The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches

I received an audio ARC from the publishers through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. It has not affected my opinions.

Omg! This book is so british and funny. And lovy dovy. It was like watching a British comedy romance. And I loved it.

I did not expect much of the book, but allready 2 min in and I'm laughing and smiling. So I had a hard time to stop listening to the audio book.

The book is about magic, love and finding your self. And it dosnt hurt its whitty.

If you love British romance comedy then you will love this too.

In general I felt very intertained, and invested in the story on how it all will go. And there for my rating

Loved this audiobook!

Really didn't want it to finish! Quirky, funny with a little bit of romance and drama!

So I already read this book but I wanted to try the audiobook and I'm so glad I did! The choice of narrator was fantastic! She did different voices and accents for the characters as required and each one was beautiful (not everyone can do good accents but she most defiantly can!) I already knew the book itself was fantastic, it's one that I will always be re-reading! And I defiantly want to hear more from these characters, I fell in love with Mika the first time I read it, and hearing her voice made me love her more!

What a lovely book.

Think The House in the Cerulean Sea but set in the UK and with witches.

I enjoyed everything about this book - from the wonderful characters with great development, to the gentle but moving plot and the themes of the true meaning of family, love and acceptance (and of course witchcraft. I’m always a sucker for that).

Sometimes you’re in the mood for something fast paced and thrilling, but sometimes you need a warm hug in the shape of a book, and this is that hug I needed.

Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for providing me with an audioARC of this title for review. The narrator was perfect, the accents she used for each character made it easy to follow who was speaking and her voice overall complimented the writing beautifully.

Really enjoyed this book! I listened to it on audiobook and it was really well done. The narrator did a grand job capturing all the accents. We follow Mika , a witch who has kept her identity a secret due to the rules of witch society. Despite this, she is called upon to help 3 young witches train and learn to control their powers. This book is a touch of The house on the cerulean sea mixed with some romance . Definitely not a young adult book though. Fair bit of swearing and one slightly spicy scene! Anyway, it was thoroughly enjoyable!

A beautifully lovely and heartwarming story that will capture your soul and let you drift through this journey like leaves on the wind. This story and the writing style is close to that of the ‘cerulean sea’ and ‘under the Whispering door’ and yet has its own unique sense to it. So if you are a fan of those two books then I would highly recommend reading this one especially if you are looking for something that will warm your soul with a pinch of steamy scenes added. I have to say that the steamy scenes did get me a bit as I was not expecting them with how flowing and gentle the writing style and story was going. This does not mean that I didn’t enjoy them, though they were quite simplified in what happened and less descriptive than other steamy scenes I have read in the past, they had that edge of heat to them.

I am writing this review straight off finishing the book a couple of minutes ago and the only way to describe the feeling I get is: tranquil. The book itself and the journey that they takes you all the way through to the ending does have that sense of emotion to it but having read the last page it feels as if my heart has settled to the same calming beat as those scenes. Calming and completely beautiful to read. This however is not just about a society, it is about and unhappiness that sits in this main character’s heart and how she works through it discovering that being a witch is not the burden that she sees it as, and the journey in which she takes to become a little bit more happy with her life and herself as a witch and as a person. It’s an emotional journey that as I said above leaves you feeling calm.

Do you not worry as well as this is not a spoiler, trust me when I say that when you read this book you will want to read from start to finish the journey in which she goes through and all the characters you fall in love with throughout, and even though you can see where the ending is going you still want to know how they get there and travel the path with them to the destination.

I also received an audiobook version of the Advanced readers copy and I have to say that the reader did an exquisite job of letting the book flow through her words, giving the characters their true vibes and bring in the book to life in the way that it was meant to be.

A massive thank you to Hodder and Kate for sending me a beautiful advance readers copy of this tranquil book that has left me feeling so calm and yet so excited for everyone to read themselves in August.

An utterly captivating book, I knew from the first page that I would absolutely love it. Filled with magic, friendship and love it has a wondrously joyful feeling which carries you along to the perfect ending. I would give it ten stars if I could, I so hope this is going to be the first in a series.

