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Accessory to Magic #1
The Witching Vault
Run the witching vault. Protect the Gateway. Say please. And don’t get killed.
After her release from magical prison, Jessica Northwood can’t hold a job to save her life. So when an apprenticeship opens up at a spellbound bank, no questions asked, she can’t exactly say no… But she definitely should have.
Her new boss is an eccentric scryer witch who can read Jessica’s mind but can’t remember her name. Winthrop & Dirledge Security Banking can think for itself and has a serious attitude problem. But after Jessica’s previous line of work, this should be a piece of cake—until a murder in the bank takes things to a whole new level. Now her contract says she’s the new owner, Jessica has no idea what she’s doing, and the bank won’t let her leave.
For centuries, the bank’s owners have stood between the Gateway in the upstairs hall and the occult syndicate who want it for themselves. As she deals with magical clientele who know the stakes far better than she does, Jessica must decide just how far she’s willing to go to keep this job. Because if she doesn’t, she’ll end up as dead as the body in the lobby. Or worse.
Illona Andrews’ Inkeeper Chronicles meets The Magicians in this snarky, fast-paced Urban Fantasy Adventure from International Bestselling Author Kathrin Hutson.
After her release from magical prison, Jessica Northwood can’t hold a job to save her life. So when an apprenticeship opens up at a spellbound bank, no questions asked, she can’t exactly say no… But she definitely should have.
Her new boss is an eccentric scryer witch who can read Jessica’s mind but can’t remember her name. Winthrop & Dirledge Security Banking can think for itself and has a serious attitude problem. But after Jessica’s previous line of work, this should be a piece of cake—until a murder in the bank takes things to a whole new level. Now her contract says she’s the new owner, Jessica has no idea what she’s doing, and the bank won’t let her leave.
For centuries, the bank’s owners have stood between the Gateway in the upstairs hall and the occult syndicate who want it for themselves. As she deals with magical clientele who know the stakes far better than she does, Jessica must decide just how far she’s willing to go to keep this job. Because if she doesn’t, she’ll end up as dead as the body in the lobby. Or worse.
Illona Andrews’ Inkeeper Chronicles meets The Magicians in this snarky, fast-paced Urban Fantasy Adventure from International Bestselling Author Kathrin Hutson.
262 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 10, 2020
671 people are currently reading
566 people want to read
About the author
Kathrin Hutson
32 books121 followersInternational Bestselling Author Kathrin Hutson has been writing Dark Fantasy, Sci-Fi, and LGBTQ Speculative Fiction since 2000. With her wildly messed-up heroes, excruciating circumstances, impossible decisions, and Happily Never Afters, she’s a firm believer in piling on the intense action, showing a little character skin, and never skimping on violent means to bloody ends. As a world traveler with her husband and young daughter, Kathrin makes a living writing fiction full time and a home of wherever she can write.
For updates on new releases, exclusive deals, and dark surprises you won’t find anywhere else, sign up to Kathrin’s newsletter at kathrinhutsonfiction.com/subscribe.
For updates on new releases, exclusive deals, and dark surprises you won’t find anywhere else, sign up to Kathrin’s newsletter at kathrinhutsonfiction.com/subscribe.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
May 3, 2021
I wanted to like this book more than I actually did.
It relies very heavily on nobody telling the MC anything, and she's pretty committed to not mentioning her past, so we have nothing at the beginning of the book and pretty much nothing at the end, too.
So, the "don't tell" trope for plot pacing goes from being frustrating to being the entirety of the book. SNORE. Then, at the end, we get a single phone call to a new character, a phone call that amounts to "surprising to hear from you, let's do lunch" and that's the totality of allusions to her past, beyond knowing that she's recently been released from magical jail and she did something to herself regarding her magic.
That's it. It's wrapped around a story about a magical bank that makes no sense, and a door that's supposed to be a gateway that also makes no sense.
I have no interest in pursuing this. I don't like to be toyed with, and the entire book is about toying with the reader to see how long they will play along.
I prefer for my teasing to be consensual. With this, I don't consent.
It relies very heavily on nobody telling the MC anything, and she's pretty committed to not mentioning her past, so we have nothing at the beginning of the book and pretty much nothing at the end, too.
So, the "don't tell" trope for plot pacing goes from being frustrating to being the entirety of the book. SNORE. Then, at the end, we get a single phone call to a new character, a phone call that amounts to "surprising to hear from you, let's do lunch" and that's the totality of allusions to her past, beyond knowing that she's recently been released from magical jail and she did something to herself regarding her magic.
That's it. It's wrapped around a story about a magical bank that makes no sense, and a door that's supposed to be a gateway that also makes no sense.
I have no interest in pursuing this. I don't like to be toyed with, and the entire book is about toying with the reader to see how long they will play along.
I prefer for my teasing to be consensual. With this, I don't consent.
April 10, 2021
Very interesting world and characters. A bit too much I know stuff you need, but can’t tell you. Proceeding to book 2!
February 28, 2022
Incredibly frustrating
I tried to persevere. I really did.
I made it three books into this series before I finally kicked it to the curb.
I kept waiting for this protagonist to stop being so incredibly, irritatingly, stupid and shortsighted.
I kept waiting for the love interest to show any redeeming features whatsoever. Be a little bit less of a manipulative a******
Instead, the protagonist kept getting more and more unbelievable, and love interest kept getting more and more petty, stupid, and manipulative.
The idea that any guy could make it to 25 with this attitude, let alone a few thousand years old, is laughable.
The idea that the protagonist could organize her way out of a paper bag let alone pull off multiple successful heists, is so painfully unbelievable as to not even be laughable anymore.
I just want to smack everybody in this series upside the head. I'm extremely unhappy that I have wasted part of my life with this series. I never getting this time back.
One star is for the fact that at least some editing has been done here. There are still numerous small errors but it's readable.
The other star is because the premise itself was intriguing. If the characters had been even an iota more believable this would have been an ok series. If the world building had been even just a little bit less hamhanded It could have been great series.
Honestly, 10 more sentences of explanation over the course of those three books might have brought this into the realm of being worth reading and not an incredible waste of my time.
As it is, please do yourself a favor and read an author with a little more ability to walk that fine line between revealing enough and revealing too much. There are dozens out there.
I tried to persevere. I really did.
I made it three books into this series before I finally kicked it to the curb.
I kept waiting for this protagonist to stop being so incredibly, irritatingly, stupid and shortsighted.
I kept waiting for the love interest to show any redeeming features whatsoever. Be a little bit less of a manipulative a******
Instead, the protagonist kept getting more and more unbelievable, and love interest kept getting more and more petty, stupid, and manipulative.
The idea that any guy could make it to 25 with this attitude, let alone a few thousand years old, is laughable.
The idea that the protagonist could organize her way out of a paper bag let alone pull off multiple successful heists, is so painfully unbelievable as to not even be laughable anymore.
I just want to smack everybody in this series upside the head. I'm extremely unhappy that I have wasted part of my life with this series. I never getting this time back.
One star is for the fact that at least some editing has been done here. There are still numerous small errors but it's readable.
The other star is because the premise itself was intriguing. If the characters had been even an iota more believable this would have been an ok series. If the world building had been even just a little bit less hamhanded It could have been great series.
Honestly, 10 more sentences of explanation over the course of those three books might have brought this into the realm of being worth reading and not an incredible waste of my time.
As it is, please do yourself a favor and read an author with a little more ability to walk that fine line between revealing enough and revealing too much. There are dozens out there.
August 6, 2021
Not gonna lie, as soon as I read the blurb I had to get the book. The story sounded so adventurous. However, I was left disappointed. Jessica signed up to be an apprentice at a magic bank, but within two days, the owner dies and she finds herself the owner of the bank. It wouldn't be too bad if people wouldn't try to attack or kill her to get what's inside. Plus there is the gateway. Everyone knows what it is but her. And that doesn't make sense. If everybody is aware of what's inside the bank, why doesn't she know? She's a supernatural creature too. I'll give book 2 a try, and hope that it gets better.
