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The Witches of Santo Stefano
An investigative journalist uncovers the haunting secret history of her own ancestors in a bewitching novel by the bestselling author of Daughters of the Lake.
When Cassie Graves discovers her husband’s affair, it’s enough to chip away at the foundation of her life. But after researching her family’s Italian ancestry, it completely crumbles beneath her.
Her grandmother Gia’s often-told stories about the past are a lie. Her much-romanticized great-grandfather Giovanni may not even have existed. Most alarming of all, it appears her mysterious great-grandmother Violetta died by stregoneria—witchcraft. Now, piecing together the puzzle of her family tree in the small, centuries-old hill town of Santo Stefano, Cassie finds help from a welcoming group of the accommodating Renzo; Dante, whose own family history connects with Cassie’s; and the ethereal Luna, an interpreter of dreams who gives Cassie a protective amulet—and the warning that she may have walked into a trap.
When Cassie comes upon an old spell book, she gets closer to unearthing long-buried family secrets, the truth about a powerful female lineage, and the haunting discovery of who she really is.
When Cassie Graves discovers her husband’s affair, it’s enough to chip away at the foundation of her life. But after researching her family’s Italian ancestry, it completely crumbles beneath her.
Her grandmother Gia’s often-told stories about the past are a lie. Her much-romanticized great-grandfather Giovanni may not even have existed. Most alarming of all, it appears her mysterious great-grandmother Violetta died by stregoneria—witchcraft. Now, piecing together the puzzle of her family tree in the small, centuries-old hill town of Santo Stefano, Cassie finds help from a welcoming group of the accommodating Renzo; Dante, whose own family history connects with Cassie’s; and the ethereal Luna, an interpreter of dreams who gives Cassie a protective amulet—and the warning that she may have walked into a trap.
When Cassie comes upon an old spell book, she gets closer to unearthing long-buried family secrets, the truth about a powerful female lineage, and the haunting discovery of who she really is.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 24, 2024
551 people are currently reading
6881 people want to read
About the author
Wendy Webb
9 books3,051 followersWENDY WEBB's novels are mysteries about long-buried family secrets, set in big, old haunted houses on the Great Lakes.
THE END OF TEMPERANCE DARE (2017, Lake Union) is set in a former tuberculosis sanatorium on Lake Superior, now a renowned retreat for artists and writers. When Eleanor Harper takes the helm as its new director and her first batch of visiting artists arrives, she begins to suspect this isn't going to be the restful retreat she thought it might be.
THE VANISHING (2014, Hyperion) is the story of Julia Bishop, who takes a job as a companion for a famous novelist, who the entire world thinks is dead. When she travels to the novelist's remote estate, she begins to suspect her too-good-to-be-true job offer is exactly that.
THE FATE OF MERCY ALBAN (2013, Hyperion) is an Indie bestseller. It's the story of Grace Alban, who returns home after 20 years when her mother dies under questionable circumstances on the very day she (the mother) planned to reveal the truth about a tragedy that occurred during a party at Alban House long ago. A packet of old love letters and a lost manuscript by a famous novelist lead Grace to the haunted truth about what really happened that day.
Wendy's first novel, THE TALE OF HALCYON CRANE (2010, Holt) was an IndieNext Pick, a Great Lakes Great Reads Pick and a Midwest Connections Pick. It won the prestigious Minnesota Book Award for genre fiction in 2011, and was a finalist for Le Livre de Poche's Prix des Lecteurs award in France in 2012.
A longtime journalist, Wendy lives in Minnesota.
THE END OF TEMPERANCE DARE (2017, Lake Union) is set in a former tuberculosis sanatorium on Lake Superior, now a renowned retreat for artists and writers. When Eleanor Harper takes the helm as its new director and her first batch of visiting artists arrives, she begins to suspect this isn't going to be the restful retreat she thought it might be.
THE VANISHING (2014, Hyperion) is the story of Julia Bishop, who takes a job as a companion for a famous novelist, who the entire world thinks is dead. When she travels to the novelist's remote estate, she begins to suspect her too-good-to-be-true job offer is exactly that.
THE FATE OF MERCY ALBAN (2013, Hyperion) is an Indie bestseller. It's the story of Grace Alban, who returns home after 20 years when her mother dies under questionable circumstances on the very day she (the mother) planned to reveal the truth about a tragedy that occurred during a party at Alban House long ago. A packet of old love letters and a lost manuscript by a famous novelist lead Grace to the haunted truth about what really happened that day.
Wendy's first novel, THE TALE OF HALCYON CRANE (2010, Holt) was an IndieNext Pick, a Great Lakes Great Reads Pick and a Midwest Connections Pick. It won the prestigious Minnesota Book Award for genre fiction in 2011, and was a finalist for Le Livre de Poche's Prix des Lecteurs award in France in 2012.
A longtime journalist, Wendy lives in Minnesota.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 260 reviews
December 12, 2024
☾ Plot:
In The Witches of Santo Stefano, Cassie embarks on a quest to return to the Italian village her ancestors once resided in, where she must uncover the truth about her elusive family history. As she unravels the secrets of an esoteric lineage spanning generations, she finds herself confronting her own identity and the enduring power of her heritage. The novel draws the reader into a rural Mediterranean setting enriched with intrigue, emphasising the folkloric traditions of Italy. The rustic village of Santo Stefano is vividly detailed, from its cobbled streets to its community steeped in superstition.
☾ Writing:
The book alternates between historical and contemporary timelines, maintaining clear boundaries between the past and present. While the pacing is gentle, Webb’s descriptive writing captures the idyllic location and the enigmatic aura of the story. The use of sensory details, particularly around food, nature, and mysticism enhances the charm of the prose.
☾ Characters:
Cassie is a well-rounded protagonist, balancing vulnerability with determination, nurturing a loving found family amongst a thriving cast of secondary characters as she unfurls the reality of her origins. The historical figures, Violetta and Isabella, provide a compelling contrast; the bond between past and present generations is sensitively portrayed, tying into the story’s magical and familial heart.
☾ Impact:
The book offers a subtle and well-researched peek at traditional Italian witchcraft, with symbolism playing a key role. Cassie’s personal struggles and the sacrifices of her ancestors evoke empathy, prompting reflection on the enduring power of the human spirit.
☾ Entertainment Value:
Fans of magical realism, family sagas and dreamy, atmospheric mysteries will likely find this book enchanting, though those seeking a fast-paced thriller may feel less satisfied.
The premise may feel familiar to those who enjoy the genre, but the intricate narrative and cultural details ensure this is a uniquely fresh experience.
An ideal choice for a cozy, escapist read, especially for fans of works like Practical Magic or The Lost Apothecary.
☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦
Genres:
☾ Contemporary fiction
☾ Cosy mystery
☾ Family saga
Tropes and Themes:
☾ Ancestral secrets
☾ Dual timelines
☾ Found family
☾ Magical Realism
☾ Witches
☾ Generational gifts
☾ Strong female lineage
☾ Heritage and identity
☾ Superstitions
☾ Small town
☾ Self discovery
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
In The Witches of Santo Stefano, Cassie embarks on a quest to return to the Italian village her ancestors once resided in, where she must uncover the truth about her elusive family history. As she unravels the secrets of an esoteric lineage spanning generations, she finds herself confronting her own identity and the enduring power of her heritage. The novel draws the reader into a rural Mediterranean setting enriched with intrigue, emphasising the folkloric traditions of Italy. The rustic village of Santo Stefano is vividly detailed, from its cobbled streets to its community steeped in superstition.
☾ Writing:
The book alternates between historical and contemporary timelines, maintaining clear boundaries between the past and present. While the pacing is gentle, Webb’s descriptive writing captures the idyllic location and the enigmatic aura of the story. The use of sensory details, particularly around food, nature, and mysticism enhances the charm of the prose.
☾ Characters:
Cassie is a well-rounded protagonist, balancing vulnerability with determination, nurturing a loving found family amongst a thriving cast of secondary characters as she unfurls the reality of her origins. The historical figures, Violetta and Isabella, provide a compelling contrast; the bond between past and present generations is sensitively portrayed, tying into the story’s magical and familial heart.
☾ Impact:
The book offers a subtle and well-researched peek at traditional Italian witchcraft, with symbolism playing a key role. Cassie’s personal struggles and the sacrifices of her ancestors evoke empathy, prompting reflection on the enduring power of the human spirit.
☾ Entertainment Value:
Fans of magical realism, family sagas and dreamy, atmospheric mysteries will likely find this book enchanting, though those seeking a fast-paced thriller may feel less satisfied.
The premise may feel familiar to those who enjoy the genre, but the intricate narrative and cultural details ensure this is a uniquely fresh experience.
An ideal choice for a cozy, escapist read, especially for fans of works like Practical Magic or The Lost Apothecary.
☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦ ☾ ❦
Genres:
☾ Contemporary fiction
☾ Cosy mystery
☾ Family saga
Tropes and Themes:
☾ Ancestral secrets
☾ Dual timelines
☾ Found family
☾ Magical Realism
☾ Witches
☾ Generational gifts
☾ Strong female lineage
☾ Heritage and identity
☾ Superstitions
☾ Small town
☾ Self discovery
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2024
5 stars! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Wow! This was my first Wendy Webb book and I loved it!
Cassie Graves needs answers after researching her Italian family tree. Her grandmother has always told stories about the family history. However, during her discoveries it seems that some family members never existed. Some names don’t match. Her great grandmother died by stregoneria - witchcraft?! Were the often told stories by her grandmother not true?
In an effort to get to the truth, Cassie, heads to the old town of Santo Stefano, Italy. Upon her arrival, she is quickly welcomed by some members of the community – some who may just have answers to her questions.
I absolutely loved so many things about this book! The alternating timelines and POV’s were superb. The gorgeous, Italian setting and the food descriptions had me ready to pack my bags! Atmospheric, supernatural elements sprinkled in were perfect for spooky season!
I was completely mesmerized by this magical, mysterious novel. I highly recommend everyone read it!
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for my advanced copy to read and review.
Wow! This was my first Wendy Webb book and I loved it!
Cassie Graves needs answers after researching her Italian family tree. Her grandmother has always told stories about the family history. However, during her discoveries it seems that some family members never existed. Some names don’t match. Her great grandmother died by stregoneria - witchcraft?! Were the often told stories by her grandmother not true?
In an effort to get to the truth, Cassie, heads to the old town of Santo Stefano, Italy. Upon her arrival, she is quickly welcomed by some members of the community – some who may just have answers to her questions.
I absolutely loved so many things about this book! The alternating timelines and POV’s were superb. The gorgeous, Italian setting and the food descriptions had me ready to pack my bags! Atmospheric, supernatural elements sprinkled in were perfect for spooky season!
I was completely mesmerized by this magical, mysterious novel. I highly recommend everyone read it!
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for my advanced copy to read and review.
December 13, 2024
As The Book Witch, I am, I love all things gothic and shrouded in mystery. I can’t believe I haven’t been under Wendy Webb’s spell till now. She’s rightfully hailed as the Queen of the Northern Gothic, and after reading The Witches of Santo Stefano I am hooked. I feel like she’s conjured a tale just for witchy-loving readers like me. With her enchanting blend of atmospheric settings, family secrets, mystery, magic, and a deep-rooted connection to generational magic, Webb had me flipping pages like I was stirring a cauldron.
Consider me bewitched—this gothic-loving soul is ready to devour everything in her coven of stories!
As Cassie delves into her family’s past in the enchanting hill town of Santo Stefano, the story truly springs to life. The locals add to the charm: Renzo, ever-gracious and always around; Dante, whose history weaves intriguingly with Cassie’s; and Luna, the ethereal dream interpreter whose cryptic warnings linger like whispers in the night. And, of course, the protective animals—because no true witch is complete without her loyal, mystical companions watching over her.
The balance here is potion perfection. The true enchantment of the story lies in the balance between community and the mystery behind the secrets and the search for the truth.
Oh, and the food had me envisioning myself right there, savoring the mouthwatering flavors, while I sipped wine, curled up with candles casting a warm, flickering glow as I lost myself in the pages.
It’ll make you want to pack your bags for Italy—or maybe just reach for a spell book of your own.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
Consider me bewitched—this gothic-loving soul is ready to devour everything in her coven of stories!
As Cassie delves into her family’s past in the enchanting hill town of Santo Stefano, the story truly springs to life. The locals add to the charm: Renzo, ever-gracious and always around; Dante, whose history weaves intriguingly with Cassie’s; and Luna, the ethereal dream interpreter whose cryptic warnings linger like whispers in the night. And, of course, the protective animals—because no true witch is complete without her loyal, mystical companions watching over her.
The balance here is potion perfection. The true enchantment of the story lies in the balance between community and the mystery behind the secrets and the search for the truth.
Oh, and the food had me envisioning myself right there, savoring the mouthwatering flavors, while I sipped wine, curled up with candles casting a warm, flickering glow as I lost myself in the pages.
It’ll make you want to pack your bags for Italy—or maybe just reach for a spell book of your own.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
June 19, 2024
I loved this book! The writing is easy and flows well, pulling you into the story quickly. I liked the characters and found Cass to be relatable. I loved the back and forth between the timelines and characters. I never got confused and was able to remember who everyone was. The setting was wonderful. It was nice to read a book where the lead was able to get things done without others trying to sabotage or keep things hidden. Cass had her mission and like her cousin says, made it happen. I really liked that. would read this book over again and have already recommended to people.
October 12, 2024
I usually am obsessed with Wendy Webbs books but this kinda felt like a hallmark version of one of her stories. It wasn’t as gothic or spooky as her others. Almost felt like it was another take on the practical magic story with the twins and the cursed women and the tragic romances. Overall I am glad I read it and I liked it took place in Italy and not her usual setting but kinda disappointed with the plot.
November 15, 2025
I am a HUGE fan of Wendy Webb. Buying and reading her novels as they are released has become a priority for me. To me, her novels are the ideal cozy, spooky read with a touch of romance. What I loved most about The Witches of Santo Stefano is that the novel begins in her signature setting of Warton, but quickly shifts to Italy. This departure from the norm was a wonderful surprise and immensely enjoyed.
I love stories with strong women characters, and this novel delivers on every level. I love reading about women as holistic healers and midwives who challenge societal expectations of women of the time. I love reading about “witch trials” regardless of the setting. I search out and enjoy novels that shed light on this phenomenon in other countries. I absolutely loved and was lost in the small Italian village. What a wonderful escape.
The secondary characters were well developed. The story was suspenseful and well paced. The love stories were endearing and I absolutely loved the animals (the donkey and the dog)! I highly recommend Wendy Webb, but especially her latest, The Witches of Santo Stefano.
I love stories with strong women characters, and this novel delivers on every level. I love reading about women as holistic healers and midwives who challenge societal expectations of women of the time. I love reading about “witch trials” regardless of the setting. I search out and enjoy novels that shed light on this phenomenon in other countries. I absolutely loved and was lost in the small Italian village. What a wonderful escape.
The secondary characters were well developed. The story was suspenseful and well paced. The love stories were endearing and I absolutely loved the animals (the donkey and the dog)! I highly recommend Wendy Webb, but especially her latest, The Witches of Santo Stefano.
January 3, 2025
Story 4.5 stars. Narration 5 stars
Anything Xe Sands narrates just makes the whole experience so much better. I had forgotten she was narrating so that was a good surprise. This book was so well written and researched. For a change most of the book takes place in Italy and only briefly on Lake Superior’s banks or towns.
Cassandra goes to a small village in Italy in search of her heritage after finding out that her great grandmother had lied about where she was actually born and about a husband she never married. She’s recently found out her husband of 20 years had been cheating on her with more than one woman. She is quickly befriended by the townspeople and it’s not long before she starts to unravel her family history. This was a book within a book. We see her search, but we also see what happened back in 1911. That was particularly interesting. There’s also a romance. And yes witches are involved and that’s all I’m saying. I loved the whole thing.
Anything Xe Sands narrates just makes the whole experience so much better. I had forgotten she was narrating so that was a good surprise. This book was so well written and researched. For a change most of the book takes place in Italy and only briefly on Lake Superior’s banks or towns.
Cassandra goes to a small village in Italy in search of her heritage after finding out that her great grandmother had lied about where she was actually born and about a husband she never married. She’s recently found out her husband of 20 years had been cheating on her with more than one woman. She is quickly befriended by the townspeople and it’s not long before she starts to unravel her family history. This was a book within a book. We see her search, but we also see what happened back in 1911. That was particularly interesting. There’s also a romance. And yes witches are involved and that’s all I’m saying. I loved the whole thing.
October 6, 2024
I saw that this author wrote bestselling, gothic suspense, so I had such high hopes for this. I was expecting a spooky, witchy mystery, but it just did not evolve into…well, anything really. Lots of fairly repetitive talk of ancestral, witchy ties but no manifestation of that into something with paranormal oomph. Too much mention of carbonara to be remotely gothic and, unfortunately, zero suspense.
As a novel, I have to acknowledge that it was well written and there were moments (cue giant spider) where I thought, oh HELLO HOGWARTS, here we go. But then it immediately fizzled out to absolutely nothing and the plot just kind of trundled along thereafter.
The first chapter poses the important - and apparently only - question needing answered: could Cassandra be related to witches? A weary 310 pages later, the answer was a mediocre yep, as we suspected.
Maybe I’ve been spoiled by sprawling fantasy novels and multi-faceted plot lines, but I like my supernatural to have at least a *little* edge. This just wasn’t it.
As a novel, I have to acknowledge that it was well written and there were moments (cue giant spider) where I thought, oh HELLO HOGWARTS, here we go. But then it immediately fizzled out to absolutely nothing and the plot just kind of trundled along thereafter.
The first chapter poses the important - and apparently only - question needing answered: could Cassandra be related to witches? A weary 310 pages later, the answer was a mediocre yep, as we suspected.
Maybe I’ve been spoiled by sprawling fantasy novels and multi-faceted plot lines, but I like my supernatural to have at least a *little* edge. This just wasn’t it.
July 10, 2024
This book spoke to me in so many different ways. The love and importance of family and heritage really hit home. The digging through ones family tree to find answers and clarification really drew me in and I am sure many can relate to this. This book is definitely worth a read and I am hoping there will be a sequel.
July 2, 2025
Wendy Webb delivers a heartfelt, witch-infused odyssey for your reading pleasure. Get your hot tea ready and some comfy slippers. Light some candles. Set a witchy vibe and immerse yourself in this bewitching tale. It is steeped in multigenerational story lines and mysticism. It is atmospheric, complete with food, folklore, family, and landscape.
Fans of witch fiction with emotional depth (Me!!!) will devour this. I read it over several evenings. Loved the characters, setting, and ending. Many thanks to Wendy Webb, the publisher, and NetGalley for an ebook to read for review. I have enjoyed a few other Wendy Webb books and am eager to add more.
Fans of witch fiction with emotional depth (Me!!!) will devour this. I read it over several evenings. Loved the characters, setting, and ending. Many thanks to Wendy Webb, the publisher, and NetGalley for an ebook to read for review. I have enjoyed a few other Wendy Webb books and am eager to add more.
September 24, 2025
1 Star. Apart from the outstanding narration by Xe Sands - one of my favorite narrators on Audible - it was a waste of my time!! Empty plot, superficial protagonists.
July 13, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced e-copy of Webb's newest novel in exchange for an honest review.
This is not the first of Webb's books that I have read and I've always enjoyed them. The other books I've read of hers are all set around the Great Lakes and have some sort of spooky vibe. This was a departure in my opinion, but I LOVED it!
The story starts off in Minnesota with two cousins who are curious about their heritage after finding some information that they aren't aware of and that contradicts what they thought they knew. Cassie, still reeling from her split from her husband of 20+ years after she found he was cheating on her, decides to travel to Italy to try to track down her family's roots. What she uncovers changes everything she thought she knew about her family and her heritage.
Told from interchanging points of view from the past and the present, family lines are an integral part of this story.
Love, magic, mystery, a little supernatural element, and of course, an amazing Italian setting make this such an amazing story! Definitely a must read!
This is not the first of Webb's books that I have read and I've always enjoyed them. The other books I've read of hers are all set around the Great Lakes and have some sort of spooky vibe. This was a departure in my opinion, but I LOVED it!
The story starts off in Minnesota with two cousins who are curious about their heritage after finding some information that they aren't aware of and that contradicts what they thought they knew. Cassie, still reeling from her split from her husband of 20+ years after she found he was cheating on her, decides to travel to Italy to try to track down her family's roots. What she uncovers changes everything she thought she knew about her family and her heritage.
Told from interchanging points of view from the past and the present, family lines are an integral part of this story.
Love, magic, mystery, a little supernatural element, and of course, an amazing Italian setting make this such an amazing story! Definitely a must read!
September 25, 2024
The premise of this book is such a great one, and after reading the blurb, I was excited to jump right into it. Unfortunately, it was not what I expected. I love the whole found family idea, I love a book that has to do with witches and magic, but I'm not sure how I feel about this one. Overall, it just felt very flat. I expected more excitement and more witchy things as opposed to just mentions of them. I would have enjoyed it more if Cassie had had some sort of magical rebirth while in Santo Stefano, or even if her sister had some revelation or experience while Cassie was away. Her sister was mentioned quite a bit, to the point I thought she would have had a more significant role, but unfortunately, she did not. The book as a whole felt more like a backstory/ set up or introduction to a deeper story to come. 2.5 stars, rounded up.
Thank you NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing, and Wendy Webb for this ARC.
Thank you NetGalley, Lake Union Publishing, and Wendy Webb for this ARC.
November 20, 2024
My first wendy webb book.
And I absolutely enjoyed this story.
This book has witch's with history, cheating, husbands, and a trip to italy with so much more.
I love how this story gives some backstory, and it tends to go back and forth, on the dual timeline, and I love books on dual timelines.
So this was a perfect story.
Simply just phenomenal. I loved everything about it.
And I absolutely enjoyed this story.
This book has witch's with history, cheating, husbands, and a trip to italy with so much more.
I love how this story gives some backstory, and it tends to go back and forth, on the dual timeline, and I love books on dual timelines.
So this was a perfect story.
Simply just phenomenal. I loved everything about it.
September 18, 2024
THE WITCHES OF SANTO STEFANO by Wendy Webb
I love a good family genealogy mystery especially when it involves a little magic.
Investigative journalist, Cassandra (Cassie) Graves, travels to Santa Stefano, Italy to research her ancestry. She wants to know why her grandmother’s death certificate has the incorrect date and lists the cause of her death as “stregheria” or witchcraft.
I loved the descriptions of the village shops, the Italian landscape, the food and wine! The minor characters also added so much depth and color to the story. Also, how can you not love a protective dog and donkey?
I feel a cast of characters or family tree at the beginning would’ve been most helpful for keeping track of who’s who. Aside from that, this is a warm and cozy, not too saccharine, mystery. Perfect for upcoming spooky season!
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Pub Date: September 24, 2024
**ARC courtesy of Netgalley & AmazonPublishing / Lake Union
I love a good family genealogy mystery especially when it involves a little magic.
Investigative journalist, Cassandra (Cassie) Graves, travels to Santa Stefano, Italy to research her ancestry. She wants to know why her grandmother’s death certificate has the incorrect date and lists the cause of her death as “stregheria” or witchcraft.
I loved the descriptions of the village shops, the Italian landscape, the food and wine! The minor characters also added so much depth and color to the story. Also, how can you not love a protective dog and donkey?
I feel a cast of characters or family tree at the beginning would’ve been most helpful for keeping track of who’s who. Aside from that, this is a warm and cozy, not too saccharine, mystery. Perfect for upcoming spooky season!
Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Pub Date: September 24, 2024
**ARC courtesy of Netgalley & AmazonPublishing / Lake Union
September 25, 2024
At the beginning of the book I was quite interested, but as the story progressed I lost interest. The back and forth from today and the past plus the differing characters got me confused. It was like an adult fantasy with witchcraft which didn't do anything for me. Sorry!
September 18, 2024
Author Wendy Webb has wowed me in my first foray into her work. The Witches of Santo Stefano is a delightfully written read in which the characters are well-developed and the flow of writing is not hindered by the scope of POVs or timelines. I followed along easily and was intrigued prior to even turning the first page. Once I did so I was enthralled and unable to put this book down. It was exactly the kind of break from my recent dark romance reads that I needed on my time off and a story I will happily return to in the future.
The FMC Cass is a powerhouse who will see a course of action through to the very end, come what may. I thoroughly enjoyed reading from her perspective and found her relatable as a mature-aged female protagonist. There was a strong connection and correlation for me in the cultural and spiritual similarities pertaining to Cass’ ancestral history. The shining stars supporting this storyline are the reflection and exploration upon the importance of familial ties and one’s roots, the migrant's journey and the small details that create the greater whole.
A multigenerational tale of magic, mystery and the lives of a line of women of Italian descent whose secrets, traumas, pain, love and losses shape them each in ways that may have remained forever hidden if not for the curiosity and mid-life changes of a present-day family member. I cannot recommend this book more highly and am now determined to discover other works penned by Wendy Webb.
The FMC Cass is a powerhouse who will see a course of action through to the very end, come what may. I thoroughly enjoyed reading from her perspective and found her relatable as a mature-aged female protagonist. There was a strong connection and correlation for me in the cultural and spiritual similarities pertaining to Cass’ ancestral history. The shining stars supporting this storyline are the reflection and exploration upon the importance of familial ties and one’s roots, the migrant's journey and the small details that create the greater whole.
A multigenerational tale of magic, mystery and the lives of a line of women of Italian descent whose secrets, traumas, pain, love and losses shape them each in ways that may have remained forever hidden if not for the curiosity and mid-life changes of a present-day family member. I cannot recommend this book more highly and am now determined to discover other works penned by Wendy Webb.
September 22, 2024
Told through the generations with the voices and POV of the family members the webs are woven to tell this tale love, magic and tragedy 🕸️
After find contradictory information about her family history and newly discovering her husband’s infidelity, Cassandra heads to Italy to heal and hopefully find the truth of her family history.
This is a great cozy read with a dash of romance, a chunk of history, a bit of magic and a sense of self discovery! Readers will enjoy the beautiful way the story is presented and the feel for the town of Santo Stefano. Just be weary not to upset the townspeople for they still fear the “Strega”🧙🏻♀️
Thank you to the author, Wendy Webb and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read this book. I received an epub for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
After find contradictory information about her family history and newly discovering her husband’s infidelity, Cassandra heads to Italy to heal and hopefully find the truth of her family history.
This is a great cozy read with a dash of romance, a chunk of history, a bit of magic and a sense of self discovery! Readers will enjoy the beautiful way the story is presented and the feel for the town of Santo Stefano. Just be weary not to upset the townspeople for they still fear the “Strega”🧙🏻♀️
Thank you to the author, Wendy Webb and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read this book. I received an epub for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 14, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley and Lake Union Publishing for the advanced e-copy.
The Witches of Santo Stefano was definitely different than the other Wendy Webb works I've read. Following Cassandra as she uncovers her family history, she finds more than she expects.
I had a hard time getting into this one. I loved the idea and premise of it, but the initial family history was tedious to follow. Following past and present was a look into uncovering the whole truth. I just found this to be a slow family history, and I struggled to connect with the family. However, if you like the idea of found family, ancestry, and a little bit of Witches, this one is for you! 2.5
The Witches of Santo Stefano was definitely different than the other Wendy Webb works I've read. Following Cassandra as she uncovers her family history, she finds more than she expects.