This book has my heart, I didnt think there would be another book that gave me the calm feeling that the house on the cerulean sea did for quiet a while, oh how wrong i was.
I was enthralled by this book and the world that has been created. I cannot wait for everyone to devour the lives of these these characters alongside three marvellous children and the fates that await them.
Thank you for netgalley and hodder for the review copy of this book

I had the pleasure of reading this recently
And the audio book was just beautiful and made me fall in love with Mika even more

I loved everything about this book, the characters were all wonderful and the story captured me from the first page. Funny warm witchy fun in every chapter, a slow burn romance that was really sweet I just want to start reading it again it was so good.
The narrator did an amazing job the voices were all distinct and the various accents were very well done would definitely listen to more books read by this narrator.
I will be looking for more from this author and cannot recommend this book highly enough would give it more stars if I could.

This book grabbed me from the opening paragraph. It’s funny, its heartwarming and the subtlety of some of the scenes had me both laughing and crying. A book to be savoured and recommended

Oh my gosh! I think I just found one of my top 5 2022 books!

This book had me absolutely hooked, so much so that I listened to it within 24hours!

I loved Mika and Jamie's love story and I even developed a soft spot for Terracotta and her tiny Murderous ways!

I loved the narrator, she was absolutely amazing and the accents were spot on!

I can't wait to purchase a physical copy of this book!

Thank You to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton Audio for providing me with an Audio Arc, however all opinions are my own.


This read was such a treat! The writing was so easy to listen to.


The characterisation was absolutely fenominal. Mika, Ian, and Altamira for me were definitely my favourites, but all characters were written in a way that made me connect them.

The romance was absolutely adorable, Mika & Jamie had so much chemistry, (and kudos to the narrator for getting Jamie’s accent so right. It added so much to the story).

To speak on the plot, just very well structured, and that twist came out of nowhere and was just such a shock.

I’d also give kudos to Samara MacLaren’s narration. I could tell who was speaking, and the kids voices actually sounded like them (and was able to differentiate between Rosetta, Altamira & Terracota)

All in all, one of my favourites of the year! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Stars

“She had once believed witches would never have friendship, community and each other, but here they were. She had once believed she would never have a family, but here they were too. She, who had once believed she would never leave a mark on anybody, knew now that the marks she had left were unerasable, as much a part of forever as the sea. And really, who could ask for more than that.”

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches felt like returning home. Maybe helped by the fact it was set partly in Norwich and kept referencing UEA (my uni and home for three years!), it was just easy to read. I didn’t stress about it, and I was happy whenever I picked it up.
The characters in this were a joy. Mika has spent her whole life alone, never quite fitting in, unable to settle down for long in one place. It’s unsurprising she finds solace with three sisters that don’t fit in either. The little, slightly strange, found family was incredible and they all were full of so much love, even if you did have to coax it out of some of them. I loved seeing the family learning to fit Mika in - thanks to a meddlesome old man and her loveable golden retriever, even a grumpy librarian couldn’t avoid her sunny charm.
The family were also fiercely loyal and protective. I really enjoyed the drama and antics at the end - definitely something thought up by children and not stopped by adults that are happy to let them explore!
Although I love huge, complex magic systems, I also love everyday magic. I liked that Mika was good at making potions, so that evolved into making teas to suit your mood, and that was what she wanted to do. Magic was a perfect way for Mika to bond with the children, so I really enjoyed that she was able to teach them through it. It showed the adults that she could be trusted - and we got to see baby witches with magic that went wrong.
I cannot wait to own my own copy of this and keep rereading it. It’s going to be a comfort book for sure.

I loved this book.
It's beautiful and funny and full of love. Genuinely uplifting and hopeful but not unrealistically so. The romance evolved well, as did all of the relationships in the book, even though it is clear from the start how this will pan out.
All of the characters are lovable and unique, leading to some excellent humour. Mika is a great FMC who insists on talking through problems and addresses her trauma in a sensible and mature way. I also loved the small parts we saw from Jamie's point of view, and how it still left us in the dark about his secrets. The narrator was absolutely brilliant and made everything clear.
Although I saw most of the twists coming, they were still enjoyable and fun, adding more layers to the story. I appreciated that nothing was overly easy for the characters, but that they were determined to get a happy ending anyway.

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This story was phenomenal and I am still thinking about it a week after I finished it. I literally could not put this down - I was so pleased to get the audiobook as well as the book as I could switch between them when necessary. This story was beautiful, and I usually hate it when people say this book is like this book. However, this book has all the feels of T J Klune's House on the Cerulean Sea. Obviously, it is not too similar, and that is what makes them both so special.

Mika is such a strong and amazing woman and of course an awesome witch. Her childhood was not the best, but also not the worst. But as an adult, she can never reveal herself fully to anyone. She cannot tell anyone she is a witch, she cannot hang out with other witches and she moves a lot to try and not get too attached. Until someone asks her for help and says please.

No Where house felt like coming home to Mika and somewhere I would love to be as well. Mika starts to realise every rule she has abided by maybe not be all they seem.

Everyone needs to read this book, it has all the cosy vibes and I love seeing such amazing women and girls learn to lean on one another and make their worlds better.

Witches are a solitary bunch, coming together only infrequently to share spells, in case too much magical power in one place causes a disaster. This has led to a rather lonely existence for witch Mika Moon, until that is she is invited to act as a tutor to three young witches in an unusual home full of interesting individuals. This is a likeable, cosy and feelgood magical romance - it's funny, engaging and warm. I enjoyed it very much. It is, however, extremely sweary.

With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this audiobook in return for an honest review.

This was a warm, cosy, feel good book, humorous and engaging from beginning to end. The perfect book to while away a little time. This book starts as if for all ages if readers but there are a few parts of sexiness that wouldn’t be suitable for children. Mika Moon is the sort of witch you would want to meet. She looks for the best in people, has a broom - her yellow car, and occasionally swears. She has grown up on her own, no friends, no long term adult interactions, because she has been told witches should stay hidden and witches should never spend lots of time with other witches. Into her life falls three child witches and the adults that look after them. In becoming involved with these people Mika may find the friendship and happiness that so desperately wants and needs. Thank you to Hodder and Stoughton Audio and NetGalley for the audio ARC. The views expressed are mine, freely given.

Samara MacLaren is the perfect narrator for this book because she's sooo good and it felt like she added to the magic of the story. Her voice was enchanting and somehow soothing. She's successfully bring the characters in this book to life and makes the character interactions even more fun. Loved this audiobook as much as I loved the story.

*4.5 Stars*

Mika Moon has been alone most of her life, moving from place to place without putting down roots. As a witch, she can't interact with other witches except on very specific reunions.
But when an opportunity to live witch and teach three young witches to use her powers, she cannot pass it up, no matter the consequences.

I really loved this. The main character was layered and so very interesting. It was very cosy and cute and I loved those kids.
The plot was engaging and the pacing was perfect. I had a very good time from beginning to end. It really just flew by. I really fell for the characters and the ambiance and just everything.
I also enjoyed the magic system and how everything worked.
I liked all the layers of the characters within Nowhere House and how they all grew and how we discovered everything little by little.
I also loved the narrator and how she really made me fell it all.
I just thought this was very well constructed and written and it made me want to read more cosy witch stories and also want to dig into Sangu Mandanna's other books.

I fell totally and irrevocably in love with this book. It was a surefire five star read for me, and gave me The House in the Cerulean Sea vibes, which was a massive positive. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna, was the first book I have read written by the author but I am now going to be looking up her entire back catologue of works! My heart is full to the brim and to be honest, I can't wait to re read it.

It follows Mika Moon, the protagonist. An adult witch, who knows how important it is to hide her magic from society. However, she does have an online platform where she "pretends" to be a witch. This is how she is found by the inhabitants of Nowhere House, and asked to become a teacher to three young witches. Mika, instantly falls in love with Nowhere House, finally feeling like she can belong somewhere, however, earning the girls trust is not an easy ride and Mika has a long journey ahead of her. Will she be able to do what the gaurdians of Nowhere House need her to? Read to find out.

Narration:

I'm so greatful to Hodderscape to giving me access to the audio arc: it meant I could blaze through it in two days while doing chores (I did not want to put it down!). MacLaren's narration is excellent, each character's voice distinct and engaging, particularly the childrens' voices. Altamira's voice is so much fun, and Terracotta's comedic (and murderous) lines are delivered so well.

Story:

Mika Moon is a witch, one of very few in the UK, and it's meant to be a secret. All the "magic" on her witchy Instagram account is fake. So, when Mika gets a job offer as a magic tutor for three young witches after one of their guardians sees her videos, she thinks it must be a joke.

Instead, she finds:
- a magically warded home in rural Norfolk.
- Ian, an eccentric elderly actor in a rainbow scarf.
- Ken, the calm gardener and Ian's husband.
- Lucy, the welcoming housekeeper.
- Jamie, the grumpy librarian
- Three young witches: Terracotta, Altamira & Rosetta. Each named after archaeological discoveries and each various stages of welcoming.

This is a story about found family, niceness vs kindness, and learning to accept love of all forms when you previously thought yourself unworthy. The world felt lived-in, and the world-building was subtle, accessible to contemporary romance lovers unfamiliar with SFF, but just enough for fantasy fiends like me.

In many ways, 'The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches' is a British, witchy version of 'The House in the Cerulean Sea' by TJ Klune. And I don’t say that lightly: 'The House in the Cerulean Sea' is my favourite novel of the past few years - perhaps even of all time. Mandanna matches the comedic tone, the endearing characters (especially the children), and the focus on found family. If you enjoyed 'The House in the Cerulean Sea,' or simply enjoy a cosy fantasy narrative, you'll most likely enjoy 'The Very Secret Society of Irregular witches' immensely.

This was the cosy, witchy fantasy romance I never knew I needed & I’m pretty sure this is a new comfort book!

Mika Moon is an isolated witch who uses social media to covertly share her magic. After being approached online she travels to Nowhere House to teach three young witches how to control their powers.

There’s such a great cast of people in this book, Mika is a ray of sunshine, but still very down to earth & relatable & our main man Jamie is the grumpus you want him to be! Ian, Ken & Lucie along with the girls are all great side characters, well rounded & none of them detract from the story or feel like added extras.

Although not a huge amount happens in this book, I was completely sucked into the world & finished the book in one day! The grumpy x sunshine pairing was lovely & I liked the found family dynamics too.

I read half via e-book & half with audio. The narrator did a great job with the different voices & I found her voice to be perfect for the book, lovely & calming which fit the tone of the book very well.

The atmosphere Sangu created is exactly what I needed & my only regret is that I read it on a 35 degree day & not a cold, rainy afternoon so that I could really appreciate the full cosy vibes. I literally have nothing bad to say about this book, I read it a week ago & I already want to re-read it!

Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton/Hodder & Stoughton Audio & Netgalley for the opportunity to review this ARC.

This was truly magical, such a beautiful read about finding yourself and where you belong. The found family theme was perfect and I felt like this was a cuddle in a book. I loved all of the characters and the story itself was simple but wonderful. I adored it, was exactly what I needed to read.

THIS BOOK IS A WARM HUG AND EVERYONE SHOULD READ IT IMMEDIATELY.

Apart from the glorious tropes that The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches combines— from forced proximity to enemies to lover to grumpy/sunshine to kissing in the rain—this book just radiates joy. I truly cannot think of another book I have read in ages that had made my soul glow like this. There is a golden retriever. There is a found family that makes me want to move to country in order to join it. There’s magical tea and long descriptions of gardens and the most delightful, just slightly spicy (okay, on occasion very spicy) romance.

Mika, the protagonist, is a delight to accompany through this book. She is funny and clever and always in a determinedly good mood.

I’m also enamoured with the genre of cosy fantasy. If you are looking for a dark, sordid, painful book— this is not what you are looking for. With few exceptions, The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches believes the best of its characters and shows them trying to do the right thing, even if they don’t always manage it.

I truly cannot recommend this book enough. I will be shoving it in the faces of everyone I know.

Thank you thank you thank you to NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton for giving me an early copy in exchange for an honest review.

This book is the loveliest story about witches, found family and love I have ever read.
It was better than the House in the Cerulean Sea but has the same vibes. The message of the book was just heartwarming!
I very much enjoyed the quirky mix of characters. I listed to the audio ARC version and I feel that just made them come to life even more!
Very enjoyable, thank you for the ARC.

Added on goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60018635-the-very-secret-society-of-irregular-witches

A huge thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with this eArc!

This was such a change of pace for me and I loved it! A romance with a compelling plot surrounding witches and a society that doesn't know of their existence. If you liked "The House In The Cerulean Sea" then you'll definitely like this! Very diverse and well written characters- all of the main characters felt truly like themselves and their personality traits were consistent. A surprising plot twist also that I didn't expect at all!

This book has now become one of my all time favourites.

The characters, the writing and the story as a whole were just perfect and the narrator was brilliant. I never once felt like the characters blurred together. Each had their own unique voice.

