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The Witch of Ellesmere
A young adult fantasy novel about a female protagonist who must learn how to use her magic in order to save those she loves and overthrow the cruel King who is using dark magic to make himself the most powerful warlock in the Kingdom.
- GenresFantasy
305 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 31, 2022
1 person is currently reading
185 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 22, 2022
3.5 ⭐️
What a debut novel from Kirsty Inic 👏🏼
The Witch of Ellesmere has magic, mystery & adventure. We have all of our favourite creatures from dwarves to witches, gremlins to jackalopes.
We follow the adventure of Braelyn a young witch growing up in a non-magic town, learning how to create potions & brew moon water in her mothers apothecary in the lead up to her official rune ceremony where she would acquire her elemental magic in front of her coven. Once she has received her rune, Braelyn is greeted by a mysterious portal.. who knows what is on the other side, or where it leads? Whatever it is, whoever it is… we all know one thing, it’s going to lead us on a wicked & wild adventure.
Overall, I quite liked The Witch of Ellesmere. I felt like it was an amazing debut novel, but also a good first book to a series. This book is a first person POV & whilst I enjoyed that, I do wish we got to explore a little bit more of the side characters POV’s particularly the two MMC’s. At the start of the book I did find it a little slow, there are also a lot of adjectives which in some cases were a bit of overkill.. but I’m sure it was mainly just a part of the world building. As I got deeper into the book the more I really began enjoying the story. The more I read about the magic, the deception, the love & the lies, the more I wanted.
This book is quite short only 270 pages & tbh I wish we had a little bit more so that we could’ve dove into people a little better but I just cannot wait for book #2 to come to see where this story goes. Ain’t nothing like a little bit of a cliff hanger to leave you wanting more 🙊
Congratulations Kristy Inic! Such a brilliant debut novel, I can’t wait to see what you create next!!
What a debut novel from Kirsty Inic 👏🏼
The Witch of Ellesmere has magic, mystery & adventure. We have all of our favourite creatures from dwarves to witches, gremlins to jackalopes.
We follow the adventure of Braelyn a young witch growing up in a non-magic town, learning how to create potions & brew moon water in her mothers apothecary in the lead up to her official rune ceremony where she would acquire her elemental magic in front of her coven. Once she has received her rune, Braelyn is greeted by a mysterious portal.. who knows what is on the other side, or where it leads? Whatever it is, whoever it is… we all know one thing, it’s going to lead us on a wicked & wild adventure.
Overall, I quite liked The Witch of Ellesmere. I felt like it was an amazing debut novel, but also a good first book to a series. This book is a first person POV & whilst I enjoyed that, I do wish we got to explore a little bit more of the side characters POV’s particularly the two MMC’s. At the start of the book I did find it a little slow, there are also a lot of adjectives which in some cases were a bit of overkill.. but I’m sure it was mainly just a part of the world building. As I got deeper into the book the more I really began enjoying the story. The more I read about the magic, the deception, the love & the lies, the more I wanted.
This book is quite short only 270 pages & tbh I wish we had a little bit more so that we could’ve dove into people a little better but I just cannot wait for book #2 to come to see where this story goes. Ain’t nothing like a little bit of a cliff hanger to leave you wanting more 🙊
Congratulations Kristy Inic! Such a brilliant debut novel, I can’t wait to see what you create next!!
December 10, 2021
Looking for a book full of friendship, fate, magic, epic journeys and a smidge of romance? Well look no further!
This stunning tale follows Braelyn, a kickass, resilient, slightly hot headed young witch whose search for answers and insatiable curiosity leads her on a journey into the unknown. *Queue Elsa singing*
Brae is joined by a wide cast of characters, including loyal Theo, brooding Julien, fun filled Mae and no-fuss Hazel. Each character was unique and individual, with each giving different reasons to fall in love with them.
The world building was rich and beautiful - Ellesmere is a place I wish I could live, with or without powers of my own! The magic system was also easy to follow, but with a few magic 'rules' involved which make it unique to this story.
I'm grateful I was able to read an advanced copy before it was released. You guys are gonna love it!
