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Witchkiller
Gretel had no choice.
Her brother Hansel was in danger, and she had to kill the witch. Five months later, she is still ripped from her dreams and awoken by the noise of her sword tearing into the witch’s flesh. Her waking hours are no better. Hansel has grown more and more like their monstrous father by the day. The society she now inhabits has trapped her in an endless cycle of balls with nobles who sneer at her family’s new money. And worst of all, her greedy father has issued his newest ploy to increase his wealth. Gretel must marry, and soon.
Devastated at the prospect of a lifetime with an old, decrepit husband, she flees a ball…and runs right into Prince Wilfried. When Gretel divulges the reality of her situation, Wilfried comes up with a solution. He is also being pressured to find a suitable future queen — they can both delay the inevitable by faking an engagement. Gretel agrees, and what starts as a ruse quickly deepens as she finds herself falling for the handsome prince.
But in the quiet of night, still trapped in her castle with her memories, Gretel feels the walls closing in and ventures into the neighboring woods. There, she meets Katharina, a beautiful witch who introduces her to the witch community. But these women aren’t evil — they’re healers, and Gretel is drawn to them.
When information comes to light implicating her family’s involvement in a traitorous plot and endangering the lives of herself and those she’s grown to care about, Gretel must ask herself — did the wrong person die in that cottage? And can the Witchkiller become a witch?
Her brother Hansel was in danger, and she had to kill the witch. Five months later, she is still ripped from her dreams and awoken by the noise of her sword tearing into the witch’s flesh. Her waking hours are no better. Hansel has grown more and more like their monstrous father by the day. The society she now inhabits has trapped her in an endless cycle of balls with nobles who sneer at her family’s new money. And worst of all, her greedy father has issued his newest ploy to increase his wealth. Gretel must marry, and soon.
Devastated at the prospect of a lifetime with an old, decrepit husband, she flees a ball…and runs right into Prince Wilfried. When Gretel divulges the reality of her situation, Wilfried comes up with a solution. He is also being pressured to find a suitable future queen — they can both delay the inevitable by faking an engagement. Gretel agrees, and what starts as a ruse quickly deepens as she finds herself falling for the handsome prince.
But in the quiet of night, still trapped in her castle with her memories, Gretel feels the walls closing in and ventures into the neighboring woods. There, she meets Katharina, a beautiful witch who introduces her to the witch community. But these women aren’t evil — they’re healers, and Gretel is drawn to them.
When information comes to light implicating her family’s involvement in a traitorous plot and endangering the lives of herself and those she’s grown to care about, Gretel must ask herself — did the wrong person die in that cottage? And can the Witchkiller become a witch?
336 pages, Hardcover
First published October 7, 2025
15 people are currently reading
4887 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
July 11, 2025
This book was an emotional roller coaster in the best way. I laughed, I cried, I screamed into a pillow (both from exhilaration and exasperation), I had to set it down and take a breather - and it was an amazing reading journey.
Witchkiller is a dark retelling of Hansel and Gretel with a delicious twist on what happens after “happily ever after,” as Gretel, our heroine and narrator, and Hansel, who isn’t the hero he pretends to be, face the consequences of their actions (or lack thereof, in Hansel’s case). It features a fake engagement, found family, royal balls, women supporting women, women loving women, and a curvy heroine.
What really made this reading experience so wonderful were the characters. Of course our leading lady is a badass who is on a journey to find her own identity, voice, and inner power after enduring years of abuse (check your trigger warnings, and take care of yourselves). But there are also so many wonderful side characters that fully flesh out this tale. I absolutely adored Prince Wilfried. I’m also particularly fond of the Queen, maids Frida and Annika, and some of our witchy friends in the mysterious coven in the woods.
My only dissatisfaction with the story was how the ending absolutely shattered my heart. However, just because a book doesn’t end the way I wanted it to doesn’t make the story wrong or bad. In fact, that’s what makes the art of storytelling so wonderful - we all have different visions and desires for what the “ending” should be. Even though I might have chosen differently if I were in Gretel’s shoes, Latimer arrives at her ending with honesty and carefully structured writing. There were also a few loose ends, but sometimes that’s just how life is; sometimes we don’t get the full answer. And I’m here for it.
I’d absolutely recommend this book. I know there are a lot of young readers who will love it, as well as some young-at-heart adults who might find a void from their childhoods filled. I’m grateful to Scholastic Press for providing me an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest thoughts.
Witchkiller is a dark retelling of Hansel and Gretel with a delicious twist on what happens after “happily ever after,” as Gretel, our heroine and narrator, and Hansel, who isn’t the hero he pretends to be, face the consequences of their actions (or lack thereof, in Hansel’s case). It features a fake engagement, found family, royal balls, women supporting women, women loving women, and a curvy heroine.
What really made this reading experience so wonderful were the characters. Of course our leading lady is a badass who is on a journey to find her own identity, voice, and inner power after enduring years of abuse (check your trigger warnings, and take care of yourselves). But there are also so many wonderful side characters that fully flesh out this tale. I absolutely adored Prince Wilfried. I’m also particularly fond of the Queen, maids Frida and Annika, and some of our witchy friends in the mysterious coven in the woods.
My only dissatisfaction with the story was how the ending absolutely shattered my heart. However, just because a book doesn’t end the way I wanted it to doesn’t make the story wrong or bad. In fact, that’s what makes the art of storytelling so wonderful - we all have different visions and desires for what the “ending” should be. Even though I might have chosen differently if I were in Gretel’s shoes, Latimer arrives at her ending with honesty and carefully structured writing. There were also a few loose ends, but sometimes that’s just how life is; sometimes we don’t get the full answer. And I’m here for it.
I’d absolutely recommend this book. I know there are a lot of young readers who will love it, as well as some young-at-heart adults who might find a void from their childhoods filled. I’m grateful to Scholastic Press for providing me an eARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest thoughts.
July 15, 2025
Witchkiller is a twisty take on what happens after a fairy tale is over, and the consequences of one's actions and the paths life can take.