November 11, 2020
I’ve never read this author before, but after reading this, I definitely will again. This urban fantasy is well-written with an intriguing protagonist named Jennifer, or maybe Janice, or Jessica? (You’ll need to read the book to understand that! LOL!) I was a little worried at the beginning but once events started happening, I was really drawn into the book. We are never completely satisfied in finding out Jessica’s past; we just get bits and pieces, enough to want to read the next to find out what’s going on. Not only that we are only given glimpses of this interesting world. Give this a try; I’m definitely ready for the next. Recommend. I was provided a complimentary copy which I voluntarily reviewed.
November 21, 2024
This was such an interesting concept. At first it had a very Stephen Kings “Rose Red” type vibe (except with sass instead of murder). I loved the character development and can’t wait to follow the author.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 7, 2021
Not my cuppa.
The FMC was stupidly just rolling with everything like a TSTL doormat. The dude that I gather is the MMC is a douchebag. Everyone has info but no one will share it with her, they just heap bullshit and abuse on her. And she just takes it, despite apparently being some kind of magical powerhouse.
Why doesn't she at least throw them out of the bank? But no. People literally attack her, condescend to her, and call her an idiot... And she just takes it and handles their bank business.
If she had hurled at least one of these bags of shit out the door with a lightning bolt up their ass, I'd have been a little more patient. As it is, DNF @70%.
The FMC was stupidly just rolling with everything like a TSTL doormat. The dude that I gather is the MMC is a douchebag. Everyone has info but no one will share it with her, they just heap bullshit and abuse on her. And she just takes it, despite apparently being some kind of magical powerhouse.
Why doesn't she at least throw them out of the bank? But no. People literally attack her, condescend to her, and call her an idiot... And she just takes it and handles their bank business.
If she had hurled at least one of these bags of shit out the door with a lightning bolt up their ass, I'd have been a little more patient. As it is, DNF @70%.
December 2, 2020
Quirky characters and an entertaining story. Jessica is a great character and I loved the dialogue. I would definitely recommend it
December 2, 2020
Note: I received this book via Booksprout and I voluntarily give this review, it is my honest opinion.
When I came across The Witching Vault by Kathrin Hutson I have to admit I was intrigued. I always loved the supernatural and I have always loved stories that centered on witches but this is the first time I have come across the idea of something like a witching vault.
The story follows Jessica who might be an ex-con who is trying to turn her life around and sees the job listing at Winthrop & Dirledge Security Banking as the chance she needs. Jessica is quick on her feet, brave, tough, not afraid to get her hands dirty, and is resourceful. Then add in the snarky attitude and I like her as a character except for the stubborn streak she seems to have, apparently I like that in quality in myself more than in others. She is so determined to do things her own way, she overlooks the obvious, she does things because she wants to instead of looking (or listening) to the warning signs and that was frustrating but overall I like her. She got herself in a tough situation but she is handling the suppressing amount of problems well.
Something you should know, as of now, this is not a paranormal romance, there is no love interest, the other characters that appear in the story are fascinating. There is a flirty fae who is up to no good, a mentor who is crazy as the mad hatter, and a bank with an attitude. That's right the bank has a personality and it is a doozie, the bank is all snark and got jokes for days. Winthrop & Dirledge Security Banking is a character like no other, I enjoyed it/her (it sounds like it might be a her) and that special aspect of the bank adds to the story.
I enjoyed the story but I didn't love it. The writing is good, the characters are interesting but the plot is a little pulled out and I didn't get pulled into the story how I normally do. Something about it felt a little slow to me and I am trying to figure out where all of it went. I believe in giving certain stories another chance by reading the next book in the series, I assume because of the way that the story ended that The Witching Vault is only the first book in a series, so I am willing to give this story another shot.
The Witching Vault is a supernatural story filled with magic, interesting characters who do questionable things. It has a new and interesting take on the supernatural world and has room to grow into a much better series. I will be on the lookout for book two because I am kinda interested in seeing where the story leads to.
When I came across The Witching Vault by Kathrin Hutson I have to admit I was intrigued. I always loved the supernatural and I have always loved stories that centered on witches but this is the first time I have come across the idea of something like a witching vault.
The story follows Jessica who might be an ex-con who is trying to turn her life around and sees the job listing at Winthrop & Dirledge Security Banking as the chance she needs. Jessica is quick on her feet, brave, tough, not afraid to get her hands dirty, and is resourceful. Then add in the snarky attitude and I like her as a character except for the stubborn streak she seems to have, apparently I like that in quality in myself more than in others. She is so determined to do things her own way, she overlooks the obvious, she does things because she wants to instead of looking (or listening) to the warning signs and that was frustrating but overall I like her. She got herself in a tough situation but she is handling the suppressing amount of problems well.
Something you should know, as of now, this is not a paranormal romance, there is no love interest, the other characters that appear in the story are fascinating. There is a flirty fae who is up to no good, a mentor who is crazy as the mad hatter, and a bank with an attitude. That's right the bank has a personality and it is a doozie, the bank is all snark and got jokes for days. Winthrop & Dirledge Security Banking is a character like no other, I enjoyed it/her (it sounds like it might be a her) and that special aspect of the bank adds to the story.
I enjoyed the story but I didn't love it. The writing is good, the characters are interesting but the plot is a little pulled out and I didn't get pulled into the story how I normally do. Something about it felt a little slow to me and I am trying to figure out where all of it went. I believe in giving certain stories another chance by reading the next book in the series, I assume because of the way that the story ended that The Witching Vault is only the first book in a series, so I am willing to give this story another shot.
The Witching Vault is a supernatural story filled with magic, interesting characters who do questionable things. It has a new and interesting take on the supernatural world and has room to grow into a much better series. I will be on the lookout for book two because I am kinda interested in seeing where the story leads to.
October 3, 2021
This is a great story and it caught me off-guard at moments. I don't like to give spoilers but rather emphasize the experience as a reader and this story is one that will certainly leave you page-turning to endless delight.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 5, 2022
The Witching Vault is book one in the Accessory to Magic by Kathrin Hutson.
The story is wrapped around a magical bank, a door that’s supposed to be a gateway to someplace, and a lead heroine who is some kind of magical powerhouse. All of this sounds cool and I wanted to like this book more than I did.
The story relies to heavily on no-one telling Jessica Northwood anything. Everyone has information, but know one is willing to share it. Jessica just takes the bullshit from these characters despite being a magical powerhouse.
The beginning, middle, and end is pretty much the character bumbling around and learning nothing. We don’t learning anything about Jessica or why she’s put into this position. The whole storyline is frustrating and nothing makes sense.
The Witching Vault was not the book for me. If the blurb intrigues you, I urge you to give it a shot. Just because it did not work for me does not mean it won’t for you.
Rated: 2 Stars
The story is wrapped around a magical bank, a door that’s supposed to be a gateway to someplace, and a lead heroine who is some kind of magical powerhouse. All of this sounds cool and I wanted to like this book more than I did.
The story relies to heavily on no-one telling Jessica Northwood anything. Everyone has information, but know one is willing to share it. Jessica just takes the bullshit from these characters despite being a magical powerhouse.
The beginning, middle, and end is pretty much the character bumbling around and learning nothing. We don’t learning anything about Jessica or why she’s put into this position. The whole storyline is frustrating and nothing makes sense.
The Witching Vault was not the book for me. If the blurb intrigues you, I urge you to give it a shot. Just because it did not work for me does not mean it won’t for you.
Rated: 2 Stars
December 12, 2020
I ended up enjoying this action packed urban fantasy even though I struggled a bit to get into it at first. Things picked up once Jessica was left clueless and in charge. Fortunately this happens quite early on and from that point on things move along at a rapid pace and I was completely engaged in the story. Jessica has a dark past and magic that we only get hints of but which have left her ideally suited to her new job - even if noone will tell her what that job is. Which leads me to something that kinda bugged me - WHY wont anyone tell her about her job and responsiblities? I hate the trope of keeping things from a character for 'reasons' - only there are no good reasons not to give them information they need for their own protection. That and my annoyance on Jessica's behalf with how she is in effect kidnapped by the bank and forced into the job (that contract does not count) did impact my enjoyment a little. But I guess the level of annoyance I felt speaks to good writing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2022
Good writing, and I loved the idea of a sentient bank, but there wasn't much of a plot or much explained in the book, from the backstory of the character herself to what the true purpose of the bank was. The story could be described more like a few days in the life of Jessica as the new owner of Winthrop & Dirledge Security Banking and the shenanigans that followed. Additionally, the actions of the FMC Jessica were highly frustrating at times due to her stubbornness to do things her own way even though she was given plenty of warning that it wasn't a good idea to continue down her decision path.
I'm intrigued enough to continue with the next book, but I hope Jessica makes some more smarter decisions about her new job.
---
Ratings - abandoned series:
#1 The Witching Vault (this book): ★★★☆☆
#2 The Cursed Fae: ★☆☆☆☆ / DNF
I'm intrigued enough to continue with the next book, but I hope Jessica makes some more smarter decisions about her new job.
---
Ratings - abandoned series:
#1 The Witching Vault (this book): ★★★☆☆
#2 The Cursed Fae: ★☆☆☆☆ / DNF
December 23, 2020
This is book one of the Accessory to Magic series and sees the main character Jessica Northwood looking for yet another job. She hasn’t had much luck since getting out of magical prison and can’t hold onto even minimum wage jobs it seems. When she finds a flier for a position as an apprentice at Winthrop & Dirledge Security Banking, which requires an in person enquiry and only minor organisational spells needed, she goes along for what she presumes will be an interview. The building is not in the best of areas and looks completely run down, inside and out. She gets shocked by the doorknob of the building, as she tries to enter and sees no one when she first gets into the lobby of what almost looks like antique shop. A huge lizard creeping over her foot, is the first sign of life. Then an elderly witch pops her head out from behind the desk. She is called Tabitha and she is a scryer, so when she shakes hands with Jessica, she can she all of her life’s mistakes and her current needs all in her mind. She also acts very absent minded and can’t seem to get Jessica’s name right at all! Just as Jessica gives up on any job, she mentions the door shocking her each time she touched it and that brings the witch’s interest back on her.
She is offered the job and wages are discussed, but only after she has to sign an oath contract, which changes as Tabitha adds her bloody thumbprint to it, but before Jessica can see it. Jessica has no real idea of what she has gotten herself into, even with Tabitha offering some odd comments along the way. She gives Jessica a quick tour of the main floor and most importantly, the vault, where she will be doing most of her job. A thumbprint is required to open the safety deposit boxes in the vault, normally with a strange fluid in a jar and placed on a piece of paper from a notepad kept at the desk. The boxes open with great speed and unexpectedly, with no location or numbers being known. Even the floor tiles lift up into columns as well, catching out the unaware. She is set up with her own box and then shown the kitchen area, before going back out to the desk. No mention is directly made by Tabitha of the real purpose of the bank owners protecting something called the Gateway and the importance of it never being opened, no matter who asks to gain access to it.
There are strange noises coming from upstairs and Jessica is suddenly told to go home for the day and to be back early the next day. When she arrives the next day, the old witch allows her to deal with the couple of customers they receive, then starts her on some paperwork, because she hates to do any of that sort of stuff herself, same as she doesn’t bother to dust or tidy anything up! Mid-morning, she suddenly tells Jessica to go and get her lunch and not to come back for thirty minutes, and not before. When she does return, she finds Tabitha dead and has to call for some magical cleaners, who she overhears talking about accessing the bank for their own purposes, now the Guardian, Tabitha is gone and the building will be unprotected. When the cleaners ask her to prove why she is in the bank, not believing she works there, she takes out her contract, only to find that is no longer states her position as apprentice, but now its owner!
What she doesn’t know, is how lethal her new responsibilities are going to be, as lots of the bank’s magical clientele try to get into the bank, who know far more about what is at stake in the building and the secret hidden behind the iron door in the upper hallway! There is an occult syndicate who want to gain entry to this Gateway and are possibly behind the murder of the former owner Tabitha, only a day after she found Jessica to take over her role. Jessica doesn’t know what on earth her job really entails, not what she is doing, but she soon learns the bank is sentient and won’t let her leave! She has no choice but to stay in the room that used to Tabitha’s, above the bank floor and try to figure out how to get out of what she has been chucked into without her full knowledge. It seems she has been chosen to do this job, but the why and how, is not something Tabitha shared with her before her death. She may desperately need a job, but is it worth her life, is the question she needs to ask herself! An intense next day is on the agenda and Jessica will learn a bit more about the Bank itself and some new spells from Tabitha’s spell books, but nothing about this Gateway. Full of action at the end and lots more questions to find the answers to, for the next book in the series and I can’t wait to read it! Certainly a different kind of magical tale and a bit of a mix of Warehouse 13 and Gringotts Wizarding Bank from Harry Potter. I look forward to reading the rest of the series soon and would recommend this one to one and all. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, but also bought it as I loved it so much! I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
She is offered the job and wages are discussed, but only after she has to sign an oath contract, which changes as Tabitha adds her bloody thumbprint to it, but before Jessica can see it. Jessica has no real idea of what she has gotten herself into, even with Tabitha offering some odd comments along the way. She gives Jessica a quick tour of the main floor and most importantly, the vault, where she will be doing most of her job. A thumbprint is required to open the safety deposit boxes in the vault, normally with a strange fluid in a jar and placed on a piece of paper from a notepad kept at the desk. The boxes open with great speed and unexpectedly, with no location or numbers being known. Even the floor tiles lift up into columns as well, catching out the unaware. She is set up with her own box and then shown the kitchen area, before going back out to the desk. No mention is directly made by Tabitha of the real purpose of the bank owners protecting something called the Gateway and the importance of it never being opened, no matter who asks to gain access to it.
There are strange noises coming from upstairs and Jessica is suddenly told to go home for the day and to be back early the next day. When she arrives the next day, the old witch allows her to deal with the couple of customers they receive, then starts her on some paperwork, because she hates to do any of that sort of stuff herself, same as she doesn’t bother to dust or tidy anything up! Mid-morning, she suddenly tells Jessica to go and get her lunch and not to come back for thirty minutes, and not before. When she does return, she finds Tabitha dead and has to call for some magical cleaners, who she overhears talking about accessing the bank for their own purposes, now the Guardian, Tabitha is gone and the building will be unprotected. When the cleaners ask her to prove why she is in the bank, not believing she works there, she takes out her contract, only to find that is no longer states her position as apprentice, but now its owner!
What she doesn’t know, is how lethal her new responsibilities are going to be, as lots of the bank’s magical clientele try to get into the bank, who know far more about what is at stake in the building and the secret hidden behind the iron door in the upper hallway! There is an occult syndicate who want to gain entry to this Gateway and are possibly behind the murder of the former owner Tabitha, only a day after she found Jessica to take over her role. Jessica doesn’t know what on earth her job really entails, not what she is doing, but she soon learns the bank is sentient and won’t let her leave! She has no choice but to stay in the room that used to Tabitha’s, above the bank floor and try to figure out how to get out of what she has been chucked into without her full knowledge. It seems she has been chosen to do this job, but the why and how, is not something Tabitha shared with her before her death. She may desperately need a job, but is it worth her life, is the question she needs to ask herself! An intense next day is on the agenda and Jessica will learn a bit more about the Bank itself and some new spells from Tabitha’s spell books, but nothing about this Gateway. Full of action at the end and lots more questions to find the answers to, for the next book in the series and I can’t wait to read it! Certainly a different kind of magical tale and a bit of a mix of Warehouse 13 and Gringotts Wizarding Bank from Harry Potter. I look forward to reading the rest of the series soon and would recommend this one to one and all. I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, but also bought it as I loved it so much! I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.
July 7, 2021
On Scribble’s Worth we love everything awesome. Awesome books, awesome covers, and awesome authors. BUT! Apparently, we haven’t yet mentioned that a great title is just as appealing to us, and “The Witching Vault” is AN EPIC TITLE!
It catches your eye and mind for several reasons, invoking dark magic, secrets, blood, and maybe, just maybe chaos, and it doesn’t take much for 5expectations to be met with success, because the first words of the book are: “This was probably a terrible idea, but it wasn’t like she had a choice” and we are like: YES!!! THIS IS GOING TO BE GOOD! A great hook indeed!
Kathrin Hutson knows her craft and her type of readers because her writing connects with the reader by relating the struggles of normal people and great humor, I mean, how funny is a sketchy lizard named “Confucius” and a witch with short-term memory?
The Kathrin Hutson brings us a refreshing interaction between the main characters, Jessica and the owner of the store, Tabitha, that makes each page of this book interesting for the fact of how unpredictable it is. As readers, we get lost on the interactions and forget the major implications of the book and happenings that help the writer surprise us over and over again as the story unfolds. Tabitha is a centerpiece when it comes to leaving us unaware and wondering what is going to happen next due to her erratic and disarming behaviour.
The characters are filled with flavour and eccentricities, each on their particular and quite surprising way, which brings up the surprising quality of the reading experience. Jessica, the main character is something else. The fact that she isn’t “regular” and her attitude brushes coarsely throughout, sometimes to the point of us readers wanting to punch her in the face, makes this book even more special.
Like, how many books do you read that side characters are instantly more likable than the main character, and yet, you enjoy ridding shot-gun with the protagonist along the way? It’s a twisted love-hate relationship that we grow to appreciate. Very well put by Kristen Hutson, major kudos.
When it comes to mystery, you have to nod your head to this book, and once again the author, because of her ability to “not” tell us things, not explaining and yet keeping us reading to find out what she will eventually, maybe tell us or let us figure out by ourselves. There is a LOT of information to processa and mysteries to solve that grow by the page, yet she gives us some answers to keep us satisifed. It’s very nice and makes sense overall.
The narrative is light and functional, and we get a feeling that the characters by themselves could tell the story without the narrator because of their frivolities and complex, complete interactions. The narration is just there because it is a must, or so it feels like it, because we don’t feel it and almost forget the fact that the book as a narrator given that the story is so good and solid.
The plot is unpredictable to the extreme, there are no plotholes, there are no clichés as far as we could tell, and it is a solid book into itself really.
You know it’s a good book when you read and you don’t see the hours fly-by.
This isn’t a dark magic fantasy book, this is a sarcasm manual.
You will LOOOOOOOOOOOOOVEEEEEEE the sarcasm!
Odd characters, weird interactions, sarcasm, dark humor by the boat loads and dark magic that guarantee you an entertiainning read that you wont’ forget, because the auhor CLEARLY had fun writing this. LOVED IT!
You don’t want the book to finish and when it does, you beg for the second part, because it’s going to be good!
Pros:
Excellent characters
Sarcasm to the extreme
Excellent humour
A simple narrative that does its job without interrupting
Excellent interactions and details put here and there, specially on the visuals of the characters, that add to the imagery
Cool action scenes
Logical progress between the characters and the story plot
Unpredictable plot to the extreme
Cons:
None
Favourite Characters: Tabitha and The Bank.
Lesson from the book: “Listen to people more often. Stubbornness will get you in deep trouble, fast”
Cover Score: 9.0/10
Book Score: 8.7/10
Original post @ https://scribblesworth.wordpress.com/...
It catches your eye and mind for several reasons, invoking dark magic, secrets, blood, and maybe, just maybe chaos, and it doesn’t take much for 5expectations to be met with success, because the first words of the book are: “This was probably a terrible idea, but it wasn’t like she had a choice” and we are like: YES!!! THIS IS GOING TO BE GOOD! A great hook indeed!
Kathrin Hutson knows her craft and her type of readers because her writing connects with the reader by relating the struggles of normal people and great humor, I mean, how funny is a sketchy lizard named “Confucius” and a witch with short-term memory?
The Kathrin Hutson brings us a refreshing interaction between the main characters, Jessica and the owner of the store, Tabitha, that makes each page of this book interesting for the fact of how unpredictable it is. As readers, we get lost on the interactions and forget the major implications of the book and happenings that help the writer surprise us over and over again as the story unfolds. Tabitha is a centerpiece when it comes to leaving us unaware and wondering what is going to happen next due to her erratic and disarming behaviour.
The characters are filled with flavour and eccentricities, each on their particular and quite surprising way, which brings up the surprising quality of the reading experience. Jessica, the main character is something else. The fact that she isn’t “regular” and her attitude brushes coarsely throughout, sometimes to the point of us readers wanting to punch her in the face, makes this book even more special.
Like, how many books do you read that side characters are instantly more likable than the main character, and yet, you enjoy ridding shot-gun with the protagonist along the way? It’s a twisted love-hate relationship that we grow to appreciate. Very well put by Kristen Hutson, major kudos.
When it comes to mystery, you have to nod your head to this book, and once again the author, because of her ability to “not” tell us things, not explaining and yet keeping us reading to find out what she will eventually, maybe tell us or let us figure out by ourselves. There is a LOT of information to processa and mysteries to solve that grow by the page, yet she gives us some answers to keep us satisifed. It’s very nice and makes sense overall.
The narrative is light and functional, and we get a feeling that the characters by themselves could tell the story without the narrator because of their frivolities and complex, complete interactions. The narration is just there because it is a must, or so it feels like it, because we don’t feel it and almost forget the fact that the book as a narrator given that the story is so good and solid.
The plot is unpredictable to the extreme, there are no plotholes, there are no clichés as far as we could tell, and it is a solid book into itself really.
You know it’s a good book when you read and you don’t see the hours fly-by.
This isn’t a dark magic fantasy book, this is a sarcasm manual.
You will LOOOOOOOOOOOOOVEEEEEEE the sarcasm!
Odd characters, weird interactions, sarcasm, dark humor by the boat loads and dark magic that guarantee you an entertiainning read that you wont’ forget, because the auhor CLEARLY had fun writing this. LOVED IT!
You don’t want the book to finish and when it does, you beg for the second part, because it’s going to be good!
Pros:
Excellent characters
Sarcasm to the extreme
Excellent humour
A simple narrative that does its job without interrupting
Excellent interactions and details put here and there, specially on the visuals of the characters, that add to the imagery
Cool action scenes
Logical progress between the characters and the story plot
Unpredictable plot to the extreme
Cons:
None
Favourite Characters: Tabitha and The Bank.
Lesson from the book: “Listen to people more often. Stubbornness will get you in deep trouble, fast”
Cover Score: 9.0/10
Book Score: 8.7/10
Original post @ https://scribblesworth.wordpress.com/...
July 2, 2021
‘To those wondering if the road ahead is still worth walking. It is. That’s where you’ll find yourself’
Colorado author Kathrin Hutson is also a fiction ghostwriter, an Independent Editor through her company KLH CreateWorks, and Fiction Co-Editor for Burlington’s Mud Season Review. Her genres – Dark Fantasy, Sci-Fi, and LGBTQ Speculative Fiction. She has penned four series – the diptych GYENONA’S CHILDREN, the trilogy THE UNCLAIMED, the diptych BLUE HELIX – and now surpasses her earlier fine work with this stunning dark urban fantasy novel, THE WITCHING VAULT that serves as the initial volume for her new series ACCESSORY TO MAGIC.
