Airrelle of the Maroon Witches

by Sumayyah Beck

Kiki’s Delivery Service meets Black Panther in this middle grade fantasy set in a richly imagined world where once-enslaved people have built an enchanted network of hidden witch communities.

Anyone can become a witch in Missen Dessalin. If you can find the Missen, that is. Some say the whole reason it was called a “Missen” is because it was a gathering place for those who wanted to stay missin’.

Twelve-year-old Airrelle Bookman, born and raised in Missen Dessalin by two witch parents, has been waiting for magic to call to her for years now. She just has to secure her four patron animals, complete four rites, master four skills, and pass the initiation ceremony. Then she’ll be a fully confirmed maroon witch, able to fly beyond the walls of the Missen as she pleases. Just like her parents, older siblings, and best friend Hosniya.

When the time for her trial finally seems to arrive, so do familial troubles and threats to the very safety and secrecy of Missen Dessalin itself. But an ordinary girl from beyond the protected walls of Missen, one who has grown up in our own tumultuous and unenchanted world, may just be the key to Airrelle’s troubles.

Informed by the history of maroon societies and inspired by the fantasy worlds of Studio Ghibli, Airrelle of the Maroon Witches is a beautiful coming of age story about a shy but resourceful girl discovering her own power.

Genres: Fantasy, Middle Grade, Childrens, Juvenile

304 pages, Hardcover

Published July 14, 2026

About the author

Maya Beck is a broke blipster, lapsed Muslim, animanga oldhead, demipan demigirl, pastelcore bunnymom, socially-anxious social justice bard, speculative fiction writer and UCSD grad currently revising her thesis middle grade novel about witchcraft and marronage.

Reviews

[Katrina (at)FlirtingWithFiction · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full review to come soon.

[Yoder · Rating 3 out of 5]

An expertly crafted world with tons of potential, just without the substance to back it up.

First off, let me say I love the title of this book and the linking of marronage and the maroon hearted and the maroon witches. Details link this all cobble together to make an absolutely beautiful and flawed world with the grandest potential for story telling. This is where Airrelle of the Maroon Witches shine. From the variety of maroon cities to the talking with plants and animals, and even to the relation of the soul to the spirit world; it's all just amazing.

When it came to the characters and the story there are definite great moments and the character Ravi is truly the heart and soul of this book. The titular character Airrelle however, I could not stand. Airrelle does not really seem to respond to the world around her in a human way, and in my opinion, several of her actions were very out of character but made necessary to drive the story forward. Because of the the story feels very inconsistent, like a handful of loosely related short stories were tossed into a food processor in an effort to make something appetizing. It is not a bad story, but struggled to hold my attention and my two girls both tapped out by chapter six (though they are both a bit young for this story).

This was listened to as an audiobook, and I strongly recommend this medium for Airrelle of the Maroon Witches. Not only was the narration quite good, it helped me get the main character's name correct. I would have pronounced it like the little mermaid (funny enough a reference made in the book,) but Airrelle is actually pronounced like Errol Flynn. But yeah, narrator did a great job!

Airrelle of the Maroon Witches has an amazing story to tell with truly remarkable meaning, I just don't think it quite gets there.

At the end of the day I just found the book a bit to slow to recommend, though there are definitely kids who would love Airrelle's story.

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

[Joy · Rating 2 out of 5]

This started out strong, but for me personally, it didn't really deliver enough. There was a lot of exposition at the beginning, and at different points there was quite a bit of overexplaining about certain terms and parallels with the non-magical world. It slowed the pacing down a bit. But the real problem was the difficulty that the story had with created a strong pace and a coherent overall plot. There were a lot of random plot points that were brought in but then nothing came of them. It felt like there were a lot of things that the author wanted to focus on in the book, which made the whole novel a little all over the place. Even halfway through the book, the story had a hard time explaining what the plot was since it diverted so often. I went go into all the details to avoid spoilers. The wordbuilding has promise and it's possible that as the series goes along, that these wrinkles will get ironed out to create a solid series, but this wasn't a strong start.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

@librofm & Holiday House allowed me to listen to this audiobook through the Educator's Audiobook Listening Copies program. This program lets educators and librarians listen to newly released books for free with no waiting lines like at the public library.

I have conflicted feelings about this book so I'm going to write up a list of things I liked about it and things I did not:

THINGS DONE WELL

1) World Building & Setting

I am very impressed that this is Beck's debut novel because boy is it STRONG. She builds a deep enough world that this could easily be a 10 book series. While the focus is on Airrelle's community, Missen Dessalin, there are lots of other witch communities out there with their own traditions and ways of being. The way Beck writes the Los Angeles setting is well crafted and researched. It was also evocative. I felt like I was in the Southern Californian countryside along with Airrelle.

2) How to Become a Witch

The reason this is drawing comparisons to KIKI'S DELIVERY SERVICE is that it's about a budding witch that has to complete trials/tasks in order to fully become a witch. I liked the structure of what Airrelle had to do like visit another witch community, find four patrons, contribute to the barrier, etc. I was definitely invested in her patrons!

3) Mental Health Representation

I really liked how Airrelle's mother struggled with her mental health. It's unusual to see that addressed in a fantasy novel for upper elementary/middle schoolers. I also liked how, while Airrelle comes from a loving family, things aren't easy. Her father is frequently gone on business and her mother has good & bad days. Her siblings are out of state and older than her. So it's just her trying to support her mother. I thought this was very realistic.

4) Overside vs Magical

The conflict between Overside ways vs magical ones was GENIUS! I really liked seeing Airrelle's perspective on what we would consider everyday life. Airrelle cannot understand homelessness, money, and modern technology and she never gets used to it. But my favorite part of how Beck wrote these difference was that there is a lot more complexity than what Airrelle sees. For example, there is a strong distrust in Airrelle's family about Oversider medicine but magical means cannot always solve medical problems. And I liked that. Often in fantasy novels, the magic is superior to mundane, non-magical ways. Not in this novel, at least not all the time.

THINGS I STRUGGLED WITH

1) Magic vs History

While I liked that Beck wove in the history of maroon communities, I would have liked to have seen an Author's Note at the end of this book. To be fair, maybe there is one. I listened to the audiobook version of this novel so perhaps there is one in the printed book. I have never learned about maroon communities and I liked that this book introduced me to that but I wanted to know more, even just a few pages explaining the book's ties to actual history would have helped. That being said, I loved that one of the maroon communities is in the Great Dismal Swamp. So cool! I do know a little bit about that since moving to North Carolina.

2) The Mysticism

Beck really interwove actual spiritual practices into this book. This is what troubled me the most. From cleansing practices to dreamwalking and more, these things actually exist in real life and, in my opinion, they can be dangerous. I never thought I would say this about a fantasy novel written for kids but I do have concerns about readers picking up these practices thinking they are just pretend and finding something more to them. People believe and actually do these things in real life. I realize these are some of the same challenges leveled at the Harry Potter books but, I believe, there is a difference as, with the exception of divination, the things in the Harry Potter books aren't actually done by real people. Many of the practices in AIRRELLE OF THE MAROON WITCHES are.

3) Stance on Police

There is one line in the book about police being wicked. While there IS one policeman who is that in the book, there is a feeling that ALL police are. This is never corrected or addressed again.

SIDE NOTE

I thought from the book's description and the cover art that this would be more light-hearted than it actually was. The bit about it being like Kiki's Delivery Service also made me think that. This book actually has a darker tone to it. And that's not bad! It's just not what I was expecting. I would not hand this to fans of EVA EVERGREEN, SEMI-MAGICAL WITCH or KIKI'S DELIVERY SERVICE as it lacks that ebullience. Instead, I think this is a better fit for fans of IMPOSSIBLE CREATURES and Garth Nix novels.

---
Content Notes:

Sex/sexual references: None

Profanity: None

Religious references: Yes, lots. From cleansing ceremonies to connecting with nature to dream walking and prophetic dreams

LGBTQIA+ rep? Yes, one of Airrelle's siblings is non-binary. Airrelle herself is trying to figure out if she has a crush on a girl. A minor male character is married to another man.

[Prof. Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Airrelle of the Maroon Witches is a beautifully crafted middle-grade fantasy that offers a rich exploration of heritage, identity, and community through a captivating magical lens. Sumayyah Beck has created a world that feels both fantastical and deeply rooted in real history, particularly drawing inspiration from maroon societies of escaped slaves. This blending of magic, history, and culture makes for an engaging read that can resonate with young readers and adults alike.

What I appreciated most about this book is how skillfully it interweaves the experiences of the Maroon witches with those of non-magical communities, highlighting parallels around colonization, slavery, racism, religion, and traditions. Topics such as cherished foods, religious practices, and cultural identity are handled with care and respect, making the book not only entertaining but also educational. For a middle-grade audience, these insights could spark curiosity about their own heritage and history, which I think is a significant achievement.

The protagonist, Airrelle, is a curious and resourceful 12-year-old who embodies the wonder and wander of discovery. Her journey of self-discovery is complex and often delayed by life's struggles. Her mother’s schizophrenia, her father and siblings being away in other communities, and the weight of her own mission all serve as hurdles that slow her progress. Despite these challenges, Airrelle’s internal struggles—feeling enough, finding her strength, and navigating her evolving relationship with her new Overside friend Rabiah—are portrayed with honesty and depth. Her relationship with Rabiah, a girl from beyond the magical community eager to become a witch, adds layers of friendship, loyalty, and cultural exchange, especially as she tries to protect Rabiah and help her on her path.

Throughout her journey, Airrelle is often caught in a tug-of-war between her responsibilities, her desire for independence, and her need for connection. Her growth is not a straight line; it’s marked by setbacks, doubts, and moments of revelation. These complexities make her a relatable character and underscore the importance of resilience and perseverance.

I did find that the book occasionally overused/overexplained certain terms and comparisons, especially in the first 100 pages. While I understand the author’s intent to make clear distinctions between the magical and non-magical worlds, the constant back-and-forth sometimes felt repetitive and slowed the pacing. Fortunately, from around page 200 onward, these explanations became more concise and integrated, which improved the flow significantly.

Some moments in the story felt rushed or lacked detailed development, especially during pivotal events. These could have been expanded to enhance world-building and suspense, making some of the more monumental moments even more impactful. I believe a bit more exploration and adventure could have elevated the story further, giving it a richer texture.

Overall, Airrelle of the Maroon Witches is a lovely coming-of-age story that balances magic, history, and personal growth. It’s a book that encourages young readers to explore their roots and consider the power of community and identity. Despite minor pacing issues, it’s a captivating read that I’d recommend to middle-grade readers looking for a story of wonder, resilience, and self-discovery.

[Mark Buxton · Rating 4 out of 5]

What worked:
Obviously, identifying witches in the title means there will be magic, and the author adds new twists. The witches live in hidden settlements around the world, and the setting for this story is Missen Dessalin. The witches work together to create an invisible shield that conceals the settlement. Airrelle must collect four patrons; her first is a crane, to become a full witch. Patrons select their witches and offer advice and assistance. Witches are expected to fly, so Airrelle’s first rite of passage is the soljourney. Witties, witches in training, must survive in the wild in their astral forms until they learn how to fly. Airrelle is most excited about the prospect of flying, so she can travel beyond the barrier and into the Overside.
The story includes subtle commentary about the real world. Airrelle’s first venture into Overside with her mother reveals many disturbing sights. They find perfectly good food tossed into the trash, even though hungry people are living on the streets. Cars pollute the air, and buildings replace nature. Airrelle’s mother says concrete is the most abundant substance in Overside. Related to this, the witches have a close connection to nature. Their patrons are plants or animals, and patrons are often attracted to the witches’ songs. Witches must show them respect, since nature decides who is worthy of help. Witches often thank elements of nature and appreciate the beauty and wonder. Young readers may develop admiration and gratitude for natural things they take for granted.
Rabiah is a character who brings mystery and uncertainty to the story. She’s from the Overside, but Airrelle wants her to train to become a witch at Missen Dessalin. She’s not a clear candidate, so there are mixed opinions about whether this is a good idea. A scry indicates she has the potential to become a powerful witch, but the settlement will have problems if her family searches for her. The weakening shield may allow Oversiders to see into the settlement. Airrelle agrees that Rabiah should be returned to Overside if she fails to pass her trials, with her memory erased. However, Airrelle is determined that Rabiah will succeed; what will she do if things don’t work out? It gets complicated.
What didn’t work as well:
Halfway into the book, it’s still unclear where the plot is headed. Several things are happening: the father is away and in trouble, there’s something wrong with the mother, and Airrelle is trying to get her maroon cloak and befriending a non-magical girl. Many readers prefer having a more focused objective in the plot.
The final verdict:
This book feels like it’s establishing the backstory for future books. There’s a focus on the world of Maroon Witches, along with some of their issues and problems. It’s a creative view of witchcraft that features many interesting characters. Overall, you check out this book and decide for yourself.

[January · Rating 4 out of 5]

Airrelle of the Maroon Witches by Sumayyah Beck (2026)
8h 47m narrated by Khaya Fraites, 304 pages
ALC courtesy of RBmedia | Recorded Books and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Genre: Children's Fiction, Middle Grade Fantasy, Coming-of-age, Speculative Fiction, Historical Fiction, Cozy Magical Realism

Movie Rating Equivalent: PG-10

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½👧🏿🧙🏾‍♀️✨🧹🎶🐦

Featuring: Titled Chapters, fictional hidden town near San Diego, California; Secret Community, Singer, Lyricist, Birds, Insecurities, Multiple Languages, Light World Building, New Orleans, Louisiana; Family Dynamics, History

Final Thoughts: ​I was very excited to read Airrelle of the Maroon Witches, especially since "A Book Containing Witches" is on my reading challenge and I had no prospects. The cover was beautiful and I had a good vibe about the story, but it wasn’t as great as I hoped.
​It was mostly easy to read, but the world-building that started off simple became erratic, as it seemed most of it was done on the fly as the story went on. I also struggled with what year the modern world was in; she frequently spoke about slavery, but it seemed like it was set somewhere in the future, so I was confused. The story is primarily set in North America with a base near San Diego, California. They visited cities—one sounded like New York City, but I wasn't sure; definitely New Orleans—and her father is somewhere in Africa, which is referred to as the motherland. It was hard for me to keep up with all the cities because of the different language they use for modern-day America.
​Another issue I had with this story is that it is middle-grade fiction, but somehow they decided to create a romance subplot in the second half of the book, and I was like, "You've got to be kidding me." They already had a lot going on; I was not interested in some 12-year-old romance. I'm already dealing with talking insects and birds, flying from place to place, and a weird initiation ceremony—it's hard enough to keep up with all those aspects without bringing in love or jealousy.
​I was surprised at first that this story was not book one in a series, but after reading it, I'm almost okay with that. They left the door open, which made the ending feel a bit awkward. I didn't love the story, but it did have a good foundation; it just was a little busy for my taste.

​Recommend to others: I would totally recommend this to others because I think they would have a better experience than I did.

Songs for the Soundtrack: "All the Pretty Little Horses"

Books and Authors Mentioned: Black Beauty by Anna Sewell

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

Airrelle lives in California, in Missen Desalin, a witch community protected from the outside world by a barrier woven with the help of the souls of the witches who live there. It's only one of many, many such communities around the world, where people live close to nature, created for protection by people escaping violence and oppression. Airrelle can't wait to become a witch herself, like everyone in her family, and be able to fly to the outside world or other communities, but it will be an uphill battle because the rules are stringent. She needs four patrons to adopt her--a bird, an animal, an insect, and a plant--and she needs to complete several tasks and rites as well. Added to that, she's worried about her mother, whose mental health is unpredictable, and her father is frequently gone on missions. Then during one of her forays into the frightening outside world of San Diego, she encounters Ravi (sp?), a girl who longs to be a witch but didn't know it was possible. Airrelle is drawn to her, but is Ravi a good choice for joining Missen Desalin?

This is a complex (maybe too complex?) world, inspired by the real Maroon communities of escaped formerly enslaved peoples. The world building is done really well, and I love the idea of these hidden communities. I thought there was also a good balance of recognizing that some of the outside world's things--like delicious food--are good, and that so many of the witches felt comfortable in both worlds. I did have trouble keeping track of all the characters, and sometimes I felt confused about either what was happening or some element of the complex fantasy. I enjoyed the (I think) queernormative culture of the witches. The book did feel a bit long, and there might be too much exposition for kids who don't care for that sort of thing. The uniqueness of the historical background to the communities, though, make it a good addition to fantasy literature. I'd recommend it to kids who read "Freewater." Thanks to Libro.FM for a free educator copy of the audiobook.

[Zamora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Listen… I did not expect to fall in love the way I did, but Airrelle Bookman snuck up on me like a blessing you didn’t know you needed. This story took me straight to Missen Dessalin, where anyone can become a witch if you can find your Missen — and babyyyy, the way this world is built? Sumayyah Beck said history, heart, and a heavy pour of magic, and I drank every drop.

Airrelle’s voice is the kind of storytelling that wraps around you. You don’t just read her journey — you walk it. Friendship, growing up, coming of age, grief, joy, identity… this book takes you through emotional hallways you didn’t know were open. And Khaya Fraites’ narration? She breathed life into every moment.

What surprised me most was how deeply I connected with Airrelle. She’s tender, stubborn, curious, and powerful in ways she’s still learning to name. By the time I finished, I felt like I had traveled through Missen Dessalin right beside her — learning its history, feeling its magic, and carrying its lessons.

If you love stories that blend Black history, rich worldbuilding, and a large slice of magic, Airrelle of the Maroon Witches needs to be on your shelf. I’m still thinking about her. I’m still thinking about that Missen. And I’m already ready for more.

🍵✨ #EchoesAndInk #BookReview #AirrelleOfTheMaroonWitches #SumayyahBeck #KhayaFraites #MaroonMagic #SpeculativeBlackGirlhood #NetGalleyReviewer

[Yamini · Rating 4 out of 5]

Becoming a witch is exciting, but for Airrelle, it's also filled with uncertainty. As she begins her training, every lesson brings new challenges, magical discoveries, and a chance to understand where she truly belongs.

The Maroon coven was easily my favourite part of the book. Their bond feels genuine because it isn't perfect. They disagree, make mistakes, and still show up for one another in a way that feels warm and comforting. I also enjoyed Airrelle's unusual familiar and how its strengths complemented her own. The training sequences added a fun, adventurous touch, especially the broom-riding lessons.

My only drawback was Airrelle's constant self-doubt. I understand why it's there and how it serves her character arc, but it did become a little repetitive at times.

I listened to the audiobook and really enjoyed it. It was a comforting, easy fantasy that made for a nice change of pace. While none of the characters left a particularly lasting impression on me, the world, the magic, and the sense of community made this an enjoyable listen overall.

[Markita_Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Airrelle of the Maroon Witches by Sumayyah Beck

Anyone can become a witch in Missen Dessalin. If you can find the Missen, that is. Some say the whole reason it was called a “Missen” is because it was a gathering place for those who wanted to stay missin’.

My Rating: 4.2 stars

This was a cute quick read, that gives you Kiki's Delivery Service but with Black characters. And let me just tell you, I am here for it and really enjoyed the book. First, the cover art is just too cute. Honestly, every little girl who wishes to be a witch or pretends to be one should have this book on their bookshelves.

The audiobook is narrated by Khaya Fraites. This is my first time ever listening to this narrator Khaya and I must say she did a good job, bringing Airrelle's characters to life and giving them depth. She is the perfect voice for Airrelle's character. She was easy to listen to and also understand. I listened at 2x speed.

-Kiki's Delivery Service
-Middle School Age
-Witches

[Amy ☾ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really love a story that that’s both coming of age and exploration of magic! Airrelle was an excellent balance of being naive at times because she is young but not being annoying which I sometimes find with a lot of main characters that are of this age, she was a very realistic young person written very well.

I really enjoyed learning about this world of magic. It didn’t shy away from the fact that sometimes it was scary for a child. I like the idea of witches needing to find multiple animal companions and it being all of those sub species around the world. I found it all beautiful.

Also excellent in audio format, I sometimes have a problem with children’s voices being done by adults but the narrator nailed all of the characters.

[Farah G · Rating 3 out of 5]

Twelve year old Airrelle has been raised in the magical town of Missen Dessalin by two loving parents who are also gifted and powerful wielders of magic. But in this town, any one can learn how to use magic - provided they are willing to put in the work and complete the necessary rituals and tests.

It's getting to the town where the real challenge lies, for outsiders who want to become witches! As one young outsider is finding out...

Airrelle is looking forward to becoming a maroon witch, and her path seems fairly straightforward - until it becomes clear that and outsider may have a part to play in Airrelle's own journey.

This is a Studio Ghibli-style middle grade story that will go down well with the target audience. It gets 3.5 stars.

[Ayesha Holder · Rating 4 out of 5]

I adore this book. I enjoyed the way the magical world and the real world were described. The author gave both worlds advantages and disadvantages, and it made for a better read, it didn't feel like the book was trying to make me prefer the magical world where the MC was from. Airrelle was interesting; it wasn't boring or annoying to be following, and it felt like an actual 13-year-old.

My only issue and the reason why this book didn't get 5 stars was because the crush interest seemed kinda sudden. I like it and would have preferred if it was something realised in book 2 (I am desperately hoping this is a series), still I liked it and found it cute. A long-distance relationship/friendship with an oversider is gonna be interesting if there are more books.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to than RBmedia\ Recorded Books and NetGalley for a free ALC of this title in exchange for an honest review.

I loved how full of lore this book felt and I liked how thematic it all was. I definitely felt steeped in a witch's world. The characters we follow were all varied and deep. I have to admit that the only thing keeping myself from enjoying it fully was a slight tonal issue I had with how the book handled the regular world and it's condemnations of it. Don't get me wrong, I understand and agree with most (if not all) of the gripes this book has, I just felt the tone of it was off somehow. Anyway, I would read on if this is a series.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was so cute! This is a middle-grade fantasy book that I think is well suited for 9-12 year old's. Some of the themes in this book deal with culture and heritage, environmental damage by humans, community, family etc. and because of that it might be a good idea to read with your child or be willing to answer questions. This is a wonderful conversation starter book for parents.

My daughter buddy read with me and her thoughts were that it was "fun and kind of sad because some of the young people who wanted to be witches didn't have families who loved them enough to look for them."

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the ALC!

[Yapha · Rating 4 out of 5]

(3.5 stars, rounded up)

Airrelle lives in Missen Dessalin, in the desert outside of what we know as San Diego. Her world is an alternative reality that you and I, as Oversiders, are unaware of. Airrelle is just beginning her journey to become a Maroon Witch, having found her first of four patrons. As the reader makes their way through, they may find many words that are similar to ones they know, but not quite the same. Some readers will love this, others may struggle. Either way, readers will be immersed in this fantasy adventure steeped in the lore of formerly enslaved people. For grades 4 & up.

eARC provided by publisher via Edelweiss

[J Christine · Rating 3 out of 5]

My review: 3.5 stars
9 Year olds review: 4.5 Stars

This is a really cute book!

I listened to the audiobook with my 9 year old daughter and it was really fun! It’s a cute book that’s perfect for young readers and their inner cute witch!
This book was filled with adventure and creatures that all animals and magic lovers will be drawn to!

It has great lessons on growing and being confident in who you are and listening to your own heart!

I would recommend for anyone who loves cute witches and magic and it is appropriate for 8+ readers

[Eizzymar · Rating 3 out of 5]

Honest review for ALC received from Netgalley and all opinions are my own.

Arielle of the Maroon Witches by Sumayyah Beck

This is my first time reading/listening to this author. This seems to be their first novel/ middle school fiction.

I was looking through the multicultural interest tag when I found this book. It's described as being similar to Kiki's Delivery Service and Wakanda.

I have not finished the book, so much information is given. I understand the purpose for world building, it's just too much. I wasn't able to get immersed, i will try to finish it.

[Matthew · Rating 2 out of 5]

It felt as though the plot lacked any sense of urgency and often took a backseat to establishing the world of the maroon witches. If there are going to be more books, maybe this will serve as a good primer for readers of future adventures, but this one spent most of the time establishing a cast of characters and their outlook on their world while navigating a couple of subplots that never gained a lasting prominence.

[Laura Mauro · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a fun time with this book. I think that if you have kids that like fast pace adventure stories and i liked the quick pace and think students would devore it. I also think that this i would pich this book to people that enjoyed properties like the worst witch and black panter. I liked the magic system and thought this book was fun and quick time!!!

[Ashley Baker · Rating 3 out of 5]

*Airrelle and the Maroon Witches* had an interesting idea and a creative magical world. I liked the concept of the story at first, but as I continued reading, I started to lose interest. The plot did not hold my attention as much as I expected, so even though I thought the idea behind the book was good, it was not a story that kept me wanting to read more.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

[2TReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

What struck me immediately as I started reading this story was the use of terms, names, and words that hold such weight and history and have deep meaning to our people. Because these words represent the strength, culture, and rituals our ancestors created for their communities. Words like: Maroon, Dessaline, Quilombo, Swing-low, and Boukman that just highlighted the depth of our heritage.

It is a story of a young girl stepping into her destiny, yearning for the magic that will make her complete and add another layer of power, contribution and protection to her family's home. There are conflicts of course, that test what she has learned and how she must now move through her world and the world outside that does in some ways pose a threat to their safety.

I loved the touch of queerness that emerges with Airrelle as she moves towards earning her witch's cloak. The strength of the bonds within Airrelle's family was also an important part of her story and the support she garners from them allowed her to be herself.

Audiobook ARC received from Netgalley

Ebook ARC received from Edelweiss+