The novel is a Hansel and Gretel retelling of sorts—one where Gretel killed the witch, Hansel took credit, and life hasn't been the same since. Gretel's brother and father are cruel, and with the death of the witch making them all quite wealthy, Gretel is placed in a position where she's forced to marry—and ends up engaged to a kind friend in the to-be King, Wilifred.
The book is extremely fast paced in a way that was sometimes enjoyable—I was able to finish it in two sittings and at some points felt I couldn't put it down. However, I do think the plot could have used a little bit of breathing room, as I felt sometimes there was a little more showing rather than telling which took away my ability to connect emotionally with the characters and the romances presented within.
Gretel and her prince begin their relationship under false pretenses, but I truly enjoyed the dynamic between the two characters. Things were not perfect between them—each of them made mistakes in their journeys with one another—and I would have loved to see more development particularly on the POV side with Gretel and her understanding that Wilifred genuinely enjoyed being around her.
Gretel is also faced with the discovery of a community of witches like the one she killed, including one who becomes another potential romantic interest. While I was thrilled at the possibility of this sapphic romance particularly when reading the description of the book, this aspect really fell flat for me as the love interest never particularly developed a personality for me.
Because of the fast paced plot and the lean into show rather than tell, the ending of this book fell a little flat for me—still, I had a fun time reading it and really enjoyed the world building aspects, particularly how the author was able to successfully interpret a well-known story into something a little more unfamiliar.
Thank you for this eARC in exchange for my honest review!
The novel is a Hansel and Gretel retelling of sorts—one where Gretel killed the witch, Hansel took credit, and life hasn't been the same since. Gretel's brother and father are cruel, and with the death of the witch making them all quite wealthy, Gretel is placed in a position where she's forced to marry—and ends up engaged to a kind friend in the to-be King, Wilifred.
The book is extremely fast paced in a way that was sometimes enjoyable—I was able to finish it in two sittings and at some points felt I couldn't put it down. However, I do think the plot could have used a little bit of breathing room, as I felt sometimes there was a little more showing rather than telling which took away my ability to connect emotionally with the characters and the romances presented within.
Gretel and her prince begin their relationship under false pretenses, but I truly enjoyed the dynamic between the two characters. Things were not perfect between them—each of them made mistakes in their journeys with one another—and I would have loved to see more development particularly on the POV side with Gretel and her understanding that Wilifred genuinely enjoyed being around her.
Gretel is also faced with the discovery of a community of witches like the one she killed, including one who becomes another potential romantic interest. While I was thrilled at the possibility of this sapphic romance particularly when reading the description of the book, this aspect really fell flat for me as the love interest never particularly developed a personality for me.
Because of the fast paced plot and the lean into show rather than tell, the ending of this book fell a little flat for me—still, I had a fun time reading it and really enjoyed the world building aspects, particularly how the author was able to successfully interpret a well-known story into something a little more unfamiliar.
Thank you for this eARC in exchange for my honest review!
October 27, 2025
Gretel is living in the after. She and her brother Hansel survived the Wood Witch, and now Gretel is part of the nobility.
But being noble isn’t as simple as it sounds. Gretel isn’t sure she fits in this new life. Hansel and their father, Ansel, seem more excited to use her as leverage to boost their own standing. Gretel isn’t interested in wealth. She’s searching for a place to truly call home.
She strikes a deal with Prince Wilfried for their mutual happiness, but when she discovers a community of women living together in the woods, her curiosity is piqued. Their way of life invites her into a world that feels alive in a whole new way.
When that way of life is threatened, Gretel must find a way to save them.
I’m a sucker for retellings, and I’m equally a sucker for the worlds Ashelee builds. She has one of those minds that fully lives in the story she’s telling, and reading her book feels like an invitation to step into that world alongside her. Ashlee’s belief in the power of using your voice, the value of community, and the magic of being loved for who you truly are throughout the novel. READ it!
Favorite words:
“Much of my life has been shaped by the events of single, disparate evenings, strung together like pearls.”
“Lack grew their imaginations, and want grew their dreams.”
But being noble isn’t as simple as it sounds. Gretel isn’t sure she fits in this new life. Hansel and their father, Ansel, seem more excited to use her as leverage to boost their own standing. Gretel isn’t interested in wealth. She’s searching for a place to truly call home.
She strikes a deal with Prince Wilfried for their mutual happiness, but when she discovers a community of women living together in the woods, her curiosity is piqued. Their way of life invites her into a world that feels alive in a whole new way.
When that way of life is threatened, Gretel must find a way to save them.
I’m a sucker for retellings, and I’m equally a sucker for the worlds Ashelee builds. She has one of those minds that fully lives in the story she’s telling, and reading her book feels like an invitation to step into that world alongside her. Ashlee’s belief in the power of using your voice, the value of community, and the magic of being loved for who you truly are throughout the novel. READ it!
Favorite words:
“Much of my life has been shaped by the events of single, disparate evenings, strung together like pearls.”
“Lack grew their imaginations, and want grew their dreams.”
January 20, 2026
2/5
This wasn't for me. Gretel comes off very much a victim and is over dramatic. When Prince Wilfried is clearly explaining the idea of their fake betrothal, Gretel keeps thinking he's talking about literally anyone but her. It made no sense. Her behaviour and attitude was really frustrating and having to read about how Wilfried is going to abandon her for his true love was a pity party I didn't enjoy.
To make matters worse, her relationship with her brother is terrible. Both Hansel and their father Ansel are abusive men. Ansel hits both of his children and both men threaten Gretel often. They're incredibly unredeeming but Gretel's constant inner monologue of how sweet and close they used to be doesn't help. It's too much telling and never any showing so Hansel is flat instead of a sympathetic villain.
The writing is simple, you're not going to get a lot of purple prose or vivid world building. It's straightforward in a refreshing way that fantasy sometimes isn't. I wish there was more depth though. There's some really good ideas in here, they just didn't work well for me in this book.
If you like the fake relationship trope and fairy tales, you might enjoy this. There's witches and a cute fox and a kind prince to fall in love with. I would check your local library for a copy!
