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When Witches Can't Cast
Dedham Vale, England, 1758
Drowned if she is, damned if she isn’t—Gatty Carter can’t escape the curse of being called a witch.
Marked by suspicion and chased by fear, Gatty’s life shatters after a cruel prank nearly ends it. Desperate for safety, she flees the only home she’s ever known.
But escape offers no sanctuary. Arrested for vagrancy in a strange town, Gatty soon finds herself at the mercy of a mysterious family with dark secrets of their own. They claim to run a home for wayward women, but in reality, they seek out survivors of witchcraft accusations, hoping to unlock powers none of the women possess.
Among this unlikely coven, led by an overimaginative matriarch, Gatty discovers a bond she never expected. But as she grows close to these women, and even closer to a handsome librarian—her deception becomes harder to keep. Now, she must embrace the very role she’s always feared—or risk losing the only family she’s ever known.
For readers who believe the real magic is women who refuse to be silenced.
Drowned if she is, damned if she isn’t—Gatty Carter can’t escape the curse of being called a witch.
Marked by suspicion and chased by fear, Gatty’s life shatters after a cruel prank nearly ends it. Desperate for safety, she flees the only home she’s ever known.
But escape offers no sanctuary. Arrested for vagrancy in a strange town, Gatty soon finds herself at the mercy of a mysterious family with dark secrets of their own. They claim to run a home for wayward women, but in reality, they seek out survivors of witchcraft accusations, hoping to unlock powers none of the women possess.
Among this unlikely coven, led by an overimaginative matriarch, Gatty discovers a bond she never expected. But as she grows close to these women, and even closer to a handsome librarian—her deception becomes harder to keep. Now, she must embrace the very role she’s always feared—or risk losing the only family she’s ever known.
For readers who believe the real magic is women who refuse to be silenced.
451 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 9, 2025
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4 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
May 16, 2025
Matilda Lockwood has written a book about witches that is unlike all others. "When Witches Can't Cast is her love letter to the women who were once called witches for being wise, angry, curious, or simply themselves and to the people who choose to stand beside them." I love this book, not because it is fast paced, because it isn't, but because it is so outside the norm.
Instead of following the usual form, Lockwood brings the truth to what truly caused women to be branded as witches. It wasn't because of curses or magic, but because those women who were independent, strong, intelligent, curious and knew about the natural world were threats to the misogynistic norm.
I received an advance review copy (ARC) for free, and I am voluntarily leaving my opinions of this novel. Thank you to the author, publisher and Booksirens for this opportunity.
The book takes place in 1758 in England. The protagonist, Gatty Carter, is chased down by the members of her village because she is a wise woman and healer. After the people of the village are convinced that Gatty has drowned in the river she flees and soon finds herself taken into the care and protection of Blythewood Manor. Helena Hartford is the Lady of the manor with a mission to encourage and empower women who have been branded witches.
Within a short time Gatty begins to use her voice. She begins to develop self-confidence after she has been assigned to tend to the poison garden. Gatty's transformation is further progressed through her study of the tomes in Blythewood Manor. Her studies are supported by Leander Hawthorne, the librarian. With the trust, support and encouragement Gatty receives from the people around her she realizes her power, and instead of using her power for her own gain, she empowers the other women at Blythewood.
The novel does have some issues, like characters names changing halfway through and then changing back again. I questioned the number of times Honoria could be thrown out and banished from Blythewood. But, these problems did not take away from the message.
This was such a refreshing novel about the plight of women who were called witch. I wish that there truly had been a Blythewood Manor available to every "witch."
Instead of following the usual form, Lockwood brings the truth to what truly caused women to be branded as witches. It wasn't because of curses or magic, but because those women who were independent, strong, intelligent, curious and knew about the natural world were threats to the misogynistic norm.
I received an advance review copy (ARC) for free, and I am voluntarily leaving my opinions of this novel. Thank you to the author, publisher and Booksirens for this opportunity.
The book takes place in 1758 in England. The protagonist, Gatty Carter, is chased down by the members of her village because she is a wise woman and healer. After the people of the village are convinced that Gatty has drowned in the river she flees and soon finds herself taken into the care and protection of Blythewood Manor. Helena Hartford is the Lady of the manor with a mission to encourage and empower women who have been branded witches.
Within a short time Gatty begins to use her voice. She begins to develop self-confidence after she has been assigned to tend to the poison garden. Gatty's transformation is further progressed through her study of the tomes in Blythewood Manor. Her studies are supported by Leander Hawthorne, the librarian. With the trust, support and encouragement Gatty receives from the people around her she realizes her power, and instead of using her power for her own gain, she empowers the other women at Blythewood.
The novel does have some issues, like characters names changing halfway through and then changing back again. I questioned the number of times Honoria could be thrown out and banished from Blythewood. But, these problems did not take away from the message.
This was such a refreshing novel about the plight of women who were called witch. I wish that there truly had been a Blythewood Manor available to every "witch."
July 2, 2025
I really wanted to read this book since I loved the premise. However, I felt like the description of this book fell short of the plot. I came into this book thinking that this house was taking in women to make them into witches despite the truth being that magic didn't exist. The message is a little different being about trying to teach women to take back power that's been robbed from them. It's a good message, but not what I thought I was getting when the home was described as a "coven" in the description. It's not a bad thing and the message is very good.
The main strength of the book is that message. The women of Blythewood have had all taken from them in a very scary way, having been treated like monsters and hunted by their neighbors. Gatty and the others slowly find their own voice and cultivate a space that allows them to find community and respect.
The key word here is SLOWLY. The first part moves very quickly with Gatty being accused and run out of town in the first chapter and coming to Blythewood very soon after. From there though it takes a very long time for the narrative to move. Many chapters feel repetitive and I got sick of the same plants being described over and over again. It seems like every chapter Gatty received a new book about the same thing and the same warning that poisonous plants can be medicine in the right hands. Good metaphor just a little overused.
The romance in the novel is sweet if a little repetitive. It thought it was nice that Leander made it a priority to be a partner to Gatty and follow her lead. It fits well with the message of the book and didn't overshadow the main storyline.
The main strength of the book is that message. The women of Blythewood have had all taken from them in a very scary way, having been treated like monsters and hunted by their neighbors. Gatty and the others slowly find their own voice and cultivate a space that allows them to find community and respect.
The key word here is SLOWLY. The first part moves very quickly with Gatty being accused and run out of town in the first chapter and coming to Blythewood very soon after. From there though it takes a very long time for the narrative to move. Many chapters feel repetitive and I got sick of the same plants being described over and over again. It seems like every chapter Gatty received a new book about the same thing and the same warning that poisonous plants can be medicine in the right hands. Good metaphor just a little overused.
The romance in the novel is sweet if a little repetitive. It thought it was nice that Leander made it a priority to be a partner to Gatty and follow her lead. It fits well with the message of the book and didn't overshadow the main storyline.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 31, 2025
After a harrowing escape from a false accusation of witchcraft, Gatty Carter finds unexpected refuge at Blythewood Manor—a sanctuary for women who have suffered at the hands of fear and ignorance. There, surrounded by those who have endured similar fates, she begins to uncover the depths of her own strength and the power that lies within.
This story offers a compelling and refreshingly human take on the historical roots of witchcraft accusations—highlighting how fear, greed, and the desire for control often fueled such cruelty. Through Gatty’s journey, the novel explores themes of fear, isolation, and ultimately, empowerment. It’s a reminder of how belief in oneself and mastery of one’s gifts can be life-changing.
The writing is rich with atmosphere and tinged with suspense, drawing you into Gatty’s world from the very first page. I especially enjoyed watching her grow in confidence and purpose, and the slow-burn connection with Leander was a lovely touch—especially since he wins her over with books (honestly, who could resist that? 😊).
While I did notice a few structural hiccups and some repetition, the originality of the concept and the emotional depth of the story kept me engaged throughout.
I received an advance review copy for free and am sharing my thoughts voluntarily.
If you enjoy stories with strong female leads, magical realism, and a touch of historical intrigue, this one is worth your time.
This story offers a compelling and refreshingly human take on the historical roots of witchcraft accusations—highlighting how fear, greed, and the desire for control often fueled such cruelty. Through Gatty’s journey, the novel explores themes of fear, isolation, and ultimately, empowerment. It’s a reminder of how belief in oneself and mastery of one’s gifts can be life-changing.
The writing is rich with atmosphere and tinged with suspense, drawing you into Gatty’s world from the very first page. I especially enjoyed watching her grow in confidence and purpose, and the slow-burn connection with Leander was a lovely touch—especially since he wins her over with books (honestly, who could resist that? 😊).
While I did notice a few structural hiccups and some repetition, the originality of the concept and the emotional depth of the story kept me engaged throughout.
I received an advance review copy for free and am sharing my thoughts voluntarily.
If you enjoy stories with strong female leads, magical realism, and a touch of historical intrigue, this one is worth your time.
May 6, 2025
Set in eighteenth century England in a time where studying the healing properties of herbs was considered witchcraft one woman will go against the accusations of those around her to prove an educational point.
After the people of her village accuse her of witchcraft and try to throw her in the river, Agatha "Gatty" Carter manages to escape unharmed and moves on to the next town to start a new life. She finds herself at an Estate that is known for taking in girls who have also been misunderstood and accused of witchcraft. Gatty is given the chance to enhance her knowledge on the medicinal art and earns the respect and friendship of those around her. She even manages to find romance with the hermit bookeeper.
However, there are those who beyond the estate walls who think they are up to no good and will go to great lengths to expose the evil within. Gatty and her new friends will go to great lenghs to help prove to everyone what they are doing is actually helpful and not wicked. With hard work and perseverance they manage to succeed.
I received an arc copy and all opinions are of my own.
After the people of her village accuse her of witchcraft and try to throw her in the river, Agatha "Gatty" Carter manages to escape unharmed and moves on to the next town to start a new life. She finds herself at an Estate that is known for taking in girls who have also been misunderstood and accused of witchcraft. Gatty is given the chance to enhance her knowledge on the medicinal art and earns the respect and friendship of those around her. She even manages to find romance with the hermit bookeeper.
However, there are those who beyond the estate walls who think they are up to no good and will go to great lengths to expose the evil within. Gatty and her new friends will go to great lenghs to help prove to everyone what they are doing is actually helpful and not wicked. With hard work and perseverance they manage to succeed.
I received an arc copy and all opinions are of my own.
May 20, 2025
Truth and Transparency.
It is always hard to imagine just how oppressive life for women had been in the past. Patriarchal power as well as influence of the church all seem to add up to oppression of women. I enjoyed watching this story meander along, examining Gaddy’s journey through persecution, friendship, finding purpose and embracing her inner strength. Although she is the main character, this is very much a story of all the residents at this house finding a way to learn, grow and be the best they can be. Several of the serious situation’s questioning truth and legitimacy I could really see happening. Unsupported suspicions and rumours are just such an easy path for people to fall into which ultimately harms those targeted. In the end it was uplifting to see truth, transparency and hard work justifying the actions of these women.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
It is always hard to imagine just how oppressive life for women had been in the past. Patriarchal power as well as influence of the church all seem to add up to oppression of women. I enjoyed watching this story meander along, examining Gaddy’s journey through persecution, friendship, finding purpose and embracing her inner strength. Although she is the main character, this is very much a story of all the residents at this house finding a way to learn, grow and be the best they can be. Several of the serious situation’s questioning truth and legitimacy I could really see happening. Unsupported suspicions and rumours are just such an easy path for people to fall into which ultimately harms those targeted. In the end it was uplifting to see truth, transparency and hard work justifying the actions of these women.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
June 28, 2025
The story begins quite fast: a young woman is accused of witchcraft and she escapes.
We see, in another fast chapter, what follows next.
And then: the story slows down. It becomes full of thoughts, full of attentiveness.
And I did not mind this at all. It is good to see the development of Gatty, the female main protgagonist.
But it ìs a pity, that some sentences return.
After some chapters I really know that Gatty is blooming and that she is not only a refugee anymore.
And even some events return. Three times. That is one or two times too much.
The presence of the male protagionist, Lenhard, is nice. He is handsome and thoughtful. On the other hand: why is a man needed here? Can the women not fix things on their own?
But the idea of the book and most of the story is intriguing.
Last but not least:
There is one paragraph in the book, in chapter 11, which I want you to know:
'It's strange, isn't it?'she said. 'That men like you write about these things in books, but women like me are called witches for knowing them.'
We see, in another fast chapter, what follows next.
And then: the story slows down. It becomes full of thoughts, full of attentiveness.
And I did not mind this at all. It is good to see the development of Gatty, the female main protgagonist.
But it ìs a pity, that some sentences return.
After some chapters I really know that Gatty is blooming and that she is not only a refugee anymore.
And even some events return. Three times. That is one or two times too much.
The presence of the male protagionist, Lenhard, is nice. He is handsome and thoughtful. On the other hand: why is a man needed here? Can the women not fix things on their own?
But the idea of the book and most of the story is intriguing.
Last but not least:
There is one paragraph in the book, in chapter 11, which I want you to know:
'It's strange, isn't it?'she said. 'That men like you write about these things in books, but women like me are called witches for knowing them.'
July 16, 2025
I received an ARC from a LibraryThing and am leaving this voluntary, honest review.
I have read many historical books about witch trials around the world, and so the description of this book immediately caught my attention.
The beginning of the book is fast-paced and full of tension, very much like the situation Gatty finds herself living in. As the story continues, the pace slows which I think is also a reflection of the journey Gatty is taking and the drastic change in her life. The slower pace did make it a bit of a challenge to push through parts of the story, but wanting to know more about Gatty and the other interesting characters in the book is plenty of motivation to push through those slower sections.
I have read many historical books about witch trials around the world, and so the description of this book immediately caught my attention.
The beginning of the book is fast-paced and full of tension, very much like the situation Gatty finds herself living in. As the story continues, the pace slows which I think is also a reflection of the journey Gatty is taking and the drastic change in her life. The slower pace did make it a bit of a challenge to push through parts of the story, but wanting to know more about Gatty and the other interesting characters in the book is plenty of motivation to push through those slower sections.
