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The Occult Invasion
“Blood magic was created by evil incarnate, but it might be the Allied Forces’ only chance at winning the war to end all wars…”
Harriet “Hattie” Lange is daughter to one of the most powerful wizards in the world. He only allows his sons to learn wizardry, so Hattie was forced to Bind to Blood magic in secret. Luckily, the rarity of this forbidden art makes her that much more formidable on the battlefield. After working her way into the Occult, a secret unit of the Allied military that specializes in magic-based operations, Hattie travels with them through enemy territory in search of prisoners of war.
Their journey comes with its challenges, some coming from within the team itself. Her commanding field officer, Rowland Wright, is a member of her family’s rival coven, and her own brothers-in-arms constantly contest her right to be there. Still, they must join forces to cross no man’s lands, storm castles, and even dogfight with dragons.
Follow the Occult’s voyage across Europe as they try to save their countries’ magic-bearing soldiers before the Central Powers learn how to weaponize their abilities against them. The more blood sacrificed, the more powerful Hattie becomes, and at the heart of a war, there should be more than enough to spare…
The Occult Invasion is the bloodcurdling first book of The Witch’s March trilogy.
.
Harriet “Hattie” Lange is daughter to one of the most powerful wizards in the world. He only allows his sons to learn wizardry, so Hattie was forced to Bind to Blood magic in secret. Luckily, the rarity of this forbidden art makes her that much more formidable on the battlefield. After working her way into the Occult, a secret unit of the Allied military that specializes in magic-based operations, Hattie travels with them through enemy territory in search of prisoners of war.
Their journey comes with its challenges, some coming from within the team itself. Her commanding field officer, Rowland Wright, is a member of her family’s rival coven, and her own brothers-in-arms constantly contest her right to be there. Still, they must join forces to cross no man’s lands, storm castles, and even dogfight with dragons.
Follow the Occult’s voyage across Europe as they try to save their countries’ magic-bearing soldiers before the Central Powers learn how to weaponize their abilities against them. The more blood sacrificed, the more powerful Hattie becomes, and at the heart of a war, there should be more than enough to spare…
The Occult Invasion is the bloodcurdling first book of The Witch’s March trilogy.
.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 11, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
July 25, 2026
I need to talk about this book because I genuinely can’t stop thinking about it.
When the author first reached out, I almost said no. Historical fantasy set during WWI? It didn’t sound like my usual read at all. But it turns out to be one of the best fantasy books I’ve read this year!
The historical setting is there, but it never overshadows the story. Replace the war with any fictional conflict and this book would still be phenomenal. It’s the characters, the impossible missions, the magic system, the friendships, the sacrifices and the constant feeling that every decision matters.
Hattie’s Blood magic is fascinating. Every mission has consequences. Every death feels earned. There are battle deaths, torture deaths, sacrifices… nothing feels random or written just for shock value. War is brutal, but this book never forgets that every loss belongs to someone.
The pacing deserves its own praise. I was never bored. Not once. The chapters are huge, yet every single one feels like a complete fantasy story. One chapter gave me revenge, an aerial dragon battle, impossible choices, heartbreak and hope all at once.
I was living inside the story. And that’s probably my favourite thing about this book. I never tried to predict anything. Not because the twists weren’t there, but because I was completely immersed. Even the moments that, looking back, were foreshadowed landed perfectly because I wasn’t reading to solve a puzzle. I was living every mission alongside these characters.
The ending?! I’m still processing it. I keep replaying scenes in my head and connecting dots. I finished the book with more questions than answers and immediately wanted to start Book 2.
Also, chatting with J.E.Brand while reading made this experience even more special. Seeing how much she genuinely loves these characters and this world somehow made me appreciate the story even more.
Best book I’ve read this month, and honestly… one of the biggest surprises of my reading year.
When the author first reached out, I almost said no. Historical fantasy set during WWI? It didn’t sound like my usual read at all. But it turns out to be one of the best fantasy books I’ve read this year!
The historical setting is there, but it never overshadows the story. Replace the war with any fictional conflict and this book would still be phenomenal. It’s the characters, the impossible missions, the magic system, the friendships, the sacrifices and the constant feeling that every decision matters.
Hattie’s Blood magic is fascinating. Every mission has consequences. Every death feels earned. There are battle deaths, torture deaths, sacrifices… nothing feels random or written just for shock value. War is brutal, but this book never forgets that every loss belongs to someone.
The pacing deserves its own praise. I was never bored. Not once. The chapters are huge, yet every single one feels like a complete fantasy story. One chapter gave me revenge, an aerial dragon battle, impossible choices, heartbreak and hope all at once.
I was living inside the story. And that’s probably my favourite thing about this book. I never tried to predict anything. Not because the twists weren’t there, but because I was completely immersed. Even the moments that, looking back, were foreshadowed landed perfectly because I wasn’t reading to solve a puzzle. I was living every mission alongside these characters.