This wasn't for me. Gretel comes off very much a victim and is over dramatic. When Prince Wilfried is clearly explaining the idea of their fake betrothal, Gretel keeps thinking he's talking about literally anyone but her. It made no sense. Her behaviour and attitude was really frustrating and having to read about how Wilfried is going to abandon her for his true love was a pity party I didn't enjoy.
To make matters worse, her relationship with her brother is terrible. Both Hansel and their father Ansel are abusive men. Ansel hits both of his children and both men threaten Gretel often. They're incredibly unredeeming but Gretel's constant inner monologue of how sweet and close they used to be doesn't help. It's too much telling and never any showing so Hansel is flat instead of a sympathetic villain.
The writing is simple, you're not going to get a lot of purple prose or vivid world building. It's straightforward in a refreshing way that fantasy sometimes isn't. I wish there was more depth though. There's some really good ideas in here, they just didn't work well for me in this book.
If you like the fake relationship trope and fairy tales, you might enjoy this. There's witches and a cute fox and a kind prince to fall in love with. I would check your local library for a copy!
October 6, 2025
Literally could not put this down! This dark, witchy YA retelling of Hansel and Gretel was a treat and the PERFECT kick-off to my fall TBR.
October 21, 2025
2 stars overall but a special 0.25 bonus star purely for chapter 35 alone
September 29, 2025
I will give any fairytale retelling I can find a chance. This one was not for me- the characters were all kind of surface level. I didn’t feel attached to any of them and it seemed like parts of the plot were never fully explained. It was a cool idea though and I’m curious about what else the author will write.
September 27, 2025
I had very high hopes for this Hansel and Gretel retelling featuring not-evil witches and yes-evil men. While the ending did give me the feminine rage I was waiting for, the rest of the book didn’t hold up for me.
Gretel’s growth from the beginning to the end of the story was great, and I was so proud of who she became by the final chapters. Her passive, cowering personality for most of the book, while understandable, just wasn’t likable. I found myself repeatedly asking why she didn’t question things at key moments when moving forward without answers made no sense - but move forward we did. This was especially true when she first finds Gilwan - I have SO MANY QUESTIONS and she asked none. And then she goes back to the castle even though no one makes her leave? I would have moved in immediately.
I don’t understand who the witches are in this universe. The reader knows that, historically, female healers have been smeared as “witches” - and while these people are healers, we also have magic. But not a lot of magic! Mostly we see floating lanterns and some control of nearby water bodies. Is there more magic that these women control?
And why is there this negative feeling about witches in this universe? The story feels like it leans on the reader’s historical understanding of “witches,” but as someone who reads a lot of witchy books, I don’t think you can rely on that alone. We need an in-universe explanation as to why everyone (not just Ansel) hates the witches.
I also felt that many very dramatic scenes had almost no follow-up repercussions the next chapter / day. An assault on your tormentor would certainly result in more torment shortly after, but it’s like things never happened.
I very much felt that I was promised a story about witches and intrigue and feminine rage, and while I did get that, about 70% of the story is actually a fake engagement plot. Which is a shame, because I really liked Wilfried and I did not feel or believe any romance with Katharine. I wanted more of the sapphic romance, especially for how often I’ve seen this story pitched as lesbian witches burning everything down.
I want to be clear - it’s not a bad book, and it’s not poorly written. It reads very much like a fairy tale, which suits this story extremely well. I think the advertising needs a focus shift, and I would definitely like some more logic or explanations regarding Gretel’s decisions throughout.
The twist on the Hansel and Gretel story we all knew was great. I would have even liked a little more of the story interwoven here, but it was a great way of rethinking the story we are already so familiar with.
Also, Hansel is the worst. The woooorst. Ansel is also the worst. Meanwhile, Wilfried and the queen were my favorite characters. Bless and keep them safe forever please.
While this book wasn’t my favorite, I would certainly be interested in reading more by Ashlee Latimer.
Thank you to Scholastic and NetGalley for an eARC of this book so that I may leave an honest review.
Gretel’s growth from the beginning to the end of the story was great, and I was so proud of who she became by the final chapters. Her passive, cowering personality for most of the book, while understandable, just wasn’t likable. I found myself repeatedly asking why she didn’t question things at key moments when moving forward without answers made no sense - but move forward we did. This was especially true when she first finds Gilwan - I have SO MANY QUESTIONS and she asked none. And then she goes back to the castle even though no one makes her leave? I would have moved in immediately.
I don’t understand who the witches are in this universe. The reader knows that, historically, female healers have been smeared as “witches” - and while these people are healers, we also have magic. But not a lot of magic! Mostly we see floating lanterns and some control of nearby water bodies. Is there more magic that these women control?
And why is there this negative feeling about witches in this universe? The story feels like it leans on the reader’s historical understanding of “witches,” but as someone who reads a lot of witchy books, I don’t think you can rely on that alone. We need an in-universe explanation as to why everyone (not just Ansel) hates the witches.
I also felt that many very dramatic scenes had almost no follow-up repercussions the next chapter / day. An assault on your tormentor would certainly result in more torment shortly after, but it’s like things never happened.
I very much felt that I was promised a story about witches and intrigue and feminine rage, and while I did get that, about 70% of the story is actually a fake engagement plot. Which is a shame, because I really liked Wilfried and I did not feel or believe any romance with Katharine. I wanted more of the sapphic romance, especially for how often I’ve seen this story pitched as lesbian witches burning everything down.
I want to be clear - it’s not a bad book, and it’s not poorly written. It reads very much like a fairy tale, which suits this story extremely well. I think the advertising needs a focus shift, and I would definitely like some more logic or explanations regarding Gretel’s decisions throughout.
The twist on the Hansel and Gretel story we all knew was great. I would have even liked a little more of the story interwoven here, but it was a great way of rethinking the story we are already so familiar with.
Also, Hansel is the worst. The woooorst. Ansel is also the worst. Meanwhile, Wilfried and the queen were my favorite characters. Bless and keep them safe forever please.
While this book wasn’t my favorite, I would certainly be interested in reading more by Ashlee Latimer.
Thank you to Scholastic and NetGalley for an eARC of this book so that I may leave an honest review.
October 10, 2025
Gretel had to kill the witch to save her brother, Hansel, but she still has nightmares months later. It doesn't help that Hansel is more like their monstrous father, who now insists that Gretel must marry to increase their wealth. When she flees a ball, she meets Prince Wilfried, who is also being pressured to marry. A fake engagement would put off others, but Gretel is soon falling for the handsome prince. It doesn't stop the nightmares, and meeting Katharina during a walk introduces her to witches who are healers. Information comes to light implicating her family’s involvement in a traitorous plot, making Gretel wonder if the wrong person died in that cottage. Can the Witchkiller become a witch?
We start with Gretel having nightmares, and her brother taking responsibility for killing the witch instead of Gretel. He stole the valuables in the Witch's cottage to rebuild their wealth, and their father remains cold and abusive. Gretel is nothing more than a pawn for them to maneuver to get more power and prestige. In this culture, women hope for a marriage and family that isn't abusive, and this is how Gretel grew up. Then, women in the woods have a village of their own, with women and children who were cast out or discarded, yet they focus on healing, herbalism, and aiding others. This is nothing like the rumors circulating that Gretel's family amplifies. It is, but it isn't surprising that some of their business deals involve framing witches for theft, though it escalates from there. In the meantime, Gretel and the prince developed a friendship during their courtship, and he wants to protect her from her family and their plans.
Gretel is cowed and agreeable, as many abused children are. She hopes to avoid conflict whenever possible and feels trapped in the expectation of the nobility and royalty. As a common girl, she didn't care about reputation or having to appease society at large. I liked her and her journey through the book. The choices she made eventually led to making her as independent as she could be in this society, though she would still have to bow to convention. In retrospect, the ending really isn't as surprising as it first was, and fits this new worldview. It overall is a good book that kept me reading even when I had other things to do.
We start with Gretel having nightmares, and her brother taking responsibility for killing the witch instead of Gretel. He stole the valuables in the Witch's cottage to rebuild their wealth, and their father remains cold and abusive. Gretel is nothing more than a pawn for them to maneuver to get more power and prestige. In this culture, women hope for a marriage and family that isn't abusive, and this is how Gretel grew up. Then, women in the woods have a village of their own, with women and children who were cast out or discarded, yet they focus on healing, herbalism, and aiding others. This is nothing like the rumors circulating that Gretel's family amplifies. It is, but it isn't surprising that some of their business deals involve framing witches for theft, though it escalates from there. In the meantime, Gretel and the prince developed a friendship during their courtship, and he wants to protect her from her family and their plans.
Gretel is cowed and agreeable, as many abused children are. She hopes to avoid conflict whenever possible and feels trapped in the expectation of the nobility and royalty. As a common girl, she didn't care about reputation or having to appease society at large. I liked her and her journey through the book. The choices she made eventually led to making her as independent as she could be in this society, though she would still have to bow to convention. In retrospect, the ending really isn't as surprising as it first was, and fits this new worldview. It overall is a good book that kept me reading even when I had other things to do.
October 17, 2025
Shockingly, this was one where I enjoyed the characters more than the actual plot. For the first time I know the actual fairy tale a retelling is based on and I thought the way the author twisted this one was good. Hansel being a villain after taking the glory for killing a villain? chefs kiss
I enjoyed the whole, Gretel trying to get out from underneath her evil brother/father plot as well as the friends to lovers (maybe) Wilifred. I wish the plot purely focused on the fake marriage and the political plot but it diverges into like, this subplot with a group of witches that Gretel befriends.
Finding the witches and becoming friends with them obviously makes Gretel feel bad because she killed a witch even though I'm not sure why. The witch she's friends with ..Katherine I believe, is a healer and obviously the witch in the woods was trying to kill them......
There's also a supposed understanding that Ansel (Gretel's father) and Hansel want to eradicate the witches and I can understand why to an extent on Hansel's end, but at the same time there's like 0 in world explanation for why the witches are hated apart from "they're witches" and again that doesn't mean much because just on the lore this is based on we have good AND bad witches. These particular witches are good. So what's the issue? I got the reasoning behind Gretel wanting to become a witch herself (sort of like the movie The Witch) but because it's not deeply explored it's just left hanging.
Gretel and Katherine have sapphic love energy but it's never explored in a deeper way and she just ends up with Wilifred for the sake of him being the first person she came into contact with. I know I said earlier I wish it would've focused on that plot, but really I wish it just picked a lane and stuck with it. Gretel seemed silly and flaky and sort of made decisions based on who she was with and out of reaction. They never seemed to come from a place of being deeply thought out.
Anyway, I mean, the story was enjoyable but it won't live in my mind rent free. Like I said, it needed to pick a lane for me to fully enjoy it but it read like a fairytale continuation and that was the goal.
I received an arc from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed the whole, Gretel trying to get out from underneath her evil brother/father plot as well as the friends to lovers (maybe) Wilifred. I wish the plot purely focused on the fake marriage and the political plot but it diverges into like, this subplot with a group of witches that Gretel befriends.
Finding the witches and becoming friends with them obviously makes Gretel feel bad because she killed a witch even though I'm not sure why. The witch she's friends with ..Katherine I believe, is a healer and obviously the witch in the woods was trying to kill them......
There's also a supposed understanding that Ansel (Gretel's father) and Hansel want to eradicate the witches and I can understand why to an extent on Hansel's end, but at the same time there's like 0 in world explanation for why the witches are hated apart from "they're witches" and again that doesn't mean much because just on the lore this is based on we have good AND bad witches. These particular witches are good. So what's the issue? I got the reasoning behind Gretel wanting to become a witch herself (sort of like the movie The Witch) but because it's not deeply explored it's just left hanging.
Gretel and Katherine have sapphic love energy but it's never explored in a deeper way and she just ends up with Wilifred for the sake of him being the first person she came into contact with. I know I said earlier I wish it would've focused on that plot, but really I wish it just picked a lane and stuck with it. Gretel seemed silly and flaky and sort of made decisions based on who she was with and out of reaction. They never seemed to come from a place of being deeply thought out.
