From Our Shelf of Read and Unread Books by Authors, Not Just Another Book on Our Shelf, Reviews, Traveling Sisters Reads, witches words reads, Word Witches

The Fury by Alex Michaelides

Posted on by Brenda~Book Witch

Alex Michaelides is a masterful wordsmith, skillfully wielding a pen dipped in mystery and intrigue. His writing, much like a well-crafted spell, intricately weaves plots that ensnare the reader’s mind while dancing around the realms of sanity, reality and mystery. Possessing a knack for spinning spellbinding narratives and conjuring characters that linger in the shadows, he makes each chapter feel like a potion of suspense, drawing readers into his bewitching tales.

The Fury

The Fury is a mesmerizing tale that masterfully interweaves mystery and psychology, skillfully blurring the boundaries between sanity and reality. Taking place on a secluded Greek island with a cast of seven, the narrative unravels in five acts, each chapter unfolding like a compelling scene in a dramatic production, with the characters taking on their roles with theatrical flair. The fury, a wild Greek wind, serves as a symbol of the intense emotions swirling through the story.

Amid a murder mystery on the island, Michaelides brings a fresh perspective to the locked room mystery trope. Our storyteller, Elliot Chase, adopts a conversational tone with a touch of messiness, delving into the web of jealousy, ambition, obsession, and infidelity surrounding the characters.

But

Elliot unfolds the characters’ backgrounds through flashbacks, easing tension and slowing the pace to a snail’s crawl. This approach, while momentarily agonizing, sets the stage for the upcoming juicy drama, which might have felt exaggerated if not for the backdrop of characters immersed in the entertainment industry.

However

Michaelides possesses a remarkable talent for catching readers off guard, skillfully orchestrating unexpected actions by his characters. These surprising twists, woven throughout the narrative, culminate in a satisfying payoff by the story’s conclusion.

The Silent Patient

In 2019, “The Silent Patient” garnered significant attention and sparked widespread discussions. The publisher’s extensive promotional efforts played a pivotal role in propelling the book to soaring reviews and securing its place on numerous TBR (to be read) shelves. It was a popular one and a large Traveling Sister Group read, that captured our praise and inspiring lively discussions among us.

If you haven’t already delved into its pages, it’s a compelling read that should not be overlooked. For an unbiased experience, it’s advisable to avoid preconceived notions and refrain from perusing reviews on platforms like Goodreads. Embrace the unknown and immerse yourself in the author’s narrative without being influenced by external opinions.

The Maidens

While not as extensive as the promotional campaign for “The Silent Patient,” Alex Michaelides’s second novel, “The Maiden,” also generated significant hype. However, the book became the subject of scrutiny from reviewers who did not embrace the hype.

My review

I didn’t find The Maidens as exciting as The Silent Patient. Alex Michaelides left those twisty, shocking twists and turns I love to The Silent Patient and created a more emotional charge twist for our characters here. The Maidens is a stand-alone however, it has a clever tie-in to The Silent Patient. If you haven’t read it, you are in for a treat to read them back to back.

The Maidens is set at Cambridge University, where a secret society of female students called the “Maidens” are murdered. Group therapist Mariana returns to the campus to support her niece, and the story centers around Mariana’s obsession with proving professor Edward Fosca is the killer.

I was drawn in by the first few chapters of “The Maidens” that focus on Mariana’s grief and her work as a group therapist. I found the psychological side of the group dynamics and Greek mythology the most interesting part of the story. A lot of time was spent on Mariana trying to convince everyone who the killer is and them dismissing her. This slow down the story for me and I would like more time spent delving into the group dynamics. The suspense is light and the danger was not as tense as I usually like but Alex Michaelides manages to create a compelling and engaging story that had me turning the pages as fast as I could. There are plenty of red herrings to guess from and keep you distracted and maybe a bit too many as Alex Michaelides delves more into the psyche side of the characters with that a final twist that I almost missed. I enjoyed how we see into the emotional side to the characters with that final twist rather than a shocking plot twist. I look forward to seeing what is next because I have a feeling it will tie into the ending here.

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Not Just Another Book on Our Shelf, Reviews

Witch Books Delivered the Best Chills

Posted on by Brenda~Book Witch

‘Tis the season for winter chills, and it’s been too chilly to do anything but stay warm and read. I certainly prefer to experience those winter chills in the books I read. So which books delivered the best chills

A Haunting in the Arctic by C.J. Cooke

In my books, C.J. Cooke has firmly established herself as the Queen of creating gothic atmospheric settings. Whether it’s the unsettling house and woods of The Ghost Woods, the secluded fjord in The Nesting, or the desolation of the Scottish island in The Lighthouse Witches, she ventures into even more chilling waters in her latest work—a haunted ghost ship.

