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Greenworld Trilogy #1
Crow Moon
Danny is a fun-loving 16-year-old looking for a father figure and falling in love with a different girl every day. He certainly doesn't want to follow in his mum's witchy footsteps.
Just as his community is being threatened by gangs intent on finding a lucrative power source to sell to the world, Danny discovers he is stunningly powerful. And when he falls for Saba, a gorgeous but capricious girl sorceress, he thinks maybe the witch thing might not be such a bad idea...
But what cost will Danny pay as, with his community on the brink of war, he finds that love and sorcery are more dangerous than he ever imagined?
Wickedness and passion combine in this coming-of-age adventure.
Just as his community is being threatened by gangs intent on finding a lucrative power source to sell to the world, Danny discovers he is stunningly powerful. And when he falls for Saba, a gorgeous but capricious girl sorceress, he thinks maybe the witch thing might not be such a bad idea...
But what cost will Danny pay as, with his community on the brink of war, he finds that love and sorcery are more dangerous than he ever imagined?
Wickedness and passion combine in this coming-of-age adventure.
384 pages, Paperback
First published March 5, 2015
13 people are currently reading
1379 people want to read
About the author
Anna McKerrow
22 books32 followersAnna McKerrow has written poetry, children’s and adult books. She lives in London and is originally from the West Country, which gave her accent a subtle (yet noticeable) pirate twang as well as a love of cream teas and all things mystical.
She is an eclectic pagan witch and feminist who also loves crocheting blankets while watching episodes of Miss Marple. Anna loves mythology, magic, tarot, punk, grunge, rock and alternative music, fantasy and sci-fi novels, travel, luxury skincare products, chocolate, spas, candlelight and stormy beaches. She owns the requisite witchy black cat.
She is an eclectic pagan witch and feminist who also loves crocheting blankets while watching episodes of Miss Marple. Anna loves mythology, magic, tarot, punk, grunge, rock and alternative music, fantasy and sci-fi novels, travel, luxury skincare products, chocolate, spas, candlelight and stormy beaches. She owns the requisite witchy black cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
November 13, 2016
DNF @ 60%. I couldn't do it anymore. I just couldn't
STRAP IN Y'ALL. YOU'RE ABOUT TO SEE A DRAG.
This book is a reminder to everyone:
1: not trust the popular goodreads reviews for books
2: not judge a book by its cover
I'm not gonna lie, I had hope for this book going in. It was a great cover (sorry I can't help it covers matter to me a bit), the premise sounded interesting, it had male witches and I'd seem some really good reviews on it.
But I hate it
Like I truly actually had a strong desire to hurl this book at a wall MULTIPLE TIMES
I DON'T KNOW HOW PEOPLE GIVE THIS 5*.
(Like I usually never ever judge people's ratings)
BUT THERE IS SO MUCH CHEATING !! SO MUCH !! where is your MORALS y'all
anyway. *breathes in, breathes out*
I'm just gonna break things down in a simple dot to dot format.
THINGS I DID NOT COMPLETELY HATE (this will be short lmao)
• The setting. It's set in a future semi-dystopian world in which the fossil fuels have expired. Thus, the world has split into two groups. Those living in the green world (self sufficient green communities) who live by Celtic/Wiccan tradition and have a "witch" as a head of the community. And the Redworld, people who (I think?) just run around fighting eachother over the last resources available and refuse to join the Greenworld (the Redworld isn't explained that well I am a bit confused about it)
• The diversity. The protagonist and his sister are biracial. I liked how there was some discussion of how race influences how we move within society and how it effects the spaces we occupy
• Melz for her MASSIVE DRAG of Saba at the end which was so deserved I was breathless (I skipped to the end of the book just to see if she gets served and she DID)
WHY I HATE THIS (I'm sorry but I actually do hate it smh)
• CHARACTERS. Start with the protag, Danny. He was so sleazy I was actually uncomfortable. The way he talked about the girls was just ew and his lines were so cringeworthy I mean check this out
"...but I rub her kiss into my cheek like a salve anyway. A salve for horniness. Rub in twice a day to the afflicted area for the best effect. My cheek isn't the afflicted area."
LIKE. I CRINGED SO MUCH. (she only kissed u on the cheek chill) Anyway, Danny is literally a text book fuckboi. He insists he's the "nice guy", tells his love interest she's the "one for him" and tells her that she doesn't like her actual BOYFRIEND as much as she likes him ... but then .... proceeds to sleep with other girls and ???? I hate him, like I actually hate him so much. I honestly wanted to reach within the book and kick his ass because he was being sO ANNOYING AND ENTITLED
Oh, and also he's salty that female witches run the village evEN THOUGH THE REASON IS BC THE MOST POWERFUL WITCHES RUN THE VILLAGES AND THEY /HAPPEN/ TO BE FEMALE sm hhhh
The only element of his character was his obsession with girls. He didn't HAVE any other traits. He was just a poorly written characters.
• While we're on characters. Saba. Fuckin Saba. She soooo beautiful, soooo perfect. The MOST POWERFUL witch, so funny, a "good girl", reads alot, doesn't drink because it "disagrees with her", can do what she wants, loved by all, DOES SOME WEIRD VIRGIN RITUAL EVERY COUPLE OF WEEKS.
Anyway, she's a mary sue. She is. Her flaw is her cheating, and her sister calls her selfish literally on the last page BUT THATS NOT ENOUGH. Give me characters !! with !! flaws !!
Let them grow !!!!
I CANNOT RELATE TO PERFECT ETHERAL MANIC PIXIE DREAM GIRLSSS
• the cheating.. oh god it makes me so angry. EVERYONE was cheating on everyone. Within days of meeting Danny Saba kisses him even though she has a (long term) boyfriend. Saba won't break up with her boyfriend because it'll "break his heart" but keeps seeing & sleeping with Danny
Danny tells Saba he's "Nicer" then her boyfriend, and that he's "a good guy" and that Saba doesn't love her boyfriend like he loves Danny (PLS she's known him for years and u for like a week chill tf out)
Meanwhile, Danny is literally still sleeping with other girls even though he's telling Saba its all her
like ..... I cannot condone the cheating. And I feel bad because Saba's actual bf did no wrong and he's actually a nice chara.
Cheating on your partner is NEVER okay. I hate these plots where there's no communication. I LITERALLY DO NOT CARE HOW MUCH IT'S GONNE HURT, IF YOU'VE MOVED ON FROM SOMEONE OR FALLEN OUT OF LOVE WITH THEM YOU BREAK IT OFF BEFORE YOU GET WITH OTHER PEOPLE
its literally common decency I HATE CHEATING SO MUCH STOP NORMALISING AND ROMANTICISING CHEATING IT IS NOT OKAY
((oh, and also Danny's mum is cheating on his dad so I guess the apple don't fall far from the tree))
• The setting. I know I said I liked it, and I do but also it's confusing. I'm unsure of what the redworld is exactly, and also I'm not sure it's realistic. Sure, fossil fuels can/will run out, but it's not like its the "only" power source. Solar panels? Wind power?. The book set up the world is desolate, but many places could actually function to some degree off of renewable energy (my sister tells me anyway, she has a degree in this) ALSO, it was so random there was a war for fuel in RUSSIA... it seems more likely it'd be in an oil hotspot, like the Middle East or gulf of Mexico, or even America.
• There were too many ideas that didn't connect up well. The greenworld/redworld + the witches + the threat of the gangs + Roach (the evil witch antagonist) + having to keep all the portals safe + the internal conflict with the witches + the mistrust of the witches from the villagers + Linda and Sadie side plot + THE WEIRD VIRGIN RITUAL (cannot get over it it was so weird)
Anyway, it felt like the books jumped from idea to idea and they didn't actually connect. I didn't know how they all related, and I didn't know what the main overarching complication was. There was too much all messed together.
• I just didn't like the prose. This is more of a personal point, and I'm sure some people will find it fine but it was very full of describing mundane things. Like "Danny dressed in a blue shirt and jeans, and went into the kitchen. He sat at a chair, and made some tea with three teaspoons of sugar. Outside it was sunny, and there were birds chirping"
Like it was just alot of reading, for not much actually happening. This book felt WAY too long, and I didn't even get to page 300.
• How the villain was salty women were in charge PLS. His calling card was literally "Join the gangs. Betray your family. we have boys"
• Nah fuck the virgin ritual needs its own dot point. I can't believe I had to read a virgin ritual with my own two eyes
URRRGHH. Disappointed because I WAS ready to like this !! I was !! And I tried really hard to finish it. But I just cannot. I cannot endure another page of Danny whining and Saba being perfect, and cheating, and it was just a messs and aarrgh
Do not really recommend TBH
February 23, 2015
When you first hold a copy of your most anticipated read of the year in your hands, it fills you with dread. You think to yourself: will I like it? What if I hate it? Sometimes, though, you’ve just got to have a little faith.
In McKerrow’s debut novel, the world is split in two. There is the Greenworld – think environmentally friendly and self-sufficient - and the Redworld. The Redworld is your worst nightmare – filled with gangs, it’s made up of the people intent on finding a power source to sell to the world.
Crow Moon is absolutely, undoubtedly my dream novel. I’ve been searching for something just like it for years and it’s not until now that I feel satisfied that I’ve finally found my ideal book. I devoured it within hours because I was so engrossed in the story and I adored all of the characters, who were so easily imaginable.
It’s an incredibly diverse novel – both racially and religiously. Crow Moon challenges stereotypes put in place by the media, as well as cultural ideas of witches and paganism. I hope it sets the trend for similar books (as well as climate fiction) with a realistic portrayal because it’s so desperately needed in modern fiction.
Danny’s exploration of the Greenworld opened up wonderful doors for the reader, who learns with Danny in a very natural way.
Although Danny is the protagonist, Saba was my favourite character; I could see myself reflected in her and she stood out immediately to me as soon as she was introduced. She’s a reason all on its own to read the book!
I desperately want to live in the Greenworld because it seems like such an idyllic, perfect place. McKerrow has created a vivid land to fictionally escape to. I hope in the future it’s possible to move to fictional worlds!
I’m not entirely sure how I’m going to be able to wait another year to read the sequel! I expect I’ll have to re-read this novel before then because I can’t bear to separate myself from the amazing world!
Crow Moon completely blew me away and I’ll be recommending it to absolutely everyone this year. PHENOMENAL!
In McKerrow’s debut novel, the world is split in two. There is the Greenworld – think environmentally friendly and self-sufficient - and the Redworld. The Redworld is your worst nightmare – filled with gangs, it’s made up of the people intent on finding a power source to sell to the world.
Crow Moon is absolutely, undoubtedly my dream novel. I’ve been searching for something just like it for years and it’s not until now that I feel satisfied that I’ve finally found my ideal book. I devoured it within hours because I was so engrossed in the story and I adored all of the characters, who were so easily imaginable.
It’s an incredibly diverse novel – both racially and religiously. Crow Moon challenges stereotypes put in place by the media, as well as cultural ideas of witches and paganism. I hope it sets the trend for similar books (as well as climate fiction) with a realistic portrayal because it’s so desperately needed in modern fiction.
Danny’s exploration of the Greenworld opened up wonderful doors for the reader, who learns with Danny in a very natural way.
Although Danny is the protagonist, Saba was my favourite character; I could see myself reflected in her and she stood out immediately to me as soon as she was introduced. She’s a reason all on its own to read the book!
I desperately want to live in the Greenworld because it seems like such an idyllic, perfect place. McKerrow has created a vivid land to fictionally escape to. I hope in the future it’s possible to move to fictional worlds!
I’m not entirely sure how I’m going to be able to wait another year to read the sequel! I expect I’ll have to re-read this novel before then because I can’t bear to separate myself from the amazing world!
Crow Moon completely blew me away and I’ll be recommending it to absolutely everyone this year. PHENOMENAL!
July 16, 2015
5 Words: Magic, survival, family, love, responsibility.
At the beginning I wasn't sure what to think.
This book doesn't really start slowly with a gentle introduction. You are thrust right into the heart of a green oasis in the middle of a ravaged world. And then you're surrounded by magic and superstition and danger.
And it's fantastic.
And more than a little bit weird at times.
I was so caught up in this world that when I finished the book I just sat and blinked and stared around a bit.
The best thing about this book? It's a standalone. I freaking love standalone books.
At the beginning I wasn't sure what to think.
This book doesn't really start slowly with a gentle introduction. You are thrust right into the heart of a green oasis in the middle of a ravaged world. And then you're surrounded by magic and superstition and danger.
And it's fantastic.
And more than a little bit weird at times.
I was so caught up in this world that when I finished the book I just sat and blinked and stared around a bit.
The best thing about this book? It's a standalone. I freaking love standalone books.
Want to read
April 8, 2015That is one heck of a cover.
August 10, 2015
I decided to treat myself to “Crow Moon” after it was recommended by a fellow blogger. It was also an attempt to see what the continually emerging world of UKYA has to offer, and if Crow Moon is anything to go by then the literary world needs to be ready because the UK has something very unique.
In a nutshell, “Crow Moon” is about witches and magic. And I know what you’re going to say:” Yeah, yeah, been there done that!”, well not like Anna McKerrow did, I can assure you.
Here, you will not meet your typical brooding, clean cut, mysterious and “out of this world” beautiful male hero that has been so present in a lot of very popular novels that it has started to dilute the genre. Everyone! Meet Danny Prentice, who I am guessing is black (it says brown in the book), your average sixteen year old with only one thing on his mind, girls! Well Danny is about to have his life turned upside down while embarking on a new life as a witch.