This stunning tale follows Braelyn, a kickass, resilient, slightly hot headed young witch whose search for answers and insatiable curiosity leads her on a journey into the unknown. *Queue Elsa singing*
Brae is joined by a wide cast of characters, including loyal Theo, brooding Julien, fun filled Mae and no-fuss Hazel. Each character was unique and individual, with each giving different reasons to fall in love with them.
The world building was rich and beautiful - Ellesmere is a place I wish I could live, with or without powers of my own! The magic system was also easy to follow, but with a few magic 'rules' involved which make it unique to this story.
I'm grateful I was able to read an advanced copy before it was released. You guys are gonna love it!
January 28, 2022
Wow, where do I start, I loved this book, from the very first chapter to the very last, this book is a wonderful read for young or old, Kirsty not only created a magical world but created heartwarming, loveable characters that leave a special place in your heart, such a wonderful, exciting story of not only magic but love and friendship along the way, the Witch of Ellesmere is a breath of fresh air and a wonderful read for all ages.
April 6, 2024
Loved this book, can’t wait for the second!
December 2, 2022
The old adage of "Don't Judge a Book by Its Cover" is simply wrong - and I stand by that.
I stand by that even more vehemently when it comes to "Don't Judge a Book by Its Fanart."
Out of the 19 books that I bought during the first BookFair Australia, The Witch of Ellesmere is one of those that I bought because of the art (which I would have 100% bought a print of, if it hadn't been slipped into my bag for free, because there is something about Indie Authors where they like to give you all the freebies).
I knew from the conversation that I had with author Kirsty Inic that I was going to love this book. I knew from reading the first chapter that I was going to be taken on a ride of my life, and I was going to want to either create or buy merchandise for this series (because she's nearly finished writing book 2!) and I was 110% correct.
We start out by meeting the main character - Braelyn - and we learn two important things about her:
1) she places a large amount of worth on people, particularly her mother, and a woman who she loves so dearly, she refers to her as "the grandmother she never had," and:
2) that she is worried that the elements won't choose her, and she will not come into her magic.
These things are not only important to Braelyn, but they are important to the story too, and without giving anything away - Kirsty Inic does such a good job of using these elements to her advantage and letting these themes entwine with her story.
The Witch of Ellesmere is fairly short - 270 pages - and I genuinely wish it had been longer. The events take place I think in the span of two weeks, but I think we could have spent some more time exploring the world of Ellesmere and the characters around Braelyn.
While this is written as a first-person POV, I did find myself wishing to learn more about some of the characters that we met.
That being said (spoilers below):
I think I have added a new author to my Favourite Author's list.
5/5 stars - if you like magic, and mystery, and adventure, please pick up this book. It was beautiful, and the characters are gorgeous.
I stand by that even more vehemently when it comes to "Don't Judge a Book by Its Fanart."
Out of the 19 books that I bought during the first BookFair Australia, The Witch of Ellesmere is one of those that I bought because of the art (which I would have 100% bought a print of, if it hadn't been slipped into my bag for free, because there is something about Indie Authors where they like to give you all the freebies).
I knew from the conversation that I had with author Kirsty Inic that I was going to love this book. I knew from reading the first chapter that I was going to be taken on a ride of my life, and I was going to want to either create or buy merchandise for this series (because she's nearly finished writing book 2!) and I was 110% correct.
We start out by meeting the main character - Braelyn - and we learn two important things about her:
1) she places a large amount of worth on people, particularly her mother, and a woman who she loves so dearly, she refers to her as "the grandmother she never had," and:
2) that she is worried that the elements won't choose her, and she will not come into her magic.
These things are not only important to Braelyn, but they are important to the story too, and without giving anything away - Kirsty Inic does such a good job of using these elements to her advantage and letting these themes entwine with her story.
The Witch of Ellesmere is fairly short - 270 pages - and I genuinely wish it had been longer. The events take place I think in the span of two weeks, but I think we could have spent some more time exploring the world of Ellesmere and the characters around Braelyn.
While this is written as a first-person POV, I did find myself wishing to learn more about some of the characters that we met.
