Member Reviews
Firstly thanks to NetGalley and the publishers and author for the advanced copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.
A really nice cosy fantasy about a witch who has to perform tasks to keep her magic when she reaches a certain age. I really enjoyed this book it was easy to read I got through it quickly . Some little twists to keep it interesting and I would highly recommend to anyone who enjoys witchy fantasies.
Had to dnf early because of how much I hated the main character. I'm sorry, but if I was given witch powers I would have done all the witchy stuff I could do instead of being so chronically embarrassed of not being normal I only used it to make tea from across the room or to reserve a table at a nice restaurant. I have no sympathy for Belle possibly losing her magic, since by my estimation the coven would be right to take it away. As the coven say, there's only so much magic to go around, so why should Belle get to keep hers when for 15 years she never even read the witch handbook she was specifically told to read to start her witch journey.
But that's not even the worst, most unforgivable part. This woman who has worked hard to become the store manager of a lovely independent bookshop in London, when given the opportunity to buy the shop from the old owner who fully trusts her to run the place, she turns it down since in her mind it's just not the right time, and she doesn't believe in herself. I need to add that at no point does the book suggest that she doesn't have the money, this woman who basically already runs the shop, thinks she won't be able to run the shop. So with no one else to step in, the owner's business bro son takes control and is actively ruining the shop. He gets rid of the coffee stand, laughs at the idea of book festivals and forces them to get rid of the Halloween window display in October to put in business books? These are all such horrifically bad business decisions that I can't believe he's ever run a business. A bookshop with a café is like printing free money. It draws in so many customers and the profit margin on coffee is so much higher than books that even the most corporate robot person would keep the damn coffee. But I can't feel an ounce of sympathy for Belle dealing with this idiot when she can easily get rid of him, save the bookshop and her colleagues jobs. The way I would jump at being handed a fully established and popular bookshop on a silver platter, and yet Belle can't get a grip and would rather live in misery than take a single risk.
I understand this is a deliberate character weakness, and I'm sure she'll stop being such a wet lettuce by the end, but I can't put myself through more of this book. I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Understanding your family history and heritage as a witch is one thing but using magic in normal life? Well Belle has neglected this part of the her and now on her 30th birthday she held accountable by the coven.
Can she pass the tests or will she lose her magic powers forever?
A wonderful story about family, loyalty, love and looking back to move forward.
This is a story about Bella who has turned thirty and needs to pass a test set by her coven so as to not lose her magic skills for good.
It’s a fun read with believable characters. The beginning grabbed me and drew me right into the world created by the author. I felt it dipped a little in the middle and was a bit slow though picked up again in the last third of the book.
Overall I enjoyed it and would read more of this authors work. It’s a great debut and I would recommend to those who enjoy supernatural romance.
Thank you to Pan Macmillan for an early copy of this book. This review is my own honest opinion
This is such a hug in a book. I loved Rewitched so much I almost read it in one sitting. The FMC is so relatable and lovely to read about, although some of her decision making is questionable. Her cat is absolutely adorable 🥰 and she literally has a dream job in a bookshop so this makes up for silly desicions.
It is cozy fantasy but there is definitely mild peril that keeps the pace and excitement up. I loved the whole plot and reveals.
The found family is one of my favourite tropes and done so well here.
I highly recommend this for the cozy witchy fantasy lovers out there who want a nice easy read that’s exciting too.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC. This is a voluntary review of my own thoughts.
Lucy….what an absolute magical story. From start to finish this book transported us to a world of pure magical possibilities and wonderment. Belle was you…in my head she was anyway! I honestly had no idea what this story was going to be going in, I just knew it was magical, it was autumnal and it was going to be a 5 star. And it was. Your writing style is so beautiful and flowed wonderfully, I binged this practically in one day it was that enthralling to read. You’ve created such wonderful characters and such a unique story, I’ve not read something like this before and it was a pleasant surprise the twists and turns it took. I’m so glad you wrote your story and I’m so thankful you shared it with the world. I am so excited to see more from you and hopefully we get to return to Belle and Rune in the future. If you love magical stories, witches set in modern times overcoming hardships and general life whilst also battling the leaders of a coven and unveiling secrets buried for centuries and taking back their badassery then pick this up!!! It’s out just in time for spooky season and you won’t regret it
“Takes you to a happy place”
I loved this book from start to finish. I was hooked on the first page and only tore myself away from the magic of the story when real life intervened.
Belle has known she is part of a magical world from the age of fifteen, but as time has passed she's tried put the magic behind her, only dipping her finger into it to make life a little easier for herself and for the bookshop where she works. As her thirtieth birthday approaches she lacks confidence in herself and the way forward. But things begin to change with the entrance of the handsome warlock, Rune. Belle can no longer avoid the magic world and the threat of losing her magic forever pushes her forward in a way she could not anticipate.
Reading this book takes me back to the joy of reading as a child. I was taken to a world that is both recognisable but different and a story which was full of surprises. A great read.
Rewitched by Lucy Jane Wood is a cute, cosy, magical book that was the perfect read for me in between some heavier content books. It has such a feelgood cosy vibe. Rewitched follows Belle as she discovers she needs to prove to a coven of witches that she has been appropriately using her magic and is deserving of her powers. The story navigates Belle falling back in love with magic, making new friendships and rediscovering her confidence and priorities in life.
This is a very cute and easy read. It was a really enjoyable way to pass a couple of evenings and I highly recommend to anyone who is looking for a magical romance/coming of age like story.
Rewitched by Lucy Jane Wood is a delightful spell of a novel, perfect for those who crave a cosy, magical escape.
This book is as comforting as a cinnamon coffee on a brisk autumn day. Wood has crafted a modern-day tale that blends the nostalgic charm of Twitches and Halloweentown with the heartfelt warmth of The Good Witch. The relationships in the story, from Belle's bond with her supportive circle to her interactions with a surprisingly endearing coven outcast, are beautifully wholesome and uplifting. The narrative's gentle exploration of self-love and found family adds a rich layer of depth to the whimsical setting.
Though some plot points may be predictable, Rewitched still enchants with its cosy atmosphere and relatable protagonist. The romantic subplot, while not entirely surprising, adds a sweet touch to the narrative. Although the relationship is cast as an incompatible match which doesn't make much sense, it just seems like maybe it's underdeveloped or it tried to lean into a trope that didn't fully fit. Overall, this book is a charming and uplifting read, perfect for fans of contemporary fantasy who are looking to recapture the magic of autumn and the joy of discovering one's inner strength.
✨️Magic and autumnal vibes
✨️Self discovery
✨️Romance
I absolutely loved Rewitched, The story follows Bella, who is tasked on her 30th birthday to rediscover her neglected magic. Bella is funny and endearing, and her character develops well. There are some great supporting characters, a non witch best friend, a developing romance, a quirky old warlock, and of course Bella's cat, Jinx.
The plot was enjoyable with twists and subplots (the book shop) it kept me interested whilst also being cosy and easy to read. It's perfect for autumn, and I look forward to reading more from this author.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for allowing me to read this story in exchange for an honest review.
If you’re looking for a vibe, look no further! I’ve been saving this book to read on holiday and I’m so glad I saved it to savour it. I knew it would be a book I would enjoy immediately, even from the cover, it easily drew me in.
I’m reading this in the height of summer, heat wave and all, so soaking into an autumnal themed book was just the balm I needed. It’s my favourite season and I got all my favourite vibes from this book.
I rapidly grew to love our main character, Belle, and found the story so easy to read, storming through 100 pages at a time was effortless. Witches, magic, bookshop and romance element? It was like it was written for me! Rune as protector was also a great addition and I would so sign myself up for the next book if there was more in the offering to continue on with this epic story.
I so enjoyed this and really made an effort to slow it down so I could enjoy it for longer. Although alas, I could not put it down and I’m definitely going to reread this again on October!
3.5 ⭐️
Cozy witch read, perfect for fall.
I wanted some cozy witchy fantasy to relax from all the complex reads I’ve been doing and when I saw Rewitched, I jumped at it (almost literally). The idea of a 30 year old witty witch who works on a bookshop rediscovering her magic seemed exactly what I was looking for. I’m a huge fan of the found family trope, so of course I’m here for it. Cozy vibes, a cat familiar, a nice supportive best friend and an overall awkward but witty adult finding her place in the world. It sounds perfect, and in a way it was, but…
Ok, I don’t think I can review this without spoilers or making it a list so here it goes, my unhinged (but orderly) thoughts!
What I liked:
* I loved the idea of a 29/30 year old protagonist who still struggles to find her place in the world and doubts herself every step of the way
* The cat familiar, need I say more?
* The chaotic but loving mom
* The way loss of a loved one (grandma) is portrayed
* Belle’s awkward sass and humour faced with uncomfortable situations, I related so much to that
* The representation of terrible bosses, honestly, I’ve been there and I got deja vu
* Artorius. Artorius is the real cozy main character here. I loved him and I want to be his best friend
* Best friends supporting each other through everything
* How Belle came through in the end, I was rooting for her the entire way
What I really didn’t like:
* The entire bookshop situation was bad, specially with her boss, and I can understand being terrified of failing, but as someone who has fought tooth and nail for everything she got and every opportunity, seeing all the characters saying how Belle should take over the shop, seeing the OWNER offer her a deal to buy the shop and Belle’s passiveness and staying in the situation because “oh it might go wrong” pissed me off. Everyone, from the owner to the employees, where on her side. Like, what was even the problem?
* Around 60 and something percent of the book Belle gets into a fight with her boss (who is destroying the bookshop - you know, the one that was offered to her multiple times?) and instead of standing her ground or, I don’t know, deciding to take the offer and actually getting the shop herself, she runs to the bathroom and cries… until Rune finds her. And of course he goes all macho man “Who did this to you?” And punches the guy. So romantic, I’m swooning. I wouldn’t be more impressed if Belle actually stood up for herself and Rune didn’t behave like a Neanderthal saving a damsel in distress.