I knew from a few chapters in that I was going to love this book. With the amazing writing and loveable characters, it's hard not to fall in love with this story.

Honestly, if you're a fan of The House in the Cerulean Sea then this is one you need to pick up!

The Very Secret Society Of Irregular Witches is the second stand-alone novel by British author, Sangu Mandanna. The audio version is narrated by Samara MacLaren. At the latest meeting of the group that Mika Moon likes to call The Very Secret Society of Witches, the rules of remaining apart (Alone is how we survive) and the reasoning behind them (Too much magic left unchecked in one place would draw attention, which could be dangerous) are reiterated, and Mika is again criticised by the oldest, most powerful and persuasive witch, Primrose Everly, for her witchy social media videos. Mika is undeterred: no one could ever believe from her videos that she’s really a witch!

The email she receives, not much later, has her thinking twice about that: “WITCH WANTED. Live in tutor wanted for three young witches. Must have nerves of steel. Previous teaching experience not necessary. Witchiness essential.” Surely a hoax? But she’s recently jobless and her flat lease nearly up, and a single word in the email exchange has her driving from Brighton to Norfolk to check it out.

Mika meets her prospective employers: a housekeeper, a librarian, a gardener, and a retired actor, if not Lillian Nowhere, the absent archaeologist, witch, owner of Nowhere House and the legal guardian of three young witches. Most are very welcoming.

The job, genuine, it turns out, is to tutor three young witches in magic, to help them gain control over their powers. Mika is amazed that this little enclave of witches has gone unnoticed by the imperious and inflexible Primrose but Nowhere House does have some powerful wards protecting it from detection. And this quirky foursome clearly loves and cares deeply about their charges.

Mika is not at all sure she can do this job: she has no experience with teaching children. There’s also the urgency: Edward Foxhaven, Lillian’s solicitor is due to arrive in weeks on a legal errand, and this meticulous man, who detests Lillian’s employees, is likely to seize on any excuse to have them evicted; an outbreak of uncontrolled magic would easily fit the bill. And then there’s Jamie Kelly, the devastatingly handsome but scowly, cold and unreachable librarian who definitely doesn’t want her there.

But Mika recalls the crippling loneliness of her own childhood, raised by a parade of nannies in a house in York and learning to control her own magic by trial and error: she can’t condemn these young girls to that. After just a few weeks at Nowhere House, Mika realises she is feeling so needed, so comfortable, that she is in danger of forgetting her lifelong promise to herself: don’t get attached. Could she take a risk?

What a charming story Mandanna gives the reader! The plot is clever, the characters are appealing and she subtly and seamlessly inserts the properties and rules governing the fantasy elements into the narrative. All the requirements of an entertaining and enjoyable fantasy novel: quirky characters, magic, romance and a dog, are comprehensively met. The added bonus is plenty of laugh-out-loud moments and a few to bring a lump to the throat.

Sensitive readers should be aware that there is a bit of sex and some characters do use expletives, but Mandanna also gives them wise words and insightful observations: “Niceness is all about what we do when other people are looking. Kindness, on the other hand, runs deep. Kindness is what happens when no one’s looking” and “when someone leaves, all you can do is leave a window open for them so that one day, if they choose, they can come back.” More of this cast would be most welcome! Highly recommended.
This unbiased review is from an audio copy provided by NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton Audio.

I absolutely adored this book and it exceeded all my expectations. The characters were so, so loveable, and together they formed the most amazing family. Their intentions and the reasons for their behaviour were clear the whole way through. I loved the dialogue between everyone - it was hilarious and felt very natural. I rooted for Jamie and Mika’s relationship the whole way through and loved their communication and love for each other. The representation in this book was also amazing - very diverse and well informed.

Overall, this was the perfect cozy fantasy romance book I needed. Whilst fluffy, this was not a simple book by any means and I am still thinking about passages from the book weeks after reading it.

I listened to the audiobook version and the narrator was captivating and clear. The character voices were distinct and accurate and I had immense pleasure listening to this book.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this audiobook. Mika Moon is a witch and an orphan - as all witches are. She's led a lonely life, unable to fit in with 'normal' humans and forbidden from spending too much time with other witches she is forced to move from place to place with no real roots. Until she is called to look after three young witches who need help mastering and controlling their powers.

