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Witherward #1
Witherward
Welcome to the Witherward, and to a London that is not quite like our own. Here, it’s summertime in February, the Underground is a cavern of wonders and magic fills the streets. But this London is a city divided, split between six rival magical factions, each with their own extraordinary talents – and the alpha of the Changelings, Gedeon Ravenswood, has gone rogue, threatening the fragile accords that have held London together for decades.
Ilsa is a shapeshifting Changeling who has spent the first 17 years of her life marooned in the wrong London, where real magic is reviled as the devil’s work. Abandoned at birth, she has scratched out a living first as a pickpocket and then as a stage magician’s assistant, dazzling audiences by secretly using her Changeling talents to perform impossible illusions. When she’s dragged through a portal into the Witherward, Ilsa finally feels like she belongs.
But her new home is on the brink of civil war, and Ilsa is pulled into the fray. The only way to save London is to track down Gedeon, and he just so happens to be Ilsa’s long-lost brother, one of the last surviving members of the family who stranded her in the wrong world. Beset by enemies on all sides, surrounded by supposed Changeling allies wearing faces that may not be their own, Ilsa must use all the tricks up her sleeve simply to stay alive.
SIX OF CROWS meets THE PRESTIGE in a debut YA/crossover fantasy set in an alternate Victorian London, perfect for fans of V.E. Schwab.
Ilsa is a shapeshifting Changeling who has spent the first 17 years of her life marooned in the wrong London, where real magic is reviled as the devil’s work. Abandoned at birth, she has scratched out a living first as a pickpocket and then as a stage magician’s assistant, dazzling audiences by secretly using her Changeling talents to perform impossible illusions. When she’s dragged through a portal into the Witherward, Ilsa finally feels like she belongs.
But her new home is on the brink of civil war, and Ilsa is pulled into the fray. The only way to save London is to track down Gedeon, and he just so happens to be Ilsa’s long-lost brother, one of the last surviving members of the family who stranded her in the wrong world. Beset by enemies on all sides, surrounded by supposed Changeling allies wearing faces that may not be their own, Ilsa must use all the tricks up her sleeve simply to stay alive.
SIX OF CROWS meets THE PRESTIGE in a debut YA/crossover fantasy set in an alternate Victorian London, perfect for fans of V.E. Schwab.
524 pages, Paperback
First published February 16, 2021
138 people are currently reading
11858 people want to read
About the author
Hannah Mathewson
6 books177 followersHannah Mathewson was born in Cambridge, UK. Her untamed creative streak led her through acting, music, drawing, and a decade-long desire to make films, before she narrowed in on writing in her teens.
She studied Film and Television at the University of East Anglia, and worked in various jobs in cinemas, libraries, and archives while pursuing writing. She currently lives in Oxfordshire.
She studied Film and Television at the University of East Anglia, and worked in various jobs in cinemas, libraries, and archives while pursuing writing. She currently lives in Oxfordshire.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 297 reviews
January 22, 2021
STOP WHAT YOU'RE DOING AND READ THIS BOOK!
This insanely amazing book is the reason I haven't slept the last few days. I was unable to put it down and so I've been awake until the run rises reading, but honestly, the lack of sleep was totally worth it!
I truly loved every aspect of this read, and I wish I could give it more than five stars.
The world building was explained incredibly well, and even though it was similar to the world in ADSOM, I loved hearing how the author took it in her own direction.
I was impressed with how the author created such distinct character voices and personalities for each of the main group. Ilsa was without a doubt a fantastic lead, who constantly pulled the story forward and always kept things interesting.
I can honestly say this is the best storyline I've come across in a VERY long time! Often I see plot twists coming, but this book was phenomenal at surprising me at every turn. I NEED book 2 immediately!
Overall, I am so happy that I read this book and I'm very thankful to the publishers for sending me a copy. This book is out in February and I cannot recommend reading it enough. If you enjoy books like A Darker Shade of Magic, City of Bones or The Girl at Midnight, then I think you'll love this read as much as I do.
This insanely amazing book is the reason I haven't slept the last few days. I was unable to put it down and so I've been awake until the run rises reading, but honestly, the lack of sleep was totally worth it!
I truly loved every aspect of this read, and I wish I could give it more than five stars.
The world building was explained incredibly well, and even though it was similar to the world in ADSOM, I loved hearing how the author took it in her own direction.
I was impressed with how the author created such distinct character voices and personalities for each of the main group. Ilsa was without a doubt a fantastic lead, who constantly pulled the story forward and always kept things interesting.
I can honestly say this is the best storyline I've come across in a VERY long time! Often I see plot twists coming, but this book was phenomenal at surprising me at every turn. I NEED book 2 immediately!
Overall, I am so happy that I read this book and I'm very thankful to the publishers for sending me a copy. This book is out in February and I cannot recommend reading it enough. If you enjoy books like A Darker Shade of Magic, City of Bones or The Girl at Midnight, then I think you'll love this read as much as I do.
May 29, 2021
Jako Temnější tvář magie ve smyslu „existuje víc než jeden Londýn“ a jako Kostičas ve smyslu „ten druhý Londýn je rozdělený na teritoria ovládané různými gangy“.
Viktoriánská Anglie je plná špinavých uliček, kterými se nenápadně propletá i Ilsa, holka, co před pár lety utekla ze sirotčince a teď vybírá lidem kapsy, vystupuje jako asistentka kouzelníka v cirkuse a hledá další jako je ona. Lidi se skutečnou magií. A pak ji přepadne banda orákul s mléčnýma očima a nájemný zabiják, co občas bere i nějakou nekrvavou prácičku, ji zachrání a skrze jeden z mnoha portálů přenese do Opačna – Londýna, který je docela jiný. V únoru je tu léto, v tunelech metra to žije jako na rušných ulicích, magie je všudypřítomná. Taky je to ale Londýn, který je na pokraji války mezi jednotlivými frakcemi, jež ho mají pečlivě rozdělený. Měňavcům (Changelings) patří Camden, za King’s Cross začíná území šeptačů (Whisperers), centrum ovládají mágové (Sorcerers),… A Ilsa zjišťuje, že ji v „normálním světě“ ukryla její matka předtím, než zemřela, že patří k rodu Ravenswoodů, kteří vládnou měňavcům, a že má bratra, který je momentálně nezvěstný.
Tohle není akční záležitost, je to knížka postavená na poznávání skvěle vymyšleného světa. Je o pátrání, rozkrývání tajemství minulosti, současnosti a i budoucnosti (jsou tam ta orákula, která jsem zmiňovala). Nejsou tam velkolepé bitky a honičky (nebo je jich tam velmi málo), zato je tam kupa postav, se kterými si autorka dala dost záležet, aby měly každá svůj hlas a nezaměnitelný charakter. Atmosféru nedělají jen kulisy magického Londýna ale i jazyk. Ilsa mluví hovorově, má zvláštní skladbu slov, polyká některé slabiky, opravdu si celou dobu drží mluvu i mentalitu člověka, kterého „vychovala“ ulice. Je to holka od rány, moc se s ničím nemaže, má sice nějaké morální standardy, ale zase vodsaď pocaď. Na druhou stranu má své strachy, sny, touží po rodině a přátelích, je tam i nějaká láska.
Nemůžu říct, že bych to hltala stránku za stránkou, ono to snad ani nebylo autorčiným záměrem. Je to vychutnávačka. Bavilo mě poznávat různé druhy magie i jejich limity (hlavně ta orákula jsou hustá, jak v jednu chvíli vidí všechno, a pokud to neumí ovládat, buď z toho zcvoknou, nebo to tlumí drogami) Za půlkou jsem sice cítila, že je to už moc vybržděné a že bych byla ráda, aby se toho dělo víc, ale celkově jsem si to užila fakt hodně. Kostičas je pořád lepší, ale tohle bude mít prý jen dva díly, takže to spíš dám až do konce.
Viktoriánská Anglie je plná špinavých uliček, kterými se nenápadně propletá i Ilsa, holka, co před pár lety utekla ze sirotčince a teď vybírá lidem kapsy, vystupuje jako asistentka kouzelníka v cirkuse a hledá další jako je ona. Lidi se skutečnou magií. A pak ji přepadne banda orákul s mléčnýma očima a nájemný zabiják, co občas bere i nějakou nekrvavou prácičku, ji zachrání a skrze jeden z mnoha portálů přenese do Opačna – Londýna, který je docela jiný. V únoru je tu léto, v tunelech metra to žije jako na rušných ulicích, magie je všudypřítomná. Taky je to ale Londýn, který je na pokraji války mezi jednotlivými frakcemi, jež ho mají pečlivě rozdělený. Měňavcům (Changelings) patří Camden, za King’s Cross začíná území šeptačů (Whisperers), centrum ovládají mágové (Sorcerers),… A Ilsa zjišťuje, že ji v „normálním světě“ ukryla její matka předtím, než zemřela, že patří k rodu Ravenswoodů, kteří vládnou měňavcům, a že má bratra, který je momentálně nezvěstný.