The ending?! I’m still processing it. I keep replaying scenes in my head and connecting dots. I finished the book with more questions than answers and immediately wanted to start Book 2.
Also, chatting with J.E.Brand while reading made this experience even more special. Seeing how much she genuinely loves these characters and this world somehow made me appreciate the story even more.
Best book I’ve read this month, and honestly… one of the biggest surprises of my reading year.
July 19, 2026
This book was sent to me by the wonderful author, who granted me free access to all three books in the trilogy, in exchange for honest reviews. (Thank you J. E. Brand)
The first installment of The Witch’s March was a truly exceptional read. From the very beginning, I was immersed into the world. There was a lot of world building and a unique, complex magic system. However, the author did a great job of showing and my telling this information. The unfolding of the world did not feel overwhelming or verbose, but flowed seamlessly with the development of the plot.
This book takes an original approach to war fiction, by presenting a world when all sorts of magical creatures (Magics) exist and live as functional members of society. There is a profound emphasis on the importance of social class, which is defined by magical abilities and family lineage, as well as special laws that have been formed around the existence of Magics in the military.
The main focus of the story is on Harriet “Hattie” Lange, a young witch who works her way into "The Occult” an elite, covert division of the Allied military. The Allied Forces rely on magical abilities to counter the Central Powers, who are trying to figure out how to weaponize magic against the Allies. Hattie comes from on of 13 powerful mage families “The Thirteen”. Her father is a traditional man who only permits his sons to study the traditional ways of wizardry. For this reason, Hattie is forced to study a rare and forbidden Focus of magic (Blood Magic) in secret.
The premise and execution of this book was nothing short of exceptional. I absolutely adored all the characters and their profound bonds with each other. “The Occult” grew into more of a family than just a military group. To say that in excited to read “The Dragonslayer’s Redemption” would be an understatement.
The first installment of The Witch’s March was a truly exceptional read. From the very beginning, I was immersed into the world. There was a lot of world building and a unique, complex magic system. However, the author did a great job of showing and my telling this information. The unfolding of the world did not feel overwhelming or verbose, but flowed seamlessly with the development of the plot.
This book takes an original approach to war fiction, by presenting a world when all sorts of magical creatures (Magics) exist and live as functional members of society. There is a profound emphasis on the importance of social class, which is defined by magical abilities and family lineage, as well as special laws that have been formed around the existence of Magics in the military.
The main focus of the story is on Harriet “Hattie” Lange, a young witch who works her way into "The Occult” an elite, covert division of the Allied military. The Allied Forces rely on magical abilities to counter the Central Powers, who are trying to figure out how to weaponize magic against the Allies. Hattie comes from on of 13 powerful mage families “The Thirteen”. Her father is a traditional man who only permits his sons to study the traditional ways of wizardry. For this reason, Hattie is forced to study a rare and forbidden Focus of magic (Blood Magic) in secret.
The premise and execution of this book was nothing short of exceptional. I absolutely adored all the characters and their profound bonds with each other. “The Occult” grew into more of a family than just a military group. To say that in excited to read “The Dragonslayer’s Redemption” would be an understatement.
June 8, 2026
This book blends history, supernatural elements, and the enduring power of friendship during wartime.
What makes it especially gripping is the unexpected twists and turns, keeping the tension high from beginning to end.
Hattie is such a strong willed and unforgettable main character, with unique magical abilities and just enough rage to make her feel completely relatable. She isn’t one to hold back and let her feelings be known. Her relationship with Rowland stood out to me too, because he brings such a calming, soothing presence into her life. He might be her superior and have some epic banter with her. Even more moving was the friendship between Hattie and Hammie, which stays powerful through battles and loss.
The book has strong character development and a very nice flow that made finishing the book in one day. Oh and I can’t forget to mention the dragons.
The ending well let’s just say I may have yelled at the kindle, and I immediately started book two.
What makes it especially gripping is the unexpected twists and turns, keeping the tension high from beginning to end.
Hattie is such a strong willed and unforgettable main character, with unique magical abilities and just enough rage to make her feel completely relatable. She isn’t one to hold back and let her feelings be known. Her relationship with Rowland stood out to me too, because he brings such a calming, soothing presence into her life. He might be her superior and have some epic banter with her. Even more moving was the friendship between Hattie and Hammie, which stays powerful through battles and loss.
The book has strong character development and a very nice flow that made finishing the book in one day. Oh and I can’t forget to mention the dragons.
The ending well let’s just say I may have yelled at the kindle, and I immediately started book two.
March 26, 2026
TOP SECRET find! Magic and carnage from the start, this historical fantasy was the whole package. Creatures, magical beings, war drama, battle training, secret society, dangerous missions, witty banter, and even a little forbidden romance.
Hattie is one of my favorite powerful female characters I have read. She is one of those badass women that won’t let anything, let alone an all male unit, stand in her way.
Reading the military details was like hearing about my Marine husband’s work day and seemed very accurate, which is a HUGE plus. The authentic details relating to strategy and true historical events made this an amazing story!
Hattie is one of my favorite powerful female characters I have read. She is one of those badass women that won’t let anything, let alone an all male unit, stand in her way.
Reading the military details was like hearing about my Marine husband’s work day and seemed very accurate, which is a HUGE plus. The authentic details relating to strategy and true historical events made this an amazing story!
January 1, 2025
This book is incredible. It beautifully combines its fantasy elements with its WWI setting. The author clearly did their research to ensure the authenticity of the time period, while seamlessly adding in their created magical lore. I often found myself lost in the world and had to remind myself that no, dragons and blood magic did NOT actually turn the tide of WWI.
The dialogue and banter between the characters feels like a real combat unit, and they all shine in their own ways. They're a group that one easily gets attached to and roots for. The twists and turns of this book had me racing to get through it to see what happens next, and I am very much looking forward to the expansion of the Occult universe and anything that J.E. Brand produces next!
The dialogue and banter between the characters feels like a real combat unit, and they all shine in their own ways. They're a group that one easily gets attached to and roots for. The twists and turns of this book had me racing to get through it to see what happens next, and I am very much looking forward to the expansion of the Occult universe and anything that J.E. Brand produces next!
November 16, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Gold-Star Find!
The Occult Invasion completely swept me away. The more I read, the more engrossed I became—I was absolutely hooked. Hattie is a fantastic FMC, fierce and compelling, and I loved following her through this World War I–era world infused with magic. Elves, dwarves, witches, dragons… the book is unique with a great plot, surprising, and so much fun.
My only warning? Do NOT get attached to anyone. Seriously. The twists hit hard in the best way.
I absolutely cannot wait for book two. This was a gold-star find, and I’m so glad I picked it up!
The Occult Invasion completely swept me away. The more I read, the more engrossed I became—I was absolutely hooked. Hattie is a fantastic FMC, fierce and compelling, and I loved following her through this World War I–era world infused with magic. Elves, dwarves, witches, dragons… the book is unique with a great plot, surprising, and so much fun.
My only warning? Do NOT get attached to anyone. Seriously. The twists hit hard in the best way.
I absolutely cannot wait for book two. This was a gold-star find, and I’m so glad I picked it up!
July 21, 2026
Okay, J.E. Brand, officially a fan.
This book is fantastic. Historical fantasy!! My two favorite genres. I enjoyed this unique genre and it was written very well.
The story takes place during War I with a secret society (The Occult), consisting of Magics (witches, warlocks, elves, dwarves, werewolves, etc.), using their unique abilities to save their loved ones and the world. Includes an Elf vs Dwarf rivalry reminiscent of Legolas and Gimli.
Hattie is an fmc you will love from the beginning. She pushes boundaries, expectations and stereotypes. She proves she is just as strong, courageous and resilient as any man. You will also fall in love with almost everyone else. Be careful...the bonds created are beautiful, and in times of war, that can be a saving grace, but also very dangerous.
The magic, suspense, the desire to do good, to fight to make the world a better place. All of it is so good. The story touches on class, gender and racial discrimination.
Be prepared, the cliffhanger is insane. Starting book two ASAP!
This book is fantastic. Historical fantasy!! My two favorite genres. I enjoyed this unique genre and it was written very well.
The story takes place during War I with a secret society (The Occult), consisting of Magics (witches, warlocks, elves, dwarves, werewolves, etc.), using their unique abilities to save their loved ones and the world. Includes an Elf vs Dwarf rivalry reminiscent of Legolas and Gimli.
Hattie is an fmc you will love from the beginning. She pushes boundaries, expectations and stereotypes. She proves she is just as strong, courageous and resilient as any man. You will also fall in love with almost everyone else. Be careful...the bonds created are beautiful, and in times of war, that can be a saving grace, but also very dangerous.
The magic, suspense, the desire to do good, to fight to make the world a better place. All of it is so good. The story touches on class, gender and racial discrimination.
Be prepared, the cliffhanger is insane. Starting book two ASAP!
June 7, 2026
I’m definitely in my short book era and this was a perfect reset for me.
I loved the banter, the unique aspects of magic, the era it’s set in. Don’t even get me started on that ending and cliffhanger, because excuse me—WHAT WAS THAT!? 😭
Definitely have to read book two now
I loved the banter, the unique aspects of magic, the era it’s set in. Don’t even get me started on that ending and cliffhanger, because excuse me—WHAT WAS THAT!? 😭
Definitely have to read book two now
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews