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Witches of Wherewithal
Witches once sought refuge atop Wherewithal Island's icy, mile-high cliffs, escaping the hangman's gallows spreading from Salem to beyond. But by 1947 Theodora Ashe is the only witch left.
At least she was until her powers disappeared the same time as her husband did, with sheets still warm from their wedding night.
But good riddance to bad magic. Witchcraft only ever brought Theodora scandal and heartbreak, so if no longer being a witch means finally getting some peace, she’s happy to become a footnote to history.
Until someone starts targeting her childhood love, the charming and politically ascendant John Dove, and trying to pin the would-be murder on Theodora. To clear her name and save John, she must re-enter a world of high society dinners, tabloid headlines, realpolitik, and a struggle for power in the vacuum where witches once held sway – and play the part of the witch she used to be.
As assassination attempts escalate and the body count rises, Theodora’s abilities begin to reemerge in tandem with her feelings for John. She begins to uncover the raw power she might wield as the last witch not just on Wherewithal, but in the world, and the lengths someone might go to make sure she never gets the chance.
At least she was until her powers disappeared the same time as her husband did, with sheets still warm from their wedding night.
But good riddance to bad magic. Witchcraft only ever brought Theodora scandal and heartbreak, so if no longer being a witch means finally getting some peace, she’s happy to become a footnote to history.
Until someone starts targeting her childhood love, the charming and politically ascendant John Dove, and trying to pin the would-be murder on Theodora. To clear her name and save John, she must re-enter a world of high society dinners, tabloid headlines, realpolitik, and a struggle for power in the vacuum where witches once held sway – and play the part of the witch she used to be.
As assassination attempts escalate and the body count rises, Theodora’s abilities begin to reemerge in tandem with her feelings for John. She begins to uncover the raw power she might wield as the last witch not just on Wherewithal, but in the world, and the lengths someone might go to make sure she never gets the chance.
388 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 2, 2020
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
March 19, 2021
"She thought of the magic she'd once been able to do, and for the first time in so long she felt its absence not with resignation, but like a hunger."
In her stunning debut novel, Alexandra Sharp tells the story of Theodora, the last witch of Wherewithal, an island that was once refugee to witches all over the world. Not that Theodora has much witchcraft in her now, since her powers haven't revealed themselves again since the day her husband disappeared, also know as their wedding night. Ten years later Theodora, who's always been an outlaw, is invited to the city by her childhood love John Dove. This is where our book starts. Things don't go as planned since someone makes an attempt on John's life. Theodora is thrown into this world of scandal, small-town politics and assassination attempts.
The book shines a light on issues like being the only woman in an exclusively male environment since Theodora's being a witch gives her privileges other women didn't get. She is trying to navigate this world while constantly being villainised, diminished and used for people's personal gain. The subject of preservation of nature and natural resources for profit or survival is also interwoven throughout the whole story since John will one day inherit his father's company. A company which is destroying Wherewithals environment and culture.
I personally really enjoyed Witches of Wherewithal. The character development and worldbuilding were done incredibly well, especially considering the fact that this is a debut novel. It's rather slow-paced although there are always moments to keep you engaged. The ending, however, is very fast-paced. I would say a lot happens in a very short time, maybe a bit too fast. There were a few minor subplots set in other decades that left me unsatisfied because they weren't really tied up towards the end at all. Another point of criticism it that after our only LGBT+ character disappears after coming out, while we do see tons of other characters from throughout the story again towards the ending.
The last thing I'd like to discuss is the romance. I actually really liked it! It's a rather sweet, slow kind of love. We see our two characters falling in love with each other through both of their perspectives, which leads to incredibly romantic moments of seeing two characters both admiring each other in silence.
Overall, I think Witches of Wherewithal was a good historical read with great character development that focuses on interesting themes.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Check the trigger warnings and more here.
October 16, 2020
This was such a great book! Wherewithal (love that name) is an Island that was inhabited by witches that were escaping potential persecution so they all had the vision and landed on this island. Wherewithal is the name of the boat that got them there!! Fast forward to 1947 and Theodora is the last witch (but her powers are gone) left on the island. Theodora’s husband went AWOL the same time her powers disappear. Theodora is a weather witch and the island is in a drought so Theodora needs to get her powers back. I love the vivid descriptions in this book. The island is described so well that you just feel the nature all around you. I love all the nature in this book as the island uses algae for lights. The characters are also so well written! My favorite is Theodora’s best friend Adelaide. Theo travels to the city and confides in Addy that she needs to get her magic back. Addy is fun loving but sad at the same time. I love the story because you have some mystery of what happened to Theo’s husband and mother and someone is also sabotaging her old flame, John. This is just a great read and perfect if you want a witchy story without the scary!
September 17, 2020
Thank you BookSirens for giving me Witches of Wherewithal as an ARC in return for an honest review.
Oh how desperately I want to give this book 5 stars. I loved everything about the Island of Wherewithal and the people that live here. Can you imagine the pressure you’d feel knowing you were the last living witch, with the power to save the island while keeping secret your powers have mysteriously vanished. And on top of that, the rest of the island thinking you’d killed your husband on your wedding night. Tell me that isn’t a plot that hooks you?!
This book is a fantastical love story, a story of childhood friends that come together as adults with all their faults and stressors of adulthood (addiction, broken relationships, lost and new love just to name a few), to save the world they live in and stop a murderer from killing the island and everyone they love. All while trying to fake that Theodora’s powers have never left. I truly loved this book.
As for the lost star, it’s simply editing, and plot holes. I finished the book with questions about Theodora’s missing husband and mother and what came of the witches that initially fled to the island. These small subplots just didn’t seem to tie up for me, and I wish they did. Perhaps there’s a second book to come and if that’s the case, sign me up! I’ll read anything that comes after The Witches of Wherewithal.
