I’m always going to support an Ayrshire writer. But this isn’t just hometown loyalty talking because wow. I think I’ve found a new favourite author.
This book is atmospheric. The descriptions are on point. I could fully imagine myself sitting in on a coven meeting with a cloak over my shoulders and candles flickering.
I love the characters, especially Eleanor and Aradia. They feel real, messy, powerful, and emotionally damaging.
Also?? Major Supernatural vibes, which is PERFECT because it’s currently helping tide me over until my next rewatch. Dark magic, found family, danger, feelings. Yes please.
And can we talk about the setting?? 17th-century Kilwinning is described so well that I kept stopping like, WAIT… that’s where the school is… that’s the dentist… that’s my old house?? Absolutely unreal experience mentally walking through places you know.
It’s not just a novel. It feels like a guide to Wicca wrapped inside a story, which makes everything feel grounded and intentional.
The pacing is spot-on, the lore is intriguing without being overwhelming, and the emotional beats land exactly where they should. There’s heart, darkness, resilience, and magic in equal measure.