That being said (spoilers below):
I think I have added a new author to my Favourite Author's list.
5/5 stars - if you like magic, and mystery, and adventure, please pick up this book. It was beautiful, and the characters are gorgeous.
July 4, 2022
I was Lucky enough to receive a copy of this book from the Author.
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I have always had a soft spot in my heart for witchy stories so this was a must read for me.
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I really liked how the book started, it was alittle bit of slow burn and took a little for me to get in to the story but I adored the character development and the strong friendship elements. The magic system is simple but super interesting and easy to follow.
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I am a big fan of the writing Kirsty's writing style. I have high hopes for the second book and will be continuing to follow this author.
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Blurb........ From good reads
"Braelyn has just turned seventeen and it is finally her turn to find out what type of elemental magic she possesses, but as she takes her place within the pentacle a magic more powerful than she knows runs through her veins. As Braelyn tries to understand her new magic, she is thrust into a new world full of possibilities."
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I have always had a soft spot in my heart for witchy stories so this was a must read for me.
.
I really liked how the book started, it was alittle bit of slow burn and took a little for me to get in to the story but I adored the character development and the strong friendship elements. The magic system is simple but super interesting and easy to follow.
.
I am a big fan of the writing Kirsty's writing style. I have high hopes for the second book and will be continuing to follow this author.
.
Blurb........ From good reads
"Braelyn has just turned seventeen and it is finally her turn to find out what type of elemental magic she possesses, but as she takes her place within the pentacle a magic more powerful than she knows runs through her veins. As Braelyn tries to understand her new magic, she is thrust into a new world full of possibilities."
December 1, 2021
This was such an enjoyable read! Braelyn's journey takes you through such a richly detailed world which takes the best of fantasy and adds so many fresh and exciting aspects. The characters are engaging and the writing really draws you into their experiences, especially the complex relationship of love and friendship between Brae, Theo and Julien. Braelyn's journey to understand her own magic and to challenge the dark forces that threaten her world bring together everything I love about this genre. The chapters are so well paced, it's hard to decide when to stop reading - addictive!
For fans of fantasy and new approaches to the way magic can drive a story and a world, this is a must read.
For fans of fantasy and new approaches to the way magic can drive a story and a world, this is a must read.
June 3, 2022
Spoiler free ~
I really enjoyed this book and couldn’t put it down! I found it fairly fast paced where some moments felt a little rushed where they could have definitely taken a little more of a build up, but considering the length of the book Kirsty did an incredible job of fitting so much into it!
The storyline had me hooked from the beginning and kept me wanting to read on. Thinking about the plot when I wasn’t able to read and the story still sitting with me after I’ve finished, wanting to discover what happens next!
It’s beautifully written and follows a journey of self discovery, found family and magic as our MC tries to fulfill a prophecy that she’s been thrusted in to
Highly recommend this book and I can’t wait to see what comes next in Braelyn’s story!
I really enjoyed this book and couldn’t put it down! I found it fairly fast paced where some moments felt a little rushed where they could have definitely taken a little more of a build up, but considering the length of the book Kirsty did an incredible job of fitting so much into it!
The storyline had me hooked from the beginning and kept me wanting to read on. Thinking about the plot when I wasn’t able to read and the story still sitting with me after I’ve finished, wanting to discover what happens next!
It’s beautifully written and follows a journey of self discovery, found family and magic as our MC tries to fulfill a prophecy that she’s been thrusted in to
Highly recommend this book and I can’t wait to see what comes next in Braelyn’s story!
April 6, 2023
This book was like being wrapped in a snuggly warm blanket on a cold day.
The story flowed so beautifully, it was easy to breeze through page after page and then all of a sudden I had finished the book.
Mystery
Intrigue
New Beginnings
Elemental Magic
Friends / Enemies / Friends/ Lovers?
Hidden Destiny
The journey was engaging, the characters completely lovable and the story was completely unique.
I cannot wait to see how this trilogy unfolds and how the characters grow as the story continues.
"Braelyn Grey, you are a stronger witch than you think.”
