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Ordshaw #7
Dyer Street Punk Witches
Kit hung up her brass knuckles, but the shadows of her past always lingered. Now they’re back to claim her.
Kit “Fadulous” Hamley, magazine editor, activist and former punk rocker, is a well-known loudmouth in St Alphege’s. She works tirelessly to hold local authorities to account. Some say she’s making up for her criminal youth. Others spread rumours of witchcraft. Only a handful of people know how dark her secrets really are.
When an old friend warns Kit that a former rival has resurfaced, those secrets start to resurface. People have gone missing, with body parts and strange symbols left behind, and someone is stalking Kit. The gang she abandoned are scared stiff and her magic-wielding bandmates are long gone. Kit herself is a target, and if she can’t unravel exactly how this new feud connects with her past mistakes, it could kill her.
Decades older, a little wiser, and contrary as ever, Kit’s going to remind them all what a punk witch can do.
Get ready for a riotous ride into the seedy underbelly of St Alphege’s, where gang warfare and occult conspiracies tear ordinary lives apart. Dyer Street Punk Witches is a standalone urban fantasy thriller, packed with tough, subversive characters and tense twists – you won’t be able to put down.
Kit “Fadulous” Hamley, magazine editor, activist and former punk rocker, is a well-known loudmouth in St Alphege’s. She works tirelessly to hold local authorities to account. Some say she’s making up for her criminal youth. Others spread rumours of witchcraft. Only a handful of people know how dark her secrets really are.
When an old friend warns Kit that a former rival has resurfaced, those secrets start to resurface. People have gone missing, with body parts and strange symbols left behind, and someone is stalking Kit. The gang she abandoned are scared stiff and her magic-wielding bandmates are long gone. Kit herself is a target, and if she can’t unravel exactly how this new feud connects with her past mistakes, it could kill her.
Decades older, a little wiser, and contrary as ever, Kit’s going to remind them all what a punk witch can do.
Get ready for a riotous ride into the seedy underbelly of St Alphege’s, where gang warfare and occult conspiracies tear ordinary lives apart. Dyer Street Punk Witches is a standalone urban fantasy thriller, packed with tough, subversive characters and tense twists – you won’t be able to put down.
255 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 12, 2022
6 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
Phil Williams
25 books139 followersPhil Williams is an author of fantasy, horror and dystopian fiction, including the Blood Scouts epic military fantasies, the Ordshaw urban fantasy thrillers and the post-apocalyptic Estalia series. He also works as a fiction editor and writes reference books to help foreign learners master the nuances of English, two of which are regular best-sellers on Kindle. As a long-term teacher and tutor of advanced English, he runs the popular website “English Lessons Brighton”.
Phil lives with his wife by the coast in Sussex, UK, and spends a great deal of time walking his impossibly fluffy dog, Herbert.
Phil lives with his wife by the coast in Sussex, UK, and spends a great deal of time walking his impossibly fluffy dog, Herbert.
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Displaying 1 - 27 of 27 reviews
March 19, 2024
My complete review is published at Grimdark Magazine.
Dyer Street Punk Witches by Phil Williams is an urban fantasy thriller featuring a trio of punk rock musicians led by the vodka-swigging social activist Kit “Fadulous” Hamley on bass, together with the quiet genius Clover on lead guitar and their friend “Big” Mad on drums. The trio live on Dyer Street, the most dangerous street in the city of Ordshaw. Kit is a rather intimidating figure, admired by some and feared by others as she fights to bring peace, justice, and accountability to a region overrun by gang warfare.
In addition to leading their punk band, Dyre Grrls, Kit serves as chief editor and publisher of a local magazine that makes a business of upsetting powerful people. Their basic tenets, as enumerating by Kit, include “challenging the establishment, defending freedom of expression, fighting for equal rights, defeating all forms of bigotry, rejecting the mainstream.”
The other lead protagonist of Dyer Street Punk Witches is Aaron, a young man whose book smarts outweigh his street smarts by a considerable margin. Kit had previously saved Aaron’s life, coming to his rescue during a violent mugging. Aaron returns to Dyer Street to face his fears and come to peace with that traumatizing (and somewhat embarrassing) event.
Aaron also suspects that Kit may have tapped into some supernatural powers to aid in his rescue. He decides that the best way to learn more about his savior and, perhaps, overcome his own self-doubt, would be to volunteer for Kit’s magazine. She immediately puts her new volunteer to work, pushing him out of his comfort zone.
Dyer Street Punk Witches bounces between the present-day narrative and a backstory that occurs mostly in the 1990s. The notorious Saxon gang from the 1990s is making a return in the present day, bringing some frightening new powers.
The worldbuilding in Dyer Street Punk Witches is outstanding, with just the right amount of occultist magic to balance the realistic street grit that sets the backdrop for the novel. I especially enjoyed the social justice aspects of the story, as well as the plentiful punk rock references. Any book that name-drops Sleater-Kinney automatically gets bonus points from this reviewer.
My only minor complaint is that Dyer Street Punk Witches finishes too quickly. A sizeable fraction of the book is spent on exposition, which I thoroughly enjoyed, but I wanted a greater buildup in action during the second half of the book. I would have happily devoured another 100 pages of action before letting this story go.
Altogether, Dyer Street Punk Witches brilliantly captures the feminist riot grrl spirit in a dark urban fantasy setting. I hope Phil Williams will share more stories with these characters in the future.
Dyer Street Punk Witches by Phil Williams is an urban fantasy thriller featuring a trio of punk rock musicians led by the vodka-swigging social activist Kit “Fadulous” Hamley on bass, together with the quiet genius Clover on lead guitar and their friend “Big” Mad on drums. The trio live on Dyer Street, the most dangerous street in the city of Ordshaw. Kit is a rather intimidating figure, admired by some and feared by others as she fights to bring peace, justice, and accountability to a region overrun by gang warfare.
In addition to leading their punk band, Dyre Grrls, Kit serves as chief editor and publisher of a local magazine that makes a business of upsetting powerful people. Their basic tenets, as enumerating by Kit, include “challenging the establishment, defending freedom of expression, fighting for equal rights, defeating all forms of bigotry, rejecting the mainstream.”
The other lead protagonist of Dyer Street Punk Witches is Aaron, a young man whose book smarts outweigh his street smarts by a considerable margin. Kit had previously saved Aaron’s life, coming to his rescue during a violent mugging. Aaron returns to Dyer Street to face his fears and come to peace with that traumatizing (and somewhat embarrassing) event.
Aaron also suspects that Kit may have tapped into some supernatural powers to aid in his rescue. He decides that the best way to learn more about his savior and, perhaps, overcome his own self-doubt, would be to volunteer for Kit’s magazine. She immediately puts her new volunteer to work, pushing him out of his comfort zone.
Dyer Street Punk Witches bounces between the present-day narrative and a backstory that occurs mostly in the 1990s. The notorious Saxon gang from the 1990s is making a return in the present day, bringing some frightening new powers.
The worldbuilding in Dyer Street Punk Witches is outstanding, with just the right amount of occultist magic to balance the realistic street grit that sets the backdrop for the novel. I especially enjoyed the social justice aspects of the story, as well as the plentiful punk rock references. Any book that name-drops Sleater-Kinney automatically gets bonus points from this reviewer.
My only minor complaint is that Dyer Street Punk Witches finishes too quickly. A sizeable fraction of the book is spent on exposition, which I thoroughly enjoyed, but I wanted a greater buildup in action during the second half of the book. I would have happily devoured another 100 pages of action before letting this story go.
Altogether, Dyer Street Punk Witches brilliantly captures the feminist riot grrl spirit in a dark urban fantasy setting. I hope Phil Williams will share more stories with these characters in the future.
August 30, 2023
I saw Dyer Street Punk Witches by Phil Williams on a table at BristolCon, and I simply couldn't resist the cover... I even had the author sign it for me with a firring glittery pink pen, courtesy of the neighbouring author!
I'm so glad I am bad at impulse control, because this was one awesome story! The main character Kit is as contradictory as the grit and pink of this book, and I am here for it.
I'm always, always on the lookout for Urban Fantasy that isn't actually paranormal romance in disguise, and Dyer Street Punk Witches delivered so well on this. Witches, magic, spells and curses, and all of it mixed with a a troubled past, including some gang rivalry.
The characters are all flawed, and there's hidden depths to their past as well as mysteries all around. I really loved the shades of grey instead of an easy good versus evil sort of cast. While I wanted to shake the characters at times, I was also able to understand their motivations, and they felt realistic. I hate having people acting dumb and out of character just to drive the plot - and even the stupid decisions here didn't feel like that. Instead they felt realistic for who they are, and what shaped them.
The background of being a punk, a rebel, a feminist, someone trying to change things for the better - all while not always really being that great a human herself made Kit a fascinating protagonist to follow.
I also enjoyed her friends and enemies, even though they weren't all as fully fleshed out. That didn't take away from my enjoyment, as Kit definitely is the driving force in this book.
This was my first book by the author, and even though it seems this book is part of a series, it was definitely great to read on its own, I didn't feel like I missed anything.
I'm so glad I am bad at impulse control, because this was one awesome story! The main character Kit is as contradictory as the grit and pink of this book, and I am here for it.
I'm always, always on the lookout for Urban Fantasy that isn't actually paranormal romance in disguise, and Dyer Street Punk Witches delivered so well on this. Witches, magic, spells and curses, and all of it mixed with a a troubled past, including some gang rivalry.
The characters are all flawed, and there's hidden depths to their past as well as mysteries all around. I really loved the shades of grey instead of an easy good versus evil sort of cast. While I wanted to shake the characters at times, I was also able to understand their motivations, and they felt realistic. I hate having people acting dumb and out of character just to drive the plot - and even the stupid decisions here didn't feel like that. Instead they felt realistic for who they are, and what shaped them.
The background of being a punk, a rebel, a feminist, someone trying to change things for the better - all while not always really being that great a human herself made Kit a fascinating protagonist to follow.
I also enjoyed her friends and enemies, even though they weren't all as fully fleshed out. That didn't take away from my enjoyment, as Kit definitely is the driving force in this book.
This was my first book by the author, and even though it seems this book is part of a series, it was definitely great to read on its own, I didn't feel like I missed anything.
June 28, 2023
I received a copy of this book from the author at BristolCon. I instantly liked the cover, that gives a good impression of the rough world the story is set in, which is a version of ours in an alternate reality.
The main character, Kit “Fadulous” Hamley is a formidable magazine editor and social justice activist, whose character reminded me of Vi(olet) from Arcane/League Of Legends. Similarly impulsive, hotheaded, brash, always ready for a fight for what she believes in and loyal to her friends to the end. Kit has some dark secrets in her past and when she saves the life of a young, anxious guy named Aaron on the street, threads of those secrets start resurfacing in her life. Aaron quickly gets drawn to the bold, energetic woman, his curiosity about the mysteries surrounding Kit leading him to join forces with her and her closest friends to unravel a past filled with gang wars and dangerous magic.
Phil Williams is a seasoned, confident writer, his skills shining here in his realistic characters, perfect world-building, clever twists and satisfying conclusion to the story. Although this is the 7th book in the Ordshaw series, you don’t need to read the preceding instalments to fully understand and enjoy this story.
The main character, Kit “Fadulous” Hamley is a formidable magazine editor and social justice activist, whose character reminded me of Vi(olet) from Arcane/League Of Legends. Similarly impulsive, hotheaded, brash, always ready for a fight for what she believes in and loyal to her friends to the end. Kit has some dark secrets in her past and when she saves the life of a young, anxious guy named Aaron on the street, threads of those secrets start resurfacing in her life. Aaron quickly gets drawn to the bold, energetic woman, his curiosity about the mysteries surrounding Kit leading him to join forces with her and her closest friends to unravel a past filled with gang wars and dangerous magic.
Phil Williams is a seasoned, confident writer, his skills shining here in his realistic characters, perfect world-building, clever twists and satisfying conclusion to the story. Although this is the 7th book in the Ordshaw series, you don’t need to read the preceding instalments to fully understand and enjoy this story.
April 28, 2024
Take a good look at that cover. Does your heart say yes YES? Then this one's for you!
Each chapter starts with a few pages from the 90s before bumping up to today. This provides a wonderful feeling of layered mystery as the story unfolds in two timelines. Additionally, Kit was a punk witch, but she's left that behind her, so we see the always interesting contrasts (and similarities!) between a person at different ages. Even better, Williams kept Kit true to the punk movement. Punk is not just a story aesthetic here.
Dyer Street Punk Witches is an urban fantasy novel set in England in a high-crime urban area called Ordshaw. It's got mystery and thriller elements. There's a colorful cast of characters. The book is a solid length for the story. This is my first Williams novel, and Dyer Street Punk Witches reads beautifully as a standalone. I'm calling it 4.5 stars.
Each chapter starts with a few pages from the 90s before bumping up to today. This provides a wonderful feeling of layered mystery as the story unfolds in two timelines. Additionally, Kit was a punk witch, but she's left that behind her, so we see the always interesting contrasts (and similarities!) between a person at different ages. Even better, Williams kept Kit true to the punk movement. Punk is not just a story aesthetic here.
Dyer Street Punk Witches is an urban fantasy novel set in England in a high-crime urban area called Ordshaw. It's got mystery and thriller elements. There's a colorful cast of characters. The book is a solid length for the story. This is my first Williams novel, and Dyer Street Punk Witches reads beautifully as a standalone. I'm calling it 4.5 stars.
September 13, 2022
Dyer Street Punk Witches shows a different side of Ordshaw from the very talented author Phil Williams’ previous Ordshaw tales (and terrors). It is fast-paced and fascinating. There are realistic characters that grabbed my attention and held me hostage until the last page. Hopefully, not the end, though. I throughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it!
Disclaimer: I received this ebook from the author and this is my honest and freely given opinion.
Disclaimer: I received this ebook from the author and this is my honest and freely given opinion.
September 17, 2022
3.5/5
It's an exciting read that blends crime thriller, urban fantasy, dark secrets from the past, and witchcraft. It delivers punk feminism, solid characters, and nice twists. The story follows a few characters, but most POV chapters come from Kit “Fadulous” Hamley, a former punk rocker/political activist turned magazine editor, and Aaron Wise, a timid graduate who's been struggling to find work. When his path crosses Kit's, his life changes in the most unexpected ways.
Worth a shot.
It's an exciting read that blends crime thriller, urban fantasy, dark secrets from the past, and witchcraft. It delivers punk feminism, solid characters, and nice twists. The story follows a few characters, but most POV chapters come from Kit “Fadulous” Hamley, a former punk rocker/political activist turned magazine editor, and Aaron Wise, a timid graduate who's been struggling to find work. When his path crosses Kit's, his life changes in the most unexpected ways.
Worth a shot.
November 9, 2022
This review was originally posted on Queen's Book Asylum along with my choice of song and Jen's review.
I received an ecopy from the author in exchange of an honest review.
Actual rating: 4.5*
I can’t believe Dyer Street Punk Witches is only my second Phil Williams book. I’ve been meaning to read his books for years now and I only just started on them this year. I should be ashamed. That said, the moment I first saw the cover of Dyer Street Punk Witches, I knew I had to read this one. Not only the title spoke to me, but the cover art too. Yes, I’m that predictable, sue me. Williams kindly offered me an ARC, even though I wasn’t able to deliver a review in time. I’m sorry, but here I am now!
Dyer Street Punk Witches is mostly Kit’s story. Being nearly 40 years old, she left behind her life as a punk and gang witch, but that doesn’t mean she stopped being a rebel. Her magazine, The Incite, does its best to go against injustice and corruption and to bring changes to the poorer parts of Ordshaw – namely St. Alphage’s, Kit’s home. But leaving behind one’s past doesn’t mean that past is content to stay put. Magic is seeping back to Ordshaw and the changes it brings comes knocking on Kit’s door. With friends old and new, she once again has to put herself on the frontline. Hoping it won’t be another bloody business. Hey, a girl can dream.
Although it took a while to get to know Kit, I had an instant liking for her. She is that type of no-nonsense person who gives exactly zero fuck about what’s conventional or what society might think about her. Be it her sense of style (I like to think she’d approve of mine), her opinions, or her manners – she remains true to herself, even if she decided to give parts of herself up at one point or another in her life. Truth be told, I’m kinda jealous of her for that. Although not of the trouble that keeps finding her at every corner…
Besides Kit, this book has a pretty wide cast of characters that play smaller or bigger roles. Big Mad, Ellie, Aaron, and Drew are the most prominent ones. I liked Big Mad, Kit’s best friend, who balances out Kit’s erratic and unpredictable nature, and their banters were a joy to read. I had mixed feelings about Aaron, especially in the beginning. Maybe because he reminded me too much of myself, being paralyzed by anxiety, not belonging anywhere, being unable to put his life together, and just staying put because it’s so much easier. However, it was nice seeing him getting out of his shell slowly, and opening up to Ellie. He certainly grew on me by the end.
The well-developed characters, the tight plot, and the overall reading experience make it clear that Williams is a seasoned writer. There never was a dull moment, nor did the story drag. At times maybe felt rushed a bit and I certainly would have liked a bit more depth to certain parts (like Kit and One-Eyed Goddom) but these are minor things. What I absolutely loved was how Williams did a lot of world-building through the chapter openings. Usually showing us the past, giving us a good idea about Kit’s life and relationships and why things were as they were in the present. It definitely worked out really well and spared the reader of all the infodumps. That alone earned an extra star from me.
This book also made me think of We Sold Our Souls by Grady Hendrix, although there are probably a lot more differences than not. Maybe it’s because of just the general vibe and the fact both have a female ex-musician as the MC. Although Dyer Street Punk Witches is more of a love letter to the 90s’ punk scene than We Sold Our Souls is.
Dyer Street Punk Witches is one of the very good examples of why I love the Urban Fantasy subgenre – without using the usual tropes. It also shows how a good UF/thriller should work. It’s gritty, it’s rough around the edges, it has a touch of supernatural and well-written character dynamics that makes this book unputdownable. This was definitely not the last Phil Williams book I’ve read and I look forward to seeing what he comes up with next!
I received an ecopy from the author in exchange of an honest review.
Actual rating: 4.5*
“The first thing to know about witchcraft, one thing I know for sure, is that the spells and charms are built on old anger and outrage, the products of oppressed or marginalised people. It’s not about loaves and fishes; it’s desperate vengeance.”
I can’t believe Dyer Street Punk Witches is only my second Phil Williams book. I’ve been meaning to read his books for years now and I only just started on them this year. I should be ashamed. That said, the moment I first saw the cover of Dyer Street Punk Witches, I knew I had to read this one. Not only the title spoke to me, but the cover art too. Yes, I’m that predictable, sue me. Williams kindly offered me an ARC, even though I wasn’t able to deliver a review in time. I’m sorry, but here I am now!
Dyer Street Punk Witches is mostly Kit’s story. Being nearly 40 years old, she left behind her life as a punk and gang witch, but that doesn’t mean she stopped being a rebel. Her magazine, The Incite, does its best to go against injustice and corruption and to bring changes to the poorer parts of Ordshaw – namely St. Alphage’s, Kit’s home. But leaving behind one’s past doesn’t mean that past is content to stay put. Magic is seeping back to Ordshaw and the changes it brings comes knocking on Kit’s door. With friends old and new, she once again has to put herself on the frontline. Hoping it won’t be another bloody business. Hey, a girl can dream.
Although it took a while to get to know Kit, I had an instant liking for her. She is that type of no-nonsense person who gives exactly zero fuck about what’s conventional or what society might think about her. Be it her sense of style (I like to think she’d approve of mine), her opinions, or her manners – she remains true to herself, even if she decided to give parts of herself up at one point or another in her life. Truth be told, I’m kinda jealous of her for that. Although not of the trouble that keeps finding her at every corner…
“Because a lot of people are gonna try and put us down. That’s eighty per cent of a punk’s work. We fight against the norms. Show them weird’s cool.”
Besides Kit, this book has a pretty wide cast of characters that play smaller or bigger roles. Big Mad, Ellie, Aaron, and Drew are the most prominent ones. I liked Big Mad, Kit’s best friend, who balances out Kit’s erratic and unpredictable nature, and their banters were a joy to read. I had mixed feelings about Aaron, especially in the beginning. Maybe because he reminded me too much of myself, being paralyzed by anxiety, not belonging anywhere, being unable to put his life together, and just staying put because it’s so much easier. However, it was nice seeing him getting out of his shell slowly, and opening up to Ellie. He certainly grew on me by the end.
The well-developed characters, the tight plot, and the overall reading experience make it clear that Williams is a seasoned writer. There never was a dull moment, nor did the story drag. At times maybe felt rushed a bit and I certainly would have liked a bit more depth to certain parts (like Kit and One-Eyed Goddom) but these are minor things. What I absolutely loved was how Williams did a lot of world-building through the chapter openings. Usually showing us the past, giving us a good idea about Kit’s life and relationships and why things were as they were in the present. It definitely worked out really well and spared the reader of all the infodumps. That alone earned an extra star from me.
This book also made me think of We Sold Our Souls by Grady Hendrix, although there are probably a lot more differences than not. Maybe it’s because of just the general vibe and the fact both have a female ex-musician as the MC. Although Dyer Street Punk Witches is more of a love letter to the 90s’ punk scene than We Sold Our Souls is.
“They entered the main club floor, which looked the same as it had twenty years ago, with tall stages, neon-lined bars and scummy purple upholstery. Kit could still picture the stages paced with teenagers in short skirts and collared shirts, but the club was sad and empty now, dirty floors laid bare and bars unmanned. Like seeing a clown nursing a hangover while his makeup ran.”
Dyer Street Punk Witches is one of the very good examples of why I love the Urban Fantasy subgenre – without using the usual tropes. It also shows how a good UF/thriller should work. It’s gritty, it’s rough around the edges, it has a touch of supernatural and well-written character dynamics that makes this book unputdownable. This was definitely not the last Phil Williams book I’ve read and I look forward to seeing what he comes up with next!
December 28, 2022
Witches are what? Cool! Punks are what? Cool! Punk witches are simply badass plus badass and you got yourself a… well, an explosion of sorts. If I had even the tiniest amount of the courage and balls that Kit Fadulous sports, I’d be happy. What a main character… Fierce!
Anyway, you know those houses that look small on the outside and once you’re in, you’re like, holy crap, look at all the space in here. Like magic. Yeah, this book is like this. You think, hah, 255 pages, easy-peasy, some fun along the way, witches doing action magic stuff, A to B story. Couldn’t be more wrong. This story is like a whole universe in its own – you open the cover and you step into another world and there’s SO MUCH story. I kept reading and thinking, this is some magic, that. The book should be over like 2 hours ago but there’s 2 hours to go and no complaints from me! Oh, no!
Dyer Street Punk Witches is book #7 in the Ordshaw series but even if you haven’t read the previous books, believe me, you’ll get quite a full experience still. I would know. This is my first venture, as well. And from what I can gather, I best make some time in the future to read the preceding books, too. Phil Williams has a very steady hand when it comes to story progression and diverse set of characters. Unflinching, gritty, wholesome – story and characters alike.
Kit has left her past of magic and witchcraft behind, as well as the punk scene, when her 2 closest friends moved on to a different life. Now, running a magazine to make a difference in society, Kit is keeping busy with a small team of, I mean 2, helpers and haggling over advertisement prices with seedy dudes. But when she notices a young man on the street needing help, and she goes to help him (because it’s the right thing to do), things are set in motion that will make the past come alive and there is no stopping, come hell through the Deep Dark or a shower of bullets, until whoever is behind stirring shit, gets put down.
The story offers plenty of twists and turns and with the abundance of street gang politics, you really don’t know who’s behind it all until the endgame arrives, and even then, I promise you, the story will surprise you.
It’s no lie when author promises you anarchy, witchcraft, gang politics and badass women. Dark past hanging over all of them to varying degree, decisions to push the story to a conclusion are both mature and immature, informed and uninformed. Like in the real world. The bonds that form and break in between gang members, work colleagues, friends and strangers zap at you in this book as if electrified. No time to dwell and worry, Kit Fadulous sets the pace and it ain’t for the slow.
The chapters start with snippets from a witches ‘handbook’ – and I have to commend the author here, very playful and imaginative with some of these ingredients! – as well as snippets from Kit’s and her friends’ past. All of this, tied in with the current events in the book, make a neat little package, and make you feel altogether very involved.
Too violent? Well, no, I wouldn’t say there’s anything overly graphic. A few scuffles here and there.
How about the witchcraft? Interestingly, even this aspect came across as something not unnatural in the book. The magical aspects belong there, even though the pages aren’t soaked in it from start to finish. Witchcraft is used but not too often and not over the top.
All in all, the book kind of feels like an ode to the punk scene with it’s rebellious nature a la Kit Fadulous.
Man, what a woman, I think I’m in love.
Anyway, you know those houses that look small on the outside and once you’re in, you’re like, holy crap, look at all the space in here. Like magic. Yeah, this book is like this. You think, hah, 255 pages, easy-peasy, some fun along the way, witches doing action magic stuff, A to B story. Couldn’t be more wrong. This story is like a whole universe in its own – you open the cover and you step into another world and there’s SO MUCH story. I kept reading and thinking, this is some magic, that. The book should be over like 2 hours ago but there’s 2 hours to go and no complaints from me! Oh, no!
But if a few more people let themselves enjoy fantasies of unicorns and fairies, then a few more people might also start imagining a world where you didn’t just accept that a self-serving society built on centuries of imperialism, patriarchy and nepotism is the best we can do.
Dyer Street Punk Witches is book #7 in the Ordshaw series but even if you haven’t read the previous books, believe me, you’ll get quite a full experience still. I would know. This is my first venture, as well. And from what I can gather, I best make some time in the future to read the preceding books, too. Phil Williams has a very steady hand when it comes to story progression and diverse set of characters. Unflinching, gritty, wholesome – story and characters alike.
She was always reacting too soon. Almost forty years old and Kit was yet to calm down. She didn’t want to calm down. Calm people didn’t get things done.
Kit has left her past of magic and witchcraft behind, as well as the punk scene, when her 2 closest friends moved on to a different life. Now, running a magazine to make a difference in society, Kit is keeping busy with a small team of, I mean 2, helpers and haggling over advertisement prices with seedy dudes. But when she notices a young man on the street needing help, and she goes to help him (because it’s the right thing to do), things are set in motion that will make the past come alive and there is no stopping, come hell through the Deep Dark or a shower of bullets, until whoever is behind stirring shit, gets put down.
The story offers plenty of twists and turns and with the abundance of street gang politics, you really don’t know who’s behind it all until the endgame arrives, and even then, I promise you, the story will surprise you.
It’s no lie when author promises you anarchy, witchcraft, gang politics and badass women. Dark past hanging over all of them to varying degree, decisions to push the story to a conclusion are both mature and immature, informed and uninformed. Like in the real world. The bonds that form and break in between gang members, work colleagues, friends and strangers zap at you in this book as if electrified. No time to dwell and worry, Kit Fadulous sets the pace and it ain’t for the slow.
The chapters start with snippets from a witches ‘handbook’ – and I have to commend the author here, very playful and imaginative with some of these ingredients! – as well as snippets from Kit’s and her friends’ past. All of this, tied in with the current events in the book, make a neat little package, and make you feel altogether very involved.
Too violent? Well, no, I wouldn’t say there’s anything overly graphic. A few scuffles here and there.
How about the witchcraft? Interestingly, even this aspect came across as something not unnatural in the book. The magical aspects belong there, even though the pages aren’t soaked in it from start to finish. Witchcraft is used but not too often and not over the top.
All in all, the book kind of feels like an ode to the punk scene with it’s rebellious nature a la Kit Fadulous.
Man, what a woman, I think I’m in love.
January 20, 2023
‘You, blessed reader, I trust are an eagle. You’re reading this now, you must’ve been inspired to get here! We’re a minority, those of us who soar. Treasure your magic, nurture it for the rare gift that it is, and recognise that you are not like everyone else. It’s how it should be, because if the sky was full of eagles, it’d be carnage.’
Dyer Street Punk Witches is only my second venture into Williams’’ Ordshaw universe, and it won’t be my last, because oh what a joy this book was. To be fair, I was always going to be onboard with this one as soon as the author put Punk Witches together (and not just because I am on a massive witch kick at the moment for REASONS); but Dyer Street Punk Witches was just a sheer joy to read, and while it is certainly short and punchy, it felt like there was a whole lot more wrapped up in the pages – a Tardis of a book if you will, and while I would love more of these characters and this particular part of Ordshaw it was also an incredibly satisfying story in and of itself.
‘That’s eighty per cent of a punk’s work. We fight against the norms. Show them weird’s cool.’
In keeping with how much this book packs in, it treads the line of urban fantasy and thriller, and through our main character’s story it also feels a little like a time capsule for the punk scene, as well as dipping into crime and gang wars, and even a commentary on social issues through her work with an independent paper that focus on the failings of those in power as well as championing the poorer parts of the city. It’s a unique blend, and finely balanced and it works brilliantly.
Aside from Williams’ obvious skill with blending genres, one of the reasons it works so well here is the characters. Kit is our main character, and at its heart this her story. She is our Punk Witch, although in the present, she has largely left behind that life – although the rebellious streak remains strong – and instead we get an incredible woman approaching her forties, who has lived one hell of a life and been shaped by so many events, and still gets up with a fight in her heart and remains true to who she is regardless of what society tries to demand of her. I loved the Kit that we got to see in the flashbacks to her days in a punk band, when she used her magic, got into fights, and was the living breathing embodiment of the title; but it was the older Kit, the one who found herself dragged back into magic and gangs, and the whole bloody mess she had tried to leave behind that really stole my heart. I would love to be half as badass as she was at that age – although maybe without the chaos and trouble that seem drawn to her like moths to a flame. She’s certainly a character that is going to stick with me for a long time.
While Kit, and her wonderful no-nonsense attitude and sheer driving force is our main gateway to this story, the rest of the cast is just as vividly realised. Aaron was another favourite, although he took me a wee bit longer to warm to, but he made an interesting contrast to Kit; and in terms of development he was probably the one who changed the most throughout the book. However, there were certainly parts of his character that resonated, especially that feeling of it being easier in a way to stay in one place, to keep the status quo because it’s easier – and watching that wash up against the rocky shore of Kit’s personality was certainly interesting, and I also enjoyed his opening up around Ellie and while it felt as though he was still finding his feet by the end of the book, it really felt as though we had been there for the start of his story. Another favourite had to be Big Mad, and her friendship with Kit, their interactions were some of my favourite – and it was fun to see a slightly different side to Kit through their banter and the obvious depth of their friendship.
‘Beyond them lay the city, Ordshaw’s peaks and sewers, winding tunnels, veins of flowing energy. Then specific things crowded into his senses: the hollow echo of a word, beating drums, a place, a knife, blood.’
Ordshaw itself was very much a character in this story, and much more than a mere location of setting for the unfolding events. I liked how the worldbuilding was delivered through a combination of the plot unfolding, as we got to learn about the struggles in the city through Kit and Ellie’s work at the paper, through the descriptions of the streets Aaron was walking through, and through the discussion of Kit’s past and the trouble that was washing up on their doorsteps. A very organic way of doing it, and one that made the story and city seem like one beating heart, where one element constantly affected.
Layered on top of that was the supernatural elements and the magic, which was the main flashpoint of this story – the threat and the solution all at once. I particularly enjoyed the excerpts at the top of the chapters that told us more about the history of witchcraft and it’s practitioners, and the fun inclusion of recipes and spells (with some weird and wonderful ingredients), which again added another layer to the story – and also gave the feeling of this being a tale and a practice that transcended the timelines in the story. There would still be witches when the events of this book were done, and there were more who had come before Kit and her band in the flashbacks; which gave the world that added breadth. The magic itself was wonderfully written, and I particularly loved that it was a fix-all, that it was something that had to be worked at, that there were limits and costs – Kit again being our main gateway to seeing these elements.
I don’t want to say too much in terms of specifics about the plot, because both the length and the thriller-esque nature of the book mean that it would give far too much away. Also this book is too damn fun as experience for me to rob you of that. What I will say that Williams guides this story with a skillful hand, and there are so many twists and turns that you are kept guessing all the way through. There is anarchy and chaos, witches and gangs, real, flawed characters and the various bonds that form between them, magic and some (bloody) mayhem. It’s fast paced and addictive, and I read it in one go – and writing this review has me wanting to go and revisit it again.
Dyer Street Punk Witches was a fantastic and compelling read, and as it can be read as a standalone it’s very much a great way to dive into Ordshaw if you haven’t. If you want genre-bending, character-driven urban fantasy with flare, then pick this one up!
Dyer Street Punk Witches is only my second venture into Williams’’ Ordshaw universe, and it won’t be my last, because oh what a joy this book was. To be fair, I was always going to be onboard with this one as soon as the author put Punk Witches together (and not just because I am on a massive witch kick at the moment for REASONS); but Dyer Street Punk Witches was just a sheer joy to read, and while it is certainly short and punchy, it felt like there was a whole lot more wrapped up in the pages – a Tardis of a book if you will, and while I would love more of these characters and this particular part of Ordshaw it was also an incredibly satisfying story in and of itself.
‘That’s eighty per cent of a punk’s work. We fight against the norms. Show them weird’s cool.’
In keeping with how much this book packs in, it treads the line of urban fantasy and thriller, and through our main character’s story it also feels a little like a time capsule for the punk scene, as well as dipping into crime and gang wars, and even a commentary on social issues through her work with an independent paper that focus on the failings of those in power as well as championing the poorer parts of the city. It’s a unique blend, and finely balanced and it works brilliantly.
Aside from Williams’ obvious skill with blending genres, one of the reasons it works so well here is the characters. Kit is our main character, and at its heart this her story. She is our Punk Witch, although in the present, she has largely left behind that life – although the rebellious streak remains strong – and instead we get an incredible woman approaching her forties, who has lived one hell of a life and been shaped by so many events, and still gets up with a fight in her heart and remains true to who she is regardless of what society tries to demand of her. I loved the Kit that we got to see in the flashbacks to her days in a punk band, when she used her magic, got into fights, and was the living breathing embodiment of the title; but it was the older Kit, the one who found herself dragged back into magic and gangs, and the whole bloody mess she had tried to leave behind that really stole my heart. I would love to be half as badass as she was at that age – although maybe without the chaos and trouble that seem drawn to her like moths to a flame. She’s certainly a character that is going to stick with me for a long time.
While Kit, and her wonderful no-nonsense attitude and sheer driving force is our main gateway to this story, the rest of the cast is just as vividly realised. Aaron was another favourite, although he took me a wee bit longer to warm to, but he made an interesting contrast to Kit; and in terms of development he was probably the one who changed the most throughout the book. However, there were certainly parts of his character that resonated, especially that feeling of it being easier in a way to stay in one place, to keep the status quo because it’s easier – and watching that wash up against the rocky shore of Kit’s personality was certainly interesting, and I also enjoyed his opening up around Ellie and while it felt as though he was still finding his feet by the end of the book, it really felt as though we had been there for the start of his story. Another favourite had to be Big Mad, and her friendship with Kit, their interactions were some of my favourite – and it was fun to see a slightly different side to Kit through their banter and the obvious depth of their friendship.
‘Beyond them lay the city, Ordshaw’s peaks and sewers, winding tunnels, veins of flowing energy. Then specific things crowded into his senses: the hollow echo of a word, beating drums, a place, a knife, blood.’
Ordshaw itself was very much a character in this story, and much more than a mere location of setting for the unfolding events. I liked how the worldbuilding was delivered through a combination of the plot unfolding, as we got to learn about the struggles in the city through Kit and Ellie’s work at the paper, through the descriptions of the streets Aaron was walking through, and through the discussion of Kit’s past and the trouble that was washing up on their doorsteps. A very organic way of doing it, and one that made the story and city seem like one beating heart, where one element constantly affected.
Layered on top of that was the supernatural elements and the magic, which was the main flashpoint of this story – the threat and the solution all at once. I particularly enjoyed the excerpts at the top of the chapters that told us more about the history of witchcraft and it’s practitioners, and the fun inclusion of recipes and spells (with some weird and wonderful ingredients), which again added another layer to the story – and also gave the feeling of this being a tale and a practice that transcended the timelines in the story. There would still be witches when the events of this book were done, and there were more who had come before Kit and her band in the flashbacks; which gave the world that added breadth. The magic itself was wonderfully written, and I particularly loved that it was a fix-all, that it was something that had to be worked at, that there were limits and costs – Kit again being our main gateway to seeing these elements.
I don’t want to say too much in terms of specifics about the plot, because both the length and the thriller-esque nature of the book mean that it would give far too much away. Also this book is too damn fun as experience for me to rob you of that. What I will say that Williams guides this story with a skillful hand, and there are so many twists and turns that you are kept guessing all the way through. There is anarchy and chaos, witches and gangs, real, flawed characters and the various bonds that form between them, magic and some (bloody) mayhem. It’s fast paced and addictive, and I read it in one go – and writing this review has me wanting to go and revisit it again.
Dyer Street Punk Witches was a fantastic and compelling read, and as it can be read as a standalone it’s very much a great way to dive into Ordshaw if you haven’t. If you want genre-bending, character-driven urban fantasy with flare, then pick this one up!
September 12, 2022
I received this book from the author, in exchange for an honest review: my thanks for this opportunity.
And so we’re back to the fictional city of Ordshaw, where magic lurks just beyond the corner of your eye, after the slight “detour” which brought us around the world with Phil William’s Ikiri Duology, even though that story also showed some connection to this main site of weird phenomena.
Kit Fadoulous used to be the leader of the punk rock band of the Dire Grrls together with her friends Madison and Clover, and at some point in their career they found online Betsy Burdock’s Book of Spells, a sort of do-it-yourself grimoire which changed their lives, teaching them to enhance their music with spells. As the story starts, it’s a few decades after those “golden years” and Kit has taken on the job of editor for an independent paper focused on pointing out local authorities’ failings and on promoting worthy enterprises. She now lives in one of Ordshaw’s worst areas, one that is both crime ridden and abandoned to its own devices, and lost contact with her former friends: still surrounded by an aura of mystery and a whiff of witchcraft, Kit barely manages to keep he publication afloat, and her situation becomes even more complicated when a friend from the past warns her about the return of an old foe, bent on resurrecting the ancient gang wars - and he seems to have enrolled someone able to summon magic…
As is often the case with the Ordshaw series, saying too much about the plot would spoil the enjoyment of the story, and there is much to be discovered here, particularly because each chapter begins with a look at the past of Kit and her band - and how their art mixed with witchcraft and the gangs’ territorial wars, often with unpredictable and dramatic results - and then proceeds to add more details to the overall picture of the present, moving with a swift pace toward some final revelations that end up being quite surprising. What’s different here, in respect of the other books in the series, is that the weirdness does not come from otherworldly phenomena or creatures, but from the wielding of magic through spells which are reinforced by the mixing of very, very strange elements: the excerpts from Betsy Burdock’s book are both intriguing and fun, enhanced by the fictional author’s unique brand of humor, and I enjoyed them very much.
Kit is an intriguing character (one, I have to admit, I was curious about since this book’s cover reveal some time ago): still very much tied to her punk rock singer persona in the manner of dress and the way she relates to others, there is a definite layer of wisdom through adversity added to her personality that instantly endeared her to me, a reaction that deepened as I understood that she carries a heavy burden from the past and from the fracturing of what used to be a very strong bond with her bandmates. Every reference to that past is tinged with poignant regret and a sense of guilt that Kit probably tries to assuage through her tireless work in favor of the community: using magic imbued the three girls with a heady sense of power, but Kit has come to realize that the payoff was far too steep - there is one instance in which she warns about the consequences of that carelessly wielded magic, summarizing its noxious effects:
We don’t know how to heal things. Only how to break them.
Other characters, like Ellie - Kit’s virtual second in command at the paper - or newcomer Aaron, a young man who seems scared of his own shadow until he reveals unexpected talents, move around Kit like planets around the sun, helping to better define her psychological makeup and to underline her strengths and frailties.
And of course there is always the city of Ordshaw acting as both background and character: as I often commented, talking about this series, there is a storytelling quality to these books that makes me imagine this city as colored in sepia tones, or immersed in a sort of perennial dusk: here that sensation is enhanced by the descriptions of the area where Kit operates, the community of St. Alphege, a once lively but now run-down sector where organized crime put some very deep roots and where the distraction of local authorities did nothing to improve the citizens’ living conditions.
[…] bare brick walls and windows barred like a prison, roads pocked with holes and pavements dotted with weeds. Even the sky’s blanket grey conspired to give the estate a miserable appearance.
Dyer Street Punk Witches (which is available from today) is loosely related to the rest of the series, so it can be read as a stand-alone, but if it can make you curious about the other Ordshaw stories, know that this unusual Urban Fantasy saga will prove both intriguing and entertaining in its peculiar weirdness…
Originally posted at SPACE and SORCERY BLOG
And so we’re back to the fictional city of Ordshaw, where magic lurks just beyond the corner of your eye, after the slight “detour” which brought us around the world with Phil William’s Ikiri Duology, even though that story also showed some connection to this main site of weird phenomena.
Kit Fadoulous used to be the leader of the punk rock band of the Dire Grrls together with her friends Madison and Clover, and at some point in their career they found online Betsy Burdock’s Book of Spells, a sort of do-it-yourself grimoire which changed their lives, teaching them to enhance their music with spells. As the story starts, it’s a few decades after those “golden years” and Kit has taken on the job of editor for an independent paper focused on pointing out local authorities’ failings and on promoting worthy enterprises. She now lives in one of Ordshaw’s worst areas, one that is both crime ridden and abandoned to its own devices, and lost contact with her former friends: still surrounded by an aura of mystery and a whiff of witchcraft, Kit barely manages to keep he publication afloat, and her situation becomes even more complicated when a friend from the past warns her about the return of an old foe, bent on resurrecting the ancient gang wars - and he seems to have enrolled someone able to summon magic…
As is often the case with the Ordshaw series, saying too much about the plot would spoil the enjoyment of the story, and there is much to be discovered here, particularly because each chapter begins with a look at the past of Kit and her band - and how their art mixed with witchcraft and the gangs’ territorial wars, often with unpredictable and dramatic results - and then proceeds to add more details to the overall picture of the present, moving with a swift pace toward some final revelations that end up being quite surprising. What’s different here, in respect of the other books in the series, is that the weirdness does not come from otherworldly phenomena or creatures, but from the wielding of magic through spells which are reinforced by the mixing of very, very strange elements: the excerpts from Betsy Burdock’s book are both intriguing and fun, enhanced by the fictional author’s unique brand of humor, and I enjoyed them very much.
Kit is an intriguing character (one, I have to admit, I was curious about since this book’s cover reveal some time ago): still very much tied to her punk rock singer persona in the manner of dress and the way she relates to others, there is a definite layer of wisdom through adversity added to her personality that instantly endeared her to me, a reaction that deepened as I understood that she carries a heavy burden from the past and from the fracturing of what used to be a very strong bond with her bandmates. Every reference to that past is tinged with poignant regret and a sense of guilt that Kit probably tries to assuage through her tireless work in favor of the community: using magic imbued the three girls with a heady sense of power, but Kit has come to realize that the payoff was far too steep - there is one instance in which she warns about the consequences of that carelessly wielded magic, summarizing its noxious effects:
We don’t know how to heal things. Only how to break them.
Other characters, like Ellie - Kit’s virtual second in command at the paper - or newcomer Aaron, a young man who seems scared of his own shadow until he reveals unexpected talents, move around Kit like planets around the sun, helping to better define her psychological makeup and to underline her strengths and frailties.
And of course there is always the city of Ordshaw acting as both background and character: as I often commented, talking about this series, there is a storytelling quality to these books that makes me imagine this city as colored in sepia tones, or immersed in a sort of perennial dusk: here that sensation is enhanced by the descriptions of the area where Kit operates, the community of St. Alphege, a once lively but now run-down sector where organized crime put some very deep roots and where the distraction of local authorities did nothing to improve the citizens’ living conditions.
[…] bare brick walls and windows barred like a prison, roads pocked with holes and pavements dotted with weeds. Even the sky’s blanket grey conspired to give the estate a miserable appearance.
Dyer Street Punk Witches (which is available from today) is loosely related to the rest of the series, so it can be read as a stand-alone, but if it can make you curious about the other Ordshaw stories, know that this unusual Urban Fantasy saga will prove both intriguing and entertaining in its peculiar weirdness…
Originally posted at SPACE and SORCERY BLOG
August 22, 2022
The latest entry in Phil Williams's rip-roaring Ordshaw universe brings the city's underground punk and gang scene to life.
My favorite part of every Ordshaw Universe book is Williams's details in his characters. Every person on the page feels real and fleshed out, with a whole whopping history behind them that intricately informs every decision they make in the present day narrative. He's not only adept at building up these characters, but also in bringing together clashing personalities and somehow making it make sense that they come together and get along (or don't, in some cases). Every piece of dialogue rings true, informed by the character's upbringing including where they grew up or the experiences they went through. Each character is distinct, and each one is a person who I loved spending time with.
The first character we meet in this book, and who we spend the most time with, is a woman named Kit Fadulous, who is a former witch and former frontwoman for a punk rock band. Both her band and her coven were rounded out by her best friends Mad and Clover, before tragedy struck the group, although I won't get into detail about that. But then there's also Aaron Wise, the anxious and somewhat bumbling young man trying to figure out what his future holds until a chance encounter brings him into Kit's sphere, dragging him into her world of punk journalism and resurfacing witchcraft.
What I appreciated about this book is something I appreciated in the original Ordshaw trilogy, which is how Williams takes an urban fantasy concept I truly have no interest in (fairies in the Sunken City trilogy, witches here) and puts his own spin on them that makes them unique and genuinely compelling. There's a darkness to the magic in Ordshaw, one that Williams perfectly captures with a sense of both wonder and terror. Both times he draws from some classic elements of those fantasy tropes you might expect, before going in completely different directions with them. I love the way Williams has put his stamp on fairies/witches and how he chose to integrate their lore and powers into this shared universe he's created.
It was also interesting how Williams weaved the various themes of the story together. At first glance, it might seem like punk rockers + witches is a strange but fun combination, yet the more you read the more it makes sense why Williams has tied these two cultures together. There's a real thoughtfulness to the subject matter here, not only in regards to punk rock culture but also to marginalized groups in general. I wouldn't say this is a HUGE focus of the narrative, but it's definitely an undercurrent throughout the proceedings, and I thought it added an interesting extra layer to the characters and their predicaments.
Dyer Street Punk Witches is yet another exciting and fun thriller in the Ordshaw universe, full of magic and mayhem (and gangsters with very goofy yet menacing nicknames) that never turns down the volume. It's cranked to 11 all the way through, and that's just how I like it.
My favorite part of every Ordshaw Universe book is Williams's details in his characters. Every person on the page feels real and fleshed out, with a whole whopping history behind them that intricately informs every decision they make in the present day narrative. He's not only adept at building up these characters, but also in bringing together clashing personalities and somehow making it make sense that they come together and get along (or don't, in some cases). Every piece of dialogue rings true, informed by the character's upbringing including where they grew up or the experiences they went through. Each character is distinct, and each one is a person who I loved spending time with.
The first character we meet in this book, and who we spend the most time with, is a woman named Kit Fadulous, who is a former witch and former frontwoman for a punk rock band. Both her band and her coven were rounded out by her best friends Mad and Clover, before tragedy struck the group, although I won't get into detail about that. But then there's also Aaron Wise, the anxious and somewhat bumbling young man trying to figure out what his future holds until a chance encounter brings him into Kit's sphere, dragging him into her world of punk journalism and resurfacing witchcraft.
What I appreciated about this book is something I appreciated in the original Ordshaw trilogy, which is how Williams takes an urban fantasy concept I truly have no interest in (fairies in the Sunken City trilogy, witches here) and puts his own spin on them that makes them unique and genuinely compelling. There's a darkness to the magic in Ordshaw, one that Williams perfectly captures with a sense of both wonder and terror. Both times he draws from some classic elements of those fantasy tropes you might expect, before going in completely different directions with them. I love the way Williams has put his stamp on fairies/witches and how he chose to integrate their lore and powers into this shared universe he's created.
It was also interesting how Williams weaved the various themes of the story together. At first glance, it might seem like punk rockers + witches is a strange but fun combination, yet the more you read the more it makes sense why Williams has tied these two cultures together. There's a real thoughtfulness to the subject matter here, not only in regards to punk rock culture but also to marginalized groups in general. I wouldn't say this is a HUGE focus of the narrative, but it's definitely an undercurrent throughout the proceedings, and I thought it added an interesting extra layer to the characters and their predicaments.
Dyer Street Punk Witches is yet another exciting and fun thriller in the Ordshaw universe, full of magic and mayhem (and gangsters with very goofy yet menacing nicknames) that never turns down the volume. It's cranked to 11 all the way through, and that's just how I like it.
August 2, 2022
Dyer Street Punk Witches is the explosive and exciting new book by one of the UKs most talented Urban Fantasy authors, Phil Williams.
Set in his well established Ordshaw series, this standalone novel follows forty-something year old former punk prodigy and community activist Kit Fadulous. A chance encounter stopping college graduate Aaron Wise from being mugged unleashes a chain of events that threatens Ordshaw with a gang war.
Decades after a blood feud was settled with intervention from Kit and her magic conjuring punk band, old hatred’s threaten to spill over. A new evil is on the rise and a mysterious entity promises to unleash havoc on the streets of Ordshaw.
Just like the author’s other books, this one is fantastically well written with excellent pacing. In particular, I found the lead character, Kit, to be an enthralling, complex and fractured person who still inspired belief despite her constant self-sabotage.
This book was a breath of fresh air and despite reading far more SF than Fantasy, I devoured it in three days (a record for me). Highly recommended and not to be missed!
Set in his well established Ordshaw series, this standalone novel follows forty-something year old former punk prodigy and community activist Kit Fadulous. A chance encounter stopping college graduate Aaron Wise from being mugged unleashes a chain of events that threatens Ordshaw with a gang war.
Decades after a blood feud was settled with intervention from Kit and her magic conjuring punk band, old hatred’s threaten to spill over. A new evil is on the rise and a mysterious entity promises to unleash havoc on the streets of Ordshaw.
Just like the author’s other books, this one is fantastically well written with excellent pacing. In particular, I found the lead character, Kit, to be an enthralling, complex and fractured person who still inspired belief despite her constant self-sabotage.
This book was a breath of fresh air and despite reading far more SF than Fantasy, I devoured it in three days (a record for me). Highly recommended and not to be missed!
September 19, 2022
"The difference is that if they come for you, or they come for me, they will find we can fight back. Do not be afraid, my sisters. Be brilliant."
Dyer Street Punk Witches was my inevitable return to the enigmatic city of Ordshaw, drenched in mystery and dangerous esoteric ongoings, and how exciting it has been to experience it from a whole different angle deep in the depths of St Alphege’s! Phil Williams always reels me in with his gritty tales of trickery and shenanigans, so I went into this novel with high hopes. From the gate readers are bombarded with a hard-hitting punk attitude, violent gang rivalries, socioeconomic issues being brought to light, and mystifying magic to tingle the senses. What a wild ride! I swear, Williams’ writing has gotten better and better with each book of his I’ve read.
Williams presents his story, a blend of dark urban fantasy and crime thriller, all told with an almost noir voice. Pinpointing the power of written word, and the importance of communication, this homage to the fem rock movement is, at its heart, a tale of facing the pains of yesterday and learning to forgive. While fighting the good fight and exposing corruption, former rocker and all-around badass Kit Fadulous finds herself being dragged back into a world she’s tried her hardest to leave behind decades earlier. Have the sins of her past come back to haunt her, or is there something darker at play?
"But if a few more people let themselves enjoy fantasies of unicorns and fairies, then a few more people might also start imagining a world where you didn’t just accept that a self-serving society built upon centuries of imperialism, patriarchy and nepotism is the best we can do."
While volatile magic and impending gang wars lie at the core of this story, finely crafted characters and their relationships take center stage. Williams excels at breathing life into beautifully complex characters, and does so with flair in this book. Hot-headed Kit, always a front woman and always willing to sacrifice for the betterment of her community and those she holds dear to her heart, regardless of the cost. She surrounds herself with a motley crew, including an ambitious assistant editor looking to right the wrongs of Ordshaw and a nervous, lost soul seeking his place and purpose in the world. Old friends, old enemies, new possible threats, and more, Kit brashness doesn’t outwardly provide much for people to respect, but beneath that hard exterior lies someone who truly cares. It’s endearing and you can’t help falling in love with her.
As for the plot, I can’t bring myself to ruin ANYTHING for you. The best part of reading a story by Williams is witnessing everything unwind at its intended pace, with plenty of plot twists thrown into the mix to keep you on your toes. Each chapter of Dyer Street Punk Witches begins with an epigraph, alternating between pieces of Kit’s past and portions of a magical manuscript, everything tying in to what’s to come. I thought this was a brilliant way to add even more depth to an already rich story. I will, however, say…I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING, PHIL. Massive thanks for surprising me yet again!
While this story does take place in the Ordshaw universe, it can absolutely be read as a standalone. With an inventive punky twist on modern witchcraft and suspense that builds up around an unknown threat causing a rift on the streets of the city, Dyer Street Punk Witches was everything I had hoped for and more. Everything just worked, even when I felt it shouldn’t have, hitting me with one surprise after another. This read was a blast, and I would love to revisit in the future. If you’re looking for a different type of witchy read this spooky season, I highly suggest giving this beauty of a book a chance. Loved it.
––
Note: A huge thank you to the author for an early complementary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Dyer Street Punk Witches was my inevitable return to the enigmatic city of Ordshaw, drenched in mystery and dangerous esoteric ongoings, and how exciting it has been to experience it from a whole different angle deep in the depths of St Alphege’s! Phil Williams always reels me in with his gritty tales of trickery and shenanigans, so I went into this novel with high hopes. From the gate readers are bombarded with a hard-hitting punk attitude, violent gang rivalries, socioeconomic issues being brought to light, and mystifying magic to tingle the senses. What a wild ride! I swear, Williams’ writing has gotten better and better with each book of his I’ve read.
Williams presents his story, a blend of dark urban fantasy and crime thriller, all told with an almost noir voice. Pinpointing the power of written word, and the importance of communication, this homage to the fem rock movement is, at its heart, a tale of facing the pains of yesterday and learning to forgive. While fighting the good fight and exposing corruption, former rocker and all-around badass Kit Fadulous finds herself being dragged back into a world she’s tried her hardest to leave behind decades earlier. Have the sins of her past come back to haunt her, or is there something darker at play?
"But if a few more people let themselves enjoy fantasies of unicorns and fairies, then a few more people might also start imagining a world where you didn’t just accept that a self-serving society built upon centuries of imperialism, patriarchy and nepotism is the best we can do."
While volatile magic and impending gang wars lie at the core of this story, finely crafted characters and their relationships take center stage. Williams excels at breathing life into beautifully complex characters, and does so with flair in this book. Hot-headed Kit, always a front woman and always willing to sacrifice for the betterment of her community and those she holds dear to her heart, regardless of the cost. She surrounds herself with a motley crew, including an ambitious assistant editor looking to right the wrongs of Ordshaw and a nervous, lost soul seeking his place and purpose in the world. Old friends, old enemies, new possible threats, and more, Kit brashness doesn’t outwardly provide much for people to respect, but beneath that hard exterior lies someone who truly cares. It’s endearing and you can’t help falling in love with her.
As for the plot, I can’t bring myself to ruin ANYTHING for you. The best part of reading a story by Williams is witnessing everything unwind at its intended pace, with plenty of plot twists thrown into the mix to keep you on your toes. Each chapter of Dyer Street Punk Witches begins with an epigraph, alternating between pieces of Kit’s past and portions of a magical manuscript, everything tying in to what’s to come. I thought this was a brilliant way to add even more depth to an already rich story. I will, however, say…I DID NOT SEE THAT COMING, PHIL. Massive thanks for surprising me yet again!
While this story does take place in the Ordshaw universe, it can absolutely be read as a standalone. With an inventive punky twist on modern witchcraft and suspense that builds up around an unknown threat causing a rift on the streets of the city, Dyer Street Punk Witches was everything I had hoped for and more. Everything just worked, even when I felt it shouldn’t have, hitting me with one surprise after another. This read was a blast, and I would love to revisit in the future. If you’re looking for a different type of witchy read this spooky season, I highly suggest giving this beauty of a book a chance. Loved it.
––
Note: A huge thank you to the author for an early complementary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 13, 2022
Dyer Street Punk Witches is Phil Williams’ newest stand-alone entry into the many branches of his Ordshaw universe.
*
Once upon a time Kit, was a rebellious girl who wanted it all. She wanted to put her band on the map, wanted recognition, wanted to be the difference.
Now, older, wiser, and tempered with regrets, Kit, is still fighting for that change. These days, she does what she can as an Influencer; channeling her desire to be heard, and fighting The Man through her magazine- Incite.
*
Phil, brings magic to the modern world- In this case, gang-wars backed by witches, in the toughest part of Ordshaw. And it’s fast and fun, with just a hint of creepiness and is everything I have come to love about his stories.
The Dyer Street cast of characters and the locales, are on the smaller-side this time around, and I really like the more intimate feel to this story. As fun as Kept From Cages was - with its globetrotting locations- I prefer this sort of setting for giving us time to really get to know the characters. (The City Screams also had a smaller focus and was another favourite of mine)
*
Phil, has a gift for bringing alive characters that are just a teeny bit broken, and on top of that, he’s darned good at writing strong ladies. I find his characters are easy to connect to, on some level, because I can recognize an aspect of myself in them.
Kit is closer to my age. Though I was a quite a few years too young for the punk-rock age, there is still a bit of nostalgia that carries through the story for me, having grown-up near that time (and music). And also because of Kit, and her friends- who were going to conquer this place, and it fell apart- leaving us with this wistful feeling of life having moved on- along with those big dreams and opportunities.
Aaron is magic sensitive. He lives his life trying to pretend he isn’t a basket-case of anxiety, every day of it. After Kit saves him, he becomes somewhat obsessed with getting to know her, and applies to her magazine- Incite. He, kind of hero-worships Kit, he is drawn to her because she is everything, he wishes he could be.
There are other great characters in Mads, Clover, Ellie, and Drew, among a few that I will let you discover on your own.
I love the friendships- past and present. The sacrifices and secrets, and the way the story unfolds with the contradictions, that make you wonder who is being honest with whom.
*
The story plays back and forth on the timeline with the past being filled in mostly in the epigraphs- where we see the rebellious young Kit, and the choices that changed everything and everyone around her.
I have become a huge fan of the little window stories in epigraphs these days, and Phil uses them expertly, to fill in the background in tidbits. Combining them with the info in the body of the story, they help build the past events to their downfall, while setting the mood and tone- letting the here and now pace, stay moving along. It works so well for me, as someone who likes a less-is-more approach to worldbuilding and imparting past events- especially ones that so easily can become info-dumps.
I know I haven’t talked much about the plot or the big bad and there is a reason for that- everything is tied-up in the characters! This is not just a mystery and resurfacing gang wars. It’s friendships, love and loss, and growing pains. Longing for better, while sabotaging your own chances of having it, because of either being too scared, or deep down- believing it isn’t deserved.
In short, it’s about confronting a past that will never let go, until you turn and face it- forgive and move on. It’s the kind of storytelling that I eat-up with a spoon because it’s like a fun beach read with a few lessons we can take home for ourselves! What a great story!
This is my new favourite entry into the Ordshaw Universe- the characters made this one a huge win for me.
Huge thank you goes out to Phil Williams for the e-copy
*
Once upon a time Kit, was a rebellious girl who wanted it all. She wanted to put her band on the map, wanted recognition, wanted to be the difference.
Now, older, wiser, and tempered with regrets, Kit, is still fighting for that change. These days, she does what she can as an Influencer; channeling her desire to be heard, and fighting The Man through her magazine- Incite.
*
Phil, brings magic to the modern world- In this case, gang-wars backed by witches, in the toughest part of Ordshaw. And it’s fast and fun, with just a hint of creepiness and is everything I have come to love about his stories.
The Dyer Street cast of characters and the locales, are on the smaller-side this time around, and I really like the more intimate feel to this story. As fun as Kept From Cages was - with its globetrotting locations- I prefer this sort of setting for giving us time to really get to know the characters. (The City Screams also had a smaller focus and was another favourite of mine)
*
Phil, has a gift for bringing alive characters that are just a teeny bit broken, and on top of that, he’s darned good at writing strong ladies. I find his characters are easy to connect to, on some level, because I can recognize an aspect of myself in them.
Kit is closer to my age. Though I was a quite a few years too young for the punk-rock age, there is still a bit of nostalgia that carries through the story for me, having grown-up near that time (and music). And also because of Kit, and her friends- who were going to conquer this place, and it fell apart- leaving us with this wistful feeling of life having moved on- along with those big dreams and opportunities.
Aaron is magic sensitive. He lives his life trying to pretend he isn’t a basket-case of anxiety, every day of it. After Kit saves him, he becomes somewhat obsessed with getting to know her, and applies to her magazine- Incite. He, kind of hero-worships Kit, he is drawn to her because she is everything, he wishes he could be.
There are other great characters in Mads, Clover, Ellie, and Drew, among a few that I will let you discover on your own.
I love the friendships- past and present. The sacrifices and secrets, and the way the story unfolds with the contradictions, that make you wonder who is being honest with whom.
*
The story plays back and forth on the timeline with the past being filled in mostly in the epigraphs- where we see the rebellious young Kit, and the choices that changed everything and everyone around her.
I have become a huge fan of the little window stories in epigraphs these days, and Phil uses them expertly, to fill in the background in tidbits. Combining them with the info in the body of the story, they help build the past events to their downfall, while setting the mood and tone- letting the here and now pace, stay moving along. It works so well for me, as someone who likes a less-is-more approach to worldbuilding and imparting past events- especially ones that so easily can become info-dumps.
I know I haven’t talked much about the plot or the big bad and there is a reason for that- everything is tied-up in the characters! This is not just a mystery and resurfacing gang wars. It’s friendships, love and loss, and growing pains. Longing for better, while sabotaging your own chances of having it, because of either being too scared, or deep down- believing it isn’t deserved.
In short, it’s about confronting a past that will never let go, until you turn and face it- forgive and move on. It’s the kind of storytelling that I eat-up with a spoon because it’s like a fun beach read with a few lessons we can take home for ourselves! What a great story!
This is my new favourite entry into the Ordshaw Universe- the characters made this one a huge win for me.
Huge thank you goes out to Phil Williams for the e-copy
September 12, 2022
(4.5 stars)
What a fantastic return to Ordshaw! Williams brings us back to Ordshaw, Dyer Street specifically, in his latest urban fantasy. Dyer Street Punk Witches is heavy on the crime thriller with plenty of magic of the witchy sort to liven things up.
This story whipped past me. I held on for dear life, much like Aaron, clutching at Kit’s coattails as she storms through life. Kit is well-meaning and passionate but often, it seems, she stumbles into trouble in spite of the good intentions. Dyer Street Punk Witches is a thrilling read that delivers all the nostalgia of punk rock, mosh-pits, witchy goodness, all wrapped up with the politics inherent to mob-activity and boundaries.
I can’t stress enough how much I love Williams’s thorough crafting of his characters. All of them are beautifully flawed, with their own challenges and agendas. Within the first few chapters I felt like I knew Aaron and Kit, though I can’t say I’d want to spend time with them. Much like Mads, I have no time to be wrapped up in nonsense. This also means I am guaranteed to get swept up because this read had me riveted!
I am curious to see where the series goes and to learn more about the big bad darkness that wants to destroy Ordshaw. Hopefully, we aren’t kept in suspense too long! If you haven’t had a chance to read Under Ordshaw I highly recommend it!
**Trigger warnings galore, after all it is a gritty punk proud, gangland sort of setting. Violence, Death, Anxiety/Panic Attacks just to name a few.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
What a fantastic return to Ordshaw! Williams brings us back to Ordshaw, Dyer Street specifically, in his latest urban fantasy. Dyer Street Punk Witches is heavy on the crime thriller with plenty of magic of the witchy sort to liven things up.
This story whipped past me. I held on for dear life, much like Aaron, clutching at Kit’s coattails as she storms through life. Kit is well-meaning and passionate but often, it seems, she stumbles into trouble in spite of the good intentions. Dyer Street Punk Witches is a thrilling read that delivers all the nostalgia of punk rock, mosh-pits, witchy goodness, all wrapped up with the politics inherent to mob-activity and boundaries.
I can’t stress enough how much I love Williams’s thorough crafting of his characters. All of them are beautifully flawed, with their own challenges and agendas. Within the first few chapters I felt like I knew Aaron and Kit, though I can’t say I’d want to spend time with them. Much like Mads, I have no time to be wrapped up in nonsense. This also means I am guaranteed to get swept up because this read had me riveted!
I am curious to see where the series goes and to learn more about the big bad darkness that wants to destroy Ordshaw. Hopefully, we aren’t kept in suspense too long! If you haven’t had a chance to read Under Ordshaw I highly recommend it!
**Trigger warnings galore, after all it is a gritty punk proud, gangland sort of setting. Violence, Death, Anxiety/Panic Attacks just to name a few.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 12, 2024
Everything about this book screamed loudly ‘Read me’ at me! The cover, the title, the blurb, everything. So what else could I do, but to happily oblige!? Dyer Street Punk Witches belongs to Phil Williams’ Ordshaw novels but can be read as a standalone – which I did since I haven’t read any of the other books in this series – yet. But that is about to change, because I really enjoyed DSPW.
The story centers around Kit ‘Fadoulous’ Hamley, former front singer of local punk outfit The Dyre Grrrls, now activist and journalist, who rescues the second main character Aaron from a mugging early on in the story. Both characters are wonderfully flawed, Kit is a rash hothead, but very charismatic, Aaron is shy, naïve and very anxious. (I think I could get used to a whole series centering around Kit, to be honest) As we follow these two along the story, we dive deep into Kit’s past, a raw mixture of friendship, music, gang rivalry and magic.
The worldbuilding here is top notch, the characters are convincing and in Kit’s case simply great. Phil Williams is a very skilled writer who knows how to keep his readers on their toes with his story-twists.
So, if you are looking for a great supernatural thriller with attitude, Dyer Street Punk Witches is the perfect choice.
The story centers around Kit ‘Fadoulous’ Hamley, former front singer of local punk outfit The Dyre Grrrls, now activist and journalist, who rescues the second main character Aaron from a mugging early on in the story. Both characters are wonderfully flawed, Kit is a rash hothead, but very charismatic, Aaron is shy, naïve and very anxious. (I think I could get used to a whole series centering around Kit, to be honest) As we follow these two along the story, we dive deep into Kit’s past, a raw mixture of friendship, music, gang rivalry and magic.
The worldbuilding here is top notch, the characters are convincing and in Kit’s case simply great. Phil Williams is a very skilled writer who knows how to keep his readers on their toes with his story-twists.
So, if you are looking for a great supernatural thriller with attitude, Dyer Street Punk Witches is the perfect choice.
Read
July 27, 2023For SPFBO
November 5, 2023
The inimitable Phil Williams has done it again with another awesome urban fantasy.
A young bloke prone to panic attacks and an aging ex-punkrocking witch who's prone to violence try to prevent a gang war in the gritty underbelly of Ordshaw. As if that's not difficult enough, the young bloke, the witch, and the gangboss have secrets that could spell their doom.
Kit is the consummate, anti-establishment hardarse who takes crap from no one. In her tireless efforts to give back to the community and make up for the sometimes tragic mistakes of her youth, she reveals secrets that have consumed her, and uncovers more that almost destroy her. And I love her – even when I wanted to shake her and force her to calm down, ask for help, and maybe just share a little.
Kit’s actions and personality are balanced – or perhaps highlighted – with the young and anxious Aaron. He’s observant and eager, but his tendency to overthink things often stifles him. The dynamic between the two is an absolute delight to read, as wonderfully frustrating as it is to experience from the outside.
I also particularly love the interplay between the magical and the mundane characters. The subtle theme of brawn vs magic, the gritty, up-close, fisticuff violence, against old, voodoo-style magic is clever and gives the story, and the world in general, a little extra complexity to enjoy.
Williams has a way of giving all his characters an extra layer of depth and nuance that elevates them and the entire story. It's so easy to get swept away in the worlds he creates because of the realism, relatability and plausibility he weaves into every tale (within the context of being fantasy of course). And this one is no exception.
An excellent, very well-written story, with a diverse mix of unique and fascinating characters.
A young bloke prone to panic attacks and an aging ex-punkrocking witch who's prone to violence try to prevent a gang war in the gritty underbelly of Ordshaw. As if that's not difficult enough, the young bloke, the witch, and the gangboss have secrets that could spell their doom.
Kit is the consummate, anti-establishment hardarse who takes crap from no one. In her tireless efforts to give back to the community and make up for the sometimes tragic mistakes of her youth, she reveals secrets that have consumed her, and uncovers more that almost destroy her. And I love her – even when I wanted to shake her and force her to calm down, ask for help, and maybe just share a little.
Kit’s actions and personality are balanced – or perhaps highlighted – with the young and anxious Aaron. He’s observant and eager, but his tendency to overthink things often stifles him. The dynamic between the two is an absolute delight to read, as wonderfully frustrating as it is to experience from the outside.
I also particularly love the interplay between the magical and the mundane characters. The subtle theme of brawn vs magic, the gritty, up-close, fisticuff violence, against old, voodoo-style magic is clever and gives the story, and the world in general, a little extra complexity to enjoy.
Williams has a way of giving all his characters an extra layer of depth and nuance that elevates them and the entire story. It's so easy to get swept away in the worlds he creates because of the realism, relatability and plausibility he weaves into every tale (within the context of being fantasy of course). And this one is no exception.
An excellent, very well-written story, with a diverse mix of unique and fascinating characters.
September 9, 2023
Genre: The author describes his books as ‘genre-blending’. Wouldn’t argue with that. It is pretty much equal parts thriller, punk culture, urban fantasy, gang culture, recent history.
Description: this is a book split between ‘then’ and ‘now’. ‘Then’ is the Nineties. ‘Now’ is unspecified (but there are sophisticated mobile phones). In the Nineties, the protagonists were young in Ordshaw, a British city with extremely rough areas in which there was a throbbing culture of punk, gangs, violence and trafficking of illegal substances by said gangs. The head of one of the gangs also ran a music club and acted as agent for certain musicians, including teenage Punk trio, The Dyre Grrls. The Grrls taught themselves how to do magic from a manuscript they found online. Unfortunately the only magic they could do was destructive. As such it was entirely suitable for the parts of Ordshaw they were making their mark in back then. They mainly used it to ramp up the energy at their performances.
The world turned, the trio split, and its members grew up. The main protagonist (and former front woman of the Dyre Grrls), Kit Fadulous (stage and pen name) now runs a free broadsheet called ‘Incite Ordshaw’ in which she takes to task Ordshaw’s movers and shakers every time they do something she disapproves of, which is most of the time.
Then Aaron (who is living in one of the roughest parts of Ordshaw to prove to himself he’s not afraid to do so) attracts a couple of muggers, and the old Deep Dark energy starts to revive.
There are a satisfying number of misunderstandings which the reader can work through while reading, in true whodunit fashion. The clues are there.
Author: Phil Williams is a British author living on the south coast. His schtick is ‘sinister fantasy fiction’. He has another 11 books available. He also writes screenplays. He says he will be writing more about Ordshaw in the future. Williams divides his working life between writing educational books which help people understand English and writing fantasy books which assist people to escape reality. He is married and has an ‘impossibly fluffy dog’ called Herbert.
Appraisal: this is a first rate read. I don’t give 5*s lightly (as regular readers of my book reviews can attest). Cards on the table: I was a bit old for punk and I find thrash incredibly stress-inducing (I guess that’s the point). But I am very fond of urban fantasy and I love a good thriller. When I saw that the flashbacks in the book are set in the Nineties I found that particularly interesting. (I have an historical novel of my own out which is set in the Eighties.) It was a different Nineties to the one I lived, and truly does feel like another country. As it was dealing with cultures which passed me by at the time (punk, gang) I learned a lot too. (I do like to learn Stuff when I read fiction.)
And then there is the witchery. The Dyre Grrls learn their magic from a chatty manuscript which they find online. They read it on a black screen with green writing, before printing it in Courier, clandestinely, over a period of weeks, through somebody’s work printer. That took me back to some long-gone, home-made, computer projects like communally written novels; and early networking where (if you sat up late enough) you could exchange messages in real time with people in the USA, or even China. It all seemed so extraordinary then …
Williams is an excellent writer. The action does not let up. Plot developments are consistently clear and intriguing. Clever one-liners occur frequently. His violent scenes have a practical reality about them which I enjoyed a lot.
There is little more to say except – read this book. It’s a lot of fun.
FYI: there is loads of bad language and plenty of violence
I was reviewing an ARC, so assume that proofing issues will have been dealt with prior to release
This review was originally prepared for Big Al & Pals. I received a complimentary file of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Description: this is a book split between ‘then’ and ‘now’. ‘Then’ is the Nineties. ‘Now’ is unspecified (but there are sophisticated mobile phones). In the Nineties, the protagonists were young in Ordshaw, a British city with extremely rough areas in which there was a throbbing culture of punk, gangs, violence and trafficking of illegal substances by said gangs. The head of one of the gangs also ran a music club and acted as agent for certain musicians, including teenage Punk trio, The Dyre Grrls. The Grrls taught themselves how to do magic from a manuscript they found online. Unfortunately the only magic they could do was destructive. As such it was entirely suitable for the parts of Ordshaw they were making their mark in back then. They mainly used it to ramp up the energy at their performances.
The world turned, the trio split, and its members grew up. The main protagonist (and former front woman of the Dyre Grrls), Kit Fadulous (stage and pen name) now runs a free broadsheet called ‘Incite Ordshaw’ in which she takes to task Ordshaw’s movers and shakers every time they do something she disapproves of, which is most of the time.
Then Aaron (who is living in one of the roughest parts of Ordshaw to prove to himself he’s not afraid to do so) attracts a couple of muggers, and the old Deep Dark energy starts to revive.
There are a satisfying number of misunderstandings which the reader can work through while reading, in true whodunit fashion. The clues are there.
Author: Phil Williams is a British author living on the south coast. His schtick is ‘sinister fantasy fiction’. He has another 11 books available. He also writes screenplays. He says he will be writing more about Ordshaw in the future. Williams divides his working life between writing educational books which help people understand English and writing fantasy books which assist people to escape reality. He is married and has an ‘impossibly fluffy dog’ called Herbert.
Appraisal: this is a first rate read. I don’t give 5*s lightly (as regular readers of my book reviews can attest). Cards on the table: I was a bit old for punk and I find thrash incredibly stress-inducing (I guess that’s the point). But I am very fond of urban fantasy and I love a good thriller. When I saw that the flashbacks in the book are set in the Nineties I found that particularly interesting. (I have an historical novel of my own out which is set in the Eighties.) It was a different Nineties to the one I lived, and truly does feel like another country. As it was dealing with cultures which passed me by at the time (punk, gang) I learned a lot too. (I do like to learn Stuff when I read fiction.)
And then there is the witchery. The Dyre Grrls learn their magic from a chatty manuscript which they find online. They read it on a black screen with green writing, before printing it in Courier, clandestinely, over a period of weeks, through somebody’s work printer. That took me back to some long-gone, home-made, computer projects like communally written novels; and early networking where (if you sat up late enough) you could exchange messages in real time with people in the USA, or even China. It all seemed so extraordinary then …
Williams is an excellent writer. The action does not let up. Plot developments are consistently clear and intriguing. Clever one-liners occur frequently. His violent scenes have a practical reality about them which I enjoyed a lot.
There is little more to say except – read this book. It’s a lot of fun.
FYI: there is loads of bad language and plenty of violence
I was reviewing an ARC, so assume that proofing issues will have been dealt with prior to release
This review was originally prepared for Big Al & Pals. I received a complimentary file of the book in exchange for an honest review.
November 21, 2024
This was my first Ordshaw novel, but it won't be my last! Williams's writing is strong throughout and I enjoyed the grit and realism that he wove into his urban fantasy setting. There was something more textured and real to this one than is typically the case in the subgenre, and I found it incredibly refreshing.
Although I'm not very familiar with the feminist punk scene that serves as Williams's inspiration, I could nonetheless feel what, to me, seemed like an authentic depiction of those communities, their vibe and their struggles. The witchcraft aspect of Dyer Street Punks also had a pleasantly realistic 90s feel to it that pulled me back to my own childhood in a way that felt honest rather than purely nostalgic. The focus on the negative repercussions of magic (really, violence), was reminiscent of movies like The Craft, but in a more general sense mirrored what was a preeminent concern of magic communities at that time and in popular media.
Kit, our protagonist (though the book is multi-POV!) felt particularly well-fleshed out, and I got the sense while reading of her as part of a much larger world and set of circumstances. The whole thing made me very curious to check out the rest of the Ordshaw series, as I imagine having read those earlier books will make some of the revelations, gang politics, and the history's setting even more layered and affecting.
A great book for any urban fantasy fans who are looking for something off the beaten path, or for anyone interested or involved in the punk scene!
Although I'm not very familiar with the feminist punk scene that serves as Williams's inspiration, I could nonetheless feel what, to me, seemed like an authentic depiction of those communities, their vibe and their struggles. The witchcraft aspect of Dyer Street Punks also had a pleasantly realistic 90s feel to it that pulled me back to my own childhood in a way that felt honest rather than purely nostalgic. The focus on the negative repercussions of magic (really, violence), was reminiscent of movies like The Craft, but in a more general sense mirrored what was a preeminent concern of magic communities at that time and in popular media.
Kit, our protagonist (though the book is multi-POV!) felt particularly well-fleshed out, and I got the sense while reading of her as part of a much larger world and set of circumstances. The whole thing made me very curious to check out the rest of the Ordshaw series, as I imagine having read those earlier books will make some of the revelations, gang politics, and the history's setting even more layered and affecting.
A great book for any urban fantasy fans who are looking for something off the beaten path, or for anyone interested or involved in the punk scene!
September 3, 2022
“Dyer Street Punk Witches” introduces Kit “Fadulous” Hamley, a successful magazine editor and political activist. Kit also happens to be well-known in her neighborhood for being a strong and fearless teenage troublemaker turned punk rocker. She wishes for better for her neighborhood but runs into new foes while her past also comes back to haunt her.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. The main characters are distinctive and well-developed: especially Aaron, Mad and Kit. I loved the overall concept as well. Badass young women working to use magic and music to change their lives and their neighborhood? Yes, please! The story is told through a couple of perspectives- mostly Kit and Aaron’s- as well as flashbacks. The flashbacks are short and kick start the chapters, but they are very effective in developing back stories, personality traits, and reasons behind decisions for many of the main characters. Find the full blog review at heatherlbarksdale.com
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
Overall, I enjoyed this story. The main characters are distinctive and well-developed: especially Aaron, Mad and Kit. I loved the overall concept as well. Badass young women working to use magic and music to change their lives and their neighborhood? Yes, please! The story is told through a couple of perspectives- mostly Kit and Aaron’s- as well as flashbacks. The flashbacks are short and kick start the chapters, but they are very effective in developing back stories, personality traits, and reasons behind decisions for many of the main characters. Find the full blog review at heatherlbarksdale.com
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
September 12, 2022
Special thanks to the author for providing a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review. 4 badass witchy stars!
TL;DR: This was a refreshingly dark, thrilling and funny contemporary fantasy! Who knew cut-throat gangs, punk culture and anarchy, and witchcraft would not only mesh so well together in a story but be at turns so terrifying and bewitching? Williams balances character development and plot progression so well and writes an engaging story that will have you caring for these misfits and rooting for their success even while cringing at the violence of gang life and the messes they make. There were also a few plot twists that had me gasping because they were so unexpected and I loved it. I hope we get more with this motley coven cos I’d love to see what magic and mischief they get up to in the future!
Check out the full review on my blog!
TL;DR: This was a refreshingly dark, thrilling and funny contemporary fantasy! Who knew cut-throat gangs, punk culture and anarchy, and witchcraft would not only mesh so well together in a story but be at turns so terrifying and bewitching? Williams balances character development and plot progression so well and writes an engaging story that will have you caring for these misfits and rooting for their success even while cringing at the violence of gang life and the messes they make. There were also a few plot twists that had me gasping because they were so unexpected and I loved it. I hope we get more with this motley coven cos I’d love to see what magic and mischief they get up to in the future!
Check out the full review on my blog!
September 13, 2022
I enjoyed the book. This is another slice of life in the strange city of Ordshaw. It can be read without the previous books, but is much better if you understand the previous weird happenings in that city. Williams knows how to make his characters real, with all the flaws and craziness that we humans have and still make you care about them. I love the all the books.
This book follows Kit, a middle aged punk singer wantabe, and brings all her gang's mistakes back to haunt them. Magic is not something to be trifled with and keeping secrets is worse than that. Surprises pop up when you least expect them and Williams kept me guessing to the end.
I was given this book for free and wished to leave a review.
This book follows Kit, a middle aged punk singer wantabe, and brings all her gang's mistakes back to haunt them. Magic is not something to be trifled with and keeping secrets is worse than that. Surprises pop up when you least expect them and Williams kept me guessing to the end.
I was given this book for free and wished to leave a review.
November 26, 2023
Wasn't sure what to expect - beyond punk witches, of course - but this was a surprisingly nuanced look at a neighbourhood and a group of people (not all friends), over two points in time, and the repercussions of dealing with things darker than you're ready for. Bit of a hidden gem.
Read
May 24, 2024A gripping and fast-paced mix of witchcraft and gang crime. The main character, Kit, especially stood out to me, and I enjoyed finding out the twists and turns of her story, both past and present. Can't wait to explore more of Williams' Ordshaw in the future.
July 24, 2024
Love Phil Williams
Nice easy to read book, another side to Ordshaw, would love to know if they ever meet up with characters from his other books. Do you believe in magic.....
Nice easy to read book, another side to Ordshaw, would love to know if they ever meet up with characters from his other books. Do you believe in magic.....
November 2, 2022
Kit Fadulous, ex punk rocker, now magazine editor and activist in the city of Ordshaw thought she had left her dark and dangerous past behind her, but secrets always have a way of coming back around. When an old friend from her past life resurfaces, Kit gets dragged back into a life of gangs, a life where she was equally revered and feared, a life where whispers of witchcraft followed in her wake. People are going missing, strange symbols and body parts are turning up around Ordshaw and someone that Kit has a bad history with is back on the streets and looking for vengeance. Kit may be decades older than when she last delved into this life, but she still has a few tricks up her sleeve and, alongside her colleagues at the paper, she’s going to show them just how punk she can be.
Dyer Street Punk Witches is told in a similar style to Williams other works set in the magical city of Ordshaw. It’s humorous, has plenty of kick ass characters and contains a sinister underbelly that runs through the story, always keeping us the readers and the characters on their feet. Kit Fadulous is someone who does not want to live in the past. She made mistakes, big one’s, one’s that still haunt her to this day, but she is determined to do better. Now she spends her time running ‘Incite’ her paper that brings to light the inequalities of Ordshaw, putting prominent people into the spotlight, and she’s made more than a few enemies. She’s absolutely not afraid of a fight, and even though a little older, she’s still hotheaded, walks around thinking she’s untouchable which leads to her and her friends getting into even more danger.
Alongside Kit, Williams brings us his usual cast of quirky, kick ass and sometimes scary side characters from Kit’s colleagues at the newspaper, to the people from her past that start cropping up. These characters all give us an extra dimension, not only to the story, but to Kit. We see how protective she is of her colleagues, not wanting them to make the same mistakes she did, trying her best not to drag them down with her, and her harshness and brashness she reserves for the people trying to pull her back into a life she left behind. What Williams does brilliantly is create well fleshed out characters, they may not all be likeable, but they all make an impact on the story and us as the reader.
If you’ve read any of Williams previous book, you will recognise the setting for this one. Ordshaw, with all it’s gangs, guns, murder and magic. But we see a different side to it with this book than we have in the others. His Urban Fantasy world may be similar to others out there, but Williams puts his own spin on it creating at once both a sense of wonder and terror. We know there is a darkness to the magic in Ordshaw but, like our characters, we can’t help but want to dive in and learn more, no matter the consequences.
He melds together Punk rock with Witchcraft seamlessly, almost making it seem like the two are inextricably linked and I adored the flashback scenes we get at the start of each chapter. These not only give us a better understanding of Kit’s current predicament, but also a look at her, as well as her band mates’ at a time in their lives they felt untouchable. I loved how we see the group starting to work their magic, realising what they can do, and then trying to use it to better the world they live in. But as we all know, it never quite works out that way, and the magic asks a cost they never expected to pay.
Overall, I loved this book. Everything from the characters and Ordshaw itself were brought to life thanks to Williams descriptive and energetic writing style. It’s an easy story to fly through, there’s plenty of intrigue, plot twists and danger to keep us glued to the pages, and I thoroughly enjoyed returning to Ordshaw and seeing a wholly different side to it.
Dyer Street Punk Witches is told in a similar style to Williams other works set in the magical city of Ordshaw. It’s humorous, has plenty of kick ass characters and contains a sinister underbelly that runs through the story, always keeping us the readers and the characters on their feet. Kit Fadulous is someone who does not want to live in the past. She made mistakes, big one’s, one’s that still haunt her to this day, but she is determined to do better. Now she spends her time running ‘Incite’ her paper that brings to light the inequalities of Ordshaw, putting prominent people into the spotlight, and she’s made more than a few enemies. She’s absolutely not afraid of a fight, and even though a little older, she’s still hotheaded, walks around thinking she’s untouchable which leads to her and her friends getting into even more danger.
Alongside Kit, Williams brings us his usual cast of quirky, kick ass and sometimes scary side characters from Kit’s colleagues at the newspaper, to the people from her past that start cropping up. These characters all give us an extra dimension, not only to the story, but to Kit. We see how protective she is of her colleagues, not wanting them to make the same mistakes she did, trying her best not to drag them down with her, and her harshness and brashness she reserves for the people trying to pull her back into a life she left behind. What Williams does brilliantly is create well fleshed out characters, they may not all be likeable, but they all make an impact on the story and us as the reader.
If you’ve read any of Williams previous book, you will recognise the setting for this one. Ordshaw, with all it’s gangs, guns, murder and magic. But we see a different side to it with this book than we have in the others. His Urban Fantasy world may be similar to others out there, but Williams puts his own spin on it creating at once both a sense of wonder and terror. We know there is a darkness to the magic in Ordshaw but, like our characters, we can’t help but want to dive in and learn more, no matter the consequences.
He melds together Punk rock with Witchcraft seamlessly, almost making it seem like the two are inextricably linked and I adored the flashback scenes we get at the start of each chapter. These not only give us a better understanding of Kit’s current predicament, but also a look at her, as well as her band mates’ at a time in their lives they felt untouchable. I loved how we see the group starting to work their magic, realising what they can do, and then trying to use it to better the world they live in. But as we all know, it never quite works out that way, and the magic asks a cost they never expected to pay.
Overall, I loved this book. Everything from the characters and Ordshaw itself were brought to life thanks to Williams descriptive and energetic writing style. It’s an easy story to fly through, there’s plenty of intrigue, plot twists and danger to keep us glued to the pages, and I thoroughly enjoyed returning to Ordshaw and seeing a wholly different side to it.
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