Danny lives in a divided world where his home The Green World has decided to lead a life closer to nature by given up on what you and I would consider necessities, with items such as cars, computers and mobile phones. The Red World, however on the other side of the fence still holds on to those at the rather expensive price of a war over the last remaining few drops of fuel in Russia.
What I think the author has done beautifully that I am yet to find in other works, is this fantasy world she has created that is so palpable it is almost real. She has made the world of magic and fantasy accessible to an extent, by introducing the reader to characters that are very far from being fairy tale like and who could be just you and me. Added to that, is the authentic environment created which could be a plausible future, where you can still feel the grittiness of the land whether in the eco-friendly Green World or polluted Red World.
Now onto the next world, this magic that the story oozes of. Here again, to keep things grounded you are introduced to Celtic deities and the myth of Brighid and The Morrigan. This area was evidently well researched probably in an attempt to remain as close as possible to ancient historical literature that we do know today.
My only piece of criticism of the novel however, is that I felt it did take a while to get to the core of the plot, but once there, it was smooth sailing through a very rich and exciting story.
I would highly recommend this read to anyone who would like to see a different side to magic.
In a nutshell, “Crow Moon” is about witches and magic. And I know what you’re going to say:” Yeah, yeah, been there done that!”, well not like Anna McKerrow did, I can assure you.
Here, you will not meet your typical brooding, clean cut, mysterious and “out of this world” beautiful male hero that has been so present in a lot of very popular novels that it has started to dilute the genre. Everyone! Meet Danny Prentice, who I am guessing is black (it says brown in the book), your average sixteen year old with only one thing on his mind, girls! Well Danny is about to have his life turned upside down while embarking on a new life as a witch.
Danny lives in a divided world where his home The Green World has decided to lead a life closer to nature by given up on what you and I would consider necessities, with items such as cars, computers and mobile phones. The Red World, however on the other side of the fence still holds on to those at the rather expensive price of a war over the last remaining few drops of fuel in Russia.
What I think the author has done beautifully that I am yet to find in other works, is this fantasy world she has created that is so palpable it is almost real. She has made the world of magic and fantasy accessible to an extent, by introducing the reader to characters that are very far from being fairy tale like and who could be just you and me. Added to that, is the authentic environment created which could be a plausible future, where you can still feel the grittiness of the land whether in the eco-friendly Green World or polluted Red World.
Now onto the next world, this magic that the story oozes of. Here again, to keep things grounded you are introduced to Celtic deities and the myth of Brighid and The Morrigan. This area was evidently well researched probably in an attempt to remain as close as possible to ancient historical literature that we do know today.
My only piece of criticism of the novel however, is that I felt it did take a while to get to the core of the plot, but once there, it was smooth sailing through a very rich and exciting story.
I would highly recommend this read to anyone who would like to see a different side to magic.
May 24, 2016
Actual rating: 2.5
It was okay, but I couldn't connect with the hormone-filled male protagonist.
It was okay, but I couldn't connect with the hormone-filled male protagonist.
December 2, 2014
In a not too distant future, Britain is divided into Red World and Green World. Red World is the consumer driven, polluting part we'd all recognise, while Green World is Devon and Cornwall, a land of eco living and non polluting self sufficiency, cut off from the rest of Britain.
In a world warring over remaining resources and where the future is uncertain, Danny, the hero of Crow Moon, has grown up in the relatively peaceful security of Green World. His mother's a powerful witch - but like many 16 year old boys, Danny mostly thinks about sex and alcohol and has little interest in the yoghurt weaving community he lives in.
But there are forces at work Danny had no idea existed and his destiny turns out to be very different from what he imagined. Can he really help the witches of Green World survive the increasing onslaughts from the gangs of Red World? Is he powerful enough to protect the portal between life and death?
Crow Moon is a wonderful mix of gripping storyline, laugh out loud humour, some great characters and a generous helping of magic. You get the impression Anna McKerrow is someone who really knows her Athame from her elbow - there's a lot of authentic pagan magic and tarot knowledge woven into the novel which adds an edge of authenticity to this amazing story.
Crow Moon is available from March 2015 - and is the first part of a trilogy. Am already drumming my fingers waiting for the next instalment...
In a world warring over remaining resources and where the future is uncertain, Danny, the hero of Crow Moon, has grown up in the relatively peaceful security of Green World. His mother's a powerful witch - but like many 16 year old boys, Danny mostly thinks about sex and alcohol and has little interest in the yoghurt weaving community he lives in.
But there are forces at work Danny had no idea existed and his destiny turns out to be very different from what he imagined. Can he really help the witches of Green World survive the increasing onslaughts from the gangs of Red World? Is he powerful enough to protect the portal between life and death?
Crow Moon is a wonderful mix of gripping storyline, laugh out loud humour, some great characters and a generous helping of magic. You get the impression Anna McKerrow is someone who really knows her Athame from her elbow - there's a lot of authentic pagan magic and tarot knowledge woven into the novel which adds an edge of authenticity to this amazing story.
Crow Moon is available from March 2015 - and is the first part of a trilogy. Am already drumming my fingers waiting for the next instalment...
March 17, 2017
ACTUAL RATING IS 1.5 CROOKED STARS
Alright, now this was very, very disappointing for me. I was so excited when I found this book in the library, but damn... Besides the pretty cover, Crow Moon had nothing going for it. The MC was seedy, the general plot was boring, and by God there were some weird lines- my absolute favourite would be, "...but I rub her kiss into my cheek like a salve anyway. A salve for horniness. Rub in twice a day to the afflicted area for the best effect. My cheek isn't the afflicted area."
Alright, now this was very, very disappointing for me. I was so excited when I found this book in the library, but damn... Besides the pretty cover, Crow Moon had nothing going for it. The MC was seedy, the general plot was boring, and by God there were some weird lines- my absolute favourite would be, "...but I rub her kiss into my cheek like a salve anyway. A salve for horniness. Rub in twice a day to the afflicted area for the best effect. My cheek isn't the afflicted area."
August 21, 2019
This book is certainly awesone.
March 28, 2015
A wonderful book set in a near future where the remnants of modern society - the Redworld - have descended into crime, anarchy and war for the last remaining scraps of fuel. Meanwhile a community that has rejected consumerism, waste and violence has flourished in Devon and Cornwall - the Greenworld, an agrarian, Wiccan society, ruled by benevolent witches and living an environmentally sustainable life.
Sixteen year old Danny is the son of a head witch, who gets himself into trouble and has to travel to another village to fix it. When he gets there, he discovers not only magical power of his own, but also Saba - a beautiful but fickle witch who blows his mind and influences his decision to stay and commit to train as a witch himself. From here, his life becomes very complicated, as he's caught up between the gangs of Redworld and the matriarchal society of witches who lead the Greenworld.
I loved this book, because for me it totally nails how I imagine it would feel to be a young male in an ultra-green, feminist dominated place like the Greenworld. The book subtly shows how one person's paradise can feel oppressive to someone forced to live in it. It also brings forth the fantastic and underused Wiccan/Celtic mythology, creating a magical world which feels very real and natural.
Anna McKerrow doesn't make it easy for Danny and he has a lot of hard lessons to learn in both magic and in love - dealing with secrets, jealousy and power - and that's before the gangs and the Redworld make their presence felt.
A totally new take on dystopia with a very British feel. Raced through it and I really can't wait for book two.
Sixteen year old Danny is the son of a head witch, who gets himself into trouble and has to travel to another village to fix it. When he gets there, he discovers not only magical power of his own, but also Saba - a beautiful but fickle witch who blows his mind and influences his decision to stay and commit to train as a witch himself. From here, his life becomes very complicated, as he's caught up between the gangs of Redworld and the matriarchal society of witches who lead the Greenworld.
I loved this book, because for me it totally nails how I imagine it would feel to be a young male in an ultra-green, feminist dominated place like the Greenworld. The book subtly shows how one person's paradise can feel oppressive to someone forced to live in it. It also brings forth the fantastic and underused Wiccan/Celtic mythology, creating a magical world which feels very real and natural.
Anna McKerrow doesn't make it easy for Danny and he has a lot of hard lessons to learn in both magic and in love - dealing with secrets, jealousy and power - and that's before the gangs and the Redworld make their presence felt.
A totally new take on dystopia with a very British feel. Raced through it and I really can't wait for book two.
October 31, 2015
There is a sequel to Crow Moon which is out in March 2016 so this is not a standalone book. However while the ending does set you up for what is to come, you’re not left hanging.
Anna McKerrow is very thorough is creating the Greenworld her characters live in. It’s an intricate environment, richly described, giving the reader a good understanding of the history and the magic that is so important. I liked the world building, it does mean that Crow Moon isn’t a quick read (at least it wasn’t for me) but I found Greenworld interesting to explore.
Personally I did not connect to Danny, as this book is narrated by him that was a bit of a struggle. Both him and Saba were probably my least favourite characters and consequently I had no investment in their relationship. However I thought Melz was great and hopefully she’ll be around more in book 2.
Edit: I now know Melz is narrating book 2 - woohoo!!!
Anna McKerrow is very thorough is creating the Greenworld her characters live in. It’s an intricate environment, richly described, giving the reader a good understanding of the history and the magic that is so important. I liked the world building, it does mean that Crow Moon isn’t a quick read (at least it wasn’t for me) but I found Greenworld interesting to explore.
Personally I did not connect to Danny, as this book is narrated by him that was a bit of a struggle. Both him and Saba were probably my least favourite characters and consequently I had no investment in their relationship. However I thought Melz was great and hopefully she’ll be around more in book 2.
Edit: I now know Melz is narrating book 2 - woohoo!!!
February 27, 2020
It took me so long to finish this book. Not because it wasn’t good. It was so very good but I just simply was not in the mood to read a fantasy book. However, in the last couple of days I committed myself to finishing it and I’m so happy I did. I loved the whole book for many reasons.
The first reason has to be because of the world. The world that Anna McKerrow has created is unique and just so wonderful to read about. I loved how we learnt more about the world as the book went on. There wasn’t a whole lot of info dumping but we learnt along the way and this wasn’t because the main character didn’t know himself, he did but we gradually learnt more as the protagonist learnt about the importance of certain things.
Read more of my review at: https://thereadingfangirl.wordpress.c...
The first reason has to be because of the world. The world that Anna McKerrow has created is unique and just so wonderful to read about. I loved how we learnt more about the world as the book went on. There wasn’t a whole lot of info dumping but we learnt along the way and this wasn’t because the main character didn’t know himself, he did but we gradually learnt more as the protagonist learnt about the importance of certain things.
Read more of my review at: https://thereadingfangirl.wordpress.c...
April 8, 2015
This was a really interesting read, different and refreshing. Funny and charming protagonist and a very cool world. I just wasn't in favor of the romance, it was kind of insta-lovey. I do look forward to the sequel though.
September 5, 2015
Thank you to Quercus for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review.
Although it took me longer to read this book than I would have liked, due to coursework for college, I really enjoyed it. The narrative is fast paced, action packed and really held my attention, the characters are unusual and varied. McKerrow has found a really solid balance between action, magic and romance which works really effectively.
My favourite aspect of this book is the world and magic system that McKerrow has built. As far as I know, the magic system is based on the old witchcraft and pagan practices and beliefs that have existed on Cornwall for hundreds of years. McKerrow blends these practices seamlessly with the idea of living off the land, and surviving in what appears to be a post-apocalyptic type land experiencing a fuel crises that has caused society as we know it to cease. Of course the fuel crises is a hot topic at the moment, and I found it both frightening and fascinating to explore
the idea of how we might live if the worst came to the worst. Danny and his family and friends live in the Greenworld, a place distanced from what is left of the old society , the Redworld, which is filled with violence and chaos. In Crow Moon we explore the Greenworld, it’s villages and no man's lands and it’s isolation from the rest of society in the beautiful Cornish countryside.
The society Danny lives in is definitely a matriarchal one, the witches seem to run the show, they are in charge of protecting and guiding their villages. Most of the characters are strong, well-rounded women, except for the protagonist and the antagonist and I’m not sure how this made me feel. There was so much scope to have a female protagonist or antagonist ( who are in short supply in these sort of books), but McKerrow went the other way. The only reason I can find for her doing this is that both Danny and Roach may feel alienated as male witches in a predominantly female environment, and this may lead them to make different choices that someone who doesn’t feel like part of a minority would make. I loved that McKerrow uses ‘witch’ as an ungendered title, with both male and female witches using it.
Danny is a very different character to any other protagonist I have come in contact with recently. He is a sixteen year old boy in every sense of the word. He is sweary, irreverent and disrespectful, he makes rash, stupid decisions not concerned with consequences, and is well obsessed with sex. For all these reasons I found Danny a little hard to stomach to begin with. He is a well rounded character, he is flawed and makes some serious mistakes, but throughout the novel we see him grow and develop into a strong young man, and I grew to have a respect for him. Parts of the book, especially Danny , his introduction to the work of the witches, and his relationship with Roach, reminded me of Harry Potter. And that is one of the highest compliments I can give a book.
I’m really looking forward to the next book in the series, which I think is out this time next year ( so long to wait …..). This one has a fantastic ending and really left me wanting more! I would really like to see more of the Redworld in the next book, and obviously the whole Danny/Saba will-they-won’t-they……..
Two conflicting aspects of this book make it difficult for me to recommend this book to a specific age group. The language in this book is simple, clear and effective, so I feel like teens as young as twelve would have no problem with this, but some of the subject matter might be a bit tough for young teens. However, if you’re used to reading this sort of thing go on ahead. This is a really promising series and now is the perfect time to dive in!
You can check out the more of my reviews here .
Although it took me longer to read this book than I would have liked, due to coursework for college, I really enjoyed it. The narrative is fast paced, action packed and really held my attention, the characters are unusual and varied. McKerrow has found a really solid balance between action, magic and romance which works really effectively.
My favourite aspect of this book is the world and magic system that McKerrow has built. As far as I know, the magic system is based on the old witchcraft and pagan practices and beliefs that have existed on Cornwall for hundreds of years. McKerrow blends these practices seamlessly with the idea of living off the land, and surviving in what appears to be a post-apocalyptic type land experiencing a fuel crises that has caused society as we know it to cease. Of course the fuel crises is a hot topic at the moment, and I found it both frightening and fascinating to explore
the idea of how we might live if the worst came to the worst. Danny and his family and friends live in the Greenworld, a place distanced from what is left of the old society , the Redworld, which is filled with violence and chaos. In Crow Moon we explore the Greenworld, it’s villages and no man's lands and it’s isolation from the rest of society in the beautiful Cornish countryside.
The society Danny lives in is definitely a matriarchal one, the witches seem to run the show, they are in charge of protecting and guiding their villages. Most of the characters are strong, well-rounded women, except for the protagonist and the antagonist and I’m not sure how this made me feel. There was so much scope to have a female protagonist or antagonist ( who are in short supply in these sort of books), but McKerrow went the other way. The only reason I can find for her doing this is that both Danny and Roach may feel alienated as male witches in a predominantly female environment, and this may lead them to make different choices that someone who doesn’t feel like part of a minority would make. I loved that McKerrow uses ‘witch’ as an ungendered title, with both male and female witches using it.
Danny is a very different character to any other protagonist I have come in contact with recently. He is a sixteen year old boy in every sense of the word. He is sweary, irreverent and disrespectful, he makes rash, stupid decisions not concerned with consequences, and is well obsessed with sex. For all these reasons I found Danny a little hard to stomach to begin with. He is a well rounded character, he is flawed and makes some serious mistakes, but throughout the novel we see him grow and develop into a strong young man, and I grew to have a respect for him. Parts of the book, especially Danny , his introduction to the work of the witches, and his relationship with Roach, reminded me of Harry Potter. And that is one of the highest compliments I can give a book.
I’m really looking forward to the next book in the series, which I think is out this time next year ( so long to wait …..). This one has a fantastic ending and really left me wanting more! I would really like to see more of the Redworld in the next book, and obviously the whole Danny/Saba will-they-won’t-they……..
Two conflicting aspects of this book make it difficult for me to recommend this book to a specific age group. The language in this book is simple, clear and effective, so I feel like teens as young as twelve would have no problem with this, but some of the subject matter might be a bit tough for young teens. However, if you’re used to reading this sort of thing go on ahead. This is a really promising series and now is the perfect time to dive in!
You can check out the more of my reviews here .
June 9, 2017
I'm big follower of Lucy Powrie, mostly on Twitter. I'd seen this book couple of times around the Blogosphere, but it was her constant recommendations of it that really made me take note. It's UK YA to start with, set in England (namely Cornwall & Devon) and feels mostly Dystopian (due to the division between the 'live off the land' Greenworld and the 'fighting for Fuel' Redworld) with a large dash of Fantasy thrown in. The thing that really caught my attention was the inclusion of witches: Athames, Tarot Cards and Grimoires can all be found in this book and I haven't read anything that alludes to that kind of magic since Cate Tiernan's 'Sweep' series. Having read it, I have to say that McKerrow really knows her stuff, and it was this deep knowledge that probably made the book most enjoyable. World-building is vital in any story, and McKerrow really linked the idea of magic into her knowledge of South West England itself. The Greenworld was an interesting place to explore, and I liked that McKerrow didn't even let us see the Redworld in this installment because it gave a much deeper sense of the kind of closed community that MC Daniel Prentice lives in.
That being said, I didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped to due to the culmination of some minor flaws. First off, while the information was nice and helped to build the characters and their surroundings, it was dumped on me as a reader. A lot. It makes no sense that the witches that Daniel meets with would have to explain so much to him about magic when he's lived around it for years. He was born in the Greenworld after all, and his mother is a Witch! Not only that, but his knowledge of what would probably be considered 'Redworld' pop culture is astounding, considering he has never been there. I understand that he readily admits his boredom concerning the Greenworld lifestyle compared to a fascination with Redworld ideas but it still seems silly that he would slot references to Narnia in a sentence. McKerrow also preferred an informative approach regarding her characters too, rather than showing us which made for some slightly confusing characterisation. If Lowenna really felt that her community and ideals were so important to her as I was told, she would NOT have dismissed Danny's visions of a brewing war like that. After all, didn't she tell Zia off for being weak and selfish when it came to protecting her community? Also, don't tell me that Zia loves using sayings from Cornwall when speaking. Actually show me by having her use them in actual sentences that she says!
I ended up liking this book, but not loving it. The story was gripping, with a good pace to keep me interested and I adored the world that it was set in. I also thought that for the most part, the characters were realistic in that they were complex (there was no good or evil, morally everyone seemed a little ambiguous). I just prefer authors to show me things rather than tell me and here I definitely didn't get that. It did help bring some very current issues to light: the debate on potential Redworld refugees brought the current Syrian crisis to the forefront of my mind, and I loved that Danny himself was mixed race as that came with it's own complexities. I'm pleased to see that the next book is about Demelza. She's the character I most liked in this book (I kind of ship her and Danny (he needs someone like her to sort him out), especially after the Empress's prophecy) and I'm intrigued to see what she'll do next.
3.5 Stars.
For a full review, see here: http://chasedbymyimagination.blogspot...
That being said, I didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped to due to the culmination of some minor flaws. First off, while the information was nice and helped to build the characters and their surroundings, it was dumped on me as a reader. A lot. It makes no sense that the witches that Daniel meets with would have to explain so much to him about magic when he's lived around it for years. He was born in the Greenworld after all, and his mother is a Witch! Not only that, but his knowledge of what would probably be considered 'Redworld' pop culture is astounding, considering he has never been there. I understand that he readily admits his boredom concerning the Greenworld lifestyle compared to a fascination with Redworld ideas but it still seems silly that he would slot references to Narnia in a sentence. McKerrow also preferred an informative approach regarding her characters too, rather than showing us which made for some slightly confusing characterisation. If Lowenna really felt that her community and ideals were so important to her as I was told, she would NOT have dismissed Danny's visions of a brewing war like that. After all, didn't she tell Zia off for being weak and selfish when it came to protecting her community? Also, don't tell me that Zia loves using sayings from Cornwall when speaking. Actually show me by having her use them in actual sentences that she says!
I ended up liking this book, but not loving it. The story was gripping, with a good pace to keep me interested and I adored the world that it was set in. I also thought that for the most part, the characters were realistic in that they were complex (there was no good or evil, morally everyone seemed a little ambiguous). I just prefer authors to show me things rather than tell me and here I definitely didn't get that. It did help bring some very current issues to light: the debate on potential Redworld refugees brought the current Syrian crisis to the forefront of my mind, and I loved that Danny himself was mixed race as that came with it's own complexities. I'm pleased to see that the next book is about Demelza. She's the character I most liked in this book (I kind of ship her and Danny (he needs someone like her to sort him out), especially after the Empress's prophecy) and I'm intrigued to see what she'll do next.
3.5 Stars.
For a full review, see here: http://chasedbymyimagination.blogspot...
August 25, 2015
So many good things in this book!
What I really liked:
The setting: not quite dystopic nor post-apocalyptic, but something close to each. The premise is that the world has nearly run out of fossil fuels, and a group of environmentally conscious people have claimed the southwest country of England (Devon and Cornwall) as a "Greenland" devoted to the old ways. The old ways don't just include organic farming and a low-carbon lifestyle; they also include magic. Witches rule here, with their herbal remedies and their connection to the earth's natural energy. It is a very female-dominated society. Outside of the Greenworld is the energy-guzzling "Redworld" -- a place of immense, selfish wealth and desperate poverty. Although it doesn't feature heavily in the novel, the Redworld represents danger, decadence and all of the big city lures. It has a very male energy, partly because so many of the Greenworld's men have gone to fight the energy-wars there. Then there are opportunistic gangs -- who trade between the two worlds, and live on the borders. One of the strengths of the novel is that the world it creates is so easily imaginable -- minus the magical element, of course.
The narrator: Danny is the 16 year-old son of a witch, and the story is told from his point-of-view. Danny has magical power as well, and a great deal of the plot of the story has to do with his power -- and why several of the key characters are vying for control of it. Danny is largely ruled by his hormones, and his romantic/sexual interest in a young witch called Saba is what motivates him to develop his magic in the first place. Yes, it's all about impressing -- and getting -- the girl. The voice of Danny is so believably male, in the most enjoyable way. Unlike most dystopias, which are so super-serious, Danny has the kind of bantering voice readily recognisable in the contemporary English adolescent. Although Danny is close to the women in his life, he has lacked male authority figures -- and the author uses that element in some really interesting ways. Again, even within the fantasy framework there are these aspects of the story that are really relevant to modern life. There aren't a lot of male witches in YA fantasy, and between her main character and her setting I think that author Anna McKerrow has managed to create something really fresh and original.
What I really liked:
The setting: not quite dystopic nor post-apocalyptic, but something close to each. The premise is that the world has nearly run out of fossil fuels, and a group of environmentally conscious people have claimed the southwest country of England (Devon and Cornwall) as a "Greenland" devoted to the old ways. The old ways don't just include organic farming and a low-carbon lifestyle; they also include magic. Witches rule here, with their herbal remedies and their connection to the earth's natural energy. It is a very female-dominated society. Outside of the Greenworld is the energy-guzzling "Redworld" -- a place of immense, selfish wealth and desperate poverty. Although it doesn't feature heavily in the novel, the Redworld represents danger, decadence and all of the big city lures. It has a very male energy, partly because so many of the Greenworld's men have gone to fight the energy-wars there. Then there are opportunistic gangs -- who trade between the two worlds, and live on the borders. One of the strengths of the novel is that the world it creates is so easily imaginable -- minus the magical element, of course.
The narrator: Danny is the 16 year-old son of a witch, and the story is told from his point-of-view. Danny has magical power as well, and a great deal of the plot of the story has to do with his power -- and why several of the key characters are vying for control of it. Danny is largely ruled by his hormones, and his romantic/sexual interest in a young witch called Saba is what motivates him to develop his magic in the first place. Yes, it's all about impressing -- and getting -- the girl. The voice of Danny is so believably male, in the most enjoyable way. Unlike most dystopias, which are so super-serious, Danny has the kind of bantering voice readily recognisable in the contemporary English adolescent. Although Danny is close to the women in his life, he has lacked male authority figures -- and the author uses that element in some really interesting ways. Again, even within the fantasy framework there are these aspects of the story that are really relevant to modern life. There aren't a lot of male witches in YA fantasy, and between her main character and her setting I think that author Anna McKerrow has managed to create something really fresh and original.
March 7, 2016
Check out my full review over on my blog Click Here!
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A huge thank you to Quercus for sending me a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and loved the magical elements of the story. This is a great UKYA novel and I'm eagerly awaiting the sequel which is being released in spring 2016.
The characters in this novel are extremely vivid and fun to read about. I enjoyed reading the story from the perspective of Danny, our young protagonists, and I enjoyed his voice as he narrates his journey from "Greenworld" boy into a world of magic and sorcery.Danny was extremely funny and cheeky and often made me laugh. Although at times I felt Danny was sexist and objectified women, it could be argued that this is just the way 16 year old boys minds work. I really enjoyed reading about his relationship with his mum and with Omar.
The other characters in the novel were also great. I loved the strong female witches, from beautiful Saba, to quiet and tough Melz. I loved reading about these girls and their power in their group. I really enjoyed how Anna Mc Kerrow captured the rebellious nature of these teenagers in a realistic way.
The plot of the novel focuses mainly around Danny and his journey into harnessing his own power. I did enjoy the plot but felt that at times it was a little slow, it did take me around 70 pages to get into the novels plot but I think that this may have been because I am in a slight reading slump! The plot was eventful, constantly filling the reader with information on magic and Greenworld life while also having this great slow build up to the main plot twist of the novel.
The writing style was so easy and fun to read. I really enjoyed the little snippets of poetry at the beginning of each chapter. The setting of both the Greenworld and Tintagel are so vivid and immediately the reader has an image of both towns clear in their mind. Mc Kerrows writing has a poetic flow at times and the reader is constantly drawn into the plot with vivid descriptions and humorous dialogue.
Overall a really good and magical start to what I think is going to be a great series.
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A huge thank you to Quercus for sending me a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and loved the magical elements of the story. This is a great UKYA novel and I'm eagerly awaiting the sequel which is being released in spring 2016.
The characters in this novel are extremely vivid and fun to read about. I enjoyed reading the story from the perspective of Danny, our young protagonists, and I enjoyed his voice as he narrates his journey from "Greenworld" boy into a world of magic and sorcery.Danny was extremely funny and cheeky and often made me laugh. Although at times I felt Danny was sexist and objectified women, it could be argued that this is just the way 16 year old boys minds work. I really enjoyed reading about his relationship with his mum and with Omar.
The other characters in the novel were also great. I loved the strong female witches, from beautiful Saba, to quiet and tough Melz. I loved reading about these girls and their power in their group. I really enjoyed how Anna Mc Kerrow captured the rebellious nature of these teenagers in a realistic way.
The plot of the novel focuses mainly around Danny and his journey into harnessing his own power. I did enjoy the plot but felt that at times it was a little slow, it did take me around 70 pages to get into the novels plot but I think that this may have been because I am in a slight reading slump! The plot was eventful, constantly filling the reader with information on magic and Greenworld life while also having this great slow build up to the main plot twist of the novel.
The writing style was so easy and fun to read. I really enjoyed the little snippets of poetry at the beginning of each chapter. The setting of both the Greenworld and Tintagel are so vivid and immediately the reader has an image of both towns clear in their mind. Mc Kerrows writing has a poetic flow at times and the reader is constantly drawn into the plot with vivid descriptions and humorous dialogue.
Overall a really good and magical start to what I think is going to be a great series.
March 16, 2016
Crow Moon brings to life the witchcraft and enchantment of Cornwall, and tells the story of Danny, the son of a witch, as he struggles to balance romance and responsibility.
I liked Crow Moon. It has a serious atmosphere about it, a tense, temperamental tone that I loved. I've not read anything set in Cornwall and Devon before, but it gave this book a definite gothic undertone that made everything darker, more enticing.
Sadly, the characters didn't do much for me. Danny was selfish, thoughtless, and impulsive. He has no idea what he wants, which is evident in him having a friend with benefits, as well as being 'in love' with a different girl called Saba, and then because he can't be with Saba - because she has a boyfriend - sleeping with an entirely different girl just because she's there and because he can. I didn't much like Saba either. There's not much about her and because of that she felt more like a love interest than an actual character. The love between her and Danny seemed plausible but empty, and the romance wasn't romantic at all, not for me. Not to mention Danny's motivations for most of what he did was wanting to get laid, which seeeeriously put me off him.
But aside from the characters, this book is great. The setting is so vivid, the imagery of Cornwall and Devon so strong. I could basically see the moors and the cliffs by the sea. I loved that it was partly set in Tintagel, a moody, alluring place I'd love to visit. I enjoyed all the magic, witchy stuff. I liked how it was so traditional, and drew on classic witchcraft, with herbs and rituals and energy. The witchcraft was my favourite thing about this, and how the group of witches that protected Tintagel were called the Five Hands - it sounds mysterious and cool.
I enjoyed the magic and setting of this book, but the characters really brought it down for me. Maybe a younger reader would identify more with the reckless love of the characters.
I liked Crow Moon. It has a serious atmosphere about it, a tense, temperamental tone that I loved. I've not read anything set in Cornwall and Devon before, but it gave this book a definite gothic undertone that made everything darker, more enticing.
Sadly, the characters didn't do much for me. Danny was selfish, thoughtless, and impulsive. He has no idea what he wants, which is evident in him having a friend with benefits, as well as being 'in love' with a different girl called Saba, and then because he can't be with Saba - because she has a boyfriend - sleeping with an entirely different girl just because she's there and because he can. I didn't much like Saba either. There's not much about her and because of that she felt more like a love interest than an actual character. The love between her and Danny seemed plausible but empty, and the romance wasn't romantic at all, not for me. Not to mention Danny's motivations for most of what he did was wanting to get laid, which seeeeriously put me off him.
But aside from the characters, this book is great. The setting is so vivid, the imagery of Cornwall and Devon so strong. I could basically see the moors and the cliffs by the sea. I loved that it was partly set in Tintagel, a moody, alluring place I'd love to visit. I enjoyed all the magic, witchy stuff. I liked how it was so traditional, and drew on classic witchcraft, with herbs and rituals and energy. The witchcraft was my favourite thing about this, and how the group of witches that protected Tintagel were called the Five Hands - it sounds mysterious and cool.
I enjoyed the magic and setting of this book, but the characters really brought it down for me. Maybe a younger reader would identify more with the reckless love of the characters.
January 5, 2016
Crow Moon is a fantastic and refreshing novel. The premise is that fighting over coal and oil has resulted in two separate communities - the Greenworld, a pagan society in the South West of England and the Redworld, rife with crime and consumerism. Tensions between the two are rising. What I enjoy about this concept is that it's not to far away to be accessible - with our non-renewable resources rapidly dwindling, it's a fantasy firmly rooted in reality, and this makes it more convincing.
I also really like the fact that Danny, the protagonist, has a vivid and clear voice, right from the opening. He's rash, and bored, ready to risk everything for girls and flirtations. His narration is distinctive. It's also very humorous at times.
Additionally, I love that there is clear character growth for Danny over the course of the novel. He moves from being headstrong and ignorant about magic and his mother's powers, to being more reflective, with more important priorities, and aware of the consequences of his actions. It's always really interesting to be able to look back when finishing a novel at how far a character has come.
Melz, Saba's sister, is a very intriguing character, with her hostile personality, her representation by the goddess of destruction, Morrigan, and her drawings of Tom. I'm glad to see that she is the protagonist of book two, as she was a standout for me.
The elements of Celtic mythology included in the novel are fascinating - the triskele, Morrigan, the crow goddess, and the rituals described. I also particularly like the fact that the setting includes areas such as Tintagel, as I spend a lot of time in Cornwall.
Overall, I think that Crow Moon is a unique take on magic, and has a vivid setting and characters. I'm very excited to read the second novel, Red Witch.
I also really like the fact that Danny, the protagonist, has a vivid and clear voice, right from the opening. He's rash, and bored, ready to risk everything for girls and flirtations. His narration is distinctive. It's also very humorous at times.
Additionally, I love that there is clear character growth for Danny over the course of the novel. He moves from being headstrong and ignorant about magic and his mother's powers, to being more reflective, with more important priorities, and aware of the consequences of his actions. It's always really interesting to be able to look back when finishing a novel at how far a character has come.
Melz, Saba's sister, is a very intriguing character, with her hostile personality, her representation by the goddess of destruction, Morrigan, and her drawings of Tom. I'm glad to see that she is the protagonist of book two, as she was a standout for me.
The elements of Celtic mythology included in the novel are fascinating - the triskele, Morrigan, the crow goddess, and the rituals described. I also particularly like the fact that the setting includes areas such as Tintagel, as I spend a lot of time in Cornwall.
Overall, I think that Crow Moon is a unique take on magic, and has a vivid setting and characters. I'm very excited to read the second novel, Red Witch.
