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The Weaver's Loom
Not yet published
Expected 1 Jun 26Edith Ashton is the last of her kind. But the world thinks she’s dead.
1893 London. Witches live uneasily alongside humans after a treaty that stripped them of their immortality in exchange for living out in the open. In that aftermath, Death Witches were hunted down and eradicated.
All but one.
Edith hides in plain sight as an investigator with the First Council, solving murders with her magic. She can see a victim’s last moments of life. It’s a convenient gift. An inconspicuous one. And it keeps her true power a secret.
But when a witch’s death exposes the disappearance of five more, she is forced into a case that rips into her past. The trail leads to the Sparrows - a long-dormant order that wiped out every Death Witch in England - including Edith’s family.
As the full moon draws near, more witches vanish. When a witch she has sworn to protect is abducted, she won’t stay hidden any longer.
To stop them, Edith will have to unmask a magic she has spent decades burying.
And once the Sparrows know that a Death Witch still lives, they will finish what they started.
1893 London. Witches live uneasily alongside humans after a treaty that stripped them of their immortality in exchange for living out in the open. In that aftermath, Death Witches were hunted down and eradicated.
All but one.
Edith hides in plain sight as an investigator with the First Council, solving murders with her magic. She can see a victim’s last moments of life. It’s a convenient gift. An inconspicuous one. And it keeps her true power a secret.
But when a witch’s death exposes the disappearance of five more, she is forced into a case that rips into her past. The trail leads to the Sparrows - a long-dormant order that wiped out every Death Witch in England - including Edith’s family.
As the full moon draws near, more witches vanish. When a witch she has sworn to protect is abducted, she won’t stay hidden any longer.
To stop them, Edith will have to unmask a magic she has spent decades burying.
And once the Sparrows know that a Death Witch still lives, they will finish what they started.
Kindle Edition
Expected publication June 1, 2026
182 people want to read
About the author
Jessi St. John
1 book29 followersJessi writes fantasy filled with dangerous magic, mythic worldbuilding, and complex women. Her stories range from gaslamp historical fantasy set among witches and foggy London streets to epic imagined worlds where prophecy and power reign.
She is drawn to antagonists who are neither right nor wrong and heroines who are strong in unique ways.
She is drawn to antagonists who are neither right nor wrong and heroines who are strong in unique ways.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
April 20, 2026
Omg what a storyline this is gonna be huge, the world-building and characters are so good and the character development is just perfect.
It’s definitely one of my top 10 books of the year so far, I can’t wait for the next one to arrive, this is a new book to read and it’s exceeded all my expectations, I wasn’t ready for this level of writing, and storytelling.
The author is a great writer to keep an eye on for future books, I definitely will be. I’ll also recommend him to read by everyone.
A definite five-star book for me and well done Jesse St for this wonderful book and I hope to arc for you again.
Thank you so very much.
It’s definitely one of my top 10 books of the year so far, I can’t wait for the next one to arrive, this is a new book to read and it’s exceeded all my expectations, I wasn’t ready for this level of writing, and storytelling.
The author is a great writer to keep an eye on for future books, I definitely will be. I’ll also recommend him to read by everyone.
A definite five-star book for me and well done Jesse St for this wonderful book and I hope to arc for you again.
Thank you so very much.
April 24, 2026
If you loved the eerie, whispering magic of One Dark Window, the tension of Heartless Hunter, and the gothic atmosphere of Anathema, this one will absolutely pull you in.
Set in a fog-drenched 1893 London, this story trades whimsical magic for something far more dangerous, controlled, hunted, and steeped in grief. Edith Ashton, the last Death Witch, is a quietly compelling protagonist, hiding her power while using it to investigate murders. Like One Dark Window, her magic feels intimate and unsettling, something she keeps tightly contained until it begins to crack.
The mystery element adds a steady, rising tension, similar to Heartless Hunter, where every step closer to the truth risks exposure. And the presence of the Sparrows, a secret order responsible for a brutal past, brings that same heavy, gothic dread you feel in Anathema.
It starts slow and controlled, but builds into something sharper and more urgent as Edith is forced to confront both her past and her power. Dark, tense, and atmospheric, it’s a story about survival, and what it costs to stop hiding.
Set in a fog-drenched 1893 London, this story trades whimsical magic for something far more dangerous, controlled, hunted, and steeped in grief. Edith Ashton, the last Death Witch, is a quietly compelling protagonist, hiding her power while using it to investigate murders. Like One Dark Window, her magic feels intimate and unsettling, something she keeps tightly contained until it begins to crack.
The mystery element adds a steady, rising tension, similar to Heartless Hunter, where every step closer to the truth risks exposure. And the presence of the Sparrows, a secret order responsible for a brutal past, brings that same heavy, gothic dread you feel in Anathema.
It starts slow and controlled, but builds into something sharper and more urgent as Edith is forced to confront both her past and her power. Dark, tense, and atmospheric, it’s a story about survival, and what it costs to stop hiding.
May 9, 2026
Oh I just loved it all the way through! From start to finish. It’s a slow build from the very first chapter, drawing you into Edith’s latest murder investigation, then watching as all the scattered pieces come together to a thrilling and horrific climax, ending life as he knew it. It’s dark, and mysterious, with smatterings of comic relief. The trail we followed in the story kept me constantly on my toes wondering where it would lead and whether or not Edith would do what she must to save not only those she loves, but the whole of her kind from a war torn fate. The friendships made, the subtle hints of something more, it’s not a romantasy, per se, it’s a witchy magical mystery with a bit of romantic subplot. This is an EASY 5 stars from me and I WILL be reading the second installment as SOON as I can possibly get my hands on it!
I’d like to give all my thanks to Jessi St. John for the great honor and privilege of reading this outstanding debut novel!! Please consider me as another early reader for your second as well, because, selfishly, I really don’t want to wait any longer!
I’d like to give all my thanks to Jessi St. John for the great honor and privilege of reading this outstanding debut novel!! Please consider me as another early reader for your second as well, because, selfishly, I really don’t want to wait any longer!
April 21, 2026
thank you to the author for the chance to be an ARC reader!
This fantasy novel gave a whole new take on witchcraft and how it integrates into society. I loved the twists and turns and how the magic was (forgive me) woven into the history and relationships.
I was certainly not expecting the ending (trying to stay vague here).
Huge claps to the editorial team and to Jessi St John for putting together such an incredible book! I have already preordered the official copy and can’t wait to experience it again!
This fantasy novel gave a whole new take on witchcraft and how it integrates into society. I loved the twists and turns and how the magic was (forgive me) woven into the history and relationships.
I was certainly not expecting the ending (trying to stay vague here).
Huge claps to the editorial team and to Jessi St John for putting together such an incredible book! I have already preordered the official copy and can’t wait to experience it again!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 5, 2026
The Weaver’s Loom by Jessi St. John is set in 1983 London during a time when witches lived in the open with humans. The world building is well-written which made it easy for me to picture the atmosphere, crowded streets, characters and architecture of that time period. Edith Ashton is the last living Death Witch and has been hiding her true powers for years, only letting a small amount out to aid in solving murders. She is a complex character who is tasked with solving the murder of a witch and the disappearance of other witches while struggling with her true identity. The mystery and tension builds throughout the story and there are multiple plot twists to keep the reader on the edge of their seat. While the ending was heart-breaking, I am eagerly looking forward to what happens in the next book.
Highly recommended for readers who love fantasy books with witches, tension and intrigue. This will definitely be one of my favorite books of the year!
Highly recommended for readers who love fantasy books with witches, tension and intrigue. This will definitely be one of my favorite books of the year!
May 4, 2026
Wow what a great read! I’m so grateful this was my first book as an ARC reader! I fell in love with the story line very early on. The world building and intrigue grew simultaneously at a near perfect pace. I loved the concept of a mystery fantasy, right up my alley. Loved the way the main character is evolving into herself throughout the book. There were plenty of twists and turns to keep you thinking and wondering who could be trusted.
This book was a wonderful escape and I can’t wait for the next one in the series! Well done Jessi St. John!
This book was a wonderful escape and I can’t wait for the next one in the series! Well done Jessi St. John!
May 4, 2026
This was a great steady read and flow. The characters are all amazing, and the mystery is unraveled in perfect timing. The idea of London witches with other magical beings losing their immortality was very interesting indeed. Not everyone was happy about that and so war begins. Or should I say a witch hunt.
There are also plenty of lovely bachelors for our FMC to ogle at and get close to! Tides have shifted at the end though so I’m eagerly waiting for book 2 conclusion?!
There are also plenty of lovely bachelors for our FMC to ogle at and get close to! Tides have shifted at the end though so I’m eagerly waiting for book 2 conclusion?!
May 6, 2026
This is a really great detective read. I loved the female main character. She was really strong and had a really tragic upbringing, and I liked her growth throughout the novel. I enjoyed the dynamics of the magical system. The people who had magic it wasn’t just witches and humans. There was also faeries and various and other magical beings. I also really enjoyed that everyone’s magic was different and kind of individual to themselves.
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May 7, 2026Edith Ashton is the last witch of her kind, only no one knows it. Through excellent lore telling and fantastic prose Jessi's debut novel tells the story of the Aliis first council investigator looking for missing witches and why they're going missing, multiple perspectives give views on how they are viewing their world in that moment. Mixing a Sherlock like investigation with fae, magic and mystery, The Weavers Loom brings you into a new world full of intrigue at full pelt. I could not recommend this enough. Even to new readers.
May 5, 2026
Wow! That was my first reaction upon finishing The Weaver's Loom. Kudos to Jessi St. John for making her debut novel a standout!
I could not put this book down, so addictive! One of my top books of the year!
I was transported to 1800's London and didn't want to leave. The Weaver's Loom is magical. Follow Edith's journey as the last death witch and lead investigator of a murder mystery. I loved Edith as an FMC and watching her grow in confidence throughout the book.
This book is full of magic, found family, mystery, and slow burn goodness.
Thank you to Jessi St. John for the ARC!
I could not put this book down, so addictive! One of my top books of the year!
I was transported to 1800's London and didn't want to leave. The Weaver's Loom is magical. Follow Edith's journey as the last death witch and lead investigator of a murder mystery. I loved Edith as an FMC and watching her grow in confidence throughout the book.
This book is full of magic, found family, mystery, and slow burn goodness.
Thank you to Jessi St. John for the ARC!
May 4, 2026
I am so happy to have received this arc! This book grabbed me from the beginning and kept my interest the whole way through. The magic! The mystery! It never lost my interest once. This book is beautifully written and I love the characters. Edie is my favorite and I so need book two asap because that ending, just wow!
Review of advance copy
Jessi St. John's purpose in writng, "The Weaver's Loom," is for an individual to achieve empowerment and self-discovdery. The story is rooted in themes of identity and courage. This is in relation to revealing one's true self in a society encouraging living in the shadows. She believes one gains power by acknowledging and living in one's true identity. Through her main character, Edith Ashton, she illustrates how resilience is needed to survive the weight of ancestral secrets. Ms. St. John emphasizes in her writing the need to explore hidden worlds. Her characters are people who encounter in their lives intense pressure from those in power and politics. The author declars one should not allow personal history from creating and envisioning their own future.
Ms. St. John uses a style of writing known as historical fantasy. The style of writing is hybird which blends historical fiction with fantasy. Historical fantasy weaves in magic, mythical references, or supernatural events within historical settings. Many authors implement this genre because it bridges the gap between the familar and the impossible.
The style of writing offers a reference point making fantasical ideas more approachable by basing the ideas inn logic and settings which are familar to the readers. Readers enjoy reading these stories because the stories provide pure escapism while permitting the readers to learn about the history of the time period in an entertaining manner. Readers feel an emotional connection with the characters. The connection is created because they follow the character experiencing a historical struggle. This allows the readers to empathize and remember the story plot because the setting is ot alien to them. The readers now have a gateway to motivate them to research the historical events on their own.
There are many suppressed ancestral secrets in the story. The "Ancestral Secrets" refer to the history, hidden and forbidden powers of the Death Wtiches. The Death Witches are a magical lineage believed to be extinct. The core secrets are:
1. The Survial of the Bloodling.
2. The Power to Sever Life Threads.
3. The Sparrows Dark History.
4. The Price of the Treaty.
The "Weaver's Loom" is a book you will enjoy reading if you like atomospheric "Gaslamp Fantasy." This fantasy blends historical mystery fiction with high-stakes magical tension. "Gaslamp"mystery is a sub-genre of mystery fiction which is set in a historical or fantasy world reminiscent of the Victorian Age. The setting of the story is in 1890s London which is a characteristic of this writing genre. The settings include gaslit streets and emblesshed settings. The author exhorts those who read this story to reclaim their inner voice. Are you ready to reclaim and identify your inner voice? If you are ready, this is the book for you.
Ms. St. John uses a style of writing known as historical fantasy. The style of writing is hybird which blends historical fiction with fantasy. Historical fantasy weaves in magic, mythical references, or supernatural events within historical settings. Many authors implement this genre because it bridges the gap between the familar and the impossible.
The style of writing offers a reference point making fantasical ideas more approachable by basing the ideas inn logic and settings which are familar to the readers. Readers enjoy reading these stories because the stories provide pure escapism while permitting the readers to learn about the history of the time period in an entertaining manner. Readers feel an emotional connection with the characters. The connection is created because they follow the character experiencing a historical struggle. This allows the readers to empathize and remember the story plot because the setting is ot alien to them. The readers now have a gateway to motivate them to research the historical events on their own.
There are many suppressed ancestral secrets in the story. The "Ancestral Secrets" refer to the history, hidden and forbidden powers of the Death Wtiches. The Death Witches are a magical lineage believed to be extinct. The core secrets are:
1. The Survial of the Bloodling.
2. The Power to Sever Life Threads.
3. The Sparrows Dark History.
4. The Price of the Treaty.
The "Weaver's Loom" is a book you will enjoy reading if you like atomospheric "Gaslamp Fantasy." This fantasy blends historical mystery fiction with high-stakes magical tension. "Gaslamp"mystery is a sub-genre of mystery fiction which is set in a historical or fantasy world reminiscent of the Victorian Age. The setting of the story is in 1890s London which is a characteristic of this writing genre. The settings include gaslit streets and emblesshed settings. The author exhorts those who read this story to reclaim their inner voice. Are you ready to reclaim and identify your inner voice? If you are ready, this is the book for you.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for providing an early copy of this book. This is my honest review.
This is an incredible story with a unique and imaginative magic system, heartfelt character arcs, and an atmosphere filled with mystery and suspense at every turn.
The story follows Edith, the last death witch, as she investigates the disappearance of powerful witches. Along the way, she joins forces with Coren, an elf carrying burdens of his own. Together, they uncover secrets that force both of them to confront their pasts.
One of the first things that captured my attention was the dedication. Before the story even began, I knew this book was going to hit emotionally. I genuinely recommend taking a moment to read and reflect on it as it sets the tone beautifully for what follows.
The character work is exceptional. Edith is a fascinating protagonist: a woman who has carefully built a life and family while simultaneously hiding herself from the world. She has created many walls to keep others at a distance, and watching her slowly break free from those barriers is deeply rewarding.
Coren’s arc is equally compelling. He is haunted by past actions and struggles with guilt, forgiveness, and the question of whether redemption is truly possible.
Together, their journeys create a powerful and dynamic arc between past mistakes and an uncertain future.
The writing itself is outstanding. The story begins on a smaller scale, steadily building tension and suspense with each chapter until it becomes impossible to put down. By the end, this absolutely becomes a “just one more chapter” kind of book.
Overall, a beautifully written and emotionally resonant historical fantasy with memorable characters, strong worldbuilding. I can’t wait for book 2 to be out.
This is an incredible story with a unique and imaginative magic system, heartfelt character arcs, and an atmosphere filled with mystery and suspense at every turn.
The story follows Edith, the last death witch, as she investigates the disappearance of powerful witches. Along the way, she joins forces with Coren, an elf carrying burdens of his own. Together, they uncover secrets that force both of them to confront their pasts.
One of the first things that captured my attention was the dedication. Before the story even began, I knew this book was going to hit emotionally. I genuinely recommend taking a moment to read and reflect on it as it sets the tone beautifully for what follows.
The character work is exceptional. Edith is a fascinating protagonist: a woman who has carefully built a life and family while simultaneously hiding herself from the world. She has created many walls to keep others at a distance, and watching her slowly break free from those barriers is deeply rewarding.
Coren’s arc is equally compelling. He is haunted by past actions and struggles with guilt, forgiveness, and the question of whether redemption is truly possible.
Together, their journeys create a powerful and dynamic arc between past mistakes and an uncertain future.
The writing itself is outstanding. The story begins on a smaller scale, steadily building tension and suspense with each chapter until it becomes impossible to put down. By the end, this absolutely becomes a “just one more chapter” kind of book.
Overall, a beautifully written and emotionally resonant historical fantasy with memorable characters, strong worldbuilding. I can’t wait for book 2 to be out.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Jessi, the author, for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for my honest opinion! Rated 4.75 stars, rounded up.
This book. This book had so many "ingredients" that I loved. The setting, the writing style, the plot, the characters, the mystery, the suspension... I ate it all up!
I don't know what it is about fiction set in 19th century London, but I just adore it! (This might be because I can't imagine how London must have smelled back then).
The FMC in this story, Edith, is investigating the murder of a witch and the disappearance of multiple other witches. During this investigation, she is faced with her past, her inability to truly be herself, anonymous enemies, unexpected friendship, and learning how to trust others ánd her own powers. I really loved her character, how cautious she could be, but so brave at the same time.
I wanted to cuddle Ben for being such a loyal friend. I loved the blooming friendship between Coren and Edith (honestly, we need more books where new friendships between M/F are more important than love interests). The way Jessi St. John wrote all these characters and their relationships to one another just all felt so real.
The story had me hooked from the beginning. Who was killing/abducting witches? And why? And what kind of consequences would Edith's bond with Death have? Will people find out who she is? It also made me think, what would people do for immortality? For power?
I loved how this book wrapped up most of the questions in the end, heart-breaking as it was. Leaving me with just enough breadcrumbs to be excited to also read the next book in this series!
This book. This book had so many "ingredients" that I loved. The setting, the writing style, the plot, the characters, the mystery, the suspension... I ate it all up!
I don't know what it is about fiction set in 19th century London, but I just adore it! (This might be because I can't imagine how London must have smelled back then).
The FMC in this story, Edith, is investigating the murder of a witch and the disappearance of multiple other witches. During this investigation, she is faced with her past, her inability to truly be herself, anonymous enemies, unexpected friendship, and learning how to trust others ánd her own powers. I really loved her character, how cautious she could be, but so brave at the same time.
I wanted to cuddle Ben for being such a loyal friend. I loved the blooming friendship between Coren and Edith (honestly, we need more books where new friendships between M/F are more important than love interests). The way Jessi St. John wrote all these characters and their relationships to one another just all felt so real.
The story had me hooked from the beginning. Who was killing/abducting witches? And why? And what kind of consequences would Edith's bond with Death have? Will people find out who she is? It also made me think, what would people do for immortality? For power?
I loved how this book wrapped up most of the questions in the end, heart-breaking as it was. Leaving me with just enough breadcrumbs to be excited to also read the next book in this series!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4,5 ⭐
Set in 1890's London, Edith lives in hiding as the last surviving death witch. She works as an investigator, because she can see a person's last moments of life. When she investigates the death of a witch, it exposes the disappearance of more witches. Finding out the people responsible for the disappearances also means confronting her own past.
What an amazing debut by Jessi St John! The atmosphere and world she paints is so realistic, I could walk right beside our main characters. This book is a mixture of a murder mystery and goth fantasy and I loved every minute of it. You can clearly see all the preparations and research that has gone into this book.
The author had me questioning the trustworthiness of every character, because I just knew there was someone who was going to betray us. In the end I had my suspicions on the right person and my heart broke for Edith when she found out. My heart broke for multiple reasons in those final chapters actually.
The character work is fabulous. Especially with our main characters Edith and Coren. There is real growth and maturity in them. I love our main character Edith and I can't wait to find out what all the developments in this book will mean for her. Because I definitely want to read the other books that are coming out later this year.
The only reason I am not rating this the full 5 stars is because I guessed most of the twists beforehand. I would have loved a little more surprise and jaw dropping moments, instead of an 'I knew it!'. It is a fantastic book though, I absolutely loved the writing and I will recommend this book to anybody who wants to hear me.
Set in 1890's London, Edith lives in hiding as the last surviving death witch. She works as an investigator, because she can see a person's last moments of life. When she investigates the death of a witch, it exposes the disappearance of more witches. Finding out the people responsible for the disappearances also means confronting her own past.
What an amazing debut by Jessi St John! The atmosphere and world she paints is so realistic, I could walk right beside our main characters. This book is a mixture of a murder mystery and goth fantasy and I loved every minute of it. You can clearly see all the preparations and research that has gone into this book.
The author had me questioning the trustworthiness of every character, because I just knew there was someone who was going to betray us. In the end I had my suspicions on the right person and my heart broke for Edith when she found out. My heart broke for multiple reasons in those final chapters actually.
The character work is fabulous. Especially with our main characters Edith and Coren. There is real growth and maturity in them. I love our main character Edith and I can't wait to find out what all the developments in this book will mean for her. Because I definitely want to read the other books that are coming out later this year.
The only reason I am not rating this the full 5 stars is because I guessed most of the twists beforehand. I would have loved a little more surprise and jaw dropping moments, instead of an 'I knew it!'. It is a fantastic book though, I absolutely loved the writing and I will recommend this book to anybody who wants to hear me.
Review of advance copy
The Weaver’s Loom by Jessi St. John completely wrecked me in the best possible way.
Set in 1893 London, where witches and humans exist under a fragile peace after a treaty stripped witches of their immortality, this story follows Edith Ashton, the last Death Witch alive… though the world believes she’s dead. Hiding in plain sight as an investigator, Edith uses her magic to solve murders by witnessing a victim’s final moments. But when witches begin disappearing and the past she’s buried starts resurfacing, she is forced to confront the very people responsible for wiping out her kind.
This book felt so fresh and unique. The writing was absolutely beautiful and completely pulled me in from the very first chapter. Every time I told myself “just one more chapter,” I meant it… and suddenly it was hours later.
The characters were unforgettable, especially Edith, and the mystery kept me fully invested the entire time. There was tension, emotion, and such a strong sense of atmosphere throughout the story that made it impossible to put down.
And that ending? I NEVER saw that plot twist coming. It completely wrecked me, and I loved every second of it.
This is one of those books I will be recommending to absolutely anyone who will listen. Easily a 5-star read for me and one I won’t be forgetting anytime soon. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Set in 1893 London, where witches and humans exist under a fragile peace after a treaty stripped witches of their immortality, this story follows Edith Ashton, the last Death Witch alive… though the world believes she’s dead. Hiding in plain sight as an investigator, Edith uses her magic to solve murders by witnessing a victim’s final moments. But when witches begin disappearing and the past she’s buried starts resurfacing, she is forced to confront the very people responsible for wiping out her kind.
This book felt so fresh and unique. The writing was absolutely beautiful and completely pulled me in from the very first chapter. Every time I told myself “just one more chapter,” I meant it… and suddenly it was hours later.
The characters were unforgettable, especially Edith, and the mystery kept me fully invested the entire time. There was tension, emotion, and such a strong sense of atmosphere throughout the story that made it impossible to put down.
And that ending? I NEVER saw that plot twist coming. It completely wrecked me, and I loved every second of it.
This is one of those books I will be recommending to absolutely anyone who will listen. Easily a 5-star read for me and one I won’t be forgetting anytime soon. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Review of advance copy received from Author
Wow wow wow! Top tier reading. I cannot get enough of The Weaver's Loom by Jessi St John. I genuinely could sit down and read this again from the beginning to look for those moments when you start to put two and two together and think you know what's coming.
This book had highs and lows 😭 and parts where I was kicking my heels together getting giddy! I totally get why people are comparing it to One Dark Window. It has a unique magic system which I absolutely loved, woven in to the existing world, places and timeline which makes it feel like you can relate to it and picture those places in your mind. As a UK girly I loved the references to places I know and thought the research into this was spot on. The character depth and world building was 🤌 *chefs kiss*. Not dumped in all at once at the beginning, but unravelled and interspersed when necessary, within the story.
I loved the FMC, she is not like the typical drop dead gorgeous assassin or damsel in distress which I was starting to get bored of. Instead, we have Edith, an inspector who wants to quietly do her job and blend into the background.
Definitely a 5 star read for me. Jessi St John, I am preordering every edition of your book when it comes out. It's going to be huge and I definitely want to there for the ride.
This book had highs and lows 😭 and parts where I was kicking my heels together getting giddy! I totally get why people are comparing it to One Dark Window. It has a unique magic system which I absolutely loved, woven in to the existing world, places and timeline which makes it feel like you can relate to it and picture those places in your mind. As a UK girly I loved the references to places I know and thought the research into this was spot on. The character depth and world building was 🤌 *chefs kiss*. Not dumped in all at once at the beginning, but unravelled and interspersed when necessary, within the story.
I loved the FMC, she is not like the typical drop dead gorgeous assassin or damsel in distress which I was starting to get bored of. Instead, we have Edith, an inspector who wants to quietly do her job and blend into the background.
Definitely a 5 star read for me. Jessi St John, I am preordering every edition of your book when it comes out. It's going to be huge and I definitely want to there for the ride.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ARC received by Netgalley
This book was so so so good. I flew through it, dying to know after every chapter what would happen next.
Edith is an Inspector in historical, magical London and the last witch of her kind. When a witch is found dead and others are disappearing, Edith is put on the case and everything unravels from there. (this description does not do the book justice at all, it's so much more and better than what I just said)
Jessi St. John has created a London where non magical people live together in a careful truce with witches, elves, faeries and shifters. The world building is phenomenal, from the magic system to the rich lore and history.
The mystery is enticing and it took me until the end before I figured out who was "the bad guy" despite there being crumbs laid out throughout the whole story. There is also an overarching storyline (I won't spoil) and I'm really curious to know where everything will go from there. It was all smartly done.
The side characters (and love interests?) are amazing and really add to enhance Edith's story. I still haven't forgiven the author for that ending though...
I very much enjoyed reading The Weaver's Loom and I can't wait for the next book in the series.
This book was so so so good. I flew through it, dying to know after every chapter what would happen next.
Edith is an Inspector in historical, magical London and the last witch of her kind. When a witch is found dead and others are disappearing, Edith is put on the case and everything unravels from there. (this description does not do the book justice at all, it's so much more and better than what I just said)
Jessi St. John has created a London where non magical people live together in a careful truce with witches, elves, faeries and shifters. The world building is phenomenal, from the magic system to the rich lore and history.
The mystery is enticing and it took me until the end before I figured out who was "the bad guy" despite there being crumbs laid out throughout the whole story. There is also an overarching storyline (I won't spoil) and I'm really curious to know where everything will go from there. It was all smartly done.