Fantastic first book Alexandra Sharp, you should be so proud of this book.
Oh how desperately I want to give this book 5 stars. I loved everything about the Island of Wherewithal and the people that live here. Can you imagine the pressure you’d feel knowing you were the last living witch, with the power to save the island while keeping secret your powers have mysteriously vanished. And on top of that, the rest of the island thinking you’d killed your husband on your wedding night. Tell me that isn’t a plot that hooks you?!
This book is a fantastical love story, a story of childhood friends that come together as adults with all their faults and stressors of adulthood (addiction, broken relationships, lost and new love just to name a few), to save the world they live in and stop a murderer from killing the island and everyone they love. All while trying to fake that Theodora’s powers have never left. I truly loved this book.
As for the lost star, it’s simply editing, and plot holes. I finished the book with questions about Theodora’s missing husband and mother and what came of the witches that initially fled to the island. These small subplots just didn’t seem to tie up for me, and I wish they did. Perhaps there’s a second book to come and if that’s the case, sign me up! I’ll read anything that comes after The Witches of Wherewithal.
Fantastic first book Alexandra Sharp, you should be so proud of this book.
September 21, 2020
After reading the book, I am left confused about how I feel about it. It was definitely well known with good world building and characters.
However, the book needs editing. Words were missing and one chapter (chapter 58) was repeated verbatim at two different times.
The ending was rushed and confusing. Mysteries were left unanswered. For example with the original witches, what exactly happened to the exploratory group of 9?
This has the makings of an excellent read, but it needs some work.
Thanks to Booksirens for the ARC. This is my honest review.
However, the book needs editing. Words were missing and one chapter (chapter 58) was repeated verbatim at two different times.
The ending was rushed and confusing. Mysteries were left unanswered. For example with the original witches, what exactly happened to the exploratory group of 9?
This has the makings of an excellent read, but it needs some work.
Thanks to Booksirens for the ARC. This is my honest review.
October 12, 2020
This was quite an enjoyable book! I love the idea of an island of witches with the wherewithal (pun intended) to create their own community out of an unforgiving landscape. The Witches of Wherewithal seems to be about living so attuned to nature that there is a child like trust that it will provide everything you need. Like a perfect and seemingly unending energy source. The witches being not just capable of manipulating the elements but becoming the elements. I love the imagery of a woman becoming a hurricane!
The time frame of 40's and 50's was quaint but you are reminded how women were treated in that time. It reminded me of Bewitched.
WARNING: Minor spoilers ahead:
There were quite a few proof reading mistakes. Like the author was typing so quickly that no one went back to see that the auto correct put 'thing' instead of 'think' or sometimes missing the word altogether. It was distracting. There were some moments that seems a little off. Like the bomb was an 'explosion of light and blood', but no one was serious hurt and they're walking down the road a little while later. I needed a little more there to fully flesh out the horror of A BOMB JUST BLEW UP IN YOUR FACE! And what is with the dog? Nothing singed, bloody, or broken. I know this is a new series and I'm sure there will be explanations and tie-ups in future books but I can't help but feel like it could have had a few more resolutions.
The time frame of 40's and 50's was quaint but you are reminded how women were treated in that time. It reminded me of Bewitched.
WARNING: Minor spoilers ahead:
There were quite a few proof reading mistakes. Like the author was typing so quickly that no one went back to see that the auto correct put 'thing' instead of 'think' or sometimes missing the word altogether. It was distracting. There were some moments that seems a little off. Like the bomb was an 'explosion of light and blood', but no one was serious hurt and they're walking down the road a little while later. I needed a little more there to fully flesh out the horror of A BOMB JUST BLEW UP IN YOUR FACE! And what is with the dog? Nothing singed, bloody, or broken. I know this is a new series and I'm sure there will be explanations and tie-ups in future books but I can't help but feel like it could have had a few more resolutions.
February 1, 2021
This is a difficult novel to review because there was so much I loved as well as a good number of things I found to be not so great. I grabbed this book because LOOK AT THAT COVER; it immediately caught my eye and upon reading the synopsis it had me intrigued.
Now, what this book did right:
I really loved the idea behind the whole novel, the storyline, the characters, the world building. There was so much good stuff to dig into and so much to potential to develop into a fully woven tale spread across several novels. I was so interested in learning about these characters, their pasts, relationships, their story and their world. It feels lush, it feels a lot like the cover looks, like something you want to gaze at and take in all the details.
Where it fell short for me:
There was so much going on. Both a blessing and a curse. I felt like we only ever briefly touched lightly on some very important ideas, but spent a lot of time dawdling on ideas or scenes that weren’t necessarily important to the story. I felt like so much was being heaped on top of my brain as I read and I didn’t know what to think because it left me so scatterbrained trying to figure out the connections or what in the world was happening and why. It wasn’t cohesive.
The end did absolutely nothing to tie any of it together and felt rushed and obviously open for a sequel, but again, it felt rushed and like you were just expected to shrug and say okay and accept how it all turned out with zero explanation or depth to sink your teeth into.
I felt like I’d taken a (slightly confused) walk through a beautiful forest only to have a bucket of lukewarm water dumped on my head at the end.
There were also quite a number of typos/errors and it could do a good run through with an editor to tidy it up.
I don’t know if there is supposed to a sequel? It feels very unfinished. If there is a follow-up will I read book two? Undecided. I want to know what in the world is going on, but I also feel a bit jaded by my experience with the first. Would I re-read this if it was polished up and made cohesive? Absolutely. I wanted to love this, all signs pointed to a great read, but for me it just fell short.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Now, what this book did right:
I really loved the idea behind the whole novel, the storyline, the characters, the world building. There was so much good stuff to dig into and so much to potential to develop into a fully woven tale spread across several novels. I was so interested in learning about these characters, their pasts, relationships, their story and their world. It feels lush, it feels a lot like the cover looks, like something you want to gaze at and take in all the details.
Where it fell short for me:
There was so much going on. Both a blessing and a curse. I felt like we only ever briefly touched lightly on some very important ideas, but spent a lot of time dawdling on ideas or scenes that weren’t necessarily important to the story. I felt like so much was being heaped on top of my brain as I read and I didn’t know what to think because it left me so scatterbrained trying to figure out the connections or what in the world was happening and why. It wasn’t cohesive.
The end did absolutely nothing to tie any of it together and felt rushed and obviously open for a sequel, but again, it felt rushed and like you were just expected to shrug and say okay and accept how it all turned out with zero explanation or depth to sink your teeth into.
I felt like I’d taken a (slightly confused) walk through a beautiful forest only to have a bucket of lukewarm water dumped on my head at the end.
There were also quite a number of typos/errors and it could do a good run through with an editor to tidy it up.
I don’t know if there is supposed to a sequel? It feels very unfinished. If there is a follow-up will I read book two? Undecided. I want to know what in the world is going on, but I also feel a bit jaded by my experience with the first. Would I re-read this if it was polished up and made cohesive? Absolutely. I wanted to love this, all signs pointed to a great read, but for me it just fell short.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 11, 2020
Witches of Wherewithal
I received an ARC version of this book for the explicit intention of reviewing it.
Holy SMOKES. That saying-- don't judge a book by its cover? Forget that. I completely chose this book because of its beautiful artwork. Moreover, the story it held between its (digital) covers was one that I was, so incredibly surprised and pleased by.
In the novel, Sharp pulls a coup d'etat on the reader-- pushing out a multidimensional story that leaves you salivating for more. In the novel, readers are introduced to a sad tale of a woman, who struggles to grapple with the loss of her husband, her home and her identity. On the surface, the story could seem trite and full of motifs that are in countless other narratives. However, Sharp elegantly weaves in the past by highlighting the history of this seemingly enchanted island, Wherewithal. The story pulls notes from the 1950s perception of women, but throws in an element of other-- witchcraft. Theodora, called Teddy, is the last witch on the island, the sole inheritor of a a meteorological power that disappeared the same night as her husband. This book follows the aftermath of that, and the foreshadowing of Wherewithal, as a global player-- with its mysterious glowing algae?!
I will say that this book took a bit to sort out in terms of narrative style. The reader jumps from the book's present (1947), to the past (1933), and to some, unknown time. The timeline made this the most challenging aspect of the read, and that's the reason I gave it 4 stars, as opposed to the 5 that I wanted to.
I truly adored this book, and am certain that the next installation in this series will further complicate this already intricate world, and truthfully, I can't wait! For sure a fantastic read if you're interested in feminism, a bit of mystery and some odd algae.
I received an ARC version of this book for the explicit intention of reviewing it.
Holy SMOKES. That saying-- don't judge a book by its cover? Forget that. I completely chose this book because of its beautiful artwork. Moreover, the story it held between its (digital) covers was one that I was, so incredibly surprised and pleased by.
In the novel, Sharp pulls a coup d'etat on the reader-- pushing out a multidimensional story that leaves you salivating for more. In the novel, readers are introduced to a sad tale of a woman, who struggles to grapple with the loss of her husband, her home and her identity. On the surface, the story could seem trite and full of motifs that are in countless other narratives. However, Sharp elegantly weaves in the past by highlighting the history of this seemingly enchanted island, Wherewithal. The story pulls notes from the 1950s perception of women, but throws in an element of other-- witchcraft. Theodora, called Teddy, is the last witch on the island, the sole inheritor of a a meteorological power that disappeared the same night as her husband. This book follows the aftermath of that, and the foreshadowing of Wherewithal, as a global player-- with its mysterious glowing algae?!
I will say that this book took a bit to sort out in terms of narrative style. The reader jumps from the book's present (1947), to the past (1933), and to some, unknown time. The timeline made this the most challenging aspect of the read, and that's the reason I gave it 4 stars, as opposed to the 5 that I wanted to.
I truly adored this book, and am certain that the next installation in this series will further complicate this already intricate world, and truthfully, I can't wait! For sure a fantastic read if you're interested in feminism, a bit of mystery and some odd algae.
October 15, 2020
I wanted to love this book. The concept is amazing - a "lost" island that was founded by witches!? How amazing is that!? But ultimately I was still left with too many questions - too many juicy things dangled out, and then just dangled out some more, and it felt rather disjointed at times.
The characters are great - but they could be so much more with a little more fleshing out. George is definitely one of my favourites. But give me some more scenes with Henry - I loved the flashback with them all as a group when they were younger. I could have done with some more of those. Instead, we have a lot of flashbacks to the island's founding. Don't get me wrong, I adore this - give me all the history. But they went nowhere. They feel like they're maybe building up to something - but that something didn't happen in this book. I think something at least should have tied in better to this book (I'm not sure if there is to be a sequel).
And I must admit, I found a lot of errors and one chapter even repeated itself... unless my kindle had a bit of a mare and jumped ahead and then back. I wouldn't mention it - as thank you Book Siren's for the copy to review - but I'm pretty sure it was listed as a finalised version and not an uncorrected proof.
If there is to be a second book, I'd definitely be interested in it - hopefully we'll get some answers to the unanswered I mentioned. And three stars does still mean I enjoyed it.
The characters are great - but they could be so much more with a little more fleshing out. George is definitely one of my favourites. But give me some more scenes with Henry - I loved the flashback with them all as a group when they were younger. I could have done with some more of those. Instead, we have a lot of flashbacks to the island's founding. Don't get me wrong, I adore this - give me all the history. But they went nowhere. They feel like they're maybe building up to something - but that something didn't happen in this book. I think something at least should have tied in better to this book (I'm not sure if there is to be a sequel).
And I must admit, I found a lot of errors and one chapter even repeated itself... unless my kindle had a bit of a mare and jumped ahead and then back. I wouldn't mention it - as thank you Book Siren's for the copy to review - but I'm pretty sure it was listed as a finalised version and not an uncorrected proof.
If there is to be a second book, I'd definitely be interested in it - hopefully we'll get some answers to the unanswered I mentioned. And three stars does still mean I enjoyed it.
January 17, 2021
I have a lot of feelings about this book. I wish I could just sit down with the author for coffee and discuss what the meanings behind some of the choices were. That being said, I really did enjoy the premise of this book. It just didn’t do it for me.
Things I enjoyed most were the female empowerment of the witches as well as the close-knit friendship between Adelaide and Theodora. They really supported each other no matter what and I admire that so much. I also LOVED the reveal about Victoria! I wish that would have been delved into more.
Things I didn’t enjoy were nearly constant grammatical errors and missing words in sentences. This really just needed one final proof before it got sent out. Some of it felt very jarring and made it a bit harder to get through as a reader. Something else that gives me pause when discussing this book is the jumping around of timelines. Forgive me if this is a spoiler, but nearly all of the flashbacks save one or two could have been omitted entirely as they just opened up another line of plot and led to me just being all around confused.
I think that if this book was divided up into a fleshed out series there could be all sorts of fleshing out of the plot and I would be ecstatic to read that.
Though I received a copy of this book for free as an ARC from the author, all opinions are my own.
Things I enjoyed most were the female empowerment of the witches as well as the close-knit friendship between Adelaide and Theodora. They really supported each other no matter what and I admire that so much. I also LOVED the reveal about Victoria! I wish that would have been delved into more.
Things I didn’t enjoy were nearly constant grammatical errors and missing words in sentences. This really just needed one final proof before it got sent out. Some of it felt very jarring and made it a bit harder to get through as a reader. Something else that gives me pause when discussing this book is the jumping around of timelines. Forgive me if this is a spoiler, but nearly all of the flashbacks save one or two could have been omitted entirely as they just opened up another line of plot and led to me just being all around confused.
I think that if this book was divided up into a fleshed out series there could be all sorts of fleshing out of the plot and I would be ecstatic to read that.
Though I received a copy of this book for free as an ARC from the author, all opinions are my own.
October 8, 2020
As soon as I saw this cover and read the synopsis I knew I needed to read this witchy book.
Set on the island Wherewithal, the story is based around the last witch Theodora, who becomes entangled in an attempted assassination of her childhood sweetheart.
This book is written in such a whimsical way, and it all felt rather magical as I was reading it.
This is a love story but it also feels a bit fantasy like. I enjoyed the world of Wherewithal that the author created and as a herbalist and witch myself, absolutely loved the botanical references throughout which really added to the authenticity and imagery for me.
It lost a star because there did seem to be some gaps/holes in certain areas but as a whole I was very impressed. Particularly as the author’s debut novel.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Set on the island Wherewithal, the story is based around the last witch Theodora, who becomes entangled in an attempted assassination of her childhood sweetheart.
This book is written in such a whimsical way, and it all felt rather magical as I was reading it.
This is a love story but it also feels a bit fantasy like. I enjoyed the world of Wherewithal that the author created and as a herbalist and witch myself, absolutely loved the botanical references throughout which really added to the authenticity and imagery for me.
It lost a star because there did seem to be some gaps/holes in certain areas but as a whole I was very impressed. Particularly as the author’s debut novel.
Thank you to the author and BookSirens for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2021
This book has so much potential!!
The ideas, plot and world building that Alexandra has created is brilliant - only witch left on the island and her powers unknown, the 'powerful' men trying to rule, love stories, friendship and ultimately mystery around the loss of Theodoras loved ones.
It was all building up so well and then it ended and I was really surprised. There were so many questions left unanswered and I think if Alexandra had given us the outcomes, the book would have been perfectly rounded. Maybe a 2nd book is planned?
I would definitely read a 2nd if that was the case - I need to know everything!
Thank you Alexandra Sharp and Booksirens for allowing me to read Witches of Wherewithal in advance for free and due to this, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The ideas, plot and world building that Alexandra has created is brilliant - only witch left on the island and her powers unknown, the 'powerful' men trying to rule, love stories, friendship and ultimately mystery around the loss of Theodoras loved ones.
It was all building up so well and then it ended and I was really surprised. There were so many questions left unanswered and I think if Alexandra had given us the outcomes, the book would have been perfectly rounded. Maybe a 2nd book is planned?
I would definitely read a 2nd if that was the case - I need to know everything!
Thank you Alexandra Sharp and Booksirens for allowing me to read Witches of Wherewithal in advance for free and due to this, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 19, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book was really different than I expected, but I loved it. It had such a cool alt-history, almost steampunk vibe. I loved the world. It felt very realistic despite having magic, and the flashback chapters were excellent and definitely added a lot to the story. ALL of the characters were fantastic, and the relationship between Theodora and John was really believable and well-done. But I liked that there was so much MORE to this book and plot besides romance. The ending leaves a lot of questions still unanswered, though, so I hope it is a series. I need a sequel about Victoria right now, please.
This book was really different than I expected, but I loved it. It had such a cool alt-history, almost steampunk vibe. I loved the world. It felt very realistic despite having magic, and the flashback chapters were excellent and definitely added a lot to the story. ALL of the characters were fantastic, and the relationship between Theodora and John was really believable and well-done. But I liked that there was so much MORE to this book and plot besides romance. The ending leaves a lot of questions still unanswered, though, so I hope it is a series. I need a sequel about Victoria right now, please.