I had a hard time getting into this one. I loved the idea and premise of it, but the initial family history was tedious to follow. Following past and present was a look into uncovering the whole truth. I just found this to be a slow family history, and I struggled to connect with the family. However, if you like the idea of found family, ancestry, and a little bit of Witches, this one is for you! 2.5
January 25, 2026
Lovely book my mommy I got dedicated/signed for me by the local Minnesota author! Featuring a Minnesotan main character, who goes to Italy to unravel some family secrets.
Like practical magic, but Italian. Similar to practical magic in that it’s kinda simple and nothing actually really happens but you kinda just enjoy it for the beauty and the vibes. In the case of practical magic the beauty is Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, in this book the beauty is the pretty descriptions of food, witchy women and the aesthetic Italian countryside. 🇮🇹🍝🧙
Like practical magic, but Italian. Similar to practical magic in that it’s kinda simple and nothing actually really happens but you kinda just enjoy it for the beauty and the vibes. In the case of practical magic the beauty is Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, in this book the beauty is the pretty descriptions of food, witchy women and the aesthetic Italian countryside. 🇮🇹🍝🧙
March 1, 2025
Mystery and Magic in Italy
What Alice Hottman does for magic in Nre England, Wendy Webb does for magic in Italy. (With a touch of Nora Roberts’ sense of family bonds and romantic suspense fueling the mix) In this compelling novel Cassandra’s quest to solve the mysteries of her family’s ancestry takies her to a medieval village in Italy. The author’s sense of place makes the Italian setting a major part of the tale. I’ve never been to Italy, but I felt I was there sharing the experience with Cassie and loving every minute. Emotional, romantic, and ultimately heart-warming. I loved it!
What Alice Hottman does for magic in Nre England, Wendy Webb does for magic in Italy. (With a touch of Nora Roberts’ sense of family bonds and romantic suspense fueling the mix) In this compelling novel Cassandra’s quest to solve the mysteries of her family’s ancestry takies her to a medieval village in Italy. The author’s sense of place makes the Italian setting a major part of the tale. I’ve never been to Italy, but I felt I was there sharing the experience with Cassie and loving every minute. Emotional, romantic, and ultimately heart-warming. I loved it!
December 30, 2024
Cassandra and her cousin, Maria were doing research on their family and came up with confusing information on their family. Cassandra flies to Italy and the hometown of their ancestors in hopes of discovering the truth of their family. Cassandra a finds witchcraft as a belief in what today would be a gift to cure ill people. Not only does Cassandra find the truth about her ancestors but the possibility of love after a divorce. Does witchcraft exist or does unanswerable events just happen?
July 6, 2025
A dual time-line story about family secrets and witchcraft. I have really enjoyed previous Wendy Webb books but this was a bit flat. I think I was expecting more creepy vibes, based on the description. Cassie runs away to Italy to both search for answers to family secrets and escape her cheating husband. This was ok, but mostly just pleasant and a little dull.
January 25, 2025
I enjoyed reading the story of Cassandra Graves and the clues about the beautiful women in her family. Who doesn’t enjoy an ancestral scavenger hunt….especially one that takes you to beautiful Italian landscapes!?
November 20, 2025
4 ⭐️ I have read many of Wendy Webb's and this one was right up my alley. It's chalk full of ancestry, mystery, found family, new friendships, travel, love, grief, curses, and magic. This is her newest novel and yes I recommend this if you want a light hearted, magical, mystery.
October 26, 2024
I love Wendy Webb and with the story surrounded by genealogy and family history, I just had to read! I wasn't disappointed! She's one of my favorite authors.
November 20, 2024
Another delightful WW read! Fun to have a new setting in Italy and a generational fam mystery to unravel.
December 10, 2024
4.5 stars but I’ll round up I’m a sucker for Wendy Webb what can I say
September 15, 2025
A quick and entertaining read. Nearly packaged up.
November 5, 2025
Decent story but some of it felt rushed. There were SO many characters, it seemed that they couldn’t all be properly developed. I liked the story but would’ve liked more depth.
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