The side characters (and love interests?) are amazing and really add to enhance Edith's story. I still haven't forgiven the author for that ending though...
I very much enjoyed reading The Weaver's Loom and I can't wait for the next book in the series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
A murder mystery à la Sherlock, with a Penny Dreadful inspector, an Elspeth-King-Shepard-style voice in her head that's desperate to come out and play — all wrapped in Bridgerton glamour and the spy-and-lies tension of Heartless Hunter meets A Discovery of Witches... yeah I think I got it all 🤩Who can say no to this cocktail!!
I did not expect to get this obsessed. The story is so layered — I couldn't put it down because I genuinely needed to know. Who is behind all of this? When is she finally going to step into her own power? Who can she actually trust? The mystery pulled me forward the whole time and I stayed up way too late for those last 100 pages.
The Elspeth vibes are REAL. If you loved One Dark Window, you'll feel that same energy here — a woman with something powerful living inside her that she's been told her whole life to keep buried. But what I love most about Edith's version of it is that Death isn't her enemy. Death is her power. She controls it. She works with it. That's genuinely kick-ass and I wasn't prepared for how much I'd love that detail.
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A murder mystery à la Sherlock, with a Penny Dreadful inspector, an Elspeth-King-Shepard-style voice in her head that's desperate to come out and play — all wrapped in Bridgerton glamour and the spy-and-lies tension of Heartless Hunter meets A Discovery of Witches... yeah I think I got it all 🤩Who can say no to this cocktail!!
I did not expect to get this obsessed. The story is so layered — I couldn't put it down because I genuinely needed to know. Who is behind all of this? When is she finally going to step into her own power? Who can she actually trust? The mystery pulled me forward the whole time and I stayed up way too late for those last 100 pages.
The Elspeth vibes are REAL. If you loved One Dark Window, you'll feel that same energy here — a woman with something powerful living inside her that she's been told her whole life to keep buried. But what I love most about Edith's version of it is that Death isn't her enemy. Death is her power. She controls it. She works with it. That's genuinely kick-ass and I wasn't prepared for how much I'd love that detail.
ARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
🧵 ARC REVIEW 💫
Holy Weaver…. 👀 🤯Whaaaaaaaaaaa…..oh my. This was an ✨amazing✨ debut novel by Jessi St John! A perfect mix of fantasy/mystery/witches/1890s London with a dash of slowwww burn romance *chefs kiss* 💋 some bigggg feels 🥹 Edith gives off some MAJOR Captain Olivia Benson vibes 💪🏼✨ she is such a BA 💁🏻♀️🖤
🖤 Release Date: June 1, 2026 🔮
📚I cannot WAIT for book 2!!! This one absolutely should be added to your TBR list! 😍🤩
A few of my favorite quotes…
🖤 “Be bigger than your fears, Edith…”
”…the world is full of people who are afraid but act anyway.”
✨ “It isn’t either/or; our kind simply believe there is an ‘in addition to’ if you will…” “…but not everything in life had to be black or white; he could be a friend to her and still have loyalties somewhere else.”
💪🏼 “You seem to be mistaking me, —-, for someone who needs a male’s permission or allowance to do my job.”
💁🏻♀️ “She was the daughter of fierce witches, females honoured and feared for their power.”
Holy Weaver…. 👀 🤯Whaaaaaaaaaaa…..oh my. This was an ✨amazing✨ debut novel by Jessi St John! A perfect mix of fantasy/mystery/witches/1890s London with a dash of slowwww burn romance *chefs kiss* 💋 some bigggg feels 🥹 Edith gives off some MAJOR Captain Olivia Benson vibes 💪🏼✨ she is such a BA 💁🏻♀️🖤
🖤 Release Date: June 1, 2026 🔮
📚I cannot WAIT for book 2!!! This one absolutely should be added to your TBR list! 😍🤩
A few of my favorite quotes…
🖤 “Be bigger than your fears, Edith…”
”…the world is full of people who are afraid but act anyway.”
✨ “It isn’t either/or; our kind simply believe there is an ‘in addition to’ if you will…” “…but not everything in life had to be black or white; he could be a friend to her and still have loyalties somewhere else.”
💪🏼 “You seem to be mistaking me, —-, for someone who needs a male’s permission or allowance to do my job.”
💁🏻♀️ “She was the daughter of fierce witches, females honoured and feared for their power.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into The Weaver’s Loom by Jessi St John curious… and came out of it fully invested.
From the very beginning, there’s this pull — the kind that makes you feel like something bigger is coming, and you just have to keep reading to figure it out. And it delivers on that tension. There’s a constant sense of unease, like the story is quietly building toward something you won’t be able to look away from.
And then… the ending.
WHAT??
I’m not even exaggerating when I say it left me reeling. The kind of ending that makes you sit there for a second and just process what you’ve read. I need to know where this goes next.
Character-wise, I’m firmly team Roswick — no hesitation. The dynamics in this book (especially the betrayal 👀) added so much to the tension. I had my suspicions… but I still loved seeing it unfold.
This is one of those stories that keeps you hooked on the promise of what’s coming, and I’m genuinely excited to see how it all develops in the next book.
From the very beginning, there’s this pull — the kind that makes you feel like something bigger is coming, and you just have to keep reading to figure it out. And it delivers on that tension. There’s a constant sense of unease, like the story is quietly building toward something you won’t be able to look away from.
And then… the ending.
WHAT??
I’m not even exaggerating when I say it left me reeling. The kind of ending that makes you sit there for a second and just process what you’ve read. I need to know where this goes next.
Character-wise, I’m firmly team Roswick — no hesitation. The dynamics in this book (especially the betrayal 👀) added so much to the tension. I had my suspicions… but I still loved seeing it unfold.
This is one of those stories that keeps you hooked on the promise of what’s coming, and I’m genuinely excited to see how it all develops in the next book.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Weaver's Loom was everything I imagined and more! It had amazing characters, a unique plot and well-developed characters written in a way to make you love them. The story itself was very interesting; the concept of death witches, while not new, was executed in such an intriguing way that made me want to continue reading until the end.
Edith's character is everything you want in a FMC; she's a good investigator, loves her job, is highly decisive, kills when needed and when handed power, doesn't run away from it. Blackwood and Roswick are both interesting characters and I can't wait to read more about them.
And the ending?!?!?! You're telling me THAT was the ending and I now have to wait sooo long before getting the second book! That's torture.
Thankyou to the author for the advanced reader copy, and I can't wait for the book to release so everyone get's to see just how good it is. A definite recommendation!
Edith's character is everything you want in a FMC; she's a good investigator, loves her job, is highly decisive, kills when needed and when handed power, doesn't run away from it. Blackwood and Roswick are both interesting characters and I can't wait to read more about them.
And the ending?!?!?! You're telling me THAT was the ending and I now have to wait sooo long before getting the second book! That's torture.
Thankyou to the author for the advanced reader copy, and I can't wait for the book to release so everyone get's to see just how good it is. A definite recommendation!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Set in historical London and layered with magic, mystery and danger, this book drew me in from the very beginning.
What stood out most was the author’s immersive and descriptive writing style, which perfectly captured the tone and atmosphere of the time period. The world-building was lush and I loved the blend of history and fantasy which made the world feel fresh.
In a world where witches live uneasily alongside humans, Edith, our FMC, works as an inspector for the First Council, using her magic to solve murders while concealing her true identity in plain sight. She’s intelligent, witty and resilient, shaped by a difficult past and the secret she must protect at all costs.
I wasn’t as drawn to the male characters, though there’s clear potential for further development, which may be why the ending didn’t hit quite as strongly as it could have.
Overall, this is a beautifully written story and I’m excited to see where book 2 takes us.
What stood out most was the author’s immersive and descriptive writing style, which perfectly captured the tone and atmosphere of the time period. The world-building was lush and I loved the blend of history and fantasy which made the world feel fresh.
In a world where witches live uneasily alongside humans, Edith, our FMC, works as an inspector for the First Council, using her magic to solve murders while concealing her true identity in plain sight. She’s intelligent, witty and resilient, shaped by a difficult past and the secret she must protect at all costs.
I wasn’t as drawn to the male characters, though there’s clear potential for further development, which may be why the ending didn’t hit quite as strongly as it could have.
Overall, this is a beautifully written story and I’m excited to see where book 2 takes us.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨ARC review✨
I am not normally a fan of historical novels, I’ve tried multiple genres and authors and I thought it wasn’t for me. That was until I read The Weaver’s Loom! Almost from page one I was hooked.
You follow Edith, a witch and investigator for magical kind in late 1800s London. She takes no shit as she uses her magic to help solve crime. When the most powerful witches in London start going missing one by one, Edith is assigned the case and has to work with other magical beings, even at great danger to herself.
The writing of the story is so immersive and descriptive and fully draws you in. You feel connected to the world and characters because the writing brings the world and characters to life!
Books 2 and 3 can’t arrive fast enough!!
If you like historical fiction, murder mysteries, and witchy goodness - you will absolutely love this!
I am not normally a fan of historical novels, I’ve tried multiple genres and authors and I thought it wasn’t for me. That was until I read The Weaver’s Loom! Almost from page one I was hooked.
You follow Edith, a witch and investigator for magical kind in late 1800s London. She takes no shit as she uses her magic to help solve crime. When the most powerful witches in London start going missing one by one, Edith is assigned the case and has to work with other magical beings, even at great danger to herself.
The writing of the story is so immersive and descriptive and fully draws you in. You feel connected to the world and characters because the writing brings the world and characters to life!
Books 2 and 3 can’t arrive fast enough!!
If you like historical fiction, murder mysteries, and witchy goodness - you will absolutely love this!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
I was lucky to have been provided an ARC copy of this book, all thoughts and opinions are my own!
This book was so good. I normally don't vibe with historical literature, but if you add witches, magic and a murder mystery it turns into a masterpiece!
I'm very much a vibes reader and this had all the vibes, it was a little spooky, mysterious, captivating, and had me hooked from the beginning.
Edith, the FMC is a firecracker. She really comes into herself and her powers as being the last remaining Death Witch after the rest got brutally eradicated. She's smart, and witty and fiercely loyal to one's she loves
The side characters all had depth and became quick favorites of mine! I don't know if I would call it a found family, but definitely found friendships.
The real kicker was the ending. I did NOT see some of those twists coming! I was left devastated and heartbroken for Edith, but also hopeful for a better future for her.
I cannot wait for book 2!
This book was so good. I normally don't vibe with historical literature, but if you add witches, magic and a murder mystery it turns into a masterpiece!
I'm very much a vibes reader and this had all the vibes, it was a little spooky, mysterious, captivating, and had me hooked from the beginning.
Edith, the FMC is a firecracker. She really comes into herself and her powers as being the last remaining Death Witch after the rest got brutally eradicated. She's smart, and witty and fiercely loyal to one's she loves
The side characters all had depth and became quick favorites of mine! I don't know if I would call it a found family, but definitely found friendships.
The real kicker was the ending. I did NOT see some of those twists coming! I was left devastated and heartbroken for Edith, but also hopeful for a better future for her.
I cannot wait for book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
That last half of the book had me so enthralled. It took me a while to get used to her style of writing and learn who was who at the beginning but it was worth it. The world building and linking events needed to be carefully laid down for that ending to be so high stakes and I cannot wait to read Book 2 to know what happens next.
Witches. Mystery. Suspense in 1890s London. Edith is the last of her kind and she is smart, strong and exactly the type of FMC that I adore to read about. It gave me The Crimson Moth vibes :) The magic system and following Edith’s detective work while the truth unravelled was so well done.
I didn’t feel the romance or tension with the love interests which would’ve made the story even better. But maybe that will be the explored in the next book 🙏
Thank you for the ARC that the author kindly shared via Insta. All opinions are my own
Witches. Mystery. Suspense in 1890s London. Edith is the last of her kind and she is smart, strong and exactly the type of FMC that I adore to read about. It gave me The Crimson Moth vibes :) The magic system and following Edith’s detective work while the truth unravelled was so well done.
I didn’t feel the romance or tension with the love interests which would’ve made the story even better. But maybe that will be the explored in the next book 🙏
Thank you for the ARC that the author kindly shared via Insta. All opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from Author
WHAAAAAAAAAT A GREAT BOOK!!
Edith is a death witch, and the last of her kind. She hides in plain sight working as an Inspector helping to solve murders by viewing the final memories of the deceased. When powerful witches start going missing, she must work with others to find them before it’s too late, while also keeping her secret safe.
The writing is atmospheric and immersive. You really feel like you’re walking around in 1890s London. Historical fiction meets fantasy meets witchy murder mystery meets this refreshing novel.
I was DELIGHTED by how descriptive the world was, and how cleverly the characters were presented. I cannot wait for book two in this series, and highly recommend this to anyone that wants a refreshing reprieve from their usual romantasy reads.
Edith is a death witch, and the last of her kind. She hides in plain sight working as an Inspector helping to solve murders by viewing the final memories of the deceased. When powerful witches start going missing, she must work with others to find them before it’s too late, while also keeping her secret safe.
The writing is atmospheric and immersive. You really feel like you’re walking around in 1890s London. Historical fiction meets fantasy meets witchy murder mystery meets this refreshing novel.
I was DELIGHTED by how descriptive the world was, and how cleverly the characters were presented. I cannot wait for book two in this series, and highly recommend this to anyone that wants a refreshing reprieve from their usual romantasy reads.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The first thing I have to say is WOW‼️I can't believe this is a debut novel. Within the first few pages I was hooked and immersed into foggy Victorian England and the layers of mysteries we navigate through in this wonderful historical fantasy.
Our FMC Edith is a witch and an Inspector for the First Council who uses her magic to solve crime. Edith is an absolute delight. She is smart, resilient, witty, and deeply kind and her magic is stronger than anyone can begin to guess. She also happens to find herself in the company of more than one dashing male who finds her rather capitavting. We shall have to see where that goes in book 2....
“You must be able to claim your piece of Earth, and stand in it proudly for all you are worth, child.”
Our FMC Edith is a witch and an Inspector for the First Council who uses her magic to solve crime. Edith is an absolute delight. She is smart, resilient, witty, and deeply kind and her magic is stronger than anyone can begin to guess. She also happens to find herself in the company of more than one dashing male who finds her rather capitavting. We shall have to see where that goes in book 2....
“You must be able to claim your piece of Earth, and stand in it proudly for all you are worth, child.”
Review of advance copy received from Author
If you could bake the cinnamony feeling of fall into a book, this is it-perfect amount of secrets and darkness balanced by cozy goodness.
I loved the magic system - the variability it gave to each character and how that lended to the plot.
I loved the slow reveal of the FMC’s family history and how those secrets became central to the plot as the reader discovered them. I also found the protective nature/near fighting over the FMC between the rest of her group to be delightful-like a gothic sitcom.
I felt the ending to the mystery part of the story was in some ways predictable once the mystery was “solved” however the tragedy and character twist at the end made up for it. So now I’m eagerly awaiting book 2!
I loved the magic system - the variability it gave to each character and how that lended to the plot.
I loved the slow reveal of the FMC’s family history and how those secrets became central to the plot as the reader discovered them. I also found the protective nature/near fighting over the FMC between the rest of her group to be delightful-like a gothic sitcom.
I felt the ending to the mystery part of the story was in some ways predictable once the mystery was “solved” however the tragedy and character twist at the end made up for it. So now I’m eagerly awaiting book 2!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Seriously??? This cannot be a debut novel!
I loved everything about The Weavers Loom. It had mystery, intrigue, secrets, witches and humans. Elves, fae, shifters. If you have watched Miss Scarlet and The Duke, then combine that with Penny Dreadful.
This is the first book in a series (trilogy?) With the next book coming out in August. And thank goodness we do not have to wait long as the ending (while wrapped up many questions) created so many more.
Thank you to the author for the eARC. This review is my own opinions.
I loved everything about The Weavers Loom. It had mystery, intrigue, secrets, witches and humans. Elves, fae, shifters. If you have watched Miss Scarlet and The Duke, then combine that with Penny Dreadful.
This is the first book in a series (trilogy?) With the next book coming out in August. And thank goodness we do not have to wait long as the ending (while wrapped up many questions) created so many more.
Thank you to the author for the eARC. This review is my own opinions.
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