Kathrin’s arresting prose style is present from page one throughout this impressive novel. She knows the importance of setting a mood for a dark urban fantasy adventure as the following demonstrates: ‘This was probably a terrible idea, but it wasn’t like she had a choice. Jessica Northwood glanced at the flyer she’d pilled off the bulletin board at the Westward Underground Staffing Agency two hours ago. ‘Winthrop & Dirledge Security Banking: Now hiring to fill one apprentice position. In-person inquires only. Experience with minor organizational spells preferred.’ Her nose wrinkled at the thought of standing behind a desk all day, handling people’s money and pretending to smile while counting down the clock…I hope apprentice and intern aren’t the same thing here…’
With that entry into the strange bank of note, the author’s synopsis of her plot is excellent – ‘After her release from magical prison, Jessica Northwood can’t hold a job to save her life. So when an apprenticeship opens up at a spellbound bank, no questions asked, she can’t exactly say no… But she definitely should have. For centuries, the bank’s owners have stood between the Gateway in the upstairs hall and the occult syndicate who want it for themselves. As the current owner, the scryer witch is supposed to have that under control. But when the woman turns up dead, Jessica’s employment contract now says she’s the one tasked with this lethal responsibility. Jessica has no idea what she’s doing…and the bank won’t let her leave. As she deals with magical clientele who know the stakes far better than she does, Jessica must decide just how far she’s willing to go to keep this job. Because if she doesn’t, she’ll end up as dead as the body in the lobby. Or worse.’
A well-sculpted central character, a hefty dose of magic and fantasy, and a fast paced plot all combine in Kathrin’s skilled hands to create a very powerful and satisfying novel – and one creates a stimulus to continue her series – now five books in length! This author has polished skills. Recommended.
Colorado author Kathrin Hutson is also a fiction ghostwriter, an Independent Editor through her company KLH CreateWorks, and Fiction Co-Editor for Burlington’s Mud Season Review. Her genres – Dark Fantasy, Sci-Fi, and LGBTQ Speculative Fiction. She has penned four series – the diptych GYENONA’S CHILDREN, the trilogy THE UNCLAIMED, the diptych BLUE HELIX – and now surpasses her earlier fine work with this stunning dark urban fantasy novel, THE WITCHING VAULT that serves as the initial volume for her new series ACCESSORY TO MAGIC.
Kathrin’s arresting prose style is present from page one throughout this impressive novel. She knows the importance of setting a mood for a dark urban fantasy adventure as the following demonstrates: ‘This was probably a terrible idea, but it wasn’t like she had a choice. Jessica Northwood glanced at the flyer she’d pilled off the bulletin board at the Westward Underground Staffing Agency two hours ago. ‘Winthrop & Dirledge Security Banking: Now hiring to fill one apprentice position. In-person inquires only. Experience with minor organizational spells preferred.’ Her nose wrinkled at the thought of standing behind a desk all day, handling people’s money and pretending to smile while counting down the clock…I hope apprentice and intern aren’t the same thing here…’
With that entry into the strange bank of note, the author’s synopsis of her plot is excellent – ‘After her release from magical prison, Jessica Northwood can’t hold a job to save her life. So when an apprenticeship opens up at a spellbound bank, no questions asked, she can’t exactly say no… But she definitely should have. For centuries, the bank’s owners have stood between the Gateway in the upstairs hall and the occult syndicate who want it for themselves. As the current owner, the scryer witch is supposed to have that under control. But when the woman turns up dead, Jessica’s employment contract now says she’s the one tasked with this lethal responsibility. Jessica has no idea what she’s doing…and the bank won’t let her leave. As she deals with magical clientele who know the stakes far better than she does, Jessica must decide just how far she’s willing to go to keep this job. Because if she doesn’t, she’ll end up as dead as the body in the lobby. Or worse.’
A well-sculpted central character, a hefty dose of magic and fantasy, and a fast paced plot all combine in Kathrin’s skilled hands to create a very powerful and satisfying novel – and one creates a stimulus to continue her series – now five books in length! This author has polished skills. Recommended.
December 24, 2020
When Jessica, in hopes of changing her life together, applies for a new job at a magical bank, she doesn't have high hopes given her past. But a strange reaction gets her hired. It very quickly becomes apparent that this is no ordinary job, and when her employer dies under mysterious circumstances on her second day, things only get weirder.
Urban fantasy is a little hit or miss for me, so it's a genre I approach with mild trepidation. This novel really resonated with me, and is exactly what I hope to get from the genre.
The pacing moved along at a really good clip - the action took place over a few days. Strong pacing is a crucial fixture of the genre, and I found that this novel embodied that element well.
The world-building was well executed. There's definitely a lot of room for more, but given the tight pacing, it makes sense to keep the details to only what is necessary to drive the plot, with maybe a few hints as to how things may develop in the series. My personal taste demands more from this element, but I must wholeheartedly agree with the author's choices on what to omit from this first installment.
The character building is really where the money was for me. I. Love. Them. All. More, please. The characters were unique and quirky. In spite of having so little (chronological) time with them, I did feel a strong sense of personality. Jessica is a very strong lead character as her flaws are obvious, even though she has only revealed tantalising glimpses of her background. I don't think I'd especially like her in real life, but I loved sharing her head-space!
If there's one element that I would have changed, it would have been revealing just a little more about Jessica's past. I know this is a first-in-series, so my expectation was to leave with a lot of questions, but I did expect a little more about her. For example, I'm very unclear about her family (or family substitute) background. It seemed odd that there was no mention of relatives - even to say that there was a tragedy that wiped them all out. I don't think this was something that was necessary to the plot of this first novel, so, in that sense, I agree with the omission, but I also felt that leaving Jessica so enigmatic didn't necessarily draw me into the series on an emotional level.
All things considered, I think this is an extremely promising start and I'm anxious to read more! I think there's a lot of meat to explore: the bank itself, the characters who have appeared thus far, Jessica's murky past, etc. It was a really fun read!
I received an ARC via the author.
Urban fantasy is a little hit or miss for me, so it's a genre I approach with mild trepidation. This novel really resonated with me, and is exactly what I hope to get from the genre.
The pacing moved along at a really good clip - the action took place over a few days. Strong pacing is a crucial fixture of the genre, and I found that this novel embodied that element well.
The world-building was well executed. There's definitely a lot of room for more, but given the tight pacing, it makes sense to keep the details to only what is necessary to drive the plot, with maybe a few hints as to how things may develop in the series. My personal taste demands more from this element, but I must wholeheartedly agree with the author's choices on what to omit from this first installment.
The character building is really where the money was for me. I. Love. Them. All. More, please. The characters were unique and quirky. In spite of having so little (chronological) time with them, I did feel a strong sense of personality. Jessica is a very strong lead character as her flaws are obvious, even though she has only revealed tantalising glimpses of her background. I don't think I'd especially like her in real life, but I loved sharing her head-space!
If there's one element that I would have changed, it would have been revealing just a little more about Jessica's past. I know this is a first-in-series, so my expectation was to leave with a lot of questions, but I did expect a little more about her. For example, I'm very unclear about her family (or family substitute) background. It seemed odd that there was no mention of relatives - even to say that there was a tragedy that wiped them all out. I don't think this was something that was necessary to the plot of this first novel, so, in that sense, I agree with the omission, but I also felt that leaving Jessica so enigmatic didn't necessarily draw me into the series on an emotional level.
All things considered, I think this is an extremely promising start and I'm anxious to read more! I think there's a lot of meat to explore: the bank itself, the characters who have appeared thus far, Jessica's murky past, etc. It was a really fun read!
I received an ARC via the author.
September 23, 2020
Jessica Northwood messed up, she paid for what she did and she is ready for a fresh start, although an apprenticeship for a witching bank was not her first choice, but anything in a pinch will do. Unfortunately for Jessica this apprenticeship is way more than she bargained for. When the "owner" of the bank is killed on her first day of work, Jessica finds herself the new "owner" of the bank and with is comes way more trouble than she is ready for. The customers are difficult and there are at least two rival factions that are not happy about Jessica being the new owner, in fact a few never thought that Tabitha, the previous owner would be able to get an apprentice before she passed.
This story moves along at a good pace and you are kept wondering at every turn, but there is so much that is not said! We know nothing of the world, other than it seems quite a lot like today except for the fact that there are witches, and I get the feeling that they are existing alongside humans without the humans really knowing. Its never really said, but there is one scene where a human pizza boy walks into the bank and is confused as to what the place is, so that leads me to that conclusion. There is also a scene when Tabitha is killed and Jessica doesn't call 911, but 229, which she says is for magical emergencies. We also know next to nothing of Jessica's story. We know that she messed up and did time in a magical prison from the first lines in the story, but we don't know anything about what for or why or any other details. Late in the book a former friend is mentioned a couple of times, and a second name is dropped once, but no details. That might be part of the appeal of Jessica, we don't have a preconceived ideal of her based on her past, we are judging her based on her actions in this story only. We also have no idea what is actually going on in the plot, we have no backstory, no history, we don't know why there are two factions wanting into the bank, just that they are willing to kill to get in, so we are left hanging on, waiting for more. Usually that would drive me nuts in a book, I want to know what is happening, but in this story if feels right, I am learning along with Jessica and it has me on pins and needles wanting the next installment.
This story moves along at a good pace and you are kept wondering at every turn, but there is so much that is not said! We know nothing of the world, other than it seems quite a lot like today except for the fact that there are witches, and I get the feeling that they are existing alongside humans without the humans really knowing. Its never really said, but there is one scene where a human pizza boy walks into the bank and is confused as to what the place is, so that leads me to that conclusion. There is also a scene when Tabitha is killed and Jessica doesn't call 911, but 229, which she says is for magical emergencies. We also know next to nothing of Jessica's story. We know that she messed up and did time in a magical prison from the first lines in the story, but we don't know anything about what for or why or any other details. Late in the book a former friend is mentioned a couple of times, and a second name is dropped once, but no details. That might be part of the appeal of Jessica, we don't have a preconceived ideal of her based on her past, we are judging her based on her actions in this story only. We also have no idea what is actually going on in the plot, we have no backstory, no history, we don't know why there are two factions wanting into the bank, just that they are willing to kill to get in, so we are left hanging on, waiting for more. Usually that would drive me nuts in a book, I want to know what is happening, but in this story if feels right, I am learning along with Jessica and it has me on pins and needles wanting the next installment.
December 2, 2020
This book was absolutely hilarious! I loved it and can't wait for the next book in the series to come out now!
Jessica, or maybe it's Jennifer, or maybe it's Jackie Northwood is an ex-convict determined not to make the same mistakes as her past self did. To help get her life straight, she decides to take a job in a magical bank, but what she gets herself into is more than she could have ever bargained for. Her boss is a scryer and can read Jessica's mind much better than she can actually remember her name and the bank seems to have a power of its own as well, sending sparks out at random!
Jessica NEEDS this job and will put up with the weirdness of both her boss and the bank for the money she needs if nothing else, but when a dead body appears in the bank, Jessica has even more problems than she ever thought possible! She now has to decide if this job is worth it or not and if it is, she has to deal with all the customers, most of whom are unpleasant, at least at first, towards her as well as a strange lizard that has lived in the bank forever!
The interactions between Jessica and Tabitha were hilarious as were those between Jessica and the Bank! Jessica handled her whole situation brilliantly - I think if I had been thrown into her situation, I would have freaked way earlier than she did and to be honest her freaking out, wasn't all that bad. I loved all the different species of magical beings that appeared through the doors of the bank. I also loved the idea of the bank being a sentient being with a mass of power too. Not a concept I have read about before, but I can't wait to read more of too! The small cliffhanger ending definitely left me wanting to read more!
I highly recommend this book if you like light hearted, funny, yet intriguing paranormal books!
I received a copy of this book from Booksprout, but this review is all my own honest opinion!
Jessica, or maybe it's Jennifer, or maybe it's Jackie Northwood is an ex-convict determined not to make the same mistakes as her past self did. To help get her life straight, she decides to take a job in a magical bank, but what she gets herself into is more than she could have ever bargained for. Her boss is a scryer and can read Jessica's mind much better than she can actually remember her name and the bank seems to have a power of its own as well, sending sparks out at random!
Jessica NEEDS this job and will put up with the weirdness of both her boss and the bank for the money she needs if nothing else, but when a dead body appears in the bank, Jessica has even more problems than she ever thought possible! She now has to decide if this job is worth it or not and if it is, she has to deal with all the customers, most of whom are unpleasant, at least at first, towards her as well as a strange lizard that has lived in the bank forever!
The interactions between Jessica and Tabitha were hilarious as were those between Jessica and the Bank! Jessica handled her whole situation brilliantly - I think if I had been thrown into her situation, I would have freaked way earlier than she did and to be honest her freaking out, wasn't all that bad. I loved all the different species of magical beings that appeared through the doors of the bank. I also loved the idea of the bank being a sentient being with a mass of power too. Not a concept I have read about before, but I can't wait to read more of too! The small cliffhanger ending definitely left me wanting to read more!
I highly recommend this book if you like light hearted, funny, yet intriguing paranormal books!
I received a copy of this book from Booksprout, but this review is all my own honest opinion!
December 11, 2020
The Review
A fantastic start to a new fantasy series, author Kathrin Hutson does an incredible job of crafting a larger than life, fantastic world. What stands out immediately is how the author writes in an authoritative voice that showcases how the world around the protagonist is already well-established. It gives the sense that this world is already fully lived in and allows the story to flow more smoothly.
The tone and character growth shine brightly in this book. Typically this type of novel approaches the narrative with a very dark tone with light or almost non-existent humor, but the author flips the script wonderfully by crafting an atmosphere and fantasy world where magic is not only the norm, but witches, necromancers, and more all interact with one another.
The protagonist is by far the true star of this novel, however, as Jessica brings the charm, the wit, and the mystery to this novel. Jessica’s backstory is hinted at, but the author does a great job of keeping most of it a mystery, allowing the character and story to speak for themselves while hinting at the larger world the author is crafting. What makes her interactions so humorous is when the established witch finds herself interacting with forces even she has trouble comprehending, including a sentient building and so much more.
The Verdict
A compelling, engaging, and evenly-paced read, author Kathrin Hutson’s “The Witch Vault” is a must-read urban fantasy novel. A fresh adult spin on the fantasy genre reminiscent of the acclaimed series The Magicians, the author perfectly cements this larger than life world with charming and relatable characters, action, and magic that all fantasy fans won’t want to miss. If you haven’t yet be sure to grab your copy today!
A fantastic start to a new fantasy series, author Kathrin Hutson does an incredible job of crafting a larger than life, fantastic world. What stands out immediately is how the author writes in an authoritative voice that showcases how the world around the protagonist is already well-established. It gives the sense that this world is already fully lived in and allows the story to flow more smoothly.
The tone and character growth shine brightly in this book. Typically this type of novel approaches the narrative with a very dark tone with light or almost non-existent humor, but the author flips the script wonderfully by crafting an atmosphere and fantasy world where magic is not only the norm, but witches, necromancers, and more all interact with one another.
The protagonist is by far the true star of this novel, however, as Jessica brings the charm, the wit, and the mystery to this novel. Jessica’s backstory is hinted at, but the author does a great job of keeping most of it a mystery, allowing the character and story to speak for themselves while hinting at the larger world the author is crafting. What makes her interactions so humorous is when the established witch finds herself interacting with forces even she has trouble comprehending, including a sentient building and so much more.
The Verdict
A compelling, engaging, and evenly-paced read, author Kathrin Hutson’s “The Witch Vault” is a must-read urban fantasy novel. A fresh adult spin on the fantasy genre reminiscent of the acclaimed series The Magicians, the author perfectly cements this larger than life world with charming and relatable characters, action, and magic that all fantasy fans won’t want to miss. If you haven’t yet be sure to grab your copy today!
December 8, 2020
I have read a preview copy of The Witching Vault by Kathrin Hutson. It is an Urban Fantasy set in Golden, CO. It takes place in the Winthrop & Dirledge Security Banking location. The bank stores ‘things’ for the magical community. Jessica Northwood, on her first day on the job must deal with murder, new ownership and the interesting clientele of the bank. Here are my thoughts on the book.
First, it is a fun and fast read. Each chapter pulls you into the next and Kathrin Hutson does a great job of giving you just enough bread crumbs of information in each chapter to allow you to move forward without too much information right at the beginning. This organic doling out of information allows you to have just enough to understand where you are and what you need to know.
Second, Jessica Northwood, the main character, is another great example of what I mentioned before. We learn more and more about her with each chapter. This allows the character to grow on us. She certainly grew on me, which is unusual for a lead character in any book I read. I tend to gravitate towards the back up characters.
The book is set in a bank and each character that comes through the door to do business with Jessica gives us a window, through each ones view point, of the world outside the bank. This is our only way to know what is going on in the outside world. This lends a sense of mystery as the reader and Jessica need to determine who to trust and who not to.
Overall this is a very good book and I look forward to reading the next entry. If you like Urban Fantasy, that does a great job of balancing fun and dark moments, please give this a try.
First, it is a fun and fast read. Each chapter pulls you into the next and Kathrin Hutson does a great job of giving you just enough bread crumbs of information in each chapter to allow you to move forward without too much information right at the beginning. This organic doling out of information allows you to have just enough to understand where you are and what you need to know.
Second, Jessica Northwood, the main character, is another great example of what I mentioned before. We learn more and more about her with each chapter. This allows the character to grow on us. She certainly grew on me, which is unusual for a lead character in any book I read. I tend to gravitate towards the back up characters.
The book is set in a bank and each character that comes through the door to do business with Jessica gives us a window, through each ones view point, of the world outside the bank. This is our only way to know what is going on in the outside world. This lends a sense of mystery as the reader and Jessica need to determine who to trust and who not to.
Overall this is a very good book and I look forward to reading the next entry. If you like Urban Fantasy, that does a great job of balancing fun and dark moments, please give this a try.
January 21, 2021
I am giving this review after I received a free copy.
I really did enjoy this book, I thought the style was similar to other authors such as Harry Potter, but a little more mature as it had adult references in. The idea of the Witching Vault was really interesting and very creative. The way in which the author described the environment, the vault and characters, made it feel very real and I could see in my minds eye how the Vault and the characters looked even the way in which they interacted.
It felt original, putting the magic aside, the ideology and theory of the magic and how it worked was unique, with hints of inspiration from mainstream authors. This is not a bad thing, because all artists are inspired by so many different things, I see from many authors' work hints of inspiration from the greats: Tolkien, C.S Lewis, Lewis and here I felt that Hutson had inspirations from books such as Harry Potter and Garth Nix's teen fiction. This was really interesting as I love both of these works so felt it was really up my alley and that the writing itself really held well. What I mean by this is that the plot was well executed, I felt for the characters and was 100% supportive of the main character had felt the loss of the initial character that we meet.
The idea of a strong female lead, who has a lot of magical power was really inspiring, and I found myself writing more, even though my writing is a different genre.
I would recommend this book to those who like fantasy and who like the above works I have mentioned above.
I really did enjoy this book, I thought the style was similar to other authors such as Harry Potter, but a little more mature as it had adult references in. The idea of the Witching Vault was really interesting and very creative. The way in which the author described the environment, the vault and characters, made it feel very real and I could see in my minds eye how the Vault and the characters looked even the way in which they interacted.
It felt original, putting the magic aside, the ideology and theory of the magic and how it worked was unique, with hints of inspiration from mainstream authors. This is not a bad thing, because all artists are inspired by so many different things, I see from many authors' work hints of inspiration from the greats: Tolkien, C.S Lewis, Lewis and here I felt that Hutson had inspirations from books such as Harry Potter and Garth Nix's teen fiction. This was really interesting as I love both of these works so felt it was really up my alley and that the writing itself really held well. What I mean by this is that the plot was well executed, I felt for the characters and was 100% supportive of the main character had felt the loss of the initial character that we meet.
The idea of a strong female lead, who has a lot of magical power was really inspiring, and I found myself writing more, even though my writing is a different genre.
I would recommend this book to those who like fantasy and who like the above works I have mentioned above.
September 26, 2021
Wonderful worldbuilding, all started with a job ad and a hell of a crash course!
I liked Jessica immediately. She's not perfect, and it seems like every flaw she's got has a story that we'll get little bits more about as we go. She's thrown into this with next to no warning, which makes her slip-ups and mistakes even more gripping as she tries to figure out her new position at the bank. For someone with a lot of hints at a nefarious background, damage-dealing spells, and experience with dead bodies (no, it's not explained, and I *need* book two now to find out more), she's sort of a snarky sweetheart. She doesn't want to hurt anyone, apparently, and has even done something to prevent herself from doing so. Of course by the end of the book it's looking like she may need to be able to protect herself, but as an introduction to a world, this is a great beginning. Seems like there's a lot of magical creatures and magic users hidden from human sight, but since the story enters the bank immediately and stays out of human sight, we get a thrilling adventure with hints of doom and evil cults and circling dangers, all of it centered in the place Jessica's now stuck. So many details woven into the setting, and painted with enough description that I could practically see it. I definitely recommend this to any fantasy fans!
I received a free Advanced Reader Copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I liked Jessica immediately. She's not perfect, and it seems like every flaw she's got has a story that we'll get little bits more about as we go. She's thrown into this with next to no warning, which makes her slip-ups and mistakes even more gripping as she tries to figure out her new position at the bank. For someone with a lot of hints at a nefarious background, damage-dealing spells, and experience with dead bodies (no, it's not explained, and I *need* book two now to find out more), she's sort of a snarky sweetheart. She doesn't want to hurt anyone, apparently, and has even done something to prevent herself from doing so. Of course by the end of the book it's looking like she may need to be able to protect herself, but as an introduction to a world, this is a great beginning. Seems like there's a lot of magical creatures and magic users hidden from human sight, but since the story enters the bank immediately and stays out of human sight, we get a thrilling adventure with hints of doom and evil cults and circling dangers, all of it centered in the place Jessica's now stuck. So many details woven into the setting, and painted with enough description that I could practically see it. I definitely recommend this to any fantasy fans!
I received a free Advanced Reader Copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 7, 2020
Never wish for long-life employment…. Karma is a witch>
“The Witching Vault” by Kathrin Hutson is the first volume on the brand-new UF series “Accessory to Magic”. A very well-written story, whose MC Jessica Northwood captivates with her no-nonsense approach to life. As a recent ex-con, Jessica has a hard time finding a job, and by now every job would do, beggars can be choosers and all that, and thus she applies to a vacancy in the Witching Vault. The job interview turns into a fast-track into the vault and Jessica finds herself employed, without suspecting that the job resembles a life-long commitment to the vault, but as Tabitha, her predecessor turns us death in her very first work-day, and Jessica inherits the vault, she begins to realize that there is a lot more to it that it meets the eye, to the fully satisfaction of the reader 😊
This is fast-paced, extraordinary original story, set in a very well-crafted fantasy world, full of twists and very unexpected turns, with a very healthy dose of humor, and a wonderful snarky and independent (despite her initial naïveté in signing a contract she should have thoroughly read) heroine, credible and instantly relatable. The story is so much fun, keeping the reader avidly turning the pages until… there are no more pages… more, more, more…. we need more 😉
“The Witching Vault” by Kathrin Hutson is the first volume on the brand-new UF series “Accessory to Magic”. A very well-written story, whose MC Jessica Northwood captivates with her no-nonsense approach to life. As a recent ex-con, Jessica has a hard time finding a job, and by now every job would do, beggars can be choosers and all that, and thus she applies to a vacancy in the Witching Vault. The job interview turns into a fast-track into the vault and Jessica finds herself employed, without suspecting that the job resembles a life-long commitment to the vault, but as Tabitha, her predecessor turns us death in her very first work-day, and Jessica inherits the vault, she begins to realize that there is a lot more to it that it meets the eye, to the fully satisfaction of the reader 😊
This is fast-paced, extraordinary original story, set in a very well-crafted fantasy world, full of twists and very unexpected turns, with a very healthy dose of humor, and a wonderful snarky and independent (despite her initial naïveté in signing a contract she should have thoroughly read) heroine, credible and instantly relatable. The story is so much fun, keeping the reader avidly turning the pages until… there are no more pages… more, more, more…. we need more 😉
November 29, 2020
Jessica Northwood is a magical ex-con looking to live a clean life. When we are introduced to her she is desperately looking for a new job after a string of what sounds like unsuccessful minimum wage jobs, all she can really get with her record. The job posting for Winthrop & Dirledge Security Banking seems like a long shot but she is going to try anyway. The story picks up the minute she walks in the front doors of “the bank” and meets Tabitha, the only employee, and Confucius, the lizard who has been there since before memory.
The world’s backstory, and Jessica’s, is woven throughout the book as we learn that the bank is a kind of neutral safety deposit box repository for the magical world which is secret from the “normal”. Jessica is thrust into the deep of running the bank all on her own after half a day’s training and her magical contract morphing her from assistant to owner of the bank.
Jessica learning to work with the surprisingly sentient bank is an absolute hoot, I love the conversations between them. Watching the factions warring for the forbidden item contained within one of the safety deposit boxes is edge of your seat action. I can see how people who enjoyed Ilona Andrew’s Innkeeper series would also find this series to their liking. Highly recommend and can’t wait for the next book to learn more about Jessica and the Bank!
The world’s backstory, and Jessica’s, is woven throughout the book as we learn that the bank is a kind of neutral safety deposit box repository for the magical world which is secret from the “normal”. Jessica is thrust into the deep of running the bank all on her own after half a day’s training and her magical contract morphing her from assistant to owner of the bank.
Jessica learning to work with the surprisingly sentient bank is an absolute hoot, I love the conversations between them. Watching the factions warring for the forbidden item contained within one of the safety deposit boxes is edge of your seat action. I can see how people who enjoyed Ilona Andrew’s Innkeeper series would also find this series to their liking. Highly recommend and can’t wait for the next book to learn more about Jessica and the Bank!
December 7, 2020
✳️✳️ONE SENSATIONAL JOURNEY✳️✳️
Simmering saddles! Kathrin dialed my number rang my bell and blew me clean out of the water with this skillfully composed treat, dishing out some frightful facts, desparate choices and ruthless tactics, grabbing you from the start and holding steady until the end, propelling this gem to staggering heights. Temperament and attributes in layer upon layer that you peel back with each page your drawn into this web so profoundly until everything else ceases to exist, merging this gem together seamlessly. Anarchy and mishaps descend in a flurry of deadly encounters and cunning maneuvers, observing the broken barriers and blurred perimeters solidify as limitations are amplified and enforced, reaching deep for every fiber of strength in a fierce surge of determination, blasting this baby to life spectacularly. The characters are complex, genuine and realistic with traits and qualities that balance and blend, with amazing depth and diversity and enough spice to add an extra kick to the mix. Throw in 100% on point realism, raising the stakes with such graphic scenarios that are so colorfully descriptive and vividly detailed its like you're living it with them instead of on the sidelines. Remarkable job Kathrin, thanks for sharing this amazing thrill with us.
Simmering saddles! Kathrin dialed my number rang my bell and blew me clean out of the water with this skillfully composed treat, dishing out some frightful facts, desparate choices and ruthless tactics, grabbing you from the start and holding steady until the end, propelling this gem to staggering heights. Temperament and attributes in layer upon layer that you peel back with each page your drawn into this web so profoundly until everything else ceases to exist, merging this gem together seamlessly. Anarchy and mishaps descend in a flurry of deadly encounters and cunning maneuvers, observing the broken barriers and blurred perimeters solidify as limitations are amplified and enforced, reaching deep for every fiber of strength in a fierce surge of determination, blasting this baby to life spectacularly. The characters are complex, genuine and realistic with traits and qualities that balance and blend, with amazing depth and diversity and enough spice to add an extra kick to the mix. Throw in 100% on point realism, raising the stakes with such graphic scenarios that are so colorfully descriptive and vividly detailed its like you're living it with them instead of on the sidelines. Remarkable job Kathrin, thanks for sharing this amazing thrill with us.
November 6, 2020
This was not what I expected but it was extremely entertaining and kept me on my toes trying to keep facts n such straight. Lots of characters...some not worth remembering but the most of them play a big part in how things turn out. Jessica is out looking for a job and ends up with so much more! The last bank "owner" is a wacky seer/witch who spoke in riddles and circles driving Jessica a lil nuts. Tabitha seems quirky and fun but her time is short lived. 3rd day on the job and Tabitha is dead and all hell begins to break loose! The fey guy is a bit on the kreepy side and necromancer is a strange bird too! After Tabitha dies all kinds of crazy begins to happen! First Jessica is kinda trapped in the bank, then bank talks to her in her head, the bank is actually a live entity, there's a gateway portal in the bank and people are trying to break in to open it up. Lots of action and life adjustment for Jessica but it keeps your attention the whole time and makes ya think! Still trying to figure out this Requiem.... is it like a mob?? Not sure if there is a second book but it is definitely something I would like to read more of!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 25, 2021
As an ex-con, Jessica is starting over, trying to change her past self into someone better, so when she sees the offer at the Security Banking, she decides this is her chance, even though it wouldn't be her first choice of a fresh start. However, the apprenticeship takes an unexpected turn and she finds herself in a new position, with lots of trouble waiting for her.
It is an interesting book with a great premise that got me intrigued to read the story. I enjoyed the world building and the fact there is very little romance involved. There are still lots of mysteries to be uncovered, and the reader never gets full picture. The story is like a rollercoaster - sometimes takes great twists, but sometimes slows down and the progress feels a bit forced. I enjoyed the characters though, with their attitudes and not-so-smart decisions in certain situations (really, the heroine could bring less problems to herself if she wasn't so stubborn). Moreover, the bank itself is a great piece of fresh air. I am curious how this story will develop further.
It is an interesting book with a great premise that got me intrigued to read the story. I enjoyed the world building and the fact there is very little romance involved. There are still lots of mysteries to be uncovered, and the reader never gets full picture. The story is like a rollercoaster - sometimes takes great twists, but sometimes slows down and the progress feels a bit forced. I enjoyed the characters though, with their attitudes and not-so-smart decisions in certain situations (really, the heroine could bring less problems to herself if she wasn't so stubborn). Moreover, the bank itself is a great piece of fresh air. I am curious how this story will develop further.
September 23, 2023
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I change my mind on a series, so want to change my scoring by more than 0.50 of a star. -- I tend not to read reviews until after I read a book, so I go in with an open mind.)
4.25*
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
4.25*
First time read the author's work?: Yes
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
November 12, 2020
Rcvd a copy from Booksprout for giving my two cents. It took me a while to read this book...I found it a bit scattered and hard to follow in places. We meet Jessica who is looking for a job after being released from a magical prison. She sees an ad in a bank and decides to apply. When entering she is zapped by the door...odd...but more odd is the witch talking to herself behind th counter. Tabitha aka the self-talker basically tells Jessica to leave until she learns that this young witch was zapped by the door. Odd enough Jessica now has a job as an apprentice and to show up thr next day. What Jessica didn't realize what the job entrails....esp finding Tabitha dead, a weird lizard and a bank that has a mind of its own. With every kook coming out of the woodworks, Jessica needs to have her backbone in check and watch ppl. Drama, omissions of truth, ever changing bank and a dangerous fae makes it an interesting read.
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