3.75 ⭐

"The Bell Witches" is a ya fantasy novel, with gothic overtones, written by Lindsey Kelk. A beguiling, quick and captivating book that, among many lights and a few shadows, I enjoyed a lot.

The writing simply enchanted me! Elegant, evocative and lyrical, it captured me with its curated and vivid descriptions.

I loved the setting of the city of Savannah! I was fascinated by the many elegant historic mansions, the many squares, the distinctive trees, the quaint cemeteries, the unpredictable weather, and the abundance of history and folklore. I found everything beautifully painted, so much so that I could easily imagine the various places. Moreover, the magical, dreamy, almost suspended in time atmosphere that hovers between the pages won me over! The magic system, the presence of supernatural creatures, mix perfectly with the history, legends and folklore of the city, intertwining to create a fascinating picture.

Emily, protagonist with her only first person pov, left me a little lukewarm. Overall, I liked her, but she didn't win me over. I appreciated the way she tries to cope with the loss of her father, the way she tries to adapt to the new reality and new discoveries. However, her constant underestimating herself (even when she is constantly told otherwise) made me roll my eyes repeatedly. In addition, she didn't particularly strike me in terms of expressiveness, and I don't know, other than what I mentioned above, she seemed a bit shallow. Some of the secondary characters, such as the grandmother and aunt, seemed more effective to me by comparison. The dialogues did not particularly impress me (some even left me puzzled) and I admit that I found the romance too insta love and rushed in certain dynamics. I perceived no development in the relationship, no chemistry between the characters and this left me rather indifferent, if not bored. Also, Wyn did not convey anything to me and this made the situation worse.

All in all, "The Bell Witches" is an enjoyable ya fantasy that did not completely win me over!

Thank you to the Publisher and NetGalley for giving me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

The Bell Witches by Lindsey Kelk
Rating: 4/5

After Emily’s father tragically passes away, she is compelled to relocate to Savannah, Georgia, to reside with her remaining family — an aunt and grandmother — in a house as enchanting as it is enigmatic.

Yet, the Bell family harbours a mysterious, magical secret.

In Savannah, Emily crosses paths with Wyn, whose captivating presence immediately resonates with her. As their connection deepens, Emily’s life undergoes a thrilling and unsettling transformation. However, every stride toward Wyn pulls her farther from her family.

In this journey, Emily discovers that familial bonds are steadfast, even in the face of magical allure and uncertainty.

If I were to encapsulate this book in a single word, it would undoubtedly be: Magical.

In "The Bell Witches," Lindsey Kelk has masterfully crafted an enchanting world that seamlessly intertwines multiple captivating genres — romance, magic, and mystery.

From the very first page, "The Bell Witches" draws you in with its compelling narrative that compels you to turn page after page, eagerly devouring both the intricate plot and the richly developed characters. Kelk’s skilful storytelling effortlessly transports readers into a realm where magic feels both natural and enthralling, making it a joy to immerse oneself in.

The protagonist’s journey struck a deep chord within me as a reader. Her path is one of grappling with the complexities of everyday life — navigating issues of love and grief while striving to cultivate inner strength and empowerment. This emotional depth adds a layer of authenticity to her character, making her journey all the more relatable and compelling.

The supporting characters, particularly Wynn, contribute significantly to the story’s richness. Their presence adds depth and complexity, enhancing the overall narrative and providing meaningful insights into the protagonist’s experiences and growth.

Overall, I wholeheartedly recommend "The Bell Witches" to anyone seeking a seamless blend of romance, magic, and fantasy. It’s a book that offers an engaging and enjoyable escape into a world where the extraordinary meets the everyday, leaving readers enchanted and eager for more.

Thank you so much to NetGalley, HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction | Magpie, and the author, Lindsey Kelk, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.

Title: The Bell Witches by Lindsey Kelk

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stars

Release date: September 26th 2024

Step into the enchanting world of The Bell Witches by Lindsey Kelk, where magic, mystery, and romance intertwine to create a spellbinding tale set in the heart of Savannah, Georgia. I absolutely loved this!

Emily is thrust into a new life after the tragic loss of her father, finding herself under the care of her aunt and grandmother in a house that whispers of secrets and holds a magical allure. The Bell family, with their captivating charm and hidden powers, soon reveal that they are more than meets the eye. As Emily navigates this new world tinged with mystery, she discovers that her own destiny is entwined with the magical legacy of her family.

Enter Wyn, whose magnetic presence draws Emily in like a moth to a flame. Their connection sparks a journey that is both exhilarating and perilous, as Emily learns the truth about her family’s magical abilities and the sacrifices that come with them. As she delves deeper into the world of the Bell witches, Emily faces choices that challenge her loyalty to her family and her growing feelings for Wyn.

Kelk weaves a captivating narrative that keeps you turning the pages, eager to uncover the secrets hidden within the walls of the Bell family home. The atmosphere of Savannah comes alive, rich with Southern charm and a touch of mystique that adds depth to the story.

The magical elements are seamlessly integrated, creating a world where spells and enchantments coexist with the everyday struggles of love and loss.

The Bell Witches is not just a tale of magic; it’s a story of family bonds, love, and the discovery of one’s true self. Emily’s journey from grief to empowerment is beautifully portrayed, and her evolution as a character resonates with authenticity and depth.

The supporting characters, especially the enigmatic Wyn and the intriguing Bell family members, add layers of intrigue and warmth to the story.

The Bell Witches is a delightful blend of fantasy and romance, perfect for readers who enjoy tales of magic, mystery, and the enduring power of familial ties.

Dive into this bewitching world and let yourself be enchanted by Emily’s journey—it’s a ride you won’t want to miss!

Thank you to The Publisher HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction | Magpie ,The Author Lindsey Kelk & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.