Anyway, I mean, the story was enjoyable but it won't live in my mind rent free. Like I said, it needed to pick a lane for me to fully enjoy it but it read like a fairytale continuation and that was the goal.
I received an arc from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
dnf
December 4, 2025DNF at 6%
So I finished the first chapter, and I just can’t do it anymore.
This is one of those instances where the story just isn’t resonating with me, but I’m sure others will enjoy it.
NOTES I TOOK WHILE READING:
So I finished the first chapter, and I just can’t do it anymore.
This is one of those instances where the story just isn’t resonating with me, but I’m sure others will enjoy it.
NOTES I TOOK WHILE READING:
October 11, 2025
I’ve just finished reading this book, and I’m writing in the flush of joy that comes from a great first read. I’m already looking forward to a more leisurely second one—when I’m not racing through the pages to see what happens next.
First of all, it’s a clever and captivating retelling of Hansel and Gretel—but it’s definitely not your grandmother’s version. This reimagining centers on Gretel and the challenges of growing up in a world where women don’t always get their due (and that’s putting it mildly).
The pacing is thrilling, and the structure keeps something exciting always just around the corner. Your heartbeat feels perfectly timed to the story’s rhythm, and the author keeps you guessing with small mysteries all the way through. It’s a book where life sometimes feels too good to be true—and at other times, too horrible to be real.
There are several worlds within this story that echo that contrast—each with its own sense of home. From the stark, unhappy home of everyday struggle to the bright, magical place you ache to reach (the kind that makes you long for it the way one longs to step through the wardrobe into Narnia), the author layers these realms with such care that each feels real and emotionally true. Those shifting homes—lost, found, and reimagined—are part of what make this story so moving.
There’s plenty of magic here, but not the hocus-pocus kind. It’s the quiet, everyday magic of caring, of knowing the world and the earth, and of the deep wisdom of nature.
It’s a lovely, luminous read—one that lingers like a spell after the last page is turned. I recommend it wholeheartedly, even as I recommend it to myself for another wander.
First of all, it’s a clever and captivating retelling of Hansel and Gretel—but it’s definitely not your grandmother’s version. This reimagining centers on Gretel and the challenges of growing up in a world where women don’t always get their due (and that’s putting it mildly).
The pacing is thrilling, and the structure keeps something exciting always just around the corner. Your heartbeat feels perfectly timed to the story’s rhythm, and the author keeps you guessing with small mysteries all the way through. It’s a book where life sometimes feels too good to be true—and at other times, too horrible to be real.
There are several worlds within this story that echo that contrast—each with its own sense of home. From the stark, unhappy home of everyday struggle to the bright, magical place you ache to reach (the kind that makes you long for it the way one longs to step through the wardrobe into Narnia), the author layers these realms with such care that each feels real and emotionally true. Those shifting homes—lost, found, and reimagined—are part of what make this story so moving.
There’s plenty of magic here, but not the hocus-pocus kind. It’s the quiet, everyday magic of caring, of knowing the world and the earth, and of the deep wisdom of nature.
It’s a lovely, luminous read—one that lingers like a spell after the last page is turned. I recommend it wholeheartedly, even as I recommend it to myself for another wander.
October 23, 2025
What happened to Hansel and Gretel after the witch died? In this sequel, the witch died not by being thrust into her own oven, but by being run through by a sword, wielded by Gretel - something that Hansel simply cannot allow others to know. The two return home to live with their father, their mother having died years before their abduction. Their father, through some undescribed financial dealing, becomes wealthy, and he is scheming to become wealthier still, in part by marrying Gretel to a rich man, a common theme in fairy tales. Here's where the novel truly diverges from the fairy tale: Gretel discovers that witches are not evil, but are, instead, a community focused on helping others with their skills. Unfortunately, Ansel - Hansel's and Gretel's father - is vehemently against witches, blaming them for the death of his wife, their mother, and is on a quest to destroy them all.
I enjoyed most of this novel; it had some interesting twists and turns, although I found the "big" twist at the end to be a little unbelievable and not well-supported by the plot, as well as being out of keeping with the fairy tale upon which the story was based. Likewise, the motivations of witch who abducted the two as children was never quite clarified; while Gretel wonders about her motivation, and whether the witch was truly evil, it wasn't quite clear if the witch was one of the community of benevolent witches or an outlier who was not part of the community.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I enjoyed most of this novel; it had some interesting twists and turns, although I found the "big" twist at the end to be a little unbelievable and not well-supported by the plot, as well as being out of keeping with the fairy tale upon which the story was based. Likewise, the motivations of witch who abducted the two as children was never quite clarified; while Gretel wonders about her motivation, and whether the witch was truly evil, it wasn't quite clear if the witch was one of the community of benevolent witches or an outlier who was not part of the community.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book provided by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 28, 2025
"I feel guilty for saving him and for wishing that I hadn't."
Once upon a time, there was a girl who killed a witch to save her brother and they lived happily ever after. But that's not this story. If only it were that simple for Gretel and Hansel.
I appreciate the rise in fairytale retellings recently and overall, this book falls more into the pro category despite some of its flaws. Gretel as our main character was a solid protagonist though at times especially towards the end I was really wanting her to act smarter when it came to sneaking around Ansel and Hansel. Understandably, she's young so she's going to make some unsmart decisions, but we've been following her growth so it felt a little stagnant for her to make rookie mistakes because the plot needed her to.
Hansel and Ansel as the main villains also seemed to fall flat, but that didn't hinder the pacing or storytelling aspect of it, just a small nitpick from my reading standpoint. I definitely had some theories about Wilfried early on and I'm very happy to say I was proven wrong. Latimer is able to subvert some typical tropes with his character, and I appreciated that.
The plot is very straightforward and while it's a dark story, it's not seriously depressing. Overall, I think it's worth a read if darker fairytale retellings are your thing!
Thank you to NetGalley and Scholastic Press for an e-ARC copy in exchange for an honest review
Once upon a time, there was a girl who killed a witch to save her brother and they lived happily ever after. But that's not this story. If only it were that simple for Gretel and Hansel.
I appreciate the rise in fairytale retellings recently and overall, this book falls more into the pro category despite some of its flaws. Gretel as our main character was a solid protagonist though at times especially towards the end I was really wanting her to act smarter when it came to sneaking around Ansel and Hansel. Understandably, she's young so she's going to make some unsmart decisions, but we've been following her growth so it felt a little stagnant for her to make rookie mistakes because the plot needed her to.
Hansel and Ansel as the main villains also seemed to fall flat, but that didn't hinder the pacing or storytelling aspect of it, just a small nitpick from my reading standpoint. I definitely had some theories about Wilfried early on and I'm very happy to say I was proven wrong. Latimer is able to subvert some typical tropes with his character, and I appreciated that.
The plot is very straightforward and while it's a dark story, it's not seriously depressing. Overall, I think it's worth a read if darker fairytale retellings are your thing!
Thank you to NetGalley and Scholastic Press for an e-ARC copy in exchange for an honest review
October 7, 2025
The story opens up with Gretel having a nightmare of the night she killed the witch and saved her brother. However, prior to this event, she can't recall why she and her brother were at the witch's cottage to begin with. In fact, only Hansel is able to recall what really happened, yet he parades around as if he was the one who killed the witch.
With their newly-acquired wealth (which Hansel stole from the witch), Hansel, Gretel, and their father have elevated their place in society. Not wanting to ruin their reputation, Gretel begrudgingly follows her father and brother's orders.
Including, looking for a suitable husband so her family can expand their wealth.
At a ball held by the royal family, she runs away with her anxious thoughts of marrying an older man, and runs into Prince Wilfried. They both discover that they are both looking for marriage, so Wilfried proposes that they fake an engagement (though I think this boy suffers from a case of "love at first sight") until they both can get what they're truly looking for. Gretel agrees, and soon the ruse turns into her falling for the prince.
But in the quiet of night, is haunted by her nightmares and decides to wander into the woods every night. There, she meets Katharina, a beautiful witch who introduces her to the witch community. But these women aren’t evil as the stories depict them— they’re healers, and Gretel is drawn to them.
Her family’s role in the traitorous plot of killing the first witch is brought to light, Gretel has to decide whether she can afford to turn on her brother and father and reveal the truth of that night, or continue to play right into their hands.
This book is a classic example of a YA retelling. The plot was easy enough to follow along, though in some parts, the plot felt too simplistic with a dialogue that felt more mature. I loved the descriptions in this book; they were both lush and simple.
My only complaint is that I wished the witches were a bigger part of the plot. This book felt more like a romance with the witches as a sub-plot. For a retelling/ expanded upon version, I would've loved to see more of the world-building. As far as I could tell, the witches were really healers and ended up hated because they couldn't heal some people. The hatred grew until Gretel's family could use it as an excuse to kill a witch and steal her wealth. However, we don't actually truly know anything about the witches or how their magic works, which is what I was looking forward to the most.
Overall, I wanted to love this book but I only like it. For that reason, I'm going to give it three out five stars.
While it may not be my favorite book, you might love it if you love fairytale retellings, Hansel and Gretel, and ending evil schemes.
Read my full review: https://bellaandbooks5.wordpress.com/...
With their newly-acquired wealth (which Hansel stole from the witch), Hansel, Gretel, and their father have elevated their place in society. Not wanting to ruin their reputation, Gretel begrudgingly follows her father and brother's orders.
Including, looking for a suitable husband so her family can expand their wealth.
At a ball held by the royal family, she runs away with her anxious thoughts of marrying an older man, and runs into Prince Wilfried. They both discover that they are both looking for marriage, so Wilfried proposes that they fake an engagement (though I think this boy suffers from a case of "love at first sight") until they both can get what they're truly looking for. Gretel agrees, and soon the ruse turns into her falling for the prince.
But in the quiet of night, is haunted by her nightmares and decides to wander into the woods every night. There, she meets Katharina, a beautiful witch who introduces her to the witch community. But these women aren’t evil as the stories depict them— they’re healers, and Gretel is drawn to them.
Her family’s role in the traitorous plot of killing the first witch is brought to light, Gretel has to decide whether she can afford to turn on her brother and father and reveal the truth of that night, or continue to play right into their hands.
This book is a classic example of a YA retelling. The plot was easy enough to follow along, though in some parts, the plot felt too simplistic with a dialogue that felt more mature. I loved the descriptions in this book; they were both lush and simple.
My only complaint is that I wished the witches were a bigger part of the plot. This book felt more like a romance with the witches as a sub-plot. For a retelling/ expanded upon version, I would've loved to see more of the world-building. As far as I could tell, the witches were really healers and ended up hated because they couldn't heal some people. The hatred grew until Gretel's family could use it as an excuse to kill a witch and steal her wealth. However, we don't actually truly know anything about the witches or how their magic works, which is what I was looking forward to the most.
Overall, I wanted to love this book but I only like it. For that reason, I'm going to give it three out five stars.
While it may not be my favorite book, you might love it if you love fairytale retellings, Hansel and Gretel, and ending evil schemes.
Read my full review: https://bellaandbooks5.wordpress.com/...
October 12, 2025
in this reimagining of the aftermath of “hansel and gretel,” gretel kills the witch, but hansel takes the credit. hansel’s “heroism”—and the wealth he stole from the witch—change the family’s circumstances, and gretel’s greedy father decides that she must be married off to further his and hansel’s new positions in society. when gretel (literally) runs into the kingdom’s young prince at a ball and confesses her situation to him, he reveals that he’s in a similar predicament and proposes a solution: they’ll fake an engagement to buy themselves more time.
their scheme is soon complicated by real feelings and the witches gretel meets in the woods—women who are nothing like the stories she’s been told all her life, women who prompt gretel to question who the real villains are.
i love a good fairytale retelling. unfortunately witchkiller is not that. we have the most generic prince charming to ever wear a crown, cartoonishly evil villains, inconsistent pacing, an unnecessary love triangle, and so much stilted dialogue. the plot is exactly what you’d expect from the blurb, and the writing is definitely on the younger end of the YA spectrum (i’d argue it borders on MG at times). overall it’s an interesting concept, but poorly executed and very much adhering to current trends in YA fantasy without adding anything original.