August 25, 2025
This was such a wonderfully written story about witches, power, love, subtle peace, quiet calm and learning one’s self. Gatty knew herbs and simple healing tonic and poultices and was happy in her simple, single life. When she turned down the richest man in town, he accused her of witchcraft and attempted to have her executed. Gatty managed to escape instead and found herself at a manor for wayward women. Her she learns about herself, her abilities, friendships, abuse of power, enemies and love. I love how her growth in her abilities reflects in the positive changes in and to the manor and the other women residing in it. The romance between Gatty and Leander was just the cherry on top,
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 14, 2025
I received a copy of this book on Library Thing.
While I enjoyed the story here, I found myself going back and re-reading passages regularly. Perspecrive changes happening without note, new names I hadn't seen before, and a few times I felt what was happening had already happened. For example, Honoria was told to leave at least twice before she was removed by the Magistrate. At that point she's trespassing. why didn't Helena have her arrested?
This was a good story that I enjoyed, but I feel like perhaps better editing would make it amazing.
While I enjoyed the story here, I found myself going back and re-reading passages regularly. Perspecrive changes happening without note, new names I hadn't seen before, and a few times I felt what was happening had already happened. For example, Honoria was told to leave at least twice before she was removed by the Magistrate. At that point she's trespassing. why didn't Helena have her arrested?
This was a good story that I enjoyed, but I feel like perhaps better editing would make it amazing.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 19, 2025
I adored the premise of a sanctuary for women herbalists accused of witchcraft. The healing from abused survivor into a powerful herbalist that the main character goes through was well done. The writing itself was beautiful.
However, it is a long, slow read with repetitive scenes.
However, it is a long, slow read with repetitive scenes.
August 11, 2025
I want to thank Book Sirens and the author for gifting me the ebook. I was originally drawn to the cover and I really enjoyed this book a lot! I love the authors style of writing and the characters and plot was great! Highly recommend!
June 22, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed the premise of the book. I have read quite a few books related to the Salem Witch trials but not as many related to the trials in England.
Gatty escapes from a mob of her neighbors who have decided she is a witch and needs to be punished. She makes it to another village and is put into the stocks when a fight breaks out in a tavern she is working in. She is rescued by a man and woman and taken to an estate were women who have been accused of witchcraft are given a place to live and work.
Some of the writing was off putting, I don't believe some of the language used by the characters used would have been used in that time period. Some of the descriptions were used repeatedly: She let out a breath she didn't realize she was holding, Leander's hair looked like he had just run his fingers through it are two examples.
Lydia and James seemed to appear and then disappear in the story. I expected them to have a much larger role after they saved Gatty. I'm wondering if a sequel is planned and they will have a bigger presence.
I enjoyed the premise of the book. I have read quite a few books related to the Salem Witch trials but not as many related to the trials in England.
Gatty escapes from a mob of her neighbors who have decided she is a witch and needs to be punished. She makes it to another village and is put into the stocks when a fight breaks out in a tavern she is working in. She is rescued by a man and woman and taken to an estate were women who have been accused of witchcraft are given a place to live and work.
Some of the writing was off putting, I don't believe some of the language used by the characters used would have been used in that time period. Some of the descriptions were used repeatedly: She let out a breath she didn't realize she was holding, Leander's hair looked like he had just run his fingers through it are two examples.
Lydia and James seemed to appear and then disappear in the story. I expected them to have a much larger role after they saved Gatty. I'm wondering if a sequel is planned and they will have a bigger presence.
July 10, 2025
I have read the author's previous novels and, surprise, surprise, I actually like this best! When Witches can't Cast is about Gatty, who was condemned as a witch and sentenced to death by the villagers. She managed to escape and survived the ordeal, running to other villages to hide. Discovered by Lydia, she was brought to a home for women like her predicament. Slowly and surely, she has blossomed into a leader, a healer and finding true love amidst it all.
It was an engaging read with many trials and turbulence thrown in Gatty's way. I liked how she survived each of it and grown stronger. The teamwork and friendships shared with the other women in the house were truly inspiring.
Overall, it is a 4/5 read for me. Nicely plotted with slow, blossoming romance, though I did wish it to be faster at times LOL! Thanks to LibraryThings and the author for this copy in return for my honest review!
It was an engaging read with many trials and turbulence thrown in Gatty's way. I liked how she survived each of it and grown stronger. The teamwork and friendships shared with the other women in the house were truly inspiring.
Overall, it is a 4/5 read for me. Nicely plotted with slow, blossoming romance, though I did wish it to be faster at times LOL! Thanks to LibraryThings and the author for this copy in return for my honest review!
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews