The Old Crones Club: A Fairytale Retelling from the Wicked Witches

by Jennifer Taylor-Gray

Fairytales made witches villains. Now they’re taking their story back.
Tibby never thought she’d end up in a prison for witches. She isn’t one, or so she claims. But on her first night at the Grimm Brotherhood’s Reformation Centre, she meets four infamous witches the world has branded wicked. As they share their real stories, Tibby begins to wonder if they’re not so different after all.

When the Brotherhood threatens to erase their memories and their magic, the women stage a daring escape. But freedom isn’t enough. To truly reclaim their power, they must untangle the twisted fairytales written about them, confront the men who tried to silence them, and light a fire that could spark a rebellion. In a world built to turn women against each other, Tibby has to stay quiet and survive, or rise and be remembered.

A witchy fairytale rebellion for fans of Alix E. Harrow, T. Kingfisher, Naomi Novik and Gregory Maguire.

Genres: Fantasy, Witches

458 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 31, 2025

About the author

Jennifer Taylor-Gray writes stories where fairytales are turned upside down, witches reclaim their voices, and women of all ages seize their power. Her debut novel, The Old Crones Club, is a tale of rebellion, found family, and dark secrets—perfect for anyone who ever wondered what might happen if the “wicked” witches told their side of the story.

She grew up inspired by strong, spirited women—from Matilda to Jane Eyre—and may or may not have spent her childhood trying to move things with her mind.

When she’s not writing, Jennifer enjoys reading, swimming, and wandering into fun little adventures with her husband.

She’s on a quiet quest to sneak a dragon into every one of her books—even the ones set in modern-day London.


Newsletter: https://jennifertaylorgray.com/mailin...
TikTok: @jennifertaylorgray
bsky: @jennifertaylorgray.bsky.social‬

Reviews

[I.K. Stokbaek · Rating 5 out of 5]

I instantly fell in love with this story, the surface simplicity and the deep layers underneath.

Villains from a multitude of fairytales, imprisoned for wickedness, are looking for justice and closure. They all have stories, but the world doesn't listen to old women, or to women at all.

All the Crones are distinct, well written characters. Tibby is the first POV character, and she’s sweet and lost and helpless, and she doesn't like thinking about the unfortunate misunderstanding that brought her into the disreputable company of the Old Crones. Then there’s Griselda, who’s a bit mean. It’s clear from the beginning that she carries old trauma and she trusts no one.

"Her philosophy was trust no one, believe nothing, and always assume the worst."

Octavia is the diva of the group, the evil stepmother/queen, but like all of them, she lived a version of events that significantly differs from the known fairytale. (Her ex husband Jack may have lied about slaying those giants.)

"Everyone loved her, you all wanted to be her. Until she got old, of course."

Each of the four Old Crones gets a POV section, and after escaping the evil, lying fairy godmothers, they’re going to try and get their magic back.

The fairy godmothers work for the Brotherhood who has told lies about all the witches. Due to these lies the Crones don’t trust each other. Men play women out against each other. The Brotherhood use the Mirrors of Truth, like TVs, to spread lies. You can’t trust mirrors in this books. I think there’s a double meaning there.

"These days, the world around them felt like a giant mirror reflecting back all her darkest fears about herself."

The themes are of sisterhood, feminism, trauma, and age. Especially the intersection of age and gender, and how that leaves women underprivileged and systemically undervalued.

"We're all just wraiths walking the earth, cloaked in skin, waiting for death to take us."

There are men who fight against the Brotherhood, but the general vibe is against patriarchy, and the Brotherhood is an example of how men will destroy themselves and the people around them, and they’ll blame women, and they’ll go to great length to make women blame each other, and blame themselves.

I really enjoyed this book, and I loved the twists and the roles of the princesses and their relationships to the Crones. The story handled common themes in a fresh and powerful way, and certainly not lacking in humour or wit. A very relevant book that I'd recommend to anyone with a fondness for fairytales and kickass old ladies.

[Thebiblioholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a refreshing take on fairytales! The women in this story were wrongfully accused, oppressed, and imprisoned, yet they fought back—not just for their freedom but to rewrite the truth that had been stolen from them. I really enjoyed how the book was broken down through the four members’ perspectives, each with their own “real” story, and how those threads were cleverly woven together. The prison setting, run by the godmother who erases memories, gave the story an eerie edge at the start and really raised the stakes for their escape. By the end, there’s this bold, powerful feminist message about patriarchal control (with the Brothers Grimm front and center) that really lands. Classic fairytales with a modern twist, rebellion, and reclaiming power—what’s not to love? I’d definitely recommend this to anyone who enjoys fairy tale retellings with a feminist edge. 4.5 ⭐️I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the very first page, The Old Crones Club feels like a reclamation of power—both magical and personal. At the heart of this story is Tibby, a woman who begins as an ordinary outsider, a non‑witch, trapped in the repressive Grimm Brotherhood Reformation Centre. But what unfolds is not just her fight for survival, but a powerful awakening—one that challenges the stories she’s been told and reveals a strength she never knew she had.


Tibby’s character.

Tibby’s character arc is beautifully written. At first, she doesn’t believe she belongs alongside the infamous witches she meets—women who have been labeled “evil” by history. But as she sees the pain, truth, and humanity behind their stories, something shifts.
Her awakening is twofold:
• Self‑realization – She recognizes that her own voice and choices have power, even without “traditional” magic.
• Reclaiming narrative – By standing with the witches, she helps rewrite the stories meant to oppress them, proving that the versions we’re told are not always the truth.

What I loved most about Tibby’s awakening is how it feels real. It’s not a sudden, perfect transformation, but a messy, emotional journey full of doubt, discovery, and courage.

What Makes This Book Special?

• Witches as truth‑tellers – The “wicked” witches are complex, scarred, and powerful women who are tired of being misrepresented.
• Feminist fire – The book is a bold statement about how women’s voices are often silenced or rewritten—and how reclaiming those stories is a form of magic in itself.
• Found family – The bond between Tibby and the witches is fierce and heartfelt, showing the strength that comes from solidarity.
• Beautifully dark tone – It has all the best elements of a fairy‑tale retelling but with sharper teeth and deeper truths.

Minor Quibbles

The pacing slows in a few reflective sections, but these moments often deepen the emotional layers—especially Tibby’s inner growth. A little less exposition in the middle might have kept the momentum stronger.



Verdict

Tibby’s awakening makes this story unforgettable. The Old Crones Club isn’t just about witches reclaiming their magic—it’s about every woman finding her voice in a world that wants to rewrite her story. Each woman gets to tell the story from her POV and I absolutely loved that! It just made their voices feel even more powerful!This book is for anyone who loves dark fairy‑tale retellings, feminist themes, and stories of personal transformation.

[Kait Leeming · Rating 4 out of 5]

Witches from all over the 4 kingdoms have gathered up by The Brotherhood and sent to the reformation centre where the fairy godmothers will administer justice to set them on the path of righteousness once more.

The thing is, Tibby isn’t a witch. It was just a misunderstanding. She shouldn’t be there. Of course when she gets caught up with her cell mate and the rest of the Old Crones Club, Tibby finds herself on an epic adventure to restore their magic and right some gut-wrenching wrongs.

A fairytale reimagining with some all too real (and current) parallels. A great debut novel which left me with plenty to think about and feeling concerned about following Bessie’s path too.

I loved the accompanying playlist, Crone name generator and pins that came with the special edition. A great touch

[claire wilband · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book from start to finish, the fairytales retold from the witches who are ‘evil’ they are all being rounded up and locked away. The ‘grimms’ brothers are taking over the lands and turning these powerful women into shadows of their former selves. Can the old crones club save return their friend to her former self before it’s too late??

[Bookworm Suz · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Wow, what an amazing fairy tale retelling this was. Well, it was multiple fairy tales in 1! I loved the mix of characters and there was even a witty dragon thrown in too! I’d love to read more adventures from the Old Crones Club!

[Beverly Fuqua · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had to quit halfway through, it just didn't hold my attention. There was nothing really happening. When I put it down and came back to it I couldn't remember anything about what was going on, mainly because there was nothing going on.

[Babs Rudlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

📝 Quick Summary (Spoiler-Free)

The stories of this group of elderly women have been twisted to frame them as wicked witches. They meet a new inmate at the Witches Reform prison and form an escape plan to redress the balance and take back the truth of their own tales.

👍 What I Loved

Characters: While Griselda had a truly dark backstory that was unravelled throughout the novel, I really fell in love with Tibby. Her true identity was cleverly hinted at early on, but her detailed backstory was beautifully withheld until the last moment, culminating in a powerful realisation of her potential.

Plot & Pacing: The pacing was exceptional. There was always enough going on that I wanted to keep reading and couldn't wait to find out what happened to the Crones and what their individual truths were. The sequence in the Mirror Maze was particularly effective; the scene felt intense and immersive, as if I was on the receiving end of the taunts.

Writing Style: The writing style was smooth and effortless, which resulted in me simply becoming one with the story. I was completely captured within the pages of the book.

Humour & References: The hints of comedy, the specific language used, and the seamless references to the classic Grimm Fairy Tales were simply and effectively woven throughout the story.

Key Themes: This book powerfully tackles reclaiming narratives and challenging patriarchal structures (the Grimm Brotherhood). The motifs of all older women being rounded up 'just in case' and the younger generation's willingness to conform were particularly disturbing and made for a striking commentary on ageism and compliance within the patriarchy.

🎯 Who Should Read This?

If you love seeing classic villains get a second, snarky chance: This book is perfect for fans of Gregory Maguire's Wicked or the Disney film Maleficent, but with a lighter, more comedic touch.

If you enjoy modern, humorous fantasy featuring an ensemble cast of women: Readers who liked T. Kingfisher's Nettle & Bone or books featuring witty, character-driven fantasy will appreciate this.

If you are a fan of fractured fairytales and tongue-in-cheek retellings: This will appeal to those who enjoy seeing the tropes of classic stories turned on their heads.

Final Verdict

This is an effortless, completely immersive 5-star read that I highly recommend. Jennifer Taylor-Gray delivers a story that is as fun and wickedly witty as it is thoughtful, masterfully blending a compelling escape plot with a sharp critique of societal ageism and the patriarchy. The core mystery of Tibby's identity and Griselda's dark past will keep you captured until the very end. The smooth writing style drew me into the story, and the dual experience of reading the paperback and listening to the audiobook was excellent. This book is a triumphant celebration of older women finding their voices and reclaiming their power.

[Am · Rating 4 out of 5]

THE OLD CRONES ARC REVIEW


I have never read something like this - and I am not joking. My usual book taste is splattered across Chinese, Korean and Japanese mythology - but for this one - I got intrigued.

This is an ARC review since I stumbled upon Jen's video on TikTok and I wanted to apply. The moment the book landed in my mailbox - excitement.

The books starts with Tibby, and then changes the POV to other ladies. It follows Tibby, Octavia, Griselda and The Dame. At first, I was confused because the writing style is not something that I am used to.

Nontheless, I continued and I enjoyed the retelling of brothers Grimm world - if I am not mistaken. I looked forward to the Griselda POV's a lot - since she was somehow the character I ended up liking from the first pages.
I also loved that this characters are older, way older than you would probably expect them to be. At least, I get that impression when reading the clues Jen left us.

Every character's inner struggle is described and it seemed to me that they share a common goal to reach, all while battling withing themselves.
Griselda and The Dame POV surprised me more than I thought they will.

Some parts of the story felt like a filler to me, but Jen kept my attention towards the end of the book. Some of the parts, I had to push myself through to read it, yet I didn't mind it, since the overall idea sits with me. The only thing I am confused with is - is there a second book coming or not? For me, the ending is open in a way that indicates a second book, but I might be wrong.


Overall, I like the idea, loved the multi-POVs, some excitement, messages that are said in the story and the fact that Jen wrote the book. Writing a book is not an easy task. I am thankful for the opportunity to read this nice retelling of the Grimm's world. If there is indeed a second one - I would be delighted to read a beta. :D

[Becca · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shrek 2 x Orange is the new black x Once Upon a Time

If I had to sum up the vibe of this book, that would be it. Shrek 2 with the world of fairytales and evil fairy godmothers x with a women’s prison.

This book takes place in a world where you will recognise the tales even if they are in slightly different forms. Witches are bad and the Brothers Grimm have been making sure everyone knows it through their tabloid show ‘The Mirrors of Truth’ (very clever take on main stream media feeding the people lies, I liked that one).

They are all sent to essentially a female only prison (hence the orange is the new black reference) where they are guarded and tormented by the fairy godmothers. This is where all the ‘wayward witches’ end up and poor Tibby thinks there is an awful mistake. She shouldn’t be here with all these witches, she is just a little old lady. Now sharing a cell with a terrifying notorious witch who is part of the Old Crones Club.

What transpires is a great story about abuse of power, media manipulation, corrupt organisations and women who become obsolete to society because of their age. The book is told from the 4 povs of the old crones, youngest I think is about 57, all very distinct voices who take you through their tales and that the story told might not be the truth.

Honestly a great surface level story that has a much darker and deeper truth and discussion on society than first meets your eyes. What is the truth when the victor is writing history or even Fairytales.

[Katy · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Old Crones Club
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I have to admit that I really struggled to get into this book, I just found it a bit of a slow burner.... however after reaching nearly half way something just jumped out the pages and grabbed me fully!

It's a great fairytale of a group of older ladies who try to make things right and change the way of thinking and acting.

The brotherhood are present in all four corners of the realm and believe that older witches should be shut up and made to see the rest of there lives out as old women doing old women stuff..... however this dynamic group of old Crones have other thoughts and set about making it there mission to show the brotherhood up for they really are.....

Each old Crone has a story to tell... whilst an escape is made from the Grimm Brotherhoods Reformation Centre each one gets to tell there story and find themselves in the process aswell as finding others who are so special to them, it's a real journey for them all.

Except for Tibby, her story isn't told until right at the end.... this is were she makes everyone listen to her and things begin to change for the better for all women of the four realms!

This book had witches, a dragon, fairy godmothers, a hooded saviour and dwarfs... it's a true fairytale telling the wicked witches point of view!

"We are the witches, hags and crones. We are your sisters, aunties and grandmothers too. We call upon the power of the women of the four lands. Give us your voices to defeat the Brotherhoods plans."

[Jenn Conner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story was so much fun to read. It’s a hilarious mishmash of fairy tales told from the POV of the “evil” stepmothers and witches. It has so many of my favorite things, fairytale retellings, misunderstood villains, so many magic mirrors and old ladies going on a grand adventure to stop the real villains.

The characters fit all of the crone archetypes. We get to hear them tell their side of their stories and grapple with the guilt they have over their actions, all the while fighting against the Grimms propaganda to build relationships with each other.

The characters:
Tibby-an old widow who loves baking and gossip. She is sweet but naive and highly secretive about her story.

Octavia-an exiled an imprisoned queen who is entitled, snobbish and vain but deeply loves those close to her.

Griselda-a cranky and cynical old witch who was deeply traumatized.

The Dame-s type A personality who is controlling and overwhelming but has the natural leadership skills to guide the journey.

All of these women were scapegoats. Lies were told and reputations ruined to cover the evil deeds of men, in a deeply misogynistic world. Watching them work to try to save all the others, and come to terms with their own stories was a wild ride through Grimms fairytales.

Thank you to BookSirens for the advance copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Jessica Meats · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a fun time. It's a really interesting idea and a nice take on the fairytale reimagining - weaving together elements of multiple fairytales into something new, putting the witches front and centre. I enjoyed myself in the early chapters looking at the hints the book gave about which fairytale each of the witches was the villain of - I guessed most of them, but didn't guess The Dame.

The "smash the patriarchy"/"woman power" message of the story was a bit simplistic, but I think that's okay in the circumstances, given the fairytale inspiration. It works to have quite a straightforward and obvious moral.

There were a couple of points my suspension of disbelief was pushed to breaking point, and I did find myself getting irritated by one of the characters, particularly in the section of the book from her POV. She was very one-track-mind in terms of her vanity and it got a little annoying to read when she was fretting about her looks every other page. It made sense for her character, it just was a bit grating.

On the other hand, I love the character of Bessie who turns up later in the book. Her first interaction with Griselda, in particular, was a delight to read.

So overall, it's a fun read. If you enjoy fairytales with a twist, it's worth a try.

[Siobhain · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adored The Old Crones Club. It was an instant buy as soon as I learned about it and I am literally obsessed now I have read it. Taylor-Gray takes the old trope of ‘Old Crones’ and ‘Wicked Witches’ and turns it on its head. We learn that the wicked witches might not be that wicked after all, there’s only so long that you can be called the villain before you become one. But there is so much more to this story. This is a story about taking back your power and confronting those who would lie about you as well. On the surface it is an enjoyable fairytale retelling but underneath there is so, so much more and it is hard to put down.
The characters are fantastic, I love how Taylor-Gray brings them to life and while they are characters we may know (and love if you are like me) they get a new lease of life under Jennifer’s guidance. It is near impossible, I think, not to like these women. They are strong, fierce and most of all incredibly human. I won’t spoil the plot but I will say that if you love fairytale retellings, people reclaiming their power and of course witches this is one you need to read as soon as possible.
As always thank you to Jennifer Taylor-Gray for the advanced copy to review, my reviews are always honest and freely given.

[George Hobbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC edition
An intriguing storyline where the Brothers Grimm use their storytelling capabilities to build themselves up into leaders of the Brotherhood. The Brotherhood is a power group that uses magic mirrors to broadcast their stories as facts - facts that make women into villains. But power isn't easy to maintain and if these women start comparing stories then the Brotherhood could collapse. In a very Stepford Wives move, a potion is discovered that will wipe the memories of all these alleged old crones and turn them into docile grannies. That is until four of them escape and set out to take their lives - and stories - back for themselves...

With amazing skill the stories of numerous different women are woven together to reveal the tapestry of deceit that the Brothers Grimm are masterminding.

I enjoyed trying to determine which fairytale belonged to which woman, how fairy godmothers are truly vile beings, and how each woman's story was shared like breadcrumbs sprinkled along the trail leading the reader to discover how easily the path of a storyline can get lost in a forest of deceit.

[Hayley Cassells · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is a refreshing and clever reimagining of well loved fairy tales. The Old Crones are some of the most infamous villains from classic stories, but here we learn that their lives aren’t at all what they first seem.

The tale begins with Tibby, recently imprisoned in the Grimm Reformation Centre, where she meets the Old Crones Club - a group of the most notorious witches from across the land who gather to share their true stories. When one of them makes a great sacrifice for Tibby, the group embarks on a quest to reclaim their magic and set the record straight.

What I particularly enjoyed was the structure, each witch tells her story from her own perspective, allowing the narrative to unfold in unique and surprising ways. The thoughtful twists on familiar tales kept me engaged, and the characters were fleshed out so well that you couldn’t help but care for them.

The pacing did drag slightly for me in the beginning, but by the halfway point it found its stride and carried through strongly to the end. Overall, this was a compelling, imaginative read that breathed new life into familiar stories while celebrating the power of perspective.

[Sara-Jane Keenan · Rating 5 out of 5]

After an ‘accident’ Tibby is sent to the Grimm Brotherhood’s Reformation Centre for Wayward Witches, where she reluctantly becomes a member of the Old Crones Club. She’s terrified of the four infamous witches, Griselda, Morag, Octavia and the Dame but finds herself stuck with them as they escape the centre and travel across the four kingdoms to reclaim their stories and fight the brotherhood. Join them in their rebellion.

A brilliant alternative narrative to the fairytales as we know them, featuring dark themes such as sexual assault and domestic violence. Discover the witches true stories which many women will sadly still relate too in this day and age with female oppression and age discrimination. I loved the use of media manipulation as well which also rings so true in real life.

I loved the way each woman’s tragic story was revealed as we travelled along with them through the four kingdoms, full of heartbreak and misery. Then without giving away any spoilers, the ending was exciting, empowering and emotional.

Well worth a 5 star rating.

[A.M. Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a brilliant fairytale retelling where the "villains" are actually the heroes. If you liked books like Villains by Necessity or TV shows like Once Upon a Time where the villains have a chance to tell their stories and redeem themselves, you'll love this book.

The Old Crones Club follows four women in their 50s and 60s as they reclaim their stories and reputations from The Grimm Brotherhood. As often happens, men dominate society and force people to fall into set roles. This is a subtle commentary told in an enteraining storyform on how to own your own story while the patriarchy actively works against you.

The story is told from four POVs, and each time that I read one, I thought, "This is my favorite witch." Only then I'd read the next and go, "Nope, it's this one!" I'm still not sure which of the four heroines were my favorite since they each were unique and well written.

Highly recommend this fairytale retelling!

[Fraxinus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved everything about this book: from the title, to the premise, to the quite literal dismantling of the patriarchy through friendship and truth-telling. Honestly, this book, is the kind of book we need right now.

The Old Crones Club starts in a magical amalgamation of the Grimm's Fairytale World with a jail break of some of the most evil witches ever to grace a fairytale. We are only given their true names, so we are not exactly sure which story is theirs… However, as we learn about each of these incredible women, we come to the realization that these tales may have a few biases and untruths to them.

However, as the Crones work together, they regain their power by sharing their stories and truths. Through their powerful journey, they go from the monsters under your bed to the heroines that they always should have been.

It is a powerful tale, masterfully told.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lizzy Erickson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What if the Grimm fairytales that we know are simply the victor‘s tale written by men who had manipulated their way into power by scapegoating a bunch of old women just because they could. Find out in this fairytale retelling from the perspective of the women who are villainized in those stories - the witches, the hags the crones.

The storytelling was beautiful, this book had me completely hooked. It follows 4 witches who we have come to know from other stories, each of them were uniquely wonderful with their own story to tell. This book really packs a punch, on some very resonant themes, especially if you are a woman existing. If you have ever felt silenced, if you have ever felt rage watching women’s stories be manipulated across the global stage, if you have ever wanted to simply age in your peace and not have your worth defined by your youth, this book was very powerful and very healing and it made me cry.

[Dee · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐
I received this as an ARC and here's my honest review.

I loved that it was a fairytale retelling of classic villains, and how they are misunderstood. The characters were distinct and character development were nicely done. The feminist theme was strong in this. My favourite quote: "There's a little bit of witch in all of us."

The shortcomings: the prose - it read like a children's book and I was expecting longer sentences and more descriptive prose. While the sentences were short and clipped, it didn't take away a lot from the story but I had to adjust my perspective that it might be for children. However, that isn't entirely the case either as it explores darker themes (sexual assault), so definitely not a children's book.
The characters behaved like children though they were in their 60s. Most of the plot twists were easily predictable.

Overall, I did enjoy the story and the journey it took me through, even though it didn't evoke much emotions in me.

[Stacy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really loved this book from the beginning.

Maybe my empathy levels were just on an all time high but the author did such an incredible job at conveying the emotions and feeling of the main characters. Especially Tibby. I was genuinely upset at how she was treated at the detention centre.

It was also a lot of fun guessing which fairy tale each of our main ladies were inspired from. For some I got it right away with name clues but some it took me a bit longer. Tibby, again, stood out from the rest because I didn't even expect her to have fairy tale origins so that was a big surprise.

My favourite character was Octavia. She reminded me a lot of Stella from Winx Club. I feel like both their personalities, stories, and characters arcs were quite similar and that's what made me love Octavia a lot. The scene with Octavia and Alba in the in-between world was also my favourite as I also had a similar thing happen to me (not nearly dying but the conversation lmao)

[Nick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Im lost for words. This book was so damn good. I was lucky enough to get an arc for this book and Im so glad and grateful that I did. It's just brilliant.

The story follows Tibby, Griselda, Octavia and the Dame. All accused of being witches from fairytales by...well, by Men. They are sent to a Reformation Centre, manage to escape and start on a journey to get their powers back so they can rescue a friend and enact revenge. All the while telling their own true stories about what REALLY happened to them.

Are the witches really the villain? Can you really just trust one side of a story?

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who loves the old fairytales. It's got a great twist to these tales. Honestly, only one bad thing...Tibby was a bit annoying at times but that didn't stop me from loving it.

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s empowering, witty, and a joy to read with older women leading the magic for once! 🧙‍♀️✨
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 31 July 2025
“The Old Crones Club” is the perfect cosy Sunday read for spooky season. 🖤

Full of charm, magic, and laugh-out-loud moments, this book gave me warm fuzzy vibes from start to finish.

The characters are brilliant—especially Griselda (my grumpy soul sister with a heart of gold).

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🖤

It’s empowering, witty, and a joy to read with older women leading the magic for once! 🧙‍♀️✨

Highly recommend if you love found family, mischief, and a bit of mayhem with your tea. 🍵💀

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ – Give me a whole series, please.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🖤

[Pernille · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a 5 star read for me from start to finish. From the very beginning, you know something is wrong, but as the story unfolds, you start uncovering some very uncomfortable truths. The more I read, the more I kept asking myself, who are the real villains here?

I loved how this book takes familiar fairytales and twists them into something new, revealing what might have “really” happened behind the stories we think we know. It’s layered and it keeps you questioning right until the end.

If you like fantasy with older female main characters, witches, women’s liberation, and the reminder that the winner gets to tell the story as they like, then this is absolutely for you. This was a really good debut book, and I look forward to reading more from her in the future.

I got a free advance copy and chose to share my honest thoughts

[Joshua Hair · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a powerful debut! This book takes the fairytales we know and love, shakes them up in a big glass jar, and gives us back something just as dark as the Grimm brothers compiled but with a decidedly feminine power.

In Old Crones Club, witches are locked up and their crimes are broadcast as stories by the Brothers Grimm, the de facto kings of the fantasy world. When an innocent old lady ends up accidentally teaming up with some of the worst witch offenders to escape they slowly come to realize that maybe they aren’t really the villains of this story.

It’s pretty dang impressive to debut with a 450 page fairytale mash-up fantasy, but Jennifer Taylor-Gray pulls it off flawlessly. This is an author to watch for, folks. Do yourselves a favor and pick up this bloody brilliant book.

[Ellen J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

At first I felt thrust into the middle of the story. Though I was originally a bit lost the tale slowly unfurled. Everytime I read another retold fairytale that reimagines the life or the marginalised, I do a little happy dance. As a young child it bothered me that women and children were swept under the proverbial rug.

I am grateful to Jennefer Taylor-Gray and others that have taken it upon themselves to correct a great injustice. Please don't stop empowering readers. Having been born in a generation that viewed women and children as something to be seen and not heard, I cheered through the last scenes of this book. More than that though, I wish to form my own Old Crones Club.

P.S. The narration by Sarah Edwards was excellent.

[Alice Gregory · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book was an absolute pleasure to read.

Based in a realm filled with the oldest fairytales, we follow a gaggle of witches through their various misadventures. Each one of them is so personable, and it was so fun uncovering their true stories Vs the crimes they are accused of.

If you're into women supporting women, banter and personality, and MCs that aren't 19 years old then you will love this.

Trigger warning: This book does include SA (in the past). This makes up a very small but important part of the story.

[OldBird · Rating 4 out of 5]

An imaginative reworking: fairy tales vs. the patriarchy!

Mildly humorous at times, it's also not afraid to talk about the darker themes a woman could be forced to endure. Very thoughtful and thought-provoking. The writing style is fairly easy to get through, keeping things simple. The only thing to lessen my enjoyment of it all was how sudden the end seemed. (Will there be more? I kind of hope so, but with all our casts' misunderstandings out of the way, I wonder where it could go)

I would recommend this book to people who like fantasy parodies with a serious heart and a load of repressed (older) female rage.

[Dave Grant · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peas, Beans & Other Things.

Jennifer Taylor-Gray breathes a fresh and unique air into the fairy tales we grew up with. She takes familiar characters and drops us into a world where they are altogether, expanding their worlds, giving us a glimpse behind the veil.

The Old Crones Club takes a pinch of humor, a dash of tension, and a handful of adventure, blending them in a cauldron of magic, ensorcelling the reader to turn page after page. What more, Taylor-Gray doesn't spoon feed us with the specific details of the fairy tales she deftly weaves into her story, but relies on our own knowledge to guess and tease out where each of the characters is from. The discovery of which brings a smile and 'aha' moments thought the book.

This book is a must read for all fans of fantasy, and specifically for those of us who grew up on those fairy tales which are a corner stone of the genre.