The bitter sting of betrayal is known to fade with time, yet in the secret witch community of Wistoria, it has formed a monster bent on destroying them all.
Welcome to Wistoria Summer Camp We are excited for you to join us for a magical summer at Wistoria, a sleepaway camp run by witches! Enjoy canoe racing, specialty s'mores, and ghost stories. Please note, our lifeguards, Maddie and Jaxon, have asked campers not to venture too deep into the water so as not to disturb the "lake monster."
Maddie wants nothing more than a carefree summer working the lifeguard tower at Wistoria’s camp and the freedom to practice her newly-emerged powers. Those plans are shattered when Jaxon strolls back into her life after ghosting her all school year. As the two rekindle their friendship, Maddie can’t help but wonder how much trouble Jaxon is in. While he puts on a casual front, Maddie knows him better than anyone and is determined to uphold her best friend duties by digging up all Jaxon’s secrets to save him from pending disaster.
With the help of their new friends, Brandon, a nosy shapeshifting camper, and Lana, a cursed vampire, the four teens form an alliance to stop the twisted evil that's seeking revenge on the mountainside coven of Wistoria.
My writing journey began at the age of fifteen. I have self-published three YA/NA contemporary and fantasy books, and Wistoria is my fourth complete book. I currently live in San Diego with my husband and our two fur babies. I am always excited to hop on a plane, love lounging by the pool with my prized possession—Kindi the Kindle—and am currently in my fantasy book era!
This book gripped me in a ironic clad hold almost instantly! I quickly became obsessed with the magical town of Wistoria. The way the witches individual powers manifested and must be strengthened and developed fascinated me.
The shifter lore and how their shifter forms came to exist were unique and compelling. And the bloodthirsty vampires and the way they struggled to grow their family literally had my jaw dropping.
This story was part nostalgic summer camp coming age of vibes, and had me aching for summer movie nights with my friends as a teenager. But the deeper themes of the pull of dark magic and holding on to hope and light even when the odds are totally stacked against you, are what had me turning pages as fast as my fingers could manage, and staying up entirely too late rooting for our favorite friend group to be triumphant.
I cannot wait to re-enter this mystical, addicting world in book two, and eagerly await my next journey into the amazing adventure this author’s insane talent will gift us.
Courtney Martin has created a fan here, and potentially an annoyingly pestering one, because I need more, yesterday!
From start to finish, I was on the edge of my seat trying to figure out what was going to happen next. We’ve got shifters, vampires, witches, multiple POVs, magic, mystery—and a plot twist that absolutely blindsided me.
Every time I thought I had things figured out, the story said, “Nope. Try again.” 😭
The multiple POVs kept me invested, the supernatural elements made the world so much fun to explore, and that jaw-dropping twist? I did NOT see it coming.
If you’re looking for a summer read filled with magic, supernatural creatures, suspense, and twists that keep you guessing, add this one to your TBR immediately.
Review of advance copy received from the author. Wistoria was such a fun and engaging book to read. From the very first page, the story grabbed my attention and never let go. It definitely wasn't a slow burn, with something always happening to keep the momentum going. The main characters are fantastic and quickly became the definition of 'found family' for me. I especially loved watching them develop their powers and abilities while remaining so supportive of one another along the way. The prose was easy to read and flowed nicely, making it a quick and enjoyable read. Overall, this book just had a great vibe, and I highly recommend it!
This was adorable! As adorable as witches, vampires and shift shapers under attack can be! I loved the different POVs, it made me feel connected to each of them. Which for me, is how I define a great book. So glad the second one is out because waiting would have been the worst. This book is creative, fast paced and sucks you right in!
I had so much fun with Wistoria and the Transit of Venus! To me, this was fast-paced, magical, and a bit chaotic (in a good way).
The summer camp setting mixed with witches, vampires, shifters, ghosts, and dark magic made this an interesting premise. There was always something happening! This book had such a fun combination of cozy summer vibes and darker paranormal danger. One minute you’re at summer camp with friends and the next you’re dealing with rogue witches and forbidden magic. It kept me entertained the entire time.
I also really enjoyed the multiple POVs because it gave each character their own personality and let me connect with the whole group instead of just one person.
The friendships were probably my favorite part. I loved reading about this unexpected group coming together, especially as the danger started getting more serious. The banter, secrets, different personalities, and little relationship moments made them feel like a group I genuinely wanted to hang out with. And Brandon definitely stole a few scenes for me (my favorite character). 😂
I also loved that there’s a touch of romance without it taking over the story. The Jax and Brandon dynamic was adorable and I was absolutely here for it. 🥹
Tropes + atmosphere: YA paranormal fantasy Cozy town vibes Forbidden magic Found family MM romance subplot Grumpy x sunshine Banter Hidden identity
This book is perfect to end your summer and begin spooky season with! So if you love YA paranormal fantasy, summer camp settings, found family, supernatural creatures, multiple POVs, and fun banter then definitely add this one to your TBR.
This book was a solid 3.5 ⭐️ read for me. I’d describe this story as a YA teen paranormal mystery romance. This book has multi-POVs between the four main teens (Jax, Maddie, Brandon, and Lana), and one for Julia.
This book has gay, bi, and asexual representation.
I enjoyed the characters, especially Brandon. He was funny and brought comic relief. I felt bad for Jax and his battle with dark magic. The friendship connections and loyalty between the four main teens were sweet but felt abrupt. I wanted more info on the motivations of the main antagonist, Roy. I really liked Julia’s chapter!
The plot was medium paced with several fast paced action scenes in the last 10% of the story. The writing had several occurrences of telling instead of showing, which caused a lot of the information to be given through paragraphs of internal monologue.
The world building was good in explaining the magic systems of each magical creature. The book spent a good amount of time building up the summer camp, but most of the action in the story occurred elsewhere, making the camp a background location. I wanted more info on the occurrence of the transit of Venus, its impacts overall, and the history of the town.
No on page spice, only steam 🍏.
There are some dark events in this book involving magical shmurder 💀
Overall, this book has the witchy vibes I was hoping for and I’d try another book by this author.
This was such a cute summer read! Filled with magic, lovable characters, and multiple POVs that kept the story engaging, it was an easy book to get swept up in. This book never lets you catch a break because there's always something happening. The fast paced plot kept me engaged from start to finish, and Maddie was absolutely adorable. I loved following everyone's journey. Brandon was hands down my favorite character! A fun, entertaining YA fantasy that's perfect for summer reading.
I’d truly recommend this book to anyone. It has characters you want to succeed, is fast paced and easy to follow, truly anything you’d want in a summer read.
This book hooked me from the very first page and never let go. Filled with vampires, witches, shifters, dark magic, betrayal, action, and so much more, it made for an absolutely enthralling read. The author has an incredible talent for drawing readers in and immersing them completely in the story. Although it’s categorized as young adult, it didn’t feel that way to me. The pacing was fast, the plot was captivating, and I found it to be a fantastic read from beginning to end.
Thank you for the amazing representation of the ace community, not too many books have characters that identify as such.
This book is the perfect Summerween read from the paranormal to the camp setting by the lake. You fall in love with each main character and get to watch their love for each other grow. This book has you guessing what will happen next or who will get with who. I really enjoyed this book and I really care for the author, so please give this novel a shot🫡💕
This was such a fun YA fantasy! ✨ Wistoria and the Transit of Venus pulled me in with its magical summer-camp setting, secret witch community, supernatural elements, and a group of teens who find themselves caught up in something much bigger than they expected.
I loved Maddie as a protagonist. She’s loyal, determined, and fiercely protective of the people she cares about. When Jaxon suddenly comes back into her life after essentially ghosting her all school year, Maddie knows something isn’t right—and of course, she can’t just leave it alone. Watching her uncover his secrets and try to figure out how to help him made for an engaging storyline.
The friendship and found-family aspects were another favorite. Maddie, Jaxon, Brandon, and Lana make such an interesting group, and I loved seeing their personalities and abilities come together as they worked to protect their community.
The magical world Courtney Martin created is imaginative and atmospheric, and I especially enjoyed the mix of witches, shapeshifters, vampires, friendship, mystery, and romance. It has that perfect YA feeling of characters discovering who they are while navigating complicated relationships and a threat they never saw coming.
Overall, this was a 5-star YA fantasy for me—magical, entertaining, and filled with characters I genuinely enjoyed spending time with.
This book captured my interest from the absolute beginning! I started this book and did not want to put it down!
When you look at the cover of the book, you think it’s going to be a very cute and fun read, but the second you start reading it, the shock of where this book is going to take you hits! Wistoria has such an amazing fantasy theme that also throws in a sense of coming-of-age. You follow multiple characters on this journey at summer camp but while you’re enjoying this cute and fun story, the twists and plot has you needing more!
I often have a hard time, reading stories about characters that are younger than I am, but every character in this book was extremely relatable! You can understand their struggles and where they are coming from!
BUT….be prepared because the end of this book had me screaming at the book while reading it!! So make you grab book 2 because you’ll need it!
Wistoria and the Transit of Venus feels like the last golden weeks of summer wrapped in magic, campfires crackling beneath constellations, whispered secrets in cabin bunks long after curfew. Witches, vampires, shifters, and ghosts are woven together into a world that feels chaotic in the gentlest way possible. Cozy despite the danger. Tender despite the monsters.
What stayed with me most was the friendship at the center of it all. The kind that feels fierce and fragile at the same time. The kind forged in late-night confessions, shared fears, and choosing each other again and again even when things begin to unravel.
And that ending. It closes the story just enough to leave you breathless and satisfied, while quietly opening a door to something darker waiting on the other side. The kind of ending that makes you stare at the ceiling afterward knowing the story is not finished with you yet.
I really enjoyed Wistoria! The mix of witches, shifters, and vampires made the world feel fun and engaging, and I loved getting to know all the different characters.
Jaxon, Brandon, Maddie, and Lana were great together as they worked to save the coven from black magic. The story had a nice balance of action, friendship, and supernatural intrigue. One of my favorite parts was Julie and her time-travel abilities, which added an extra layer of excitement to the plot. And just when everything seemed hopeless, a side character I had almost forgotten about showed up to help save the day. It was a twist I didn't see coming but really enjoyed.
The only reason this wasn't a full 5 stars for me is that I wanted a little more depth in a few areas. Overall, though, it was a fun paranormal fantasy with plenty of magic, danger, and teamwork, and I'd definitely recommend it.
Absolutely loved this story. I’m not much of a fantasy reader, but this one? Chefs kiss!! Witches, vampires, shifters, ghosts, it had it all. There were multiple pov’s that had me wondering what was going to happen next so I needed to keep reading.
Maddie and Jax are lifeguards at Wostoria’s summer camp. Maddie and Jax are in high school and once they get their special magical gifts, they have a year to strengthen their power. While there, they meet a boy named Brandon and they become fast friends. Someone has a secret that needs to be decided if it can be shared with their friends to be able to save the town. I’m so excited to read the next book when it’s available. I HAVE to know what happens.
Wistoria is my new favorite fantasy world! You’ve got witches, shifters, AND vampires?! All that and a bag of chips! 🤩 what a fun & Wild journey I just went on. The ambiguous ending stressed me out but at least I had fun along the way right? 😅
This has witches, shifters, vampires, ghosts, and humans! This was a fun mystery that takes place in small town Wistoria. The characters are loveable and eccentric with witty humor. I really enjoyed the storyline and am excited for book 2!
4.5 - if you’re a strictly fantasy girly but want to enjoy a summer read this season, I HIGHLY recommend this book!
It starts off with 2 friends who work at a summer camp for witches every year. They befriend a shifter, who I was hesitant to trust at first, but their friendship makes you fall in love with this book. The multiple POVs allow you to grow a connection with all the characters. Warnings of witches practicing dark magic have the witches, shifters, and vampires coming together to stop it. This was a little darker than anticipated for YA, but it made me love the story that much more. I LOVED the fast paced ending and Julie coming into play as well as the clever teleportation. You’re left on a little bit of a cliffhanger, but don’t worry, book 2 will be coming soon!
Summer camp, witches, shifters, vampires, and magic! This book was an absolute fun summer read. It captured my attention right away and didn’t let go! The characters are relatable and the banter is top notch. Courtney Martin’s writing is easy to read and leaves you wanting more. If you’re looking for a fun, exciting, YA paranormal mystery, stop right here and check out this book!!!!
PERFECT SUMMER READ! I read this book in a total of four separate sittings, which for me, is really fast! The characters were incredibly lovable! The plot was riveting and it came full circle while still leaving us a delicious little cliff hanger! The characters and the magic system are so clever and well thought out you’ll fall in love with it all! If you like witches, vampires and a sprinkle of dark vibes with a summery old town/camp setting, Wistoria is THE book!
What.The.F*ck? I was shocked by how dark this story was at times. However, Brandon is my favorite. I love his flirty, optimistic banter. How the four main characters became friends shows any obstacle can be overcome. But the ending? Ughhhhh!!! I need book 2... NOW!
ARC Review - Great cast of characters who are well developed personalities. The story features witches, shapeshifters, and vampires, who all bring their own magical abilities and strengths, however, the character's personalities, evil, virtuous, and everything in between really brings the story to life in a relatable way. Each having their own issues that create tension but also add to the strength of the group they're working with. The allegiance of unlikely allies for a common goal makes for intriguing situations. I also enjoyed the vibrant settings that helped to bring the story to life. The cliffhanger ending left me eagerly awaiting the next book. I always appreciate books with sequels when I bond with characters and want to spend more time with them.
Perfection! YA Fantasy You are a witch living in a town with all the other witches. People caught practicing dark magic are taken care of, but when escapes. Your best friend disappears and come back changed. How do you help him? How do you help your town when the dark magic users come for you? Absolutely an amazing read, packed full of twists and turns
This was an absolutely perfect summerween read! All of the characters were amazing! All of them had very different personalities and all felt really fleshed out. This book was so funny it had me actually laughing out loud. The plot was super fast paced and I was never bored! The magical aspects were done very very well. It was so detailed, I love the descriptions of using magical for mundane things. I do not have a singular complaint about this book!! I loved it so much and I cannot wait for book two!!!!
I don’t usually gravitate toward themed reads summer, cozy winter, holiday books but this was such a fun Summerween story!
You follow four reluctant allies from different magical backgrounds…
shifters, vampires, and witches as they work together to save the town of Wistoria. The storyline was engaging that it was hard to put down.
The characters were the real highlight for me. Their banter and personalities kept me hooked because you never knew what they were going to say or do next.
Between trying to save Wistoria, uncovering mystery after mystery, and keeping up with being on life guard duties and the sunscreen guy there was always something happening. It was such an entertaining read!
Really enjoyed that you also get POVs from multiple characters.
I’m already counting down to book two. I can’t wait to see how much Maddie grows and what kind of shenanigans Brandon gets himself into next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Wistoria and the Transit of Venus is the first in a duology and is full of witches, shapeshifters, and vampires. During summer camp in the mountainous town of Wistoria, an unexpecting group must join together to defeat the witches who aim to take over their home with forbidden, dark magic. If you’re looking for an entertaining and exciting book with excellent banter, strong friendships, and whimsical vibes, this is the book for you! Each character is distinct, and this comes through their quirks, thoughts, and reactions. Some characters are calm and easy-going while others are spicy and salty and full of sass. There is also a splash of queer romance, which is a great element in the story and balances the stresses that one character in particular must endure. From the first page, you are welcomed with a compelling introduction that reveals the corrupt group of rogue witches, then you’re brought into the adorable town of Wistoria.
Get your sunscreen, pack your favorite snacks, memorize a couple protection spells, and watch out for bity vampires! If you love fast-paced, exciting YA books with paranormal elements and entertaining banter, this book is for you!
Want to know what it feels like to be completely possessed by a ghost? Or to experience the passion that unsheathes your vampire fangs? Or to focus your inner witch to discharge your own unique magic? Or to cast off your human form for the ferocity of your wolf speed, or the freedom of your eagle flight?
Now imagine that you are also emerging from late teen to early adulthood with close friends who have their own supernatural gifts and who, like you, are determined to overcome the darkness and evil being perpetrated on your beloved town.
If you love FEELING the mystical and mysterious side of the young adult imagination, then you will love this book.
But be careful! Who knows what magic it will unlock in YOU?
I picked this book up as part of my Indie Author Reading Club and while I am a mood reader and wasn't entirely devoted to reading a paranormal book, Wistoria quickly captured my attention and it was a fun read.
The story is a cozy paranormal mystery that blends classic summer camp nostalgia with spooky coven intrigue.
The story follows Maddie, whose quiet summer lifeguarding and testing her newly awakened magic is derailed when her childhood best friend, Jaxon, reappears after a year of ghosting her. When Jaxon's dangerous secrets collide with an ancient threat targeting the camp, Maddie teams up with a nosy shapeshifter and a dry-witted, cursed vampire to unravel the mystery.
While the story takes a few chapters to move past routine camp life and build momentum, the sparkling banter and messy found-family dynamics make the slower moments fly by. Warm, slightly eerie, and rooted in genuine emotional stakes, it’s a quick, heartfelt weekend read for fans of supernatural mysteries.