughout the story.

The other reason that this tale so compels me is the constant presence of fire. Growing up in country Australia, fire is a constant thought and after the bushfires of the past two years, it is all the more present in my mind. So, a story about an ex-firefighter and survivor of fire was uniquely compelling. For me, it’s a primal concern, maybe even fear, and the idea of a man surviving a ravaging fire when no one else does is heart wrenching and leaves me thinking like nothing else does.

The last, but certainly not least, reason for my mild obsession with this book is Bella’s love interest – Sam. He is this gorgeous man who suffers from PTSD and is just as damaged as Bella is. Blake uses this character to beautifully investigate the effects that past tragedies can have on our everyday lives. She uses the idea of survivor’s guilt to create this beautifully multi-layered character that draws you in as much as the heroine.

 <- Wickedly Ever After Review Wickedly Spirited Review ->
Image source: Deborah Blake