Just when I thought I had seen it all from entitled men who inflict pain upon women for their own desires, Cooke creates a dark, unique, emotional, bone-chilling, vivid narrative as she delves into themes of trauma and revenge. While not overtly descriptive, her writing resonates quietly yet vividly, painting a clear picture of pain and trauma through atmospheric prose. Adding another layer to the story, Cooke introduces Norse folktales, adding an exciting, unique, haunting dose of chills.

The cleverly paced reveal is surprising, with jaw-dropping moments that go beyond twists. The satisfying payoff brings everything together, leaving me with awe and an unforgettable reading experience.

Hemlock Island by Kelley Armstrong 

Kelley Armstrong’s stand-alone dives into the horror genre with Hemlock Island as she creates a thrilling and unique paranormal experience. It’s a page-turning, spine-chilling, bizarre adventure on an isolated island where odd and sinister things happen. The island becomes something more than a character; this is not your typical horror novel. Armstrong plays with familiar tropes—the isolated setting, the stranded characters, the looming storm—but she spins them into something new, avoiding the standard locked-room scenario.

The characters of Hemlock Island don’t fit the typical horror mold, and these characters are not necessarily the ones you find yourself rooting for. However, the story’s surprising and gripping villain motivations anchor the book’s suspense.

Armstrong weaves in various themes and elements like a wilderness adventure, supernatural occurrences, environmental activism, teenage turmoil, feminism, and LGBTQ representation with a nod to #MeToo feminism. It feels overly ambitious, and she misses the mark with some things.

Despite its shortcomings, I thought Hemlock Island was thrilling and kept me turning the pages. It offered an intense experience that didn’t demand much introspection while providing twists and a meaningful villainous drive.

Dead of Winter by Darcy Coates

The “And Then There Were None” trope, a popular classic in the realm of mysteries, has been used many times, and breathing new life into this well-trodden path can be challenging. However, Darcy Coates manages to break the mold by infusing this familiar setup with a relentless, action-packed narrative that races from the very beginning, injecting a spine-chilling dose of horror into the mix.
From start to finish, the story was a white-knuckle thrill ride, keeping me on the edge of my seat. Coates does not hold back when it comes to delivering grisly and horrifying murders that send shivers down my spine.

One of the highlights of this narrative is the choice of a locked-room setting in a remote, snowstorm-battered location. Coates expertly utilizes this backdrop to enhance the story’s eerie atmosphere, further intensifying the horror element.

As the body count rose, my suspicions shifted from one character to another, keeping me guessing until the shocking reveal, and I found myself suspecting everyone until each character met their untimely demise. However, I did manage to deduce the identity of the killer before the final “And Then There Were None” moment. The revelation of the murderer and their motive was a delightful surprise, and I liked the intricate web of connections among the characters, lending an air of credibility to the story that paid off in the end.

Whether you choose to delve into this one in the dead of winter, as a spine-tingling Halloween read, or even on a scorching summer day, one thing is certain: it will chill you to the bone and keep you enthralled until the very last page.

“I radiate, magic charm and grace wherever I fu*king go!”

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Another Book On Our Shelf We Recommend, Not Just Another Book on Our Shelf, Reviews

The Heiress By Rachel Hawkins

Posted on by Brenda~Book Witch

When Ruby McTavish Callahan Woodward Miller Kenmore dies, her inheritance falls into the reluctant hands of her adoptive son, Cam. He wants nothing to do with the wealth and the familial entanglements that come with it. There have been plenty of rumors of Ruby’s mysterious childhood and the untimely demise of her numerous husbands, which adds an intriguing layer to the narrative.

Ten years later, a summons draws Cam and his wife back to Ashby House following his Uncle’s passing, where Cam is reunited with his estranged family.

The story’s allure lies in the secrets that shroud Ruby’s past, such as why Cam wants nothing to do with the wealth and family. Hawkins weaves a web of mystery that kept me on my toes as I attempted to unravel the secrets.

While some familiar tropes appear, Hawkins injects them with a refreshing vitality, peppering the narrative with unexpected twists and turns. The anticipation builds as I grapple with the unanswered questions; the final revelation is a gratifying payoff.

Hawkings’ storytelling ensures that even the keenest readers are kept guessing, and those who pay attention might piece together the puzzle before the grand reveal.

I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.

“We are all imposters. Own it.”

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Reviews, witches words reads

Witch Lit~2023 Book Trend

Posted on by Brenda~Book Witch

In 2023, a mesmerizing “Witch-lit” trend bewitched the book world far and wide, captivating me and my fellow witches in our group. Within the cauldron of women’s fiction, darker narratives brewed, resonating with the echoes of misogyny throughout history. Women’s voices rang loud and clear, challenging societal norms and reclaiming their narratives. The label “witch” was embraced and transformed into a symbol of resilience, defiance, and unwavering determination. Reminding us of women’s strength, casting a spell of empowerment.

So witch books captivated and resonated with me in 2023

Weyward by Emilia Hart

I can’t talk about Witch Lit without discussing Weyward by Emilia Hart. It is one of the most talked about Witch-Lit in 2023.

Emilia Hart draws inspiration from the harrowing tapestry of the Pendle Witch Trials, an ominous chapter in Lancaster, England, dating back to 1612.

Emilia Hart skillfully weaves a tale that transcends time by using history as a reflective tool, holding a mirror up to the present to explore the persistence of misogyny in today’s society. Through her exploration, she illuminates the enduring magic in reclaiming the title of “witch” from the past’s shadows, showcasing women’s resilience and the power within the feminine spirit.

The beautiful storytelling and mystical bond between characters and nature not only captivated me but also illuminated the power of embracing our true selves, revealing the magic within each of us and reminding me that there is a little witch in all of us.

The Burnings by Naomi Kelsey ~ A Witches Words buddy read.

The Burnings delves into the historical events of early 1590s Scotland, skillfully weaving in factual details about King James VI of Scotland and I of England. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the monarch’s fears of witchcraft, elements that played a pivotal role in the North Berwick witch trials during his reign. Naomi Kelsey sheds light on the darker threads of history, exposing how accusations of witchcraft were often wielded out of fear and as tools to control women. The novel vividly dramatizes the trials, showcasing the execution of numerous individuals accused of practicing witchcraft and conspiring against the king. The story unfolds with the trials and executions, capturing the public events and diving into the characters’ personal lives. We see how accusations of witchcraft were used as a tool to control women’s lives, impacting their relationships and individual freedom.

It’s not as easy to read, and my emotions were flying high as Naomi Kelsey paints a chilling and horrifying picture of the terror the women must have felt while waiting for their fate. However, I couldn’t look away as Naomi Kelsey’s meticulous research brings authenticity to this chilling narrative, bridging the gap between historical facts and the emotional turmoil of those accused.

The Familiars by Stacey Halls ~ A Witches Words buddy read

Stacey Halls draws inspiration from the Pendle Witch Trials 1612, basing her characters on real-life individuals. She skillfully explores women’s roles and the consequences of defiance, turning the novel into more than just a historical tale but a powerful reflection on societal expectations and power dynamics of the time. Themes of marriage, the pressures of motherhood, and the societal roles imposed on women during that period resonate with contemporary issues, echoing the challenges women face today through the character of seventeen-year-old Fleetwood. The narrative also sheds light on the disproportionate targeting of women during the witch hunts, as seen through Alice’s ordeal as she is accused of witchcraft.

At the story’s core lies the relationship and trust between Fleetwood and Alice, delving into the themes of trust, hope, and faith in the power of female bonds.

Stacey Halls introduces an enchanting blend of drama and magic realism, pushing the boundaries of believability while vividly bringing to life the tension and superstitions of the era. As Fleetwood unravels the secrets entwining her fate with that of her midwife, Alice Gray, the plot unfolds with captivating twists and turns, keeping me on the edge of my seat.

Stacey Halls not only revisits a pivotal historical event but also offers a timeless commentary on the resilience and complexity of women’s lives.

Uncategorized

Witch Jan Releases to Read Next

Posted on by Brenda~Book Witch

I have never been one to eagerly dive into new releases before publication dates. Even though I am off to a slow start, I am embracing the art of setting intentions, starting with choosing which book to read next from my NetGalley and EW shelf. The contenders are lined up on my list, and the moment has arrived to pick the one that will kickstart this literary adventure.

The Heiress by Rachel Hawkins Publishing Jan 9

I added this one to my NG shelf quite some time ago. It was a buddy read in the Witches Words group, but I kept getting sidetracked with other reads and haven’t gotten to it yet. I know it was well-liked in the group read, so I think this might be the next book I read.

What is going on between the covers

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

When Ruby McTavish Callahan Woodward Miller Kenmore dies, she’s not only North Carolina’s richest woman, she’s also its most notorious. The victim of a famous kidnapping as a child and a widow four times over, Ruby ruled the tiny town of Tavistock from Ashby House, her family’s estate high in the Blue Ridge mountains. In the aftermath of her death, that estate—along with a nine-figure fortune and the complicated legacy of being a McTavish—pass to her adopted son, Camden.

But to everyone’s surprise, Cam wants little to do with the house or the money—and even less to do with the surviving McTavishes. Instead, he rejects his inheritance, settling into a normal life as an English teacher in Colorado and marrying Jules, a woman just as eager to escape her own messy past.

Ten years later, Camden is a McTavish in name only, but a summons in the wake of his uncle’s death brings him and Jules back into the family fold at Ashby House. Its views are just as stunning as ever, its rooms just as elegant, but coming home reminds Cam why he was so quick to leave in the first place.

Jules, however, has other ideas, and the more she learns about Cam’s estranged family—and the twisted secrets they keep—the more determined she is for her husband to claim everything Ruby once intended for him to have.

But Ruby’s plans were always more complicated than they appeared. As Ashby House tightens its grip on Jules and Camden, questions about the infamous heiress come to light. Was there any truth to the persistent rumors following her disappearance as a girl? What really happened to those four husbands, who all died under mysterious circumstances? And why did she adopt Cam in the first place? Soon, Jules and Cam realize that an inheritance can entail far more than what’s written in a will––and that the bonds of family stretch far beyond the grave.

The Fury by Alex Michaelides Publishing Jan 16

Given my enjoyment of Alex Michaelides’ previous work, I added this one based on that. This is an upcoming Witches Words buddy read.

Genre: Mystery/Thriller

What is going on between the covers

This is a tale of murder. Or maybe that’s not quite true. At its heart, it’s a love story, isn’t it?

Lana Farrar is a reclusive ex–movie star and one of the most famous women in the world. Every year, she invites her closest friends to escape the English weather and spend Easter on her idyllic private Greek island.

I tell you this because you may think you know this story. You probably read about it at the time ― it caused a real stir in the tabloids, if you remember. It had all the necessary ingredients for a press a celebrity; a private island cut off by the wind…and a murder.

We found ourselves trapped there overnight. Our old friendships concealed hatred and a desire for revenge. What followed was a game of cat and mouse ― a battle of wits, full of twists and turns, building to an unforgettable climax. The night ended in violence and death, as one of us was found murdered.

But who am I?

My name is Elliot Chase, and I’m going to tell you a story unlike any you’ve ever heard.

The Woman on the Ledge by Ruth Mancini Publishing Jan 16

I caved after seeing many favorable reviews for this one and downloaded it.

What is going on between the covers

A woman falls to her death from a London bank’s twenty-fifth-floor roof terrace. You’re arrested for her murder. You tell the police that you had only met the victim the previous night at your office party. She was threatening to jump from the roof, but you had talked her down. You’ve got nothing to do with this tragedy. You’re clearly being framed.

So why do the police keep picking holes in your story? Even your lawyer doesn’t seem to believe you. It soon becomes obvious that you’re keeping secrets.

But who are you trying to protect? And why?

Obsession. Intrigue. Revenge.

The Guests by Margot Hunt Publishing Jan 9

What is going on between the covers

When a Category 5 hurricane is poised to hit their coastal Florida town, the Davies family takes refuge in their waterfront manse. Marlowe, Lee, and their teenage twins invite their close friends to wait out the storm in comfort and style.

Uninvited are the three strangers who dock on the family’s shore right before the storm descends. Brothers Jason and Bo—and Bo’s girlfriend, Darcy—are a charming, helpful trio in need of a safe haven that the Davies are only too happy to provide.

But as the storm outside grows more threatening, so does the tension in the house.

Soon, the lines between family, friends, and strangers blur. Danger mounts with every pointed finger and broken confidence, and long-held secrets are revealed one after another until only one truth not everyone is going to make it out alive.

The Cure for Drowning by Loghan Paylor Publishing Jan 30

I snagged a copy of “The Cure for Drowning” after grabbing a widget from the publisher via NetGalley. The synopsis instantly hooked me with its promise of a Canadian historical novel that fearlessly places queer and non-binary characters at the forefront in ways that haven’t been explored before. I am looking forward to diving into this unique narrative.

What is going on between the covers

Genre: LGBTQIAP+ | Sci Fi & Fantasy

Evocative, magical and luminously written, The Cure for Drowning is not only a brilliant, boundary-pushing love story but a Canadian historical novel that boldly centres queer and non-binary characters in unprecedented ways.

Born Kathleen to an immigrant Irish farming family in southern Ontario, Kit McNair has been a troublesome changeling since, at ten, they fell through the river ice and drowned—only to be nursed back to life by their mother’s Celtic magic. A daredevil in boy’s clothes, Kit chafes at every aspect of a farmgirl’s life, driving that same mother to distraction with worry about where Kit will ever fit in. When Rebekah Kromer, an elegant German-Canadian doctor’s daughter, moves to town with her parents in April 1939, Rebekah has no doubt as to who 19-year-old Kit is. Soon she and Kit, and Kit’s older brother, Landon, are drawn tight in a love triangle that will tear them and their families apart, and send each of them off on a separate path to war. 

Landon signs up for the Navy. Kit, now known as Christopher, joins the Royal Air Force, becoming a bomber navigator relied on for his luck and courage. Rebekah serves with naval intelligence in Halifax, until one more collision with Landon changes the course of her life and draws her back to the McNair farm—a place where she’d once known love. Fallen on even harder times, the McNairs welcome all the help she is able to give, and she believes she has found peace at last. Until, with the war over, Kit and Landon return home.

Told in the vivid, unforgettable voices of Kit and Rebekah, The Cure for Drowning is a powerfully engrossing novel that imagines a history that is truer than true.

Witch book should I read next? Have you read any or want to? Let me know in the comments!

“Your pet thinks you are a queen. They are right!!”

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Best of first year of blogging 2017

Notable Books From Our First Year of Blogging 2017

Posted on by Brenda~Book Witch

In 2017, my first year of blogging was truly magical. It began my blogging journey, and we established our Goodreads Reading Group, The Traveling Sisters. It was a year filled with memorable reading experiences. I decided to take a nostalgic stroll down memory lane by immersing myself in the books I had devoured and re-exploring our shared sister reads. Join me as I revisit the most notable books and reading experiences that captivated me during this remarkable year.

I devoured 176 books in 2017. Out of them, I was fortunate to encounter 56 exceptional books that captivated me. Although there were a few books that didn’t quite meet my expectations, it’s the standout ones that remain etched in my memory.

As I reflect on my literary journey, I’ve looked back at some of my early blog posts, and it’s evident how far my blogging adventures have come. Feeling the winds of change, I decided to bid farewell to outdated posts and instead recap the books that truly stood out to me.

Navigating the abundance of exceptional sister reads from 2017 made this no easy feat. I’ve saved the 10 outstanding books by “Word Witches” authors for a later post—stay tuned! With careful consideration and a sprinkle of nostalgia, I proudly present my handpicked selection of the crème de la crème.

“Witch Books” were my five notable books of 2017

Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste NG

This was one of our biggest sister group reads that had some buzz on Goodreads. It was a Goodreads Choice Reward Winners for the best fiction of 2017 and one of the most talked about books on GRs.

I was bewitched by Celeste Ng’s captivating story when I first delved into its pages in 2017. Ng wielded her pen like an ethereal wand, conjuring up emotionally complex and multi-layered family drama. She woven themes of parenthood, class, race, and familial bonds. With every pen stroke, she stirs potent emotions and breathes life into her characters. She cast a spell of fascination and opened up questions for my Traveling Sisters to discuss and think about.

As time passes, I question if I still feel the same enchantment. Once impactful, the portrayal of class themes fills me with uncertainty, and I now wonder if the theme was as balanced as I thought.  Nevertheless, in my literary experiences, Little Fires Everywhere remains a gem, leaving me with a lasting impression.

The Animators by Kayla Rae Whitaker

Goodreads Choice Reward Nominee for Best Debut Goodreads Author (2017) Traveling Sister Read

There wasn’t much buzz surrounding this one, and I was surprised to see it was nominated for the Goodreads Choice award. However, I felt it was deserving.

Kayla Rae Whitaker weaves a spellbinding tale, stirring emotions and thoughts in an enchanting and haunting way. The story unfolds in New York City, where the friendship between two small-town misfits, Sharon and Mel, takes center stage. As animators, they embark on a journey that transcends the mundane, delving into the depths of their pasts through the bewitching art of animation.

Kayla Rae Whitaker crafts a narrative that is as profoundly touching as it is enchanting. Narrated by Sharon, she reveals the intricate threads of her personal life and the mystical bond she shares with Mel. Together, they form a dynamic duo, with Sharon, who is quietly ambitious, and Mel, the brash life of the party, creating a narrative that alternates between heartwarming and heart-wrenching scenes. The dynamics between Mel and Sharon are akin to a magical dance, their friendship revealing layers of emotion and strength.

The Animators is not your ordinary tale; it’s a journey that takes unexpected turns. My emotions felt like they were riding a broomstick, soaring through moments of humor, sadness, and deep reflection. This bewitching story leaves an indelible mark, and the characters, like mystical familiars, still haunt me.

This book is more than a story about friendship and animation; it’s a journey through the complexities of human emotion, leaving a lasting impression long after the final page is turned.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid

Traveling Sister Read

I cannot summon 2017 without talking about this enchanting book. If you have not yet gazed upon its magical glory, you must dwell beneath a veil of oblivion, untouched by the bewitching whispers that have spread across the realm. This spellbinding book has become a subject of countless conversations, all thanks to Ticktok, the mystical harbinger of trends. There is not much that I can utter about this book that has not already been woven into the very fabric of our collective consciousness.

The Ballroom by Anna Hope

Traveling Sister read

This profound book captivated me from the beginning, immersing me in a world where the shadows of obsession and injustice loomed large over women’s lives. Its pages delicately whispered their secrets, unveiling the hidden stories of women silenced by society’s ironclad grip. As I turned each page, I was entwined in a narrative filled with captivating characters and the unseen forces that shaped their destinies. In the group read, we gathered like sorcerers, discussing how we felt about each character.

Years have passed since I first embarked on this literary journey, yet the spirits of these women still linger in my thoughts, their stories haunting me.

The narrative weaves through the perspectives of three main characters—Charles, Ella, and John. Each character unfolds with enchanting precision. Their tales intertwine seamlessly, offering intriguing perspectives. Charles’s complexities and inner struggles with self-doubt, denial, and obsessions. Anna Hope orchestrates Charles’ transformation, infusing an ironic twist that adds brilliance to the narrative. Clem, a character without a POV, became the story’s heart. As the characters grow, emotions of anger, compassion, and heartbreak swell within our enchanted hearts.

This haunting journey led us to contemplate the darkness that people, believing in their pursuit of good, can unwittingly unleash. As Anna Hope dances through the growth, destruction, and reflection on the dark consequences of well-intentioned actions, she offers us a window into the future by delving into history and offering lessons wrapped in enchantment.

All the Best People by Sonja Yoerg

Traveling sister group read

All The Best People by Sonja Yoerg is a bewitching, beautifully woven story that delves into the mystical realms of family, hope, and acceptance across three generations in the face of mental illness. With an easy flow, Sonja Yoerg introduces us to a world where the relationships between mothers and daughters unfold like ancient spells. She crafts characters that are not merely ink on paper but living, breathing entities with realistic conflicts and complexities. The story draws us into their emotions, allowing us to feel their fears, pain, and heartache. Sonja Yoerg opened our hearts with compassionate strokes, inviting us into the dark corners of mental illness, where understanding, insight, and compassion bloom like potent herbs in a witch’s garden.

The tale unfolds through four different perspectives across two timelines, one from the past of 1926 to the present day of 1972. Carol, the matriarch, unveils signs of her illness, and we are entranced by the whispers of her thoughts and the echoes of her fears. Solange, her younger self, reveals a backstory leading to her commitment to an asylum, shedding light on stigma and treatments. Eleven-year-old Alison, caught in the web of her mother’s illness, tuged at our hearts with her strength and perseverance. And let’s not forget Walt, a character who captures hearts with his sweet and genuine nature, who earned a few book crushes along the way.

As we read, a spell is cast, connecting us to the characters and weaving personal experiences into our discussions. The story becomes a mirror reflecting bits of ourselves, evoking both emotion and heartfelt connection. Love, hope, compassion, and understanding permeate the pages, revealing who genuinely are “All The Best People.”

Witch Dust

“Don’t hold back your tears. Let them flow like a faucet.”

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