Tohle není akční záležitost, je to knížka postavená na poznávání skvěle vymyšleného světa. Je o pátrání, rozkrývání tajemství minulosti, současnosti a i budoucnosti (jsou tam ta orákula, která jsem zmiňovala). Nejsou tam velkolepé bitky a honičky (nebo je jich tam velmi málo), zato je tam kupa postav, se kterými si autorka dala dost záležet, aby měly každá svůj hlas a nezaměnitelný charakter. Atmosféru nedělají jen kulisy magického Londýna ale i jazyk. Ilsa mluví hovorově, má zvláštní skladbu slov, polyká některé slabiky, opravdu si celou dobu drží mluvu i mentalitu člověka, kterého „vychovala“ ulice. Je to holka od rány, moc se s ničím nemaže, má sice nějaké morální standardy, ale zase vodsaď pocaď. Na druhou stranu má své strachy, sny, touží po rodině a přátelích, je tam i nějaká láska.
Nemůžu říct, že bych to hltala stránku za stránkou, ono to snad ani nebylo autorčiným záměrem. Je to vychutnávačka. Bavilo mě poznávat různé druhy magie i jejich limity (hlavně ta orákula jsou hustá, jak v jednu chvíli vidí všechno, a pokud to neumí ovládat, buď z toho zcvoknou, nebo to tlumí drogami) Za půlkou jsem sice cítila, že je to už moc vybržděné a že bych byla ráda, aby se toho dělo víc, ale celkově jsem si to užila fakt hodně. Kostičas je pořád lepší, ale tohle bude mít prý jen dva díly, takže to spíš dám až do konce.
April 11, 2021
Ilsa is a stage magician's assistant in 19th century London, a step-up from being a pick-pocket street kid and runaway from an orphanage. She also can do actual magic, changing her shape into nearly any creature or person. When she is saved from bizarre attackers and taken to an alternate London in the Witherward, she discovers she's actually the long-lost daughter of the ruling family of the Changelings, one of six magical factions that live in the alternate world.
The London of the Witherward is a dangerous place though, with most of Ilsa's family targeted for assassination. Her elder brother Gedeon, the leader of the Changeling faction has disappeared and seems to be stirring up trouble that threatens war between the factions, leaving his lieutenants in charge of his House and suspicious of each other. Ilsa's arrival in the House changes everything and stirs up even more trouble.
There's an obvious early comparison to A Darker Shade of Magic with a scrappy lower class protagonist in a historical London who goes to another world where magic exists and gets involved in the local politics. However, it quickly becomes a mystery novel with relationships within the Zoo (the headquarters of the Changeling faction) at question as well as the larger political situation across the rest of London to deal with. Ilsa thought she was an orphan with unique magical powers, and here she has literally found her family. But which of them should she trust?
The London of the Witherward is a dangerous place though, with most of Ilsa's family targeted for assassination. Her elder brother Gedeon, the leader of the Changeling faction has disappeared and seems to be stirring up trouble that threatens war between the factions, leaving his lieutenants in charge of his House and suspicious of each other. Ilsa's arrival in the House changes everything and stirs up even more trouble.
There's an obvious early comparison to A Darker Shade of Magic with a scrappy lower class protagonist in a historical London who goes to another world where magic exists and gets involved in the local politics. However, it quickly becomes a mystery novel with relationships within the Zoo (the headquarters of the Changeling faction) at question as well as the larger political situation across the rest of London to deal with. Ilsa thought she was an orphan with unique magical powers, and here she has literally found her family. But which of them should she trust?
January 16, 2025
Rating: 3.5 stars
This was an impulse buy. I liked the cover and the blurb sounded interesting. I did have reservations about the teenage protagonist - I'm not a fan of whiny, obnoxious teenagers or teenage soap-operas. But I took a chance anyway.
This novel begins with former orphanage escapee, then pick-pocket street urchin, and current stage-magician's assistant Ilsa, who is using her secret ability to change shape as part of her job. Her life gets upended when she is pursued by a group of dead-eyed assassins, and lands up being dragged through a portal into an alternate London known as the Witherward.
Mathewson has provided an intricate and intriguing, through rather vicious, alternate London for her compelling and rounded characters to play politics in. The plot involves magic, spies, assassins, charming characters of dubious intent, and political scheming within the various factions that call Witherward London their home. Ilsa has to navigate and stay alive in this new world. I appreciate that the author did not dump an insta-luv or love-triangle subplot into this story. While I wasn't thrilled with the long-lost-orphan trope, I was particularly happy when Ilsa didn't turn out to be a Mary-Sue or a know it all teenager. There is minimal hand-holding in this novel - the reader learns about Witherward London the same way Ilsa does - so some attention is needed when reading the book.
A solid and engaging young adult novel, with fascinating world building. I may have to pick up the sequel.
This was an impulse buy. I liked the cover and the blurb sounded interesting. I did have reservations about the teenage protagonist - I'm not a fan of whiny, obnoxious teenagers or teenage soap-operas. But I took a chance anyway.
This novel begins with former orphanage escapee, then pick-pocket street urchin, and current stage-magician's assistant Ilsa, who is using her secret ability to change shape as part of her job. Her life gets upended when she is pursued by a group of dead-eyed assassins, and lands up being dragged through a portal into an alternate London known as the Witherward.
Mathewson has provided an intricate and intriguing, through rather vicious, alternate London for her compelling and rounded characters to play politics in. The plot involves magic, spies, assassins, charming characters of dubious intent, and political scheming within the various factions that call Witherward London their home. Ilsa has to navigate and stay alive in this new world. I appreciate that the author did not dump an insta-luv or love-triangle subplot into this story. While I wasn't thrilled with the long-lost-orphan trope, I was particularly happy when Ilsa didn't turn out to be a Mary-Sue or a know it all teenager. There is minimal hand-holding in this novel - the reader learns about Witherward London the same way Ilsa does - so some attention is needed when reading the book.
A solid and engaging young adult novel, with fascinating world building. I may have to pick up the sequel.
July 9, 2021
Tak tohle se mi moc líbilo! Dva Londýny, jeden klasický, kde je magie dílem ďábla a druhý, ve kterém existují různé magické frakce.
V knize je hezky vystavěný svět i popsaný magický systém. Někomu to sice může připadat zdlouhavé, já si tohle ale neskutečně užívala.
Další plus dávám za vedlejší hrdiny. Autorka je neodbývá a hezky je postupně rozvíjí. Všechny charaktery se navzájem ovlivňují.
No a nakonec bych chtěla zmínit hlavní hrdinku, která mi byla sympatická! A pokud mě znáte, tak víte, že to tak většinou u YA hrdinek nemám. :-D
V knize je hezky vystavěný svět i popsaný magický systém. Někomu to sice může připadat zdlouhavé, já si tohle ale neskutečně užívala.
Další plus dávám za vedlejší hrdiny. Autorka je neodbývá a hezky je postupně rozvíjí. Všechny charaktery se navzájem ovlivňují.
No a nakonec bych chtěla zmínit hlavní hrdinku, která mi byla sympatická! A pokud mě znáte, tak víte, že to tak většinou u YA hrdinek nemám. :-D
March 31, 2022
I had to stay up past midnight to finish this! This is EVERYTHING I have been wanting to read! A paranormal historical fantasy that is set in an alternate universe. I read the back of the blurb and new it was an instant-buy, which I am so glad for because I LOVED IT!!!
The whole cast of characters are dynamic and complex, making them all fast favourites! They are one of the many highlights of this book. The MC Ilsa is not your average MC and I loved it. In particular her mannerisms and her past shaped her to be a very amusing and fierce leading protagonist. Also I have found a new book boyfriend and his name is Eliot!! I am so in love with him!! .
The world-building was entirely captivating from the get-go. Learning about all the fantastical factions that make up this alternate London was so rich and layered. Everything is so vivid that it comes to life of the pages. There are twists, and secrets, magic, hope, and heartbreak. I would compare this as a mixture of Six of Crows, meets A Darker Shade of Magic, meets Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell for reference. But this stands completely on its own.
Hannah Mathewson has crafted an unforgettable debut novel that has placed itself into a very special part of my heart. Step into the Witherward! (cue mystical hand gestures). I want book 2 (and how ever many more books to be) and I want it NOW!!!!
IG Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cbs_8hEBm...
The whole cast of characters are dynamic and complex, making them all fast favourites! They are one of the many highlights of this book. The MC Ilsa is not your average MC and I loved it. In particular her mannerisms and her past shaped her to be a very amusing and fierce leading protagonist. Also I have found a new book boyfriend and his name is Eliot!! I am so in love with him!! .
The world-building was entirely captivating from the get-go. Learning about all the fantastical factions that make up this alternate London was so rich and layered. Everything is so vivid that it comes to life of the pages. There are twists, and secrets, magic, hope, and heartbreak. I would compare this as a mixture of Six of Crows, meets A Darker Shade of Magic, meets Jonathan Strange and Mr Norrell for reference. But this stands completely on its own.
Hannah Mathewson has crafted an unforgettable debut novel that has placed itself into a very special part of my heart. Step into the Witherward! (cue mystical hand gestures). I want book 2 (and how ever many more books to be) and I want it NOW!!!!
IG Post: https://www.instagram.com/p/Cbs_8hEBm...
June 10, 2021
Reminiscent of V.E. Scwab’s Darker Side of Magic with its parallel Londons, with ours known as the Otherworld, and the other as the Witherward, this story is about an orphaned street urchin/magician’s assistant Ilsa who discovers she’s the long lost daughter of an important family in Witherward. A family who leads the Changelings (shapeshifters) who reside in one quarter of Witherward’s London. There are other magical groups: Sorcerers, Oracles, Whisperers and Wraiths, each occupying a different section of this London, and everyone is pretty much against each other, and has been for years. And there’s also a secretive Changeling-hating society, with members from different groups eager to control/eradicate the shapeshifters.