i received an ARC from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
rating: 2.0/5.0 stars
their scheme is soon complicated by real feelings and the witches gretel meets in the woods—women who are nothing like the stories she’s been told all her life, women who prompt gretel to question who the real villains are.
i love a good fairytale retelling. unfortunately witchkiller is not that. we have the most generic prince charming to ever wear a crown, cartoonishly evil villains, inconsistent pacing, an unnecessary love triangle, and so much stilted dialogue. the plot is exactly what you’d expect from the blurb, and the writing is definitely on the younger end of the YA spectrum (i’d argue it borders on MG at times). overall it’s an interesting concept, but poorly executed and very much adhering to current trends in YA fantasy without adding anything original.
i received an ARC from the publisher via netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
rating: 2.0/5.0 stars
October 7, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley & the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I think the writing here is beautiful, I love fairy tale retellings and I loved how Latimer switched up the Hansel and Gretel Story.
That being said there was something missing for me. The best part of the story was the last ~20% or so, but the lead up to that part was filled with a lot of Not Much happening.
I wanted more back story on Hansel and Gretel's life before the Witch, and more word building in general. I really liked how Gretel and Wilfried talked to each other and i applaud Latimer at not using miscommunication for an easy plot device. Instead they have mature conversations and any misunderstandings between characters are therefore more believable.
This is also had a bit of 'problem' where there were two worlds present in this story and we did not get enough building for either of them, and while i like how the story ended it almost felt like that's where i want the story to start. What is Gretel's life like now? how did this change things? I was left with more questions about the world now that the story ended than I would have liked.
But overall I still had an enjoyable time, I liked the story and the writing and I will continue to keep my eye on Latimer, i just needed a little bit more from this story.
I think the writing here is beautiful, I love fairy tale retellings and I loved how Latimer switched up the Hansel and Gretel Story.
That being said there was something missing for me. The best part of the story was the last ~20% or so, but the lead up to that part was filled with a lot of Not Much happening.
I wanted more back story on Hansel and Gretel's life before the Witch, and more word building in general. I really liked how Gretel and Wilfried talked to each other and i applaud Latimer at not using miscommunication for an easy plot device. Instead they have mature conversations and any misunderstandings between characters are therefore more believable.
This is also had a bit of 'problem' where there were two worlds present in this story and we did not get enough building for either of them, and while i like how the story ended it almost felt like that's where i want the story to start. What is Gretel's life like now? how did this change things? I was left with more questions about the world now that the story ended than I would have liked.
But overall I still had an enjoyable time, I liked the story and the writing and I will continue to keep my eye on Latimer, i just needed a little bit more from this story.
October 17, 2025
Whew, that was a heck of a feminist retelling! I'm always ready for a re-imagining and this did not disappoint.
Gretel is plagued by nightmares of the witch she killed to save her brother's life, unfortunately everything else from that day is blank. She can only rely on parts of the version Hansel tells as the now famed "Witchkiller." Now no longer a poor family in the woods, Gretel's life, while more lush and filled with food, is still spent at the whim of others. She finds friendship and support with Prince Wilfried and their fake engagement, but she still wants. She wants to do more than what is expected and she finds that what she was taught about witches has been very wrong. The real question is, What does Gretel WANT and what will she do to secure it?
I appreciate a heroine rising from the hurt and fear and doubt and Gretel does that so well. So many characters that she deals with are just terrible so it's nice to see them get their just ends. There are some very good lines about women having dreams and wants and pushing or breaking the bonds in a world where men rule. Very well written!
Gretel is plagued by nightmares of the witch she killed to save her brother's life, unfortunately everything else from that day is blank. She can only rely on parts of the version Hansel tells as the now famed "Witchkiller." Now no longer a poor family in the woods, Gretel's life, while more lush and filled with food, is still spent at the whim of others. She finds friendship and support with Prince Wilfried and their fake engagement, but she still wants. She wants to do more than what is expected and she finds that what she was taught about witches has been very wrong. The real question is, What does Gretel WANT and what will she do to secure it?
I appreciate a heroine rising from the hurt and fear and doubt and Gretel does that so well. So many characters that she deals with are just terrible so it's nice to see them get their just ends. There are some very good lines about women having dreams and wants and pushing or breaking the bonds in a world where men rule. Very well written!
November 29, 2025
I did not enjoy this book--obviously, *gestures to the three stars*. It was just not for me. The main issue I had with it was how incredibly underdeveloped everything was. The characters, the plot, the romance, the worldbuilding, everything was just so surface-level. Nothing was ever explained or delved into. The witches, for example. Why do people hate them--just because? Like that is not a good reason, give me background, an explanation, something. And don't get me started on Gretel. She sees all of these things and just ignores them, like literally does not even think twice; she was just irritating. Quite frankly, she didn't bother me as much as she should have because I did not really care about the plot. Most of the book, nothing happened, then in the last three or four chapters, all this stuff happened that I should have cared about, but after 300 pages of surface-level writing, I just did not. That said, I did give it three stars. I sort of liked the concept, and I enjoyed the Prince and the Queen.
This book could have been interesting, but it just fell flat for me.
This book could have been interesting, but it just fell flat for me.
November 11, 2025
This Gretl is an inspiration! An exciting and fresh twist on the famous Grimm's fairy tale, Ashlee Latimer has constructed a unique world that feels like a true extension of the old fable we know, while also being contemporary and timeless in theme and story. With a strong character arc at its center, WITCHKILLER is a swift read with a satisfying end that flips Hansel & Gretl on its head while staying true to the original story. I loved Gretl and it was a thrill to be along for the ride on her complex emotional journey. A protagonist navigating a complicated family dynamic is always going to pull me in and this arc really sticks the landing.
Bronwyn James provides marvelous narration in the audiobook and I'd love to see her bring Gretl to life on screen. BRIDGERTON with wood witches? Sign me up, Netflix!
Bronwyn James provides marvelous narration in the audiobook and I'd love to see her bring Gretl to life on screen. BRIDGERTON with wood witches? Sign me up, Netflix!
December 1, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5. After Gretel killed the witch, she and her brother Hansel took the fortune back to their father and have risen in society. Hansel claimed credit for the kill, and he and their father make sure Gretel is miserable. When a chance meeting with Prince Wilfried turns into a fake engagement, Gretel hopes she has bought herself some time and safety. But the woods call to her, where she finds a village of witches and a feeling of peace that she has not yet felt in her life. When she discovers that her brother and father aim to execute all of the witches, she has to decide where her loyalty lies. It took a good, twisty turn at the end. Recommended for grades 7+. #yalit #librarian #librariansofinstagram #middleschoollibrarian
January 16, 2026
I was reading Witchkiller just after seeing the movie Hamnet. They both took me to such wonderful places in nature including the beautiful sensory descriptions of Galwin. When Gretel’s Fox leads her to this mystical place in the woods, it gave me the same peace I felt with Agnes in the forest with her hawk. Both of these works of art are about female empowerment and bravery in a patriarchal world. They are also about healing from a traumatic experience. Gretel heals herself by nurturing others; Agnes heals through Hamlet, a great work of art, written by her husband. Both stories are set hundreds of years ago when kingdoms ruled people’s lives and women healers were considered to be witches…maybe not that different from the world we are in right now. Witchkiller is more an adventure and a journey with mysteries, suspense, villains and, of course, a handsome prince. Anyone who loved Nancy Drew, as I did, will love Gretel’s spunk and cleverness at solving mysteries and confronting danger. The book is both exciting and engaging, yet the ending is unexpected, but really what was needed. I won’t spoil anything; you just need to read this lyrical and exciting book. If you like Harry Potter, The Hobbit, Lord of the Rings, and Outlander, you will love Witchkiller!
September 29, 2025
This review is based off an ARC. The story started off strong drew me in very quickly. I was not a fan of being told as opposed to being shown. An example of that was our main character reading a letter and then just being given a summary of the letter, as opposed to reading the letter while the MC reads it. This sort of thing happens a lot in the book. The ending kinda threw me for a loop. Theirs a lot of mysteries which the MC doesn’t seem to want to address but do sort of get resolved.
This book is YA but it starts pretty dark, there is mention of past abuse and some minor acts of abuse in the pages.
This book is YA but it starts pretty dark, there is mention of past abuse and some minor acts of abuse in the pages.
January 2, 2026
i feel bad about leaving a low rating for this book because it held promise but there was no other fitting rating for it. at the end of the day, it felt unfinished, almost as if the author had all these fanciful ideas at the start but lost steam towards the end.
i also don’t blame folks for wondering if they were queerbaited because at one point, i had to put the book down to check if it had a lesbian or lgbtqia tag. but nope. regardless, the romantic undertone between gretel and kat was obvious. obvious, but not fleshed out.
i also don’t blame folks for wondering if they were queerbaited because at one point, i had to put the book down to check if it had a lesbian or lgbtqia tag. but nope. regardless, the romantic undertone between gretel and kat was obvious. obvious, but not fleshed out.
August 21, 2025
A DARK, YA BRIDGERTON WITH WITCHES!
Witchkiller is a beautiful, heartbreaking, and ultimately hopeful story about a young woman getting to choose herself for the first time in her life. It's a powerful story that it's easy to fly through. Latimer's prose is lush and riveting, and they finish each chapter in such a way that you're eager to turn the next page. The ending is both sad and satisfying; Gretel ultimately makes the choice that's best for her, but that doesn't meant it doesn't hurt to see her turn down another life.
There's so much to love here. I'm so grateful to have read an early copy and can't wait to see how many people fall in love with this story!
Witchkiller is a beautiful, heartbreaking, and ultimately hopeful story about a young woman getting to choose herself for the first time in her life. It's a powerful story that it's easy to fly through. Latimer's prose is lush and riveting, and they finish each chapter in such a way that you're eager to turn the next page. The ending is both sad and satisfying; Gretel ultimately makes the choice that's best for her, but that doesn't meant it doesn't hurt to see her turn down another life.
There's so much to love here. I'm so grateful to have read an early copy and can't wait to see how many people fall in love with this story!
December 6, 2025
This book was amazing! Probably my favorite read of 2025. Perfect release date for the fall spooky reading. Love the character development of Gretel and going back and reading the prologue is chilling. This was a page turner and a wonderful coming of age YA. I saw a review that said witchy bridgerton, and yessss. Love the imagery and the world building. Put on your Paris Paloma / Halsey / Fleetwood Mac / playlists and let's goooo! I'm already ready for a re-read. Obsessesed!!!!!!! 5 stars!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2025
thank you netgalley for this ARC!
Omg!!! This retelling of Hansel and Gretel was so engaging! I literally had to force myself to put it down so I could do my mom duties and eat. I am angry at the cliffhanger ending and would love the chance to read the sequel if there is one, cause holy cow bells I think I've found a new favorite author to add to my list!!!
Omg!!! This retelling of Hansel and Gretel was so engaging! I literally had to force myself to put it down so I could do my mom duties and eat. I am angry at the cliffhanger ending and would love the chance to read the sequel if there is one, cause holy cow bells I think I've found a new favorite author to add to my list!!!
October 25, 2025
I really enjoyed the writing and the fast paced story. It was definitely intriguing. Based on the cover I was expecting horror but it was for sure a fantasy. I really loved the dynamic between Wilfried and Gretel. I don’t think the sapphic relationship developed much at all and did not buy into it. The ending just confused me which is disappointing since I really did enjoy the rest of the book!
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October 30, 20253.5 🌟 // Latimer did an excellent job exploring the dark side of a childhood fairy tale. She gracefully addresses themes like abuse, family, homophobia, and women as a MC. I highly recommend this YA to anyone who grew up in an abusive home or women who need to hear they can do anything they want in this world. Latimer shows in this story that there is always light at the end of the tunnel.
January 3, 2026
Fun YA that does for Hansel and Gretel what Gregory Maguire did for The Wizard of Oz. Get ready to have what you *thought* you knew about this brother and sister and the old crone in the candy house turned on its head. Fully formed characters, an original plot, and a protagonist who really comes into her own.
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