October 2, 2020
Brilliant, deeply engaging, mystical,magical and oh so romantic. The mysterious island of Wherewithal is gorgeously captured and its extreme isolation adds intrigue and often menance. Theodora the last of the witches(or is she?)is a compelling character and along with John Dove her childhood sweetheart fights the good fight in hope of saving the island from encroachment by those
who would destroy it. I eagerly await the sequel to this fantasy because it is so readable and so much fun!
who would destroy it. I eagerly await the sequel to this fantasy because it is so readable and so much fun!
September 25, 2020
The word " charming" comes to mind when you finish reading this book. It has a quaint setting and so much interesting intrigue in a way that's not usually read. Theodora and John as a couple will pull at your heart, and everything that they have to go through has twists and turns that you won't see coming, but yet a universal thread that rings true. So glad I chose to read this book.
February 5, 2021
Review : Witches of Wherewithal
3 stars
This story is multiple perspective fantasy, written from two timelines past and present. It also has a number of mysteries happening throughout. The writing was good and was very impressed with this debut novel, but I did have several issues. Its main perspective is on Teddy, who is the last witch on the island. The past nine years she has suffered shame for her husband disappearing, been called a murder, and blamed for the drought that has been plaguing the island. After all that, they now want to take her home and land from her. To put a stop to this she must travel to the city to speak in front of the council, but she runs into more trouble there then she can handle. First of all I found this book very intriguing. It had multiple mysteries elements happening. I found the whole world very captivating and was really excited to read more. I made it through the whole book waiting for a number of plot points to wrap up. However, several of them did not, which was very frustrating. I am hoping that there is a purpose to why they were not given a conclusion, like maybe there will be a squeal. I really wanted some more world building from this story about the island and a more in-depth about the past witches and what happened to them. I was so interested in how this Island was really stuck in time because they were cut off from the rest of the world. A number of ideas were present in the story, I just did not feel like it was delivered fully for the audience to grasp the entire picture. With a little more development, this story really has the potential to be a five star.
Trigger warnings: drug use and murder.
I received this advanced ebook, via Booksiren, for free and I am leaving an honest review voluntarily
3 stars
This story is multiple perspective fantasy, written from two timelines past and present. It also has a number of mysteries happening throughout. The writing was good and was very impressed with this debut novel, but I did have several issues. Its main perspective is on Teddy, who is the last witch on the island. The past nine years she has suffered shame for her husband disappearing, been called a murder, and blamed for the drought that has been plaguing the island. After all that, they now want to take her home and land from her. To put a stop to this she must travel to the city to speak in front of the council, but she runs into more trouble there then she can handle. First of all I found this book very intriguing. It had multiple mysteries elements happening. I found the whole world very captivating and was really excited to read more. I made it through the whole book waiting for a number of plot points to wrap up. However, several of them did not, which was very frustrating. I am hoping that there is a purpose to why they were not given a conclusion, like maybe there will be a squeal. I really wanted some more world building from this story about the island and a more in-depth about the past witches and what happened to them. I was so interested in how this Island was really stuck in time because they were cut off from the rest of the world. A number of ideas were present in the story, I just did not feel like it was delivered fully for the audience to grasp the entire picture. With a little more development, this story really has the potential to be a five star.
Trigger warnings: drug use and murder.
I received this advanced ebook, via Booksiren, for free and I am leaving an honest review voluntarily
October 14, 2020
This book had a really intriguing premise, a book about witches, but not school witches, not witches in this realm of existence, but rather those that exist in a steampunk-esque world that differs from ours in sometimes subtle, sometimes explicit ways.
I enjoyed the story, but there were parts that I felt were kind of superfluous - those bits about Henry and Theodora's mother - but not enough that they put me off. There were also parts I felt didn't make a lot of sense - but again, not enough to put me off the story. I enjoyed the interactions between the characters, I really loved the setting and the different landscapes and would love to read more from this author.
This book is a solid 4 for the storyline and settings, I would knock off half a star for some corrections that really need to be made! Thanks BookSirens for the opportunity to read this book, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed the story, but there were parts that I felt were kind of superfluous - those bits about Henry and Theodora's mother - but not enough that they put me off. There were also parts I felt didn't make a lot of sense - but again, not enough to put me off the story. I enjoyed the interactions between the characters, I really loved the setting and the different landscapes and would love to read more from this author.
This book is a solid 4 for the storyline and settings, I would knock off half a star for some corrections that really need to be made! Thanks BookSirens for the opportunity to read this book, I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 22, 2020
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Witches of Wherewithal is an intriguing book based on magic and politics. This story follows Theadora Ashe as she finally comes into her own magic. Along the way she finds a long lost friend from child hood. The story is romantic, mysterious and has a little humor tossed in. I thought the book was well written and really enjoyed the story.
Witches of Wherewithal is an intriguing book based on magic and politics. This story follows Theadora Ashe as she finally comes into her own magic. Along the way she finds a long lost friend from child hood. The story is romantic, mysterious and has a little humor tossed in. I thought the book was well written and really enjoyed the story.
January 1, 2021
This a really frustrating book to read I did like the idea of Witches seek refuge from prosecution on an island and build this whole eco friendly Society. It was really descriptive and interesting but not in the way I was expecting. So there are two stories happening at the same time “present day” & “the past”. Present day story is about Theo a very special widow, John, George, Aiddy and a list of minor supporting characters. Past are the founders. The two stories in my opinion do not really have much to do with each other, other than taking place on the same island. So present day Theo is on a sort of quest to save her home but inexplicably ends up in the middle of a conspiracy. This conspiracy forces all the friends together and to a higher extend John and Theo. There are some characters that are spoken of but never pop up even if the story gives the impression they are going to show up. There are some important details that are shared but are never revisited again or explained which is very frustrating consider this is one book not a trilogy. The magic itself is a minor character to the main situation however when it does happen it is described in incredibly beautiful detail. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 15, 2020
A fast-paced, quick-witted tale of magic almost lost and love almost found on a mysterious witches-only island in the North Atlantic. Well, it's less witches-only and more only-one-witch: Theodora is the last of her kind (supposedly), but after her husband disappeared on her wedding night and her mother went poof in a ball of magic, Theodora isn't the mood to craft spells. Nevertheless, politics, power, algae, weather patterns, spy couples, huge dogs, feminism, jealousy, greed, and true love all conspire to get Theodora magicking up a storm. It's fun, funny, and endlessly imaginative.
March 6, 2021
I deliberated between giving this book 2 or 3 stars.
Why 2 stars?
By the time I was 30% into the book, while the main characters had been well-developed and the world effectively built, I had no idea what the driving plot was supposed to be. Theodora and John were two star-crossed characters who were most probably going to figure out their deep love for each other. Was she going to find a new home and maybe her mother and 1st husband who had both disappeared mysteriously? Was he going to stop his father's company from destroying the island's environment and culture? At 30% into the book, I wasn't sure if those were the plotlines and I wasn't sure I cared. If this had been a library read, I would have stopped then.
By the time I finished the book, the leaning towards 2 stars would be the entire chapters that added nothing of value to the story being told in this book. I'm assuming there will be sequels and those chapters would then become relevant. However, they were the merest of hints and did not add value to this book.
Why 3 stars?
For a debut novel, it does impress. As mentioned above, the character development and world building were very well done. And, the latter portion of the book, the plot finally gets moving along. If there had been more of that earlier on, and the chapters that set up for the sequel(s) had been tied more into this book's story, then I'd be more satisfied upon finishing this one and more inclined to read the next.
Who would I recommend this book to?
If you like gently-paced windows into alternative "what if" historical fiction with pleasant characters and prose, then you may enjoy this.
I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Why 2 stars?
By the time I was 30% into the book, while the main characters had been well-developed and the world effectively built, I had no idea what the driving plot was supposed to be. Theodora and John were two star-crossed characters who were most probably going to figure out their deep love for each other. Was she going to find a new home and maybe her mother and 1st husband who had both disappeared mysteriously? Was he going to stop his father's company from destroying the island's environment and culture? At 30% into the book, I wasn't sure if those were the plotlines and I wasn't sure I cared. If this had been a library read, I would have stopped then.
By the time I finished the book, the leaning towards 2 stars would be the entire chapters that added nothing of value to the story being told in this book. I'm assuming there will be sequels and those chapters would then become relevant. However, they were the merest of hints and did not add value to this book.
Why 3 stars?
For a debut novel, it does impress. As mentioned above, the character development and world building were very well done. And, the latter portion of the book, the plot finally gets moving along. If there had been more of that earlier on, and the chapters that set up for the sequel(s) had been tied more into this book's story, then I'd be more satisfied upon finishing this one and more inclined to read the next.
Who would I recommend this book to?
If you like gently-paced windows into alternative "what if" historical fiction with pleasant characters and prose, then you may enjoy this.
I received a review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 31, 2020
Thank you to Book Sirens for the e-ARC of Witches of Wherewithal by Alexandra Sharp. All opinions and thoughts written in this review are my own.
This story had me intrigued from the beginning. Witches escaping Salem and finding themselves starting over in a place called Wherewithal. Fast forward to the late 1940’s and now there’s a possibility there is only one witch left. The book left me wondering if the witches truly escaped the reasons they fled Salem and if Wherewithal just became a new place for history to repeat itself.
I really enjoyed the storyline about Theodora and John. Their beginnings really made me want them to end up together and kept me wondering if they could be together. The way the book ended left a possibility for future books and I hope Ms. Sharp is already thinking about a second book with these characters. She definitely left room for these characters to grow. I was also surprised by the identity of the character causing all the problems for John. I thought I had it figured out about 3/4 of the way through, but nope!
I had some difficulty following along with the concept of where they lived and conjuring up in my mind how this place would look. I also wanted to know more about what happened to Theodora’s first husband and her mother. Some of the writing about past events in Wherewhithal needed to be clarified a bit. I know these were an important part of the beginning of Wherewithal, but I didn’t get a feel for how those events led up to 1947 Wherewithal.
I gave this book 3 stars and would recommend it to those interested in fantasy writing.
This story had me intrigued from the beginning. Witches escaping Salem and finding themselves starting over in a place called Wherewithal. Fast forward to the late 1940’s and now there’s a possibility there is only one witch left. The book left me wondering if the witches truly escaped the reasons they fled Salem and if Wherewithal just became a new place for history to repeat itself.
I really enjoyed the storyline about Theodora and John. Their beginnings really made me want them to end up together and kept me wondering if they could be together. The way the book ended left a possibility for future books and I hope Ms. Sharp is already thinking about a second book with these characters. She definitely left room for these characters to grow. I was also surprised by the identity of the character causing all the problems for John. I thought I had it figured out about 3/4 of the way through, but nope!
I had some difficulty following along with the concept of where they lived and conjuring up in my mind how this place would look. I also wanted to know more about what happened to Theodora’s first husband and her mother. Some of the writing about past events in Wherewhithal needed to be clarified a bit. I know these were an important part of the beginning of Wherewithal, but I didn’t get a feel for how those events led up to 1947 Wherewithal.
I gave this book 3 stars and would recommend it to those interested in fantasy writing.
December 20, 2020
This is a beautiful story, lyrical with layers. The witches went to Wherewithal island to avoid persecution spreading from the Salem Witch trials. The story goes back and forward to 1947 where Theodora is the last witch, but a witch without powers. Her mother disappeared and her husband Henry disappeared on their wedding night, it was also the last time she had powers. Theodora’s situation is heartbreaking, and she heads to the city to avoid issues with her father. A man from her past returns and Theodora finds herself in the middle of a mystery. Is someone trying to kill her, or the man John she is reconnecting with from her past. Another layer to this story is that the people in the city still believe she has powers. Are they afraid of her or does someone want to get rid of the last witch? Can Theodora find happiness and her powers again? I loved this story. It was a great read with amazing imagery and details on every page. This is a great start to a series. I can’t wait to see where the future takes Theodora!
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book. I am not required to leave a review. The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.*
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book. I am not required to leave a review. The comments and opinions expressed are strictly my own.*
March 9, 2021
I recieved an advanced copy from book sirens and am writing this review in return.
Interesting enough story and is set up to be a good book, but was left with alot more questions than answers. Not sure if there is supposed to be a second book to tie up loose ends about her mother and previous husband, but would be interested in reading that. Altogether felt quite disjointed and never really came together.
Also the part with the flashing back to how the island was founded was interesting but poorly told. It made little connection to the rest of the story. Additionally, the description of life on the island was strange. There was too much western influence, ie in the day to day activities and the way they spoke to make it believable that it was some mystic island. Maybe that was the point to show the western influence but it was a bit lost on me.
Lastly, there were alot of typos and missing words that were distracting and hopefully will be edited out for the finalized version.
Altogether a good enough book but got to the last page not even knowing it was the end and was expecting another 3 plus chapters.
Interesting enough story and is set up to be a good book, but was left with alot more questions than answers. Not sure if there is supposed to be a second book to tie up loose ends about her mother and previous husband, but would be interested in reading that. Altogether felt quite disjointed and never really came together.
Also the part with the flashing back to how the island was founded was interesting but poorly told. It made little connection to the rest of the story. Additionally, the description of life on the island was strange. There was too much western influence, ie in the day to day activities and the way they spoke to make it believable that it was some mystic island. Maybe that was the point to show the western influence but it was a bit lost on me.
Lastly, there were alot of typos and missing words that were distracting and hopefully will be edited out for the finalized version.
Altogether a good enough book but got to the last page not even knowing it was the end and was expecting another 3 plus chapters.
December 10, 2020
With a cover as beautiful as this and the synopsis promising me witches and romance I knew I needed to read this book!
The story takes place on an island that was founded by witches looking to flee the Salem Witch Trials. Our main character is Theodora, the last witch (or is she?) who seems to have lost her magic, specifically the power to control the weather. This is a romance but it is also very magical. The writing is quite whimsical in the very best way! I would call this magic realism and I liken the author’s writing style and sense of story to Alice Hoffman.
I give the book a solid 4 stars for story, prose, setting and character development which, to me, is often more important than plot. It loses a star because there are some things that didn’t really make sense, as in I feel like I had more questions unanswered when I was done with the book than when I started. Perhaps there will be a book 2 that will explain some of this? But for a debut novel, this was fantastic.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The story takes place on an island that was founded by witches looking to flee the Salem Witch Trials. Our main character is Theodora, the last witch (or is she?) who seems to have lost her magic, specifically the power to control the weather. This is a romance but it is also very magical. The writing is quite whimsical in the very best way! I would call this magic realism and I liken the author’s writing style and sense of story to Alice Hoffman.
I give the book a solid 4 stars for story, prose, setting and character development which, to me, is often more important than plot. It loses a star because there are some things that didn’t really make sense, as in I feel like I had more questions unanswered when I was done with the book than when I started. Perhaps there will be a book 2 that will explain some of this? But for a debut novel, this was fantastic.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 4, 2020
I really really enjoyed reading this! The writing was intricate and just enough to make you pay attention. It was a perfect fall read with just a taste of witchcraft but it had the feel of a historical novel. The algae was perhaps my favorite part, it was such a neat concept. One thing that prevented me from giving 5 stars was the ending. It felt a little rushed and lackluster. I was hoping for at least one plot point to wrapped up. Overall though it was an unexpected find. I received a free advance copy for a voluntary review.
October 17, 2020
This is an unexpectedly complex book. The timeline constantly shifts; first, it makes for rather a slow read, then it gathers momentum, and you slowly get invested into characters. I confess I did not like the main female character that much. I cannot put my finger on it. Overly passive? Selfish? Not that, but something like that. She slowly comes to herself and becomes more likable through the book, but still... The book itself is quite well-written, and the world-building is interesting.
August 17, 2020
Not the MOST objective review I’ve ever written 😉 but it is true that I’m a huge, huge fan of Theodora, John, Adelaide, George, et al and the island cliffs they call home in the North Atlantic Sea. I hope you’ll love them just as much!
January 18, 2021
"Even if you were a witch, which –” he smiled a little bit at himself “– you are not, the story is coming for you. The gossip, the charges of murder. All of it. It’s too damned convenient . You should be on the next ship off, Theodora. Get away like your mother did. Like your man did.”
A group of witches and their children facing persecution leave Salem and head off to find sanctuary somewhere different, ending up on a remote island. Hundreds of years later in the 1940s one of their descendents, Theodora, is in the difficult position of being pretty much the last witch, presumed widowed and suspected of murdering her husband and unable to actually do witchcraft since her husband disappeared. She is blamed as there is a severe drought and the male islanders conspire against her and her friend John Dove is in danger of being killed and the blame placed on her.
I enjoyed the world building in this novel, the island feels as if it's both a real place and a good setting for fantasy as the author uses beautiful descriptions and the invlusiin of details of island life like the fish the islanders mostly eat and the algae they use to light their homes. I thought that the characters were particularly well written too. Theodora is a great main character and grows during the storyline, but I also liked the way the writer portrayed the other women on the island who are fighting the patriarchy in their own way. Adelaide, Theodora's cousin, in particular, helps Theodora but has her own private battles to fight and grows as a result. Though the author uses magic realism, it doesn't feel like it's out of the realm of possibility of it happening. The development of the relationship between Theodora and her friend John is nicely written. I enjoyed reading this and was pleased to see that this is potentially a series, I thought that this is a hidden gem in that it's an unusual but beautiful novel.
I received an advanced copy of this book free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
A group of witches and their children facing persecution leave Salem and head off to find sanctuary somewhere different, ending up on a remote island. Hundreds of years later in the 1940s one of their descendents, Theodora, is in the difficult position of being pretty much the last witch, presumed widowed and suspected of murdering her husband and unable to actually do witchcraft since her husband disappeared. She is blamed as there is a severe drought and the male islanders conspire against her and her friend John Dove is in danger of being killed and the blame placed on her.
I enjoyed the world building in this novel, the island feels as if it's both a real place and a good setting for fantasy as the author uses beautiful descriptions and the invlusiin of details of island life like the fish the islanders mostly eat and the algae they use to light their homes. I thought that the characters were particularly well written too. Theodora is a great main character and grows during the storyline, but I also liked the way the writer portrayed the other women on the island who are fighting the patriarchy in their own way. Adelaide, Theodora's cousin, in particular, helps Theodora but has her own private battles to fight and grows as a result. Though the author uses magic realism, it doesn't feel like it's out of the realm of possibility of it happening. The development of the relationship between Theodora and her friend John is nicely written. I enjoyed reading this and was pleased to see that this is potentially a series, I thought that this is a hidden gem in that it's an unusual but beautiful novel.
I received an advanced copy of this book free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 17, 2020
I received a digital review copy of the book from Book Sirens in exchange for an honest review. I am leaving voluntarily.
The island of Wherewithal was where America’s witches fled as Salem’s witch trials spread. By 1947, Theodora Ashe is the last witch left, until her powers left her when her husband left on their wedding night 9 years ago. But when someone attempts to kill her childhood crush and frame her for it, Teddy must re-emerge into high society and struggle for power in her now male-dominated world society – pretend to be the witch she once was. As assassination attempts increase and more deaths occur, Theodore’s feelings for John grow, as do her powers. She begins to realise the lengths someone might go to stop her from reaching her full potential.
I really enjoyed reading the Witches of Wherewithal, particularly the time jumps between the 17th Century and the 1940s, focusing on the founding witches and Theodora respectively. The descriptions of the island were gorgeous and I would definitely visit if it was real. The writing was very compelling, and I read the whole book in about 4 hours.
I did find the book a little slow to get going, but after a few chapters I was very drawn into the story!
I also wish that there had been more written in the older time with the original witches, as I would have liked to have seen how the island grew and developed. But the writing during these chapters was particularly lovely.
I loved the range of characters. Our main character, Theodora, I loved her! She was a very relatable character, trying to live up to societal expectations over witches. I also thought John was a really good character and a nice contrast with most of the other male characters in the novel.
I loved reading this, and it was a great read – different from what I was expecting but I very enjoyable. I would recommend this to people who like romances, historical fiction, or mysteries.
Thanks again to Booksirens for my review copy.
This review and others also posted to my blog: Three Lonely Clouds
The island of Wherewithal was where America’s witches fled as Salem’s witch trials spread. By 1947, Theodora Ashe is the last witch left, until her powers left her when her husband left on their wedding night 9 years ago. But when someone attempts to kill her childhood crush and frame her for it, Teddy must re-emerge into high society and struggle for power in her now male-dominated world society – pretend to be the witch she once was. As assassination attempts increase and more deaths occur, Theodore’s feelings for John grow, as do her powers. She begins to realise the lengths someone might go to stop her from reaching her full potential.
I really enjoyed reading the Witches of Wherewithal, particularly the time jumps between the 17th Century and the 1940s, focusing on the founding witches and Theodora respectively. The descriptions of the island were gorgeous and I would definitely visit if it was real. The writing was very compelling, and I read the whole book in about 4 hours.
I did find the book a little slow to get going, but after a few chapters I was very drawn into the story!
I also wish that there had been more written in the older time with the original witches, as I would have liked to have seen how the island grew and developed. But the writing during these chapters was particularly lovely.
I loved the range of characters. Our main character, Theodora, I loved her! She was a very relatable character, trying to live up to societal expectations over witches. I also thought John was a really good character and a nice contrast with most of the other male characters in the novel.
I loved reading this, and it was a great read – different from what I was expecting but I very enjoyable. I would recommend this to people who like romances, historical fiction, or mysteries.
Thanks again to Booksirens for my review copy.
This review and others also posted to my blog: Three Lonely Clouds
abandoned
January 17, 2021Started on 20 October 2020, gave up on 18 January 2021.
I really enjoyed the world building and the magic system, from what I experienced - DNF'ed at 47%.
I really enjoyed Sharp's turn of phrases and the ease of which the dialogues were written, but I fervently wished her characters, though well-realised, weren't so stupid that I had to stop reading.
Thanks to BookSirens for the copy of the book.
I really enjoyed the world building and the magic system, from what I experienced - DNF'ed at 47%.
I really enjoyed Sharp's turn of phrases and the ease of which the dialogues were written, but I fervently wished her characters, though well-realised, weren't so stupid that I had to stop reading.
Thanks to BookSirens for the copy of the book.
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