Ilsa lands in this mess, and has to puzzle out all the entanglements, arguments, alliances and stupidities, while her brother, the current Changeling leader Gedeon, is missing and everyone at headquarters, the Zoo, is upset, and under attack by the other groups
So, did I like this? Parts. I also found it super long, and my interest began flagging about halfway. I know I grew mighty sick of the how all the Zoo inhabitants were all “Gedeon’s so amazing!” Also, I know I was supposed to be equally amazed by Ilsa, whose many Otherworld skills come in handy,but I was also not enamoured with her. If the story had been shorter, I may have enjoyed this more.
Ilsa lands in this mess, and has to puzzle out all the entanglements, arguments, alliances and stupidities, while her brother, the current Changeling leader Gedeon, is missing and everyone at headquarters, the Zoo, is upset, and under attack by the other groups
So, did I like this? Parts. I also found it super long, and my interest began flagging about halfway. I know I grew mighty sick of the how all the Zoo inhabitants were all “Gedeon’s so amazing!” Also, I know I was supposed to be equally amazed by Ilsa, whose many Otherworld skills come in handy,but I was also not enamoured with her. If the story had been shorter, I may have enjoyed this more.
February 24, 2021
A very promising start to what could be a very entertaining new fantasy series. Although a little bogged down with the need to explain the world first this tale of alternate London and warring magical groups became a great deal of fun!
Full review - https://www.runalongtheshelves.net/bl...
Full review - https://www.runalongtheshelves.net/bl...
March 5, 2021
My mind is blown right now. That cannot be the ending. Like WTF happened?
So Witherward is marketed as SoC meets the Prestige with a world building similar to that of ADSOM. Now that right there is the thing which got me interested to pick up this book. I won't say it exactly justified on those claims, but the book had it's own strong points which made it an amazing read.
Plot
The story follows a girl named Ilsa who is an orphan and an assistant to a magician. But she has her own secrets. Unlike what people believe, she possess real magic which allows her to shape shift into any animal. She desperately searches for answers for her possession of strange magic and seeking out others having the same. Untill one fateful night she is captured by this mysterious person and brought to another world where she discovers she actually belongs to. And from there one begins the story. Honestly the pacing is quiet slow which did irk me a lot. For almost 70% of the book, it was just the setup for the conclusion and probably for the next books. More than a fantasy, it felt like a mystery novel where slowly as the clues and hints kept coming in the web got more and more dense. By the time of the climax my head was spinning with the direction the story was going. And the ending. The wait for the next book is going to be sooooo painful
World building
The author has taken painstaking efforts for building the whole world. Yes it definitely draws inspiration from ADSOM, having parallel Londons. But apart from that, the world itself is very unqiue. The faction setup is unique and worked quiet well. The story is built around these 6 different factions constantly at war for power and survival.Though I got very confused in the beginning, but with new informations coming in the picture got more and more clear. There was a lot of details about the political and the social system. As the mc is thrown into the new world which she is trying to learn about, it becomes easier for the readers also to learn along with it. There is underlying hints of marginalisation and discrimination also explored in the story which gives the system multiple layers.
Characters
I did not think I would care about the characters as much as I do now. There were a lot of characters introduced and I believe the author did a good job with bringing out their characterisation and distinct traits. Though not each one was explored as much as I would like, but I definitely would be looking forward to read them. For me my favorites were Ilsa, Eliot, Fyfe and Captain Fowler.Ilsa is a really likable mc and I did like how she was unafraid of showing vulnerability and so very brave. She was so kind and empathetic to everyone.
I liked Eliot, but by the ending I was so impressed and interested.I did not see it coming and that definitely added so much intrigue to his character. The ending was so unexpected and unusual that now I cannot stop wondering what's next? I can see a true anti-hero in making.He is fiercely loyal and doesn't shy to make difficult choices. Looking back now, he might be my fav character of this book.Not a lot many authors take such chances with their characters and thats why I am very interested to know what the future books hold for him.
Fyfe was just a sweetheart and he needs to be protected at all cost. And Captain Fowler. I suspect we will be seeing more of him in the coming books. His dynamic with Eliot just gave me life. And I need more of it in the future books. Wouldn't it be just so interesting if there was a love triangle between Fyfe, Eliot and Captain Fowler.😍😍😍 Ah well one can wish. (I still like Eliot and Ilsa, but well two hot broody guys pinning over a softie would have just knocked it out of the park for me)
Overall it was a very interesting read and enjoyable read. I am definitely gonna pick up the sequels.
--》4.5
So Witherward is marketed as SoC meets the Prestige with a world building similar to that of ADSOM. Now that right there is the thing which got me interested to pick up this book. I won't say it exactly justified on those claims, but the book had it's own strong points which made it an amazing read.
Plot
The story follows a girl named Ilsa who is an orphan and an assistant to a magician. But she has her own secrets. Unlike what people believe, she possess real magic which allows her to shape shift into any animal. She desperately searches for answers for her possession of strange magic and seeking out others having the same. Untill one fateful night she is captured by this mysterious person and brought to another world where she discovers she actually belongs to. And from there one begins the story. Honestly the pacing is quiet slow which did irk me a lot. For almost 70% of the book, it was just the setup for the conclusion and probably for the next books. More than a fantasy, it felt like a mystery novel where slowly as the clues and hints kept coming in the web got more and more dense. By the time of the climax my head was spinning with the direction the story was going. And the ending. The wait for the next book is going to be sooooo painful
World building
The author has taken painstaking efforts for building the whole world. Yes it definitely draws inspiration from ADSOM, having parallel Londons. But apart from that, the world itself is very unqiue. The faction setup is unique and worked quiet well. The story is built around these 6 different factions constantly at war for power and survival.Though I got very confused in the beginning, but with new informations coming in the picture got more and more clear. There was a lot of details about the political and the social system. As the mc is thrown into the new world which she is trying to learn about, it becomes easier for the readers also to learn along with it. There is underlying hints of marginalisation and discrimination also explored in the story which gives the system multiple layers.
Characters
I did not think I would care about the characters as much as I do now. There were a lot of characters introduced and I believe the author did a good job with bringing out their characterisation and distinct traits. Though not each one was explored as much as I would like, but I definitely would be looking forward to read them. For me my favorites were Ilsa, Eliot, Fyfe and Captain Fowler.Ilsa is a really likable mc and I did like how she was unafraid of showing vulnerability and so very brave. She was so kind and empathetic to everyone.
I liked Eliot, but by the ending I was so impressed and interested.I did not see it coming and that definitely added so much intrigue to his character. The ending was so unexpected and unusual that now I cannot stop wondering what's next? I can see a true anti-hero in making.He is fiercely loyal and doesn't shy to make difficult choices. Looking back now, he might be my fav character of this book.Not a lot many authors take such chances with their characters and thats why I am very interested to know what the future books hold for him.
Fyfe was just a sweetheart and he needs to be protected at all cost. And Captain Fowler. I suspect we will be seeing more of him in the coming books. His dynamic with Eliot just gave me life. And I need more of it in the future books. Wouldn't it be just so interesting if there was a love triangle between Fyfe, Eliot and Captain Fowler.😍😍😍 Ah well one can wish. (I still like Eliot and Ilsa, but well two hot broody guys pinning over a softie would have just knocked it out of the park for me)
Overall it was a very interesting read and enjoyable read. I am definitely gonna pick up the sequels.
--》4.5
January 30, 2021
I was really pleasantly surprised by this book!
It was such an enjoyable read and I loved the whole world created.
Ilsa is a great main character. She’s strong and independent. She knows how to handle herself and she won’t be pushed around. It was really interesting following her into this new life and new world she had no idea about as we got to experience it all as she did.
I love the world building and the magic.
A parallel London, except a magical version split into factions of different magical beings, Changelings, Wraiths and sorcerers among them.
There’s action and plot twists and mystery. A hunt for a long lost brother. Secrets and budding romance.
Such a great book!
Thank you to Titan Books for the gifted copy.
Pros:
+ great characters
+ great world building
+ parallel Londons
+ action
+ mystery
+ budding romance
Cons:
- I have more questions that need to be answered
- I need to know what happens to a certain someone!
It was such an enjoyable read and I loved the whole world created.
Ilsa is a great main character. She’s strong and independent. She knows how to handle herself and she won’t be pushed around. It was really interesting following her into this new life and new world she had no idea about as we got to experience it all as she did.
I love the world building and the magic.
A parallel London, except a magical version split into factions of different magical beings, Changelings, Wraiths and sorcerers among them.
There’s action and plot twists and mystery. A hunt for a long lost brother. Secrets and budding romance.
Such a great book!
Thank you to Titan Books for the gifted copy.
Pros:
+ great characters
+ great world building
+ parallel Londons
+ action
+ mystery
+ budding romance
Cons:
- I have more questions that need to be answered
- I need to know what happens to a certain someone!
April 25, 2021
Sometimes you buy a book because you think the synopsis looks good. This one did, so I purchased it. I had to specially order it because it's not available on shelves right now. I think my copy came from the UK since there is UK pricing all over it.
Reading it now, I ask, why did I spend the money I did.
This book made not a lick of sense.
You have this girl, she has the power to shapeshift into anybody and any creature. It's not 100% perfect, but people can't tell. One night, she and her friend are walking late at night and are cornered by people who want her dead. These people look 'dead' and kill her friend by mistaking her. She is saved by some guy who tells her he needs to take her into alternate London where she is truly from.
This is the point where the book threw me for a loop. She ends up in this alternate London and it turns out she is the 'once was thought dead ' royal princess of a factor of this alternate London. There are several factors all residing in London with various powers. These people are constantly fighting one another and or is in a free for all for dominance.
I was confused because why is there no control? Why is it seemingly everyone out to get someone? Why is there five different royal people residing over London? Isn't there some Mayor? Gov? I don't know, head official that is keeping this all in check from happening? What is outside of London? Anything? You never find out and that's why it became confusing. I couldn't understand heads or tails of the magic and lore/plot. Apparently her family were killed long ago for... trying to create control? But I guess no one wants to be controlled by shapeshifters, who are called Changelings, so they killed them. They let her brother live who is right now missing and causing all sorts of havoc.
There is some weird plot about a device that was created long time ago by someone who can adapt / amplify the powers of people in the various factions so that one person can have the power of all. There is some spying and or double-crossing that also didn't make sense, that fits in with the brother's disappearance.
It was just a very, very confusing book. The main character is also dumb and constantly tries to be tough but really doesn't do much but irritate people left and right. The people she is irritating aren't really all that enjoyable themselves.
I just can't with this book. Read it if you want to give yourself a headache.
Reading it now, I ask, why did I spend the money I did.
This book made not a lick of sense.
You have this girl, she has the power to shapeshift into anybody and any creature. It's not 100% perfect, but people can't tell. One night, she and her friend are walking late at night and are cornered by people who want her dead. These people look 'dead' and kill her friend by mistaking her. She is saved by some guy who tells her he needs to take her into alternate London where she is truly from.
This is the point where the book threw me for a loop. She ends up in this alternate London and it turns out she is the 'once was thought dead ' royal princess of a factor of this alternate London. There are several factors all residing in London with various powers. These people are constantly fighting one another and or is in a free for all for dominance.
I was confused because why is there no control? Why is it seemingly everyone out to get someone? Why is there five different royal people residing over London? Isn't there some Mayor? Gov? I don't know, head official that is keeping this all in check from happening? What is outside of London? Anything? You never find out and that's why it became confusing. I couldn't understand heads or tails of the magic and lore/plot. Apparently her family were killed long ago for... trying to create control? But I guess no one wants to be controlled by shapeshifters, who are called Changelings, so they killed them. They let her brother live who is right now missing and causing all sorts of havoc.
There is some weird plot about a device that was created long time ago by someone who can adapt / amplify the powers of people in the various factions so that one person can have the power of all. There is some spying and or double-crossing that also didn't make sense, that fits in with the brother's disappearance.
It was just a very, very confusing book. The main character is also dumb and constantly tries to be tough but really doesn't do much but irritate people left and right. The people she is irritating aren't really all that enjoyable themselves.
I just can't with this book. Read it if you want to give yourself a headache.
February 16, 2021
3.75 stars
I'm honestly so surprised I haven't seen more hype for this! Not because it's the best book I've ever read, but it seems like exactly the kind of thing that would become a book community darling: it's got the spunky heroine who's out of place in her own life; the parallel magical London; family secrets; the dark, mysterious, initially-antagonistic love interest...
I found a lot of the worldbuilding quite confusing - I really struggled to keep all the different factions and types of magic straight, and the fact that Witherward has all the same place names as regular London, but in a different arrangement, really threw me off! On the other hand, we got a lot of details about the intricacies of shapeshifting, and I really loved those granular details about the rules of the magic!
I enjoyed Ilsa's character, and the friends she makes in Witherward (especially Fyfe!) - found family will always get me! It also seems to be setting up for the sequel to have one of my favourite romance tropes, so I'm excited to see where the story goes next!
CW: claustrophobia; panic attack; references to domestic abuse; blood; violence; references to death of parents
ARC provided by NetGalley and Titan Books
I'm honestly so surprised I haven't seen more hype for this! Not because it's the best book I've ever read, but it seems like exactly the kind of thing that would become a book community darling: it's got the spunky heroine who's out of place in her own life; the parallel magical London; family secrets; the dark, mysterious, initially-antagonistic love interest...
I found a lot of the worldbuilding quite confusing - I really struggled to keep all the different factions and types of magic straight, and the fact that Witherward has all the same place names as regular London, but in a different arrangement, really threw me off! On the other hand, we got a lot of details about the intricacies of shapeshifting, and I really loved those granular details about the rules of the magic!
I enjoyed Ilsa's character, and the friends she makes in Witherward (especially Fyfe!) - found family will always get me! It also seems to be setting up for the sequel to have one of my favourite romance tropes, so I'm excited to see where the story goes next!
CW: claustrophobia; panic attack; references to domestic abuse; blood; violence; references to death of parents
ARC provided by NetGalley and Titan Books
May 7, 2021
I really enjoyed this, but a map of the alternative London would have been really useful.
January 3, 2023
Magnificent. More detailed review to follow.
January 24, 2021
Review to come in February
March 3, 2021
My Five Word TL:DR Review – I thoroughly enjoyed this one
https://lynns-books.com/2021/03/02/wi...
The thing is, I’m quite a lot less inclined to pick up YA these days. In fairness I’m not the target audience and more often than not I find myself coming away from them with more questions than answers. Witherward was such a lovely surprise, the world building was impressive, the plot kept me hooked and I enjoyed the characters. On top of which there is a very low key romance that is simmering away. Yeah, I had a good time with this one.
Don’t get me wrong, I wouldn’t necessarily say that there’s anything groundbreaking here and it has something of a ‘chosen one’ trope but there are some lovely refreshing elements, good writing,strong foundations and a number of twists.
This is a world with two Londons. One quite hidden and accessed via portals, known as Witherward, where all sorts of magic and supernatural elements exist. The other London – the one we, the readers, are familiar with – is known as Otherworld Witherward has a number of different factions. On the face of it they exist amicably, well, mostly. Changelings are exactly what they sound like- they can shift into virtually any animal, bird or even a different person providing their magic is strong enough and they can hold the image in their mind. The other factions are Wraiths, Whisperers, Oracles, Sorcerers, and Psi – each with their own particular strengths. There is an accord between the factions to keep them in line, they each inhabit particular areas but the Changelings are relatively new and at this point, not entirely accepted. So, for the purposes of this story we follow the Changelings as they withstand various conspiracies.
Ilsa is a Changer who has lived in the Otherworld for as long as she can remember. Initially at an orphanage until the cruel treatment she received eventually forced her to run away and carve out a life on the streets. As the story begins Ilsa is taken, ripped from everything she has ever known and taken to Witherward. From there, everything she has ever known is turned upside down, Amongst strangers she discovers a whole new world full of possibilities that she never imagined, although this is of course tinged with constant threats to life and limb.
What did I enjoy about this? Such a lot. The world building is really well done. Admittedly, there is a lot to take on board initially but it’s all really well grounded with history and emotions that run deep. I liked the characters. Ilsa is easy to like. She’s not perfect by a long stretch of the imagination but she is resourceful and independent. I also liked a number of the other characters and it felt very easy to get on board with them. I enjoyed the way that we discover things along with Ilsa. It felt natural and unforced. I liked the dialogue that came across easy to read and natural. The plot was intriguing and there were a number of twists.
Overall this makes a great start to series. We have something of an enemies to love interest ‘thing’ going on which is enticing and well paced and actually was quite unique in the direction it eventually takes and is a definite draw in terms of book 2 (which I’m really looking forward to given how this one ends).
In terms of criticisms. I don’t really have anything. This was a really enjoyable read for me that quite outdid itself in terms of my expectations for YA. I feel like I’m perhaps not giving this as glowing a review as I would like – so, for the avoidance of doubt, this was great.
I received a copy through Netgalley courtesy of the publisher, for which my thanks. The above is my own opinion.
My rating 4 of 5 stars
https://lynns-books.com/2021/03/02/wi...
The thing is, I’m quite a lot less inclined to pick up YA these days. In fairness I’m not the target audience and more often than not I find myself coming away from them with more questions than answers. Witherward was such a lovely surprise, the world building was impressive, the plot kept me hooked and I enjoyed the characters. On top of which there is a very low key romance that is simmering away. Yeah, I had a good time with this one.
Don’t get me wrong, I wouldn’t necessarily say that there’s anything groundbreaking here and it has something of a ‘chosen one’ trope but there are some lovely refreshing elements, good writing,strong foundations and a number of twists.
This is a world with two Londons. One quite hidden and accessed via portals, known as Witherward, where all sorts of magic and supernatural elements exist. The other London – the one we, the readers, are familiar with – is known as Otherworld Witherward has a number of different factions. On the face of it they exist amicably, well, mostly. Changelings are exactly what they sound like- they can shift into virtually any animal, bird or even a different person providing their magic is strong enough and they can hold the image in their mind. The other factions are Wraiths, Whisperers, Oracles, Sorcerers, and Psi – each with their own particular strengths. There is an accord between the factions to keep them in line, they each inhabit particular areas but the Changelings are relatively new and at this point, not entirely accepted. So, for the purposes of this story we follow the Changelings as they withstand various conspiracies.
Ilsa is a Changer who has lived in the Otherworld for as long as she can remember. Initially at an orphanage until the cruel treatment she received eventually forced her to run away and carve out a life on the streets. As the story begins Ilsa is taken, ripped from everything she has ever known and taken to Witherward. From there, everything she has ever known is turned upside down, Amongst strangers she discovers a whole new world full of possibilities that she never imagined, although this is of course tinged with constant threats to life and limb.
What did I enjoy about this? Such a lot. The world building is really well done. Admittedly, there is a lot to take on board initially but it’s all really well grounded with history and emotions that run deep. I liked the characters. Ilsa is easy to like. She’s not perfect by a long stretch of the imagination but she is resourceful and independent. I also liked a number of the other characters and it felt very easy to get on board with them. I enjoyed the way that we discover things along with Ilsa. It felt natural and unforced. I liked the dialogue that came across easy to read and natural. The plot was intriguing and there were a number of twists.
Overall this makes a great start to series. We have something of an enemies to love interest ‘thing’ going on which is enticing and well paced and actually was quite unique in the direction it eventually takes and is a definite draw in terms of book 2 (which I’m really looking forward to given how this one ends).
In terms of criticisms. I don’t really have anything. This was a really enjoyable read for me that quite outdid itself in terms of my expectations for YA. I feel like I’m perhaps not giving this as glowing a review as I would like – so, for the avoidance of doubt, this was great.
I received a copy through Netgalley courtesy of the publisher, for which my thanks. The above is my own opinion.
My rating 4 of 5 stars
February 13, 2021
Witherward is the debut novel by Hannah Mathewson. It’s a young adult portal fantasy set in Victorian London and it starts a series of the same name. I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is a book that relies heavily on its unique world, occasionally at the expense of the plot. Alongside with and unbeknownst to the normal world, Otherworld, is Witherward where seasons and times of day are the exact opposite, with some similarities to Otherworld but with its own rich history. It’s populated by people with magical abilities. There are Changelings who can change into any animal or person, or make a more attractive version of themselves; Sorcerers can manipulate the world around them, Psis can move things with their mind, Oracles see the future, Whisperers can read and manipulate minds, and Wraiths have supernatural strength and speed, and they can move through walls. They all hate one another and Changelings above all. London has been divided into sectors to maintain a semblance of peace, but strife and warfare are constant.
Ilsa is a seventeen-year-old Changeling who has lived her whole life in Otherworld London not knowing why she has the skill to change into animals and people. She’s fled the orphanage she grew up in because they treated her like a devil there, and has supported herself with thieving and, later, as a magician’s assistant, relying on her special skills. Then—out of the blue—she’s whisked to the Witherward London to save her life. But she might not be much safer there.
Ilsa learns that she’s a long-lost daughter of the leading family of Changelings. Most of her family are dead in the hands of a secret group, but she has a brother, Gedeon. Only, he’s gone missing. With the help of people who lead and protect the Changelings, she sets out to finding him. But it’s not easy to learn the rules of her new world, and there are secrets and spies everywhere.
The plot is fairly good, but rather slow to unfold. The book consists mostly of scenes where Isla either learns a new skill or gets to know the people around her, and only every now and then the search for Gedeon moves forward. But there are enough action scenes to keep the reader’s interest. True to the YA genre, there’s romance too, though it doesn’t dominate the story or become the driving force of Ilsa’s actions.
Ilsa is a great character, resourceful and resilient, despite traumas from her childhood that occasionally cripple her. The side characters are interesting too, with their own backstories and ghosts. They never really come together as an ensemble, but that reflects the state the household is in because of Gedeon’s absence. Everyone is distrustful of everyone else. The ending is good and complete enough to make the book work as a standalone, but it sets the stage for the next book too, which makes me want to continue with the series. All in all, a very good debut.
This is a book that relies heavily on its unique world, occasionally at the expense of the plot. Alongside with and unbeknownst to the normal world, Otherworld, is Witherward where seasons and times of day are the exact opposite, with some similarities to Otherworld but with its own rich history. It’s populated by people with magical abilities. There are Changelings who can change into any animal or person, or make a more attractive version of themselves; Sorcerers can manipulate the world around them, Psis can move things with their mind, Oracles see the future, Whisperers can read and manipulate minds, and Wraiths have supernatural strength and speed, and they can move through walls. They all hate one another and Changelings above all. London has been divided into sectors to maintain a semblance of peace, but strife and warfare are constant.
Ilsa is a seventeen-year-old Changeling who has lived her whole life in Otherworld London not knowing why she has the skill to change into animals and people. She’s fled the orphanage she grew up in because they treated her like a devil there, and has supported herself with thieving and, later, as a magician’s assistant, relying on her special skills. Then—out of the blue—she’s whisked to the Witherward London to save her life. But she might not be much safer there.
Ilsa learns that she’s a long-lost daughter of the leading family of Changelings. Most of her family are dead in the hands of a secret group, but she has a brother, Gedeon. Only, he’s gone missing. With the help of people who lead and protect the Changelings, she sets out to finding him. But it’s not easy to learn the rules of her new world, and there are secrets and spies everywhere.
The plot is fairly good, but rather slow to unfold. The book consists mostly of scenes where Isla either learns a new skill or gets to know the people around her, and only every now and then the search for Gedeon moves forward. But there are enough action scenes to keep the reader’s interest. True to the YA genre, there’s romance too, though it doesn’t dominate the story or become the driving force of Ilsa’s actions.
Ilsa is a great character, resourceful and resilient, despite traumas from her childhood that occasionally cripple her. The side characters are interesting too, with their own backstories and ghosts. They never really come together as an ensemble, but that reflects the state the household is in because of Gedeon’s absence. Everyone is distrustful of everyone else. The ending is good and complete enough to make the book work as a standalone, but it sets the stage for the next book too, which makes me want to continue with the series. All in all, a very good debut.
April 17, 2022
Eliot>>>>
February 13, 2021
Yes! Yes, to more books set in Witherward. And if at all possible, can it be right now?
Unique, fascinating, exciting, mysterious - the world you step into with this book is an unforgettable one.
What I liked:
1) The author creates this intricate, fascinating world that is very complex. I appreciate the fact that we got to learn about the history of the world as well, not just as it is today, which made this world so much more believable.
2) This will possibly sound odd, but this didn't feel like a typical fantasy. Yes, there were fighting scenes, shapeshifting, magical amulets, all of that, but there was this element of solving a mystery that I couldn't shake. It felt like our MC couldn't trust anyone in this new world, and she went on a mission of gathering intel. It was actually quite interesting to experience that in fantasy because I do love mysteries too.
3) I'm just thrilled that neither of the characters were annoying! We usually get a frustrated, historical MC, thrust into a new world, making one mistake after the other because of her stubbornness. But this wasn't the case, and I actually really warmed up to our MC. She was humble, simple, down to earth, unstoppable.
What I didn't like:
There are two reasons why I cannot give this story five stars:
1) I prefer a bit more characterisation when it comes to characters in a fantasy novel, because that's what's going to MAKE the entire story. Otherwise, all of the characters can just be fall into a mold that we have already read or seen somewhere before. Just a dash more of getting to know each of the characters would have made this story even more enjoyable.
2) There was a part in the story where I felt like our MC was a detective. Everyone kept coming to her, confiding their version of the events in the past. And it happened so consecutively, it became a bit exhausting. I kept waiting for something to happen, to grab me by the shoulders and give me a good shake.
This is definitely a slow-burner, so be aware of that. It feels like a great fantasy to pick up when you want to escape reality for a few days.
The element of romances here wasn't overdone, it wasn't corny, wasn't made out to be the center of the story, and thank you for that!
Who would like it? Any fantasy lover who loves elaborate world-building and a complex magic system, stories that blend our existing world and an alternate realm all in one, stories with oracles, shapeshifters, mystery.
Unique, fascinating, exciting, mysterious - the world you step into with this book is an unforgettable one.
What I liked:
1) The author creates this intricate, fascinating world that is very complex. I appreciate the fact that we got to learn about the history of the world as well, not just as it is today, which made this world so much more believable.
2) This will possibly sound odd, but this didn't feel like a typical fantasy. Yes, there were fighting scenes, shapeshifting, magical amulets, all of that, but there was this element of solving a mystery that I couldn't shake. It felt like our MC couldn't trust anyone in this new world, and she went on a mission of gathering intel. It was actually quite interesting to experience that in fantasy because I do love mysteries too.
3) I'm just thrilled that neither of the characters were annoying! We usually get a frustrated, historical MC, thrust into a new world, making one mistake after the other because of her stubbornness. But this wasn't the case, and I actually really warmed up to our MC. She was humble, simple, down to earth, unstoppable.
What I didn't like:
There are two reasons why I cannot give this story five stars:
1) I prefer a bit more characterisation when it comes to characters in a fantasy novel, because that's what's going to MAKE the entire story. Otherwise, all of the characters can just be fall into a mold that we have already read or seen somewhere before. Just a dash more of getting to know each of the characters would have made this story even more enjoyable.
2) There was a part in the story where I felt like our MC was a detective. Everyone kept coming to her, confiding their version of the events in the past. And it happened so consecutively, it became a bit exhausting. I kept waiting for something to happen, to grab me by the shoulders and give me a good shake.
This is definitely a slow-burner, so be aware of that. It feels like a great fantasy to pick up when you want to escape reality for a few days.
The element of romances here wasn't overdone, it wasn't corny, wasn't made out to be the center of the story, and thank you for that!
Who would like it? Any fantasy lover who loves elaborate world-building and a complex magic system, stories that blend our existing world and an alternate realm all in one, stories with oracles, shapeshifters, mystery.
February 22, 2021
*ARC received from Netgalley*
Witherward was a fast-paced, magical tale that kept me hooked right until the very end. It was surprising at every turn!
Witherward is a world very much like our own, except it's populated by people with incredible powers, and London is a city divided by factions. Changelings, Wraiths, Whisperers, Oracles, Sorcerers, and Psi. But the concepts for each of these are very different from what is usually seen in fiction; changelings aren't fae and wraiths have nothing to do with ghosts.
This story follows Ilsa as she discovers an entirely new London after being rescued from an assassination attempt that killed her friend instead. Isla finds out she wasn't abandoned, after all, but that her family believed she was dead until recently.
I loved Ilsa's character! She was so resourceful, clever, naturally cautious of others because of how she grew up but still so kind!
This idea of an alternative London and warring supernatural factions really reminded me of both A Darker Shade of Magic by V. E. Schwab and The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon, so if you enjoyed this book, you might enjoy those two (or vice versa).
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the sequel!
Witherward was a fast-paced, magical tale that kept me hooked right until the very end. It was surprising at every turn!
Witherward is a world very much like our own, except it's populated by people with incredible powers, and London is a city divided by factions. Changelings, Wraiths, Whisperers, Oracles, Sorcerers, and Psi. But the concepts for each of these are very different from what is usually seen in fiction; changelings aren't fae and wraiths have nothing to do with ghosts.
This story follows Ilsa as she discovers an entirely new London after being rescued from an assassination attempt that killed her friend instead. Isla finds out she wasn't abandoned, after all, but that her family believed she was dead until recently.
I loved Ilsa's character! She was so resourceful, clever, naturally cautious of others because of how she grew up but still so kind!
This idea of an alternative London and warring supernatural factions really reminded me of both A Darker Shade of Magic by V. E. Schwab and The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon, so if you enjoyed this book, you might enjoy those two (or vice versa).
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to read the sequel!
March 21, 2021
J'avoue, j'attendais quelque chose d'un peu différent en termes d'intrigue, et que ça bouge plus... MAIS ! C'était chouette : j'ai adoré l'univers et les personnages (surtout Fyfe). Du coup, je lirai la suite.
May 31, 2021
Oh I DID enjoy this book! What could have been complex was made clear, the characters were engaging, the locations well-described without being too in your face. I like a bit of magic and I like the different factions with their different abilities.
The story follows a natural arc where Ilsa leads a miserable life in our London, bad things happen, she goes through a portal to an alternate London, where she is not only the long-lost princess, but the chosen one who has to reunite the factions. Along the way there’s the all-powerful amulet, the missing brother and The Love Interest. While the story is tied up satisfactorily, there’s definitely avenues to explore and I for one, can’t wait!
The story follows a natural arc where Ilsa leads a miserable life in our London, bad things happen, she goes through a portal to an alternate London, where she is not only the long-lost princess, but the chosen one who has to reunite the factions. Along the way there’s the all-powerful amulet, the missing brother and The Love Interest. While the story is tied up satisfactorily, there’s definitely avenues to explore and I for one, can’t wait!
February 28, 2021
*Checks book-blurb* Welcome to… a London not quite like our own. Sold, I’m in. A historical urban fantasy set in one of my favourite cities? Oh, hell yeah! This has got my name written all over it. Over the years I’ve read many urban fantasy novels that use London as a backdrop and I’m always impressed how authors manage to twist the city into something uniquely their own. The same is true here. London has long been a melting pot of cultures and creeds. It makes perfect sense to me that there would be portals to an alternate version of the city that had that same cosmopolitan air, just a bit more fantastical.
Ilsa has shape-changing abilities that are not the norm in Victorian London. Hiding in plain sight has been the only way for her to get by. A traumatic event leads Ilsa to another version of the city. A place where magic is an everyday occurrence, a place where she might be able to fit in. There is a real strength to Isla I liked. For years she has only had herself to rely on. When faced with the wondrous streets of a new London she dives straight in. She embraces her new life wholeheartedly; it just feels right. Naturally inquisitive and observant, Isla is the perfect guide to the world Hannah Mathewson has created. We get to follow Isla while she navigates the cutthroat politics that exist within her new extended family and the other groups in the Witherward.
Mathewson’s alternate version of London is a city chock full of magic and intrigue. Whitechapel is the home of The Whisperers. Sorcerors rule a part of town known as The Heart. The Oracles are based in the Docklands. The Wraiths control the North. The Psi live in the Underground* and finally, The Changelings are in Camden. On the surface, there is an uneasy truce between all these factions. A set of rules has been established to help avoid conflict. Needless to say, many view these restrictions as guidelines at best. Interpretations of laws you don’t want to follow do have a tendency to be somewhat flexible. This fantastical cold war forms the backbone of the entire story. How can these groups, who view one another with constant suspicion, do anything other than fight? There is a sense of change in the air, a city on the brink.
It is the world-building in Witherward that made it for me. It really is exceptional. You can tell the author has spent time considering how the various factions within London interact with one another. The Witherward version of our nation’s capital manages to be comfortably familiar in some regards yet unrecognisable in others. Even the smallest details have been thought about. The Oracles are the perfect example. Just imagine, you are born with the ability to see the past, the present and the future of all things. Sounds great, doesn’t it? Realistically though, how could your mental health possibly cope? Rather than a blessing, this could be viewed as the ultimate curse. Everything all at once all the time? Of course drug abuse is going to be rife within this part of society. Mathewson explores not only the good but also the bad within the lives of her fantastical beings.
If you are a fan of V.E. Schwab’s Shadow of Magic novels, or the equally awesome Blackhart Legacy trilogy by Liz De Jager, then I predict this is the novel for you. Hannah Mathewson’s debut is a confident, engrossing page-turner. I loved the characters, Fyfe and Captain Fowler for the win! The plot rumbles along with plenty of twists and turns and there is limitless potential for where this could all go next. I hope I get the opportunity to find out.
Ilsa has shape-changing abilities that are not the norm in Victorian London. Hiding in plain sight has been the only way for her to get by. A traumatic event leads Ilsa to another version of the city. A place where magic is an everyday occurrence, a place where she might be able to fit in. There is a real strength to Isla I liked. For years she has only had herself to rely on. When faced with the wondrous streets of a new London she dives straight in. She embraces her new life wholeheartedly; it just feels right. Naturally inquisitive and observant, Isla is the perfect guide to the world Hannah Mathewson has created. We get to follow Isla while she navigates the cutthroat politics that exist within her new extended family and the other groups in the Witherward.
Mathewson’s alternate version of London is a city chock full of magic and intrigue. Whitechapel is the home of The Whisperers. Sorcerors rule a part of town known as The Heart. The Oracles are based in the Docklands. The Wraiths control the North. The Psi live in the Underground* and finally, The Changelings are in Camden. On the surface, there is an uneasy truce between all these factions. A set of rules has been established to help avoid conflict. Needless to say, many view these restrictions as guidelines at best. Interpretations of laws you don’t want to follow do have a tendency to be somewhat flexible. This fantastical cold war forms the backbone of the entire story. How can these groups, who view one another with constant suspicion, do anything other than fight? There is a sense of change in the air, a city on the brink.
It is the world-building in Witherward that made it for me. It really is exceptional. You can tell the author has spent time considering how the various factions within London interact with one another. The Witherward version of our nation’s capital manages to be comfortably familiar in some regards yet unrecognisable in others. Even the smallest details have been thought about. The Oracles are the perfect example. Just imagine, you are born with the ability to see the past, the present and the future of all things. Sounds great, doesn’t it? Realistically though, how could your mental health possibly cope? Rather than a blessing, this could be viewed as the ultimate curse. Everything all at once all the time? Of course drug abuse is going to be rife within this part of society. Mathewson explores not only the good but also the bad within the lives of her fantastical beings.
If you are a fan of V.E. Schwab’s Shadow of Magic novels, or the equally awesome Blackhart Legacy trilogy by Liz De Jager, then I predict this is the novel for you. Hannah Mathewson’s debut is a confident, engrossing page-turner. I loved the characters, Fyfe and Captain Fowler for the win! The plot rumbles along with plenty of twists and turns and there is limitless potential for where this could all go next. I hope I get the opportunity to find out.
December 1, 2023
This was so close to being good. The author’s strong point is absolutely setup and character introductions, because I raced through the first half and loved it. By the end, however, the pacing was off (hundreds of pages of setup for not much payoff at the end) and Mathewson world-built a little too close to the sun. Maybe I just wasn’t paying enough attention, but so much of the design of the political system and betrayals went over my head, and on the other hand the magic system was under-explored. It had the essence of a five book series smushed into one book, and still managed to be mediocre? It was, however, a debut, and I can see so much potential here. The ending just didn’t deliver, and even if another book is released down the line, I don’t really see myself reading it.
April 2, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫 (4.5 stars)
Let me start by saying I haven't read a fantasy genre book in quite some time, and this book has made me question that choice; I now need more fantasy in my life immediately (wishing the sequel to Witherward was available already!).
Mathewson paints such a vivid picture of Witherward, this world is such an interesting and intriguing place. The different factions and types of magic are based on known fantasy abilities and are well described so I could picture the characters from each faction and how they use their skills clearly in my imagination, which allowed for this story to play out like a film in my head and my what a great film this would make! Especially the "battle" scenes which would be so fantastic to watch with all the different magical powers being used. (This world boosts Sorcerers with their spells, Changlings with their shape-shifting, Whisperers with their mind control, Oracles with their Sight, The Psi with their telekinesis & Wraiths with their strength, speed & intangibility).
Witherward is a richly described land of magic, fear and deceit, with characters full of hope, love....and secrets. With classic themes of self-discovery, the bonds of friendship and the desire for family but with a mystery which runs throughout that sees our protagonist, Isla, become detective by necessity. The back stories of each of the main characters are so well thought out and really adds to the narrative. (The story of Oren's parents had me crying for their fate and Oren's heartbreak).
Mathewson has created a whole history for this world that explains the current situation we find our characters in and their motivations for what unfolds. Ilsa is a courageous and intriguing protagonist that you just can't help but root for. I love a strong female lead and she is the right amount of sentimental without making her weak; she can kick ass with the best of them! (Speaking of strong females; we need to see more of Cassia being a double threat with a gun in one hand and spells coming from the other!) I enjoyed that there was a thread of a love story but it wasn't overpowering and also great to see a LGBTQ+ character in a novel which isn't contemporary lit.
Felt the storyline was slow to start because of the world building that had to happen at the beginning to set the scene for the rest of the novel (and indeed the sequel) but because the world Mathewson paints is so interesting and clever I didn't mind the slow build. Then the story takes you on a journey alongside Ilsa, you both discover new things, different powers and important knowledge at the same times. The story has several twists along the way to keep you guessing and the ending was, in my opinion, a perfect one for a series- I can't stand the massive cliff-hangers knowing that I won't be able to read the next book because the author hasn't yet written it! This book ties up the major plot points so you aren't left frustrated but gives you enough intrigue to draw you back in for the sequel.
I wish I had been in better health for this read as I wasn't able to read it in the large chunks I think I would have devoured it in had I have not been so exhausted. It definitely is a book that sucks you in and keeps you wondering. I look forward to Witherward #2!
Let me start by saying I haven't read a fantasy genre book in quite some time, and this book has made me question that choice; I now need more fantasy in my life immediately (wishing the sequel to Witherward was available already!).
Mathewson paints such a vivid picture of Witherward, this world is such an interesting and intriguing place. The different factions and types of magic are based on known fantasy abilities and are well described so I could picture the characters from each faction and how they use their skills clearly in my imagination, which allowed for this story to play out like a film in my head and my what a great film this would make! Especially the "battle" scenes which would be so fantastic to watch with all the different magical powers being used. (This world boosts Sorcerers with their spells, Changlings with their shape-shifting, Whisperers with their mind control, Oracles with their Sight, The Psi with their telekinesis & Wraiths with their strength, speed & intangibility).
Witherward is a richly described land of magic, fear and deceit, with characters full of hope, love....and secrets. With classic themes of self-discovery, the bonds of friendship and the desire for family but with a mystery which runs throughout that sees our protagonist, Isla, become detective by necessity. The back stories of each of the main characters are so well thought out and really adds to the narrative. (The story of Oren's parents had me crying for their fate and Oren's heartbreak).
Mathewson has created a whole history for this world that explains the current situation we find our characters in and their motivations for what unfolds. Ilsa is a courageous and intriguing protagonist that you just can't help but root for. I love a strong female lead and she is the right amount of sentimental without making her weak; she can kick ass with the best of them! (Speaking of strong females; we need to see more of Cassia being a double threat with a gun in one hand and spells coming from the other!) I enjoyed that there was a thread of a love story but it wasn't overpowering and also great to see a LGBTQ+ character in a novel which isn't contemporary lit.
Felt the storyline was slow to start because of the world building that had to happen at the beginning to set the scene for the rest of the novel (and indeed the sequel) but because the world Mathewson paints is so interesting and clever I didn't mind the slow build. Then the story takes you on a journey alongside Ilsa, you both discover new things, different powers and important knowledge at the same times. The story has several twists along the way to keep you guessing and the ending was, in my opinion, a perfect one for a series- I can't stand the massive cliff-hangers knowing that I won't be able to read the next book because the author hasn't yet written it! This book ties up the major plot points so you aren't left frustrated but gives you enough intrigue to draw you back in for the sequel.
I wish I had been in better health for this read as I wasn't able to read it in the large chunks I think I would have devoured it in had I have not been so exhausted. It definitely is a book that sucks you in and keeps you wondering. I look forward to Witherward #2!
January 26, 2021
Ilsa is a magician’s assistant in a London that is close to the familiar Victorian view – full of cloaks and smoke and orphans. Ilsa herself is an orphan, carving out a life between pickpocketing and pretending that her magic isn’t real on stage, propping up a drunken, washed up magician.
Her world is almost quite literally turned upside down when she discovers the Witherward, the world reflective of, but not quite a copy of, the London she knows. She gets thrown in, and we with her, to a new world of warring factions and militia, of Principles and allegiances. It’s a lot of information packed in to a relatively short book, and at times I wished for a companion map or cheat sheet to remember who lives where and what their magic power was!
Along with finding out all of this new world stuff, she discovers that her family (she is not alone in the world, after all) rules a part of London, and they can also shapeshift, just like she can. Finally she is at home, learning how to wield her magic and that she is not weird or strange or the product of something terrible. It’s here that I was glad of the well drawn characters she meets along the way, as part of her new household and outside of it. I’ll mention Fyfe and Captain Fowler as particular favourites, although I don’t want to say too much more as I don’t want to ruin any of the reveals.
Personally, I found it hard to get to know Ilsa, what she thought and felt with this new found place in the world. There are mentions of how she finally feels like that something that was missing has been restored, and it’s lovely, but I would have liked someone, a friend, for her to share this discovery with.
I did find myself immersed in the book and just as eager to solve the mysteries as Ilsa is. I think it’s a testament to Hannah’s amazing imagination that she’s able to world-build so formed and solid – the names of the characters are both believable but also slightly out of kilter with our world – Ilsa, for example. Not quite Elsa, not quite Isla. Cassia, Gedeon and others.
In terms of recommendations, I’d align it with Garth Nix’s Abhorsen trilogy, Philip Reeves’ Mortal Engines and Erin Morgenstern’s The Night Circus, it has the same otherworldly but adjacent feeling, coupled with a strong and confident female lead.
I’m looking forward to what I hope will be book 2 – goodreads has it down as #1 – a good indication that there’ll be a sequel.
Thanks to Netgalley and Titan Books for the digital review copy – pre-order this book today, available from February 15th!
Her world is almost quite literally turned upside down when she discovers the Witherward, the world reflective of, but not quite a copy of, the London she knows. She gets thrown in, and we with her, to a new world of warring factions and militia, of Principles and allegiances. It’s a lot of information packed in to a relatively short book, and at times I wished for a companion map or cheat sheet to remember who lives where and what their magic power was!
Along with finding out all of this new world stuff, she discovers that her family (she is not alone in the world, after all) rules a part of London, and they can also shapeshift, just like she can. Finally she is at home, learning how to wield her magic and that she is not weird or strange or the product of something terrible. It’s here that I was glad of the well drawn characters she meets along the way, as part of her new household and outside of it. I’ll mention Fyfe and Captain Fowler as particular favourites, although I don’t want to say too much more as I don’t want to ruin any of the reveals.
Personally, I found it hard to get to know Ilsa, what she thought and felt with this new found place in the world. There are mentions of how she finally feels like that something that was missing has been restored, and it’s lovely, but I would have liked someone, a friend, for her to share this discovery with.
I did find myself immersed in the book and just as eager to solve the mysteries as Ilsa is. I think it’s a testament to Hannah’s amazing imagination that she’s able to world-build so formed and solid – the names of the characters are both believable but also slightly out of kilter with our world – Ilsa, for example. Not quite Elsa, not quite Isla. Cassia, Gedeon and others.
In terms of recommendations, I’d align it with Garth Nix’s Abhorsen trilogy, Philip Reeves’ Mortal Engines and Erin Morgenstern’s The Night Circus, it has the same otherworldly but adjacent feeling, coupled with a strong and confident female lead.
I’m looking forward to what I hope will be book 2 – goodreads has it down as #1 – a good indication that there’ll be a sequel.
Thanks to Netgalley and Titan Books for the digital review copy – pre-order this book today, available from February 15th!
February 17, 2021
This is my first ever review via NetGallery, therefore I was sent a review copy of the book from the publisher in return for an honest view.
Now I admit that I was a bit apprehensive about this one, as the blurb sounded fantastic, but once I got into it I started to get some horrible flashbacks of reading Uprooted. However, my fears were unfounded as it was much, much better than that!
Ilsa our main protagonist is an orphan, runaway, shape-shifter stranded in our Victorian London. She knows she is special and has just about got a handle on her powers, well, enough to put on what would otherwise be the magic show of the century anyway, that is if the actual magician could keep the whiskey bottle out of his hand long enough to let his 'Magical Assistant' do her thing!
They finally have their last chance to knock them dead, but something unforeseen happens, which results in a handsome stranger dragging Ilsa off to her real family in an ever so slightly more 'Magical' London.
It is there that Ilsa learns of her heritage, her missing sibling and the plight of her people as this alternative London is a city divided, split between six rival magical factions, each with their own extraordinary talents. But with enemies seemingly on all side, and only a handful of allies to boot can Ilsa get herself, and her people out of this mess?
Mathewson does a really good job of grounding the world with real-world elements and places that are apparent in both Londons. There are rules and limitations to the magic that is used by each of the factions. some of these limitations go follow some dark themes, but I feel that this only adds a little more depth, grit and overall believability to the world Matthewson has created. Although, if you ask me the Wraiths may be a tad OP, but everyone loves a plucky, good-looking ever so slightly cocky captain right? Or is that just me?
The characters do suffer a tiny bit from 'Adolescence', and just about every main supporting male character in it is 'classically handsome, or fit' but for the most part they are likeable, well rounded, and have a variety of different personalities, quirks, tensions & pre-existing relationships that Ilsa has to uncover in a new person in the kings/queens court sort of way.
All in all its no real surprise that I liked this one, being a fan of YA, Magical worlds, mysterious figures and stories with a slightly dark edge to them this one pretty much ticked all of my boxes. I would certainly recommend picking this one up and giving it a go!
Until next time, read more books!
Now I admit that I was a bit apprehensive about this one, as the blurb sounded fantastic, but once I got into it I started to get some horrible flashbacks of reading Uprooted. However, my fears were unfounded as it was much, much better than that!
Ilsa our main protagonist is an orphan, runaway, shape-shifter stranded in our Victorian London. She knows she is special and has just about got a handle on her powers, well, enough to put on what would otherwise be the magic show of the century anyway, that is if the actual magician could keep the whiskey bottle out of his hand long enough to let his 'Magical Assistant' do her thing!
They finally have their last chance to knock them dead, but something unforeseen happens, which results in a handsome stranger dragging Ilsa off to her real family in an ever so slightly more 'Magical' London.
It is there that Ilsa learns of her heritage, her missing sibling and the plight of her people as this alternative London is a city divided, split between six rival magical factions, each with their own extraordinary talents. But with enemies seemingly on all side, and only a handful of allies to boot can Ilsa get herself, and her people out of this mess?
Mathewson does a really good job of grounding the world with real-world elements and places that are apparent in both Londons. There are rules and limitations to the magic that is used by each of the factions. some of these limitations go follow some dark themes, but I feel that this only adds a little more depth, grit and overall believability to the world Matthewson has created. Although, if you ask me the Wraiths may be a tad OP, but everyone loves a plucky, good-looking ever so slightly cocky captain right? Or is that just me?
The characters do suffer a tiny bit from 'Adolescence', and just about every main supporting male character in it is 'classically handsome, or fit' but for the most part they are likeable, well rounded, and have a variety of different personalities, quirks, tensions & pre-existing relationships that Ilsa has to uncover in a new person in the kings/queens court sort of way.
All in all its no real surprise that I liked this one, being a fan of YA, Magical worlds, mysterious figures and stories with a slightly dark edge to them this one pretty much ticked all of my boxes. I would certainly recommend picking this one up and giving it a go!
Until next time, read more books!
January 29, 2021
Witherward is the first in an exciting new fantasy series set in an alternative London. The author has done a fabulous job building this world and making it feel real. The book centres around the main character Ilsa, a changeling, that has lived all her life in London hiding her talents. Ilsa grew up in an orphanage, hiding her magical abilities and it is only when she is dragged through a portal to the Otherworld that she realises her life is not what it was supposed to be. In the Otherworld she is among her own kind and her parents were the leaders of the Changeling faction. The author does a fantastic job of making this trope modern and unique and I loved how each of the factions (there are five) were unique.
The factions are all plotting against one another which is quite typical in fantasy novels but what really stood out for me in this book was the strong characters. Each had their own personalities that were very clear from the start and as I read, their secrets were poured out onto the pages. Isla was a great character from the start. She's strong and not easily fooled. She doesn't trust blindly and she questions everything. Captain Fowler is another character that fascinated me. Although we don't get too much of his story, I have a feeling he will play a prominent role in future books. Eliot, Oren, Ffye, Cassia, Hester, and Gideon were well portrayed and as I reader I never knew who to trust. This kept the suspense growing throughout the book as Isla and the other changelings searched for her missing brother Gideon. There were a few twists I definitely didn't see coming and the tension and build up towards the end was gripping.
The descriptions make the different places come to life on the page and I especially loved the description of the PSI faction's underground location. There is a great deal of mystery interwoven in this novel and I can't wait to read more from the Witherward world and uncover more of the secrets hidden.
The factions are all plotting against one another which is quite typical in fantasy novels but what really stood out for me in this book was the strong characters. Each had their own personalities that were very clear from the start and as I read, their secrets were poured out onto the pages. Isla was a great character from the start. She's strong and not easily fooled. She doesn't trust blindly and she questions everything. Captain Fowler is another character that fascinated me. Although we don't get too much of his story, I have a feeling he will play a prominent role in future books. Eliot, Oren, Ffye, Cassia, Hester, and Gideon were well portrayed and as I reader I never knew who to trust. This kept the suspense growing throughout the book as Isla and the other changelings searched for her missing brother Gideon. There were a few twists I definitely didn't see coming and the tension and build up towards the end was gripping.
The descriptions make the different places come to life on the page and I especially loved the description of the PSI faction's underground location. There is a great deal of mystery interwoven in this novel and I can't wait to read more from the Witherward world and uncover more of the secrets hidden.
February 26, 2021
Alternative Londons have been around for donkey’s years and yet I never get tired of reading about them. London is a city that’s so bursting with life and so rich with history that it’s easy to imagine it could be magical too. And that’s the case with Witherward. Here, the alternative London is a shadow city to Victorian London, and it’s bursting with magical factions and races with tensions that are rapidly reaching boiling point…
Our guide is Isla, a shapeshifting Changeling who is taken to Witherward after being targeted by a rival faction. There, she discovers that she’s related to the leader of the Changelings, Gedeon, who has mysteriously gone missing- and in his absence the city is in danger of falling into civil war. It’s a bold premise and Matthewson follows it up with reams of world-building, constructing a city where addicts co-exist alongside a fantastical underground cavern that telekinetic Psi have made their own. This blend of the gritty and fantastical lends a nice rounded feel to the whole story, which underpins Ilsa’s fairytale with dark undertones.
As far as plot goes, it absolutely romps along, teasing us with red herrings and introducing us to a revolving cast of interesting characters (the least interesting of which, sadly, is stereotypical love interest Eliot), all of whom seem to be absolutely gorgeous- but hey, that’s YA for you. Quibbles aside, though, this was a wildly entertaining book with an exciting premise. More please!
Our guide is Isla, a shapeshifting Changeling who is taken to Witherward after being targeted by a rival faction. There, she discovers that she’s related to the leader of the Changelings, Gedeon, who has mysteriously gone missing- and in his absence the city is in danger of falling into civil war. It’s a bold premise and Matthewson follows it up with reams of world-building, constructing a city where addicts co-exist alongside a fantastical underground cavern that telekinetic Psi have made their own. This blend of the gritty and fantastical lends a nice rounded feel to the whole story, which underpins Ilsa’s fairytale with dark undertones.
As far as plot goes, it absolutely romps along, teasing us with red herrings and introducing us to a revolving cast of interesting characters (the least interesting of which, sadly, is stereotypical love interest Eliot), all of whom seem to be absolutely gorgeous- but hey, that’s YA for you. Quibbles aside, though, this was a wildly entertaining book with an exciting premise. More please!
April 30, 2021
Please excuse the ramble but it's hard to order my thoughts when the whole book is such a mess.
I really wanted to like this but I just ... couldn't.
There was so much going on and I spent most of the time trying to keep all those names, factions and magics apart. It got so bad that halfway through I was so confused as to who was who and why they did what they did that I couldn't follow the plot at all. What was that thing with the drugs all about? In the end, it seemed so useless. Then the pages of pages of exposition and infodumping that probably had vital plot information in them but I honestly couldn't be bothered because I skimmed those parts.
Also, I can't really tell what the main conflict in this book is and how the hell this is supposed to be YA when no one is behaving the age they're supposed to be.
The last ten chapters tried to be plot twist after plot twist, yet none of them caught me because a) none of the issues addressed were resolved in a satisfying manner (like, I get that Eliot is supposed to be banished but ... he just kinda disappears from everyone's mind?!) and b) they were thrown at the reader at such rapid succession that it was just hard to follow along. Might've missed some things along the way (eg whose parents died and whose lived and whose were tortured and who the hell Oren was?)
I really wanted to like this but I just ... couldn't.
There was so much going on and I spent most of the time trying to keep all those names, factions and magics apart. It got so bad that halfway through I was so confused as to who was who and why they did what they did that I couldn't follow the plot at all. What was that thing with the drugs all about? In the end, it seemed so useless. Then the pages of pages of exposition and infodumping that probably had vital plot information in them but I honestly couldn't be bothered because I skimmed those parts.
Also, I can't really tell what the main conflict in this book is and how the hell this is supposed to be YA when no one is behaving the age they're supposed to be.
The last ten chapters tried to be plot twist after plot twist, yet none of them caught me because a) none of the issues addressed were resolved in a satisfying manner (like, I get that Eliot is supposed to be banished but ... he just kinda disappears from everyone's mind?!) and b) they were thrown at the reader at such rapid succession that it was just hard to follow along. Might've missed some things along the way (eg whose parents died and whose lived and whose were tortured and who the hell Oren was?)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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