April 20, 2015
Gorgeous UK fantasy set in an ecopagan community. I loved and was irritated by Danny in almost equal measure, which shows what a well-realised character he is! The setting and world building is a real strength. It's easy to imagine Devon and Cornwall splintering off from the materialistic 'Redworld' and founding a 'Greenworld' haven. Can't wait for the next instalment (but I'll have to - it's a year away!!!) Fuller review coming soon...
More considered view:
This is a really contemporary fantasy, combining dystopian themes and eco concerns with the idea of magic. Protagonist Danny lives in the Greenworld, conceived as a Pagan utopia and consisting of Devon and Cornwall. Everywhere else is the Redworld, where capitalism, individualism and hate seem to be the ruling forces. Initially, Danny is sceptical about all this Pagan stuff, despite his Mum being an important witch, and is focused almost exclusively on chasing girls.
One of the things I love about this novel is Danny. He’s very representative of teen boys in terms of their sex drive, something you don’t often see in YA novels. At times this tendency to be shallow and self-centred made me frustrated with him, but in a way that enhanced my reading because I was willing him to do better and notice what he needed to. I was certainly highly engaged in reading this book and will absolutely be reading the next in the series.
More considered view:
This is a really contemporary fantasy, combining dystopian themes and eco concerns with the idea of magic. Protagonist Danny lives in the Greenworld, conceived as a Pagan utopia and consisting of Devon and Cornwall. Everywhere else is the Redworld, where capitalism, individualism and hate seem to be the ruling forces. Initially, Danny is sceptical about all this Pagan stuff, despite his Mum being an important witch, and is focused almost exclusively on chasing girls.
One of the things I love about this novel is Danny. He’s very representative of teen boys in terms of their sex drive, something you don’t often see in YA novels. At times this tendency to be shallow and self-centred made me frustrated with him, but in a way that enhanced my reading because I was willing him to do better and notice what he needed to. I was certainly highly engaged in reading this book and will absolutely be reading the next in the series.
May 27, 2015
Crow Moon fabulous read about magic, loyalty, acceptance, betrayal, survival and family. I thoroughly enjoyed the premise of the book with the Redworld (gangs etc) and Greenworld (clean living and nature) and the battle between the two worlds. The only down side for me was the main character Danny I just couldn't bond with him and his arrogance, I know he is only sixteen but he drove me mad lol not enough to stop me reading the next book though.
April 4, 2015
Not for me at this time. Struggling with anything supernatural at the moment. Leaving and may come back to.
November 22, 2015
Didn't enjoy this at all. I couldn't finish it. Wish there was a no star rating
January 31, 2018
With the advent and success of the Harry Potter series many young adult authors have tried to capture that audience. Anna McKerrow's book does a uniquely refreshing job of this.
The world is divided in two - Greenworld and Redworld. Greenworld is an enviro-friendly place where people have learned to live without fossil fuels, polution, and help from the outside. Witches protect the villages. Redworld is a world of wars, lawlessness, and struggles for food and fuel.
As the witches teach a teenage boy their trade, the gangs of Redworld prepare to take over the portals between life and death which are guarded by the witches.
Part Celtic lore, part coming of age/rite of passage story, throw in a little Odyssey, and some romance and you have a story with many layers but ultimately a very satisfying read. This is the first of a trilogy and you will definitely want to read more.
The world is divided in two - Greenworld and Redworld. Greenworld is an enviro-friendly place where people have learned to live without fossil fuels, polution, and help from the outside. Witches protect the villages. Redworld is a world of wars, lawlessness, and struggles for food and fuel.
As the witches teach a teenage boy their trade, the gangs of Redworld prepare to take over the portals between life and death which are guarded by the witches.
Part Celtic lore, part coming of age/rite of passage story, throw in a little Odyssey, and some romance and you have a story with many layers but ultimately a very satisfying read. This is the first of a trilogy and you will definitely want to read more.
January 17, 2021
This isn't a conventional book. Part dystopia, part fantasy, it has few characters you can like and no straightforward steer as to which of two social set-ups is best. For those reasons, I loved it. Often, although you may not be able to predict the exact route, it's obvious where a story is going: x will end up with y and/or triumph over z. Without those certainties, you just have to go where the story takes you.
Having accidentally read the sequel first, I did know some of what was going to happen, but I love (now) that it had a different narrator and provided a different perspective on events. Great book, highly recommended.
Having accidentally read the sequel first, I did know some of what was going to happen, but I love (now) that it had a different narrator and provided a different perspective on events. Great book, highly recommended.
July 7, 2018
DNF @ 30%
“MaGiC jUsT gOt ReAl” I read in a mocking tone.
I am weak, I know, but I couldn’t do this to myself any longer. The concept is there but it’s weak and the characters are just the rotten cherry on top. Danny is a pile of garbage and if I ever met a man like him I’d kick him in his goonads. He made my skin crawl. So glad I got the courage to pack this one in.
Also there’s instalove which is just a no no in literature nowadays. Please stop doing this authors. IMO I don’t think you should read this book, but go ahead if you wanna waste your time.
“MaGiC jUsT gOt ReAl” I read in a mocking tone.
I am weak, I know, but I couldn’t do this to myself any longer. The concept is there but it’s weak and the characters are just the rotten cherry on top. Danny is a pile of garbage and if I ever met a man like him I’d kick him in his goonads. He made my skin crawl. So glad I got the courage to pack this one in.
Also there’s instalove which is just a no no in literature nowadays. Please stop doing this authors. IMO I don’t think you should read this book, but go ahead if you wanna waste your time.
December 25, 2017
I really didn't know what to expect when I started this book. The author is new to me but I like reading PNR books and anything along that line so I was willing to jump into the book. It starts off right in the middle of things. There is not build up and it does not drag at the beginning.
I did enjoy the book and I am ready to jump on into the next one. Witches and magic.... Yep had my attention from the beginning. Love the cover also!!
I did enjoy the book and I am ready to jump on into the next one. Witches and magic.... Yep had my attention from the beginning. Love the cover also!!
February 15, 2018
This book would have been better if I liked the main character more. It's probably realistic with how teenage boys are, but his treatment of girls and cocky attitude just really annoyed me. However, I can understand that main characters have flaws; otherwise how do they grow? It took me a while to get into the book, but about halfway through the pace quickened and it became more of an adventure. I'd be interested to read the second one.
May 5, 2019
I hate not completing book and it's very rare I give up.. especially as I feel I could have easily finished this in one day, but I just couldn't keep going with this one. Besides the cover, which I absolutely loved, I couldn't get into the style of writing, setting, find the 'magic' or keep an interest of the character developments; since majority of what I read was simply characters cheating on each other which was beyond frustrating. Definitely not for me.
April 27, 2018
Enjoyed it, some really appealing images and ideas. Will read the next one.
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