Now, don’t get me wrong. The things I didn’t like did not make this book bad, per say, it’s just that, in my experience, opportunities don’t just wait for you to be ready for them… Sometimes you need to get out of your comfort zone. And that’s ok. Still a very entertaining read because I needed to know who on hearth was messing with Belle’s magic. I was invested in the mystery from the beginning (even if the romance did not convince me much). And I’ll admit, it was cozy, perfect for fall!
Thank you so much to Macmillan and NetGallery for providing me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Such a charming, well done story. I was outside of my comfort zone with this one, but I was well and truly enamoured by the characters. This is bound to be a hit.
Thank you firstly to the author and Net Galley for the ARC!
Rewitched follows the enchanting story of Belladonna Blackthorn on re-finding her magic and also herself.
I absolutely loved this book and am so glad I got the special edition coming. Rewitched is releasing on 17th September which is perfect for cosy season.
This book had me hooked from the first page. The characters and the setting were so clearly imagined that I felt like I was in Lunar Books with them all. The journey and character development which Belle goes through is comforting and empowering, it shows that through it all the most important thing is to love yourself for who you are.
There is a subplot of romance, it slowly simmers in the background and the tension between Belle and Rune is palpable.
We have great friendships formed and also the found family trope which I adore. The book is really well paced and the chapters varied in length which I liked and made it an easy read.
So, in conclusion if you’re looking for an uplifting, cosy, autumn, witchy read then look to further. It’s a 10/10 from me!
Thank you to Pan Macmillan, NetGalley and author Lucy Jane Wood for this eARC.
Witchy? Check
Cozy? Check
Heartwarming? Check
Mystery? Check
Lovable characters? Check
Rewitched has everything I want for my cozy, autumnal afternoon read. Granted I read it in the middle of summer, but it was a rainy day so it still counts.
Belle was such a relatable character and I loved her journey of self discovery and building of confidence. The side characters were all absolutely lovable and quirky.
The story was great and unique and while I don’t want to give away too much I have to mention that I also found it super refreshing and great how her friendship with Ariadne plays such a big part in the finale!
Usually friends/friendships have to take a backseat to the love interest/romance and I love that Rewitched did the complete opposite and highlight the importance and depth of true friendship.
4.25 stars
Bella Blackthorn loves her job at Lunar Books and can’t contemplate working anywhere else. And if she uses a little magic to help her tidy up or make a drink occasionally, as long as no one notices, that’s fine.
Unfortunately, the bookshop owner is retiring, and Bella has 2 options. Take up the offer to buy the shop at a bargain price or let the owner’s obnoxious, patronising son Christopher take over and make her life a misery.
That is not Bella’s only worry. As she turns thirty, her coven wants to assess how she uses her magical talents. And if she deserves to keep them.
Belle is given 1 month to prove she is worthy of her powers, but it appears someone wants to sabotage Belle’s efforts. With the help of a disgraced warlock a very protective Watchman can Belle prove she has the talent to be a good witch.
This is a wonderful story of family, friendship and love that will enchant you from start to finish.
A magical and cosy fantasy read. Since the announcement of this book, I was looking forward reading it. I suggest putting this on your autumnal to be read pile. What is it about? Bella Blackthorn is barely thriving. She works at Lunar Books, but her toxic boss makes it far from enjoyable. She is also containing and hiding her witchcraft, However, on her 30th birthday, she receives an invitation to demonstrate her magical abilities. So far, she has barely used them. How will she able to pass this test? I have read it throughout a whole day and it felt like a warm hug. It is well worth the shot!
This was such a bit of me that I could have been persuaded that Lucy Jane Wood wrote it specifically for me. Anything magic related set in the autumn months (and especially October) is always going to be a winner. I've seen reviews saying that Wood's personality comes through the story - if that is truly her style and sense of humour, we would definitely be firm friends. This is so beautifully written and I was completely absorbed in it, eager to turn back to it after work and spending these warm summer evenings dreaming of autumn and the wonderful Lunar Books. I can't wait to read this again in the autumn.
Feel good, cosy novels are not my usual go to but add in a little bit of witchery and I was intruiged. It's classed as a slow burn romance but I found the whole first half was quite slow, for a thirty year old I found Bella's decision making and actions slightly childish. The premise was good, a witch Bella, having to take a final test to decide if she's going to be admitted into the coven.
I loved the Bookshop though. I wish the author well with the novel. A steady debut
Review posted on goodreads, storygraph and bookmory. Will be posted on Amazon on publication day
It took a little while for me to get into this book but I'm glad I did eventually. Witchcraft, betrayal, trials, a cute little love story - what's not to like?
Belle's rant at Christopher was spectacular (Bridget Jones levels of excellence - IYKYK) and a particular highlight - if you've ever had a bad boss you'll adore it. Personally, I could have done with a little more development for the relationship with Rune, but I'm a sucker for romance.
I'd recommend this book - I was totally sucked in by the end, but maybe the first third was a little slow.