Mika quickly bonds with not only the three young witches, but also the other inhabitants of the house, including the quiet and brooding Jamie who seems to resent her being there, but gradually opens up and warms to Mika's presence. The budding romance between Mika and Jamie is a slow burn but well worth the wait,

The character building is delightful and believable, and this is a feel-good paranormal tale that will keep you hooked until the very last chapter.

Sometimes family is a lonely witch, a grumpy librarian, two gay grandads, a motherly spinster, and three chaotic (and murderous) children.

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches is a story of family, belonging, faith, moving on - and magic. This book was an incredible vibe from start to finish, featuring some of my absolute favourite tropes and some twists I fully did not see coming. The romance is tender and realistic, the characters are well-rounded, lovely, and have an incredibly lively dynamic between each other. The magic system was original and had some really cool elements while still begin a soft but logical system.

Mandanna perfectly walks the balance between cosy fantasy story, and somewhat deeper exploration of trauma and how to recover/move on from a lifetime of experience. I wanted to curl up under a blanket beside a fire with a large mug of tea - that’s exactly what reading this book felt like.

The voice actress of the audiobook has incredible range and an engaging narrative voice, with a good balance of emotion and acting to exposition.

Overall, a fun and quick read for those who want a cosy fantasy as we head into the autumn!

5/5

Ugh, I can’t even begin to tell you how much I loved this one - witches without all the scary stuff, romance, and a big heartwarming makeshift family?! Sold sold and sold.

I think the blurb covers most of it, but it really can’t do justice to how much of a joy this book is! Every character is a total gem who you’re bound to fall for, but Mika is especially wonderful - funny, spirited, and just desperate for the family she’s never had. Jamie is like her polar opposite - grumpy, pessimistic, unsociable but with a total heart of gold underneath. Obviously watching the romance blossom between them is lovely, and I’m always a fan of enemies to lovers/opposites attract so this was a no brainer. Plus I listened to a lot on audio and Jamie has quite the sexy accent so that helps 🤷‍♀️

But most importantly it’s a gorgeous story of loneliness and finding your people - it shows what a difference having a little community around can make to a person, and demonstrates the age old adage of the importance of working together as the three young witches realise how much stronger their magic is together.

Whilst it’s definitely a super cute, upbeat story, it’s also surprisingly wise - there were so many lightbulb moments whilst reading this (nice vs kind, DUH), and I think it really encourages kindness and putting others first. An absolute gem of a novel which will leave you with a big smile on your face.

In a world where all the witches lead solitary lives, Mika Moon longs for company. She never understood the rules that required her to hide her magic and stay away from other witches. Mika scandalised her community by creating a witchy social media profile, where she could at least share her love for magic with strangers. Convinced that all her followers consider her a cheat, she was shocked when a genuine plea for help appeared in her mailbox. Somewhere in Norfolk, three young witches raised by loving but helpless guardians desperately need lessons in controlling their developing powers...⁠
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I loved this book. From the first words, I enjoyed the witty writing style and the cosy atmosphere. Do not expect epic battles or spectacular spells from this position. It is a relatively slow but emotional and heart-warming read. In the world created by Mandanna, witches exist in solitude, as by some mysterious spell or curse, they are all orphaned at a young age. Raised by nurses and teachers, Mika learned early not to get attached to places and people. Entering Nowhere House, she meets a set of quirky inhabitants that gradually earn her trust and love.⁠
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The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches is a great fantasy read, but I would recommend it even to those who avoid magical stories. It is pretty down-to-earth, to be honest. It focuses on the characters, their pasts and longings. The central theme is the importance of friendship, family and the sense of belonging. I found it to be a surprising mixture of heart-warming and heart-breaking. I believe that in our increasingly crazy modern world, we all need beautiful stories like this one.

4.5 stars for this gorgeous, mesmerising witchy read!

Honestly, I adored this book! It was an absolutely pleasure to read - lovely, witchy warm hug/ comfort read. The story is wonderful and full of cuteness and laughter yet deals with some important issues and emotions. There is warmth, diversity, and humor fused into a world of magical realism. The perfect combination of romance, thrill and suspense. I thoroughly enjoyed it!

The narrator was fab and story brilliant and beautiful.
Thank you for my advanced copy and audiobook.

This book is special its loving and cozy and full of understanding and talking. Its full of hwaling generational trauma, loving people despite themselves. Making new traditions to override the old