You just know something epic is going to happen after a line like that.
The story flowed so beautifully, it was easy to breeze through page after page and then all of a sudden I had finished the book.
Mystery
Intrigue
New Beginnings
Elemental Magic
Friends / Enemies / Friends/ Lovers?
Hidden Destiny
The journey was engaging, the characters completely lovable and the story was completely unique.
I cannot wait to see how this trilogy unfolds and how the characters grow as the story continues.
"Braelyn Grey, you are a stronger witch than you think.”
You just know something epic is going to happen after a line like that.
December 10, 2021
Everything you could want from a YA Fantasy Novel! The Witches of Ellesmere explores fate, adventure, romance, friendship, and family in captivating ways that make you fall in love with the refreshing, new characters. Braelyn's charming and relatable personality when paired with Julian and Theo, creates dynamics that make the book impossible to put down. Kirsty Inic has created a genuinely enjoyable book that is perfect for both avid YA Fantasy readers and those that are new to the genre. I can't wait to see what happens next!
March 1, 2023
“𝑵𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒊𝒔 𝒉𝒐𝒑𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒂𝒔 𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒈 𝒂𝒔 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒚𝒔 𝒔𝒕𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒚” - 𝑲𝒊𝒓𝒔𝒕𝒚 𝑰𝒏𝒊𝒄, 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑾𝒊𝒕𝒄𝒉 𝒐𝒇 𝑬𝒍𝒍𝒆𝒔𝒎𝒆𝒓𝒆.
4/5 - Minimal spoilers
We follow the quest of brave heroine, Braelyn as she delves into a new world full of magic, magical creatures and darkness - we witness her journey of self discovery; whilst she struggles within trying to master her new found magic - we accompany her on her quest to fulfil a prophecy she’s been thrust into, all whilst saving her mother from ‘King Elias the Cruel’
The Witch of Ellesmere is fairly short (270 pages) and I devoured every word. The writing was easily consumed and fast paced.
It is definitely worth a read if you enjoy;
✶ Slow burn romance
✶ Quests & Prophecies
✶ Elemental Magic
✶ Found Family
✶ Self discovery
I’m hoping in book #2 we read more about the other two MMC’s, the slow burn romance turns into something a little spicer (in an appropriate matter for a YA novel) and of course, we definitely need more Alpheus!
4/5 - Minimal spoilers
We follow the quest of brave heroine, Braelyn as she delves into a new world full of magic, magical creatures and darkness - we witness her journey of self discovery; whilst she struggles within trying to master her new found magic - we accompany her on her quest to fulfil a prophecy she’s been thrust into, all whilst saving her mother from ‘King Elias the Cruel’
The Witch of Ellesmere is fairly short (270 pages) and I devoured every word. The writing was easily consumed and fast paced.
It is definitely worth a read if you enjoy;
✶ Slow burn romance
✶ Quests & Prophecies
✶ Elemental Magic
✶ Found Family
✶ Self discovery
I’m hoping in book #2 we read more about the other two MMC’s, the slow burn romance turns into something a little spicer (in an appropriate matter for a YA novel) and of course, we definitely need more Alpheus!
Read
April 30, 2023What a wonderful debut novel. I was gripped from the moment I started reading. The story begins when Braelyn discovers the depth of her magical powers and follows her adventures - both good and bad -through the magical world of Ellesmere. I really had a soft spot for Theo. He was a loyal friend to Braelyn and his self-confidence grew throughout the story.
Congratulations Kirsty. I can't wait until Part 2 is released next year.
Congratulations Kirsty. I can't wait until Part 2 is released next year.
March 21, 2022
Amazing first book. You gravitate towards the protagonists right from the first few chapters, and do not want to put the book down. Was upset finishing the last page knowing I have to wait for book 2 to continue this amazing series. Many little twists and turns which keep you on the edge of your seat. Great job Kirsty.
May 19, 2022
This book captivated me right away ! Kirsty’s writing was so easy to take to and had me hooked right away ! I needed to know more and I couldn’t put the book down. I was reading nonstop until I finished. I cannot wait for part two and more books of Kirsty’s to come. She is an extremely talented author and this book is a must add to your wish list ! Read read read ! It won’t disappoint!
August 31, 2022
Honestly if your looking for a book that transports you to another world then look no further, the witch of ellesmere has completely reignited my love of reading and left me day dreaming and wanting to neglect everything else to just read more! Thank you Kirsty Inic for creating an enchanting and wonderful escape from reality!
December 29, 2022
Such an amazing book!!
Definitely worth more than 5 stars!!
The plots, the characters, I adore the main character, the writing is easy to read, so refreshing, I feel there was a lot of world building as well I could envision everything so clearly in my mind.
Definitely one of my favourite books in 2022.
Can’t wait for the 2nd one.
Definitely worth more than 5 stars!!
The plots, the characters, I adore the main character, the writing is easy to read, so refreshing, I feel there was a lot of world building as well I could envision everything so clearly in my mind.
Definitely one of my favourite books in 2022.
Can’t wait for the 2nd one.
March 4, 2023
Braelyn is a sassy young witch that just learned secrets about her past which change her life forever. From the first chapter to the last, I was hooked! Such a well written story with lots of adventure, magic, a bit of romance, a strong female main character, and other characters you will fall in love with! I can't wait for the next book!
June 19, 2022
Looking for a YA book with the best parts of Lord of the Rings and Game of Thrones rolled into one? Then look no further! Quests, complex families, mystery, magic, royalty and other realms; this book is beautifully written and hard to put down. Adults will enjoy just as much as teens. 10/10
August 28, 2022
I loved the landscape of this story! At first, I was only reading this for 30 or so minutes before bed, but quickly found myself being drawn deeper into the journey and couldn’t put it down! Can’t wait to read more from this author
April 28, 2023
TWOE is a magical journey that kept me on the edge of my seat, eager to turn the next page at every chance I could! The characters, the story, the magic was all so perfectly captured by Kirsty, I felt like I was in Ellesmere!
I cannot wait to read more about Braelyn in book two! ❤️
I cannot wait to read more about Braelyn in book two! ❤️
May 5, 2023
I loved the magic system and I especially loved a certain furry companion and that little twist at the end!! I have a theory about Theo but I'll keep that to myself!! I hope we get to learn more about the magic system in book 2!!
November 11, 2025
I don’t even know where to begin. I loved the mix of elemental magic, with the mischievousness of the gremlins and the bond with the creatures. The world building was done beautifully and completely drew you in.
Being a YA book I can’t wait to get my son to read it over the holidays.
Being a YA book I can’t wait to get my son to read it over the holidays.
March 1, 2022
Amazing ! Never wanted to put the book down. Written perfectly, I was completely lost in the world that had been created and didn’t want to leave. The Story and the characters, I was in awe.
May 4, 2022
Amazing book and story line could not stop reading it. Well done kirsty. Looking forward to the next chapter
August 19, 2022
This book was great absolutely loved the storyline! I’m not a massive book reader but I was HOOKED!
November 10, 2022
What a brilliant debut fantasy novel from Kirsty Inic. I really enjoyed The Witch of Ellesmere and can’t wait to continue Brae’s journey! Highly recommend for lovers of YA supernatural fantasy.
May 22, 2023
This was a good read and I really enjoyed the magical elements. It does fall into many typical tropes that are quite predictable but I think new or young readers would really enjoy this book.
July 29, 2023
While I enjoyed the world building, the magic system, the use of herbs for creating elixirs and potions, the mystical and fantastical creatures(there's a jackalope, which is pretty freaking awesome), I felt it was lacking attention in the characters arcs. Some of it felt rushed, or just unfinished--granted, it is just the first book so unfinished is kind of moot.
Regardless, this is an elegant tale of witches, magic, and dark forces, and I do look forward to reading the second book. I hope to learn more about the elves, dwarves, and be introduced to new mystical characters and creatures.
Regardless, this is an elegant tale of witches, magic, and dark forces, and I do look forward to reading the second book. I hope to learn more about the elves, dwarves, and be introduced to new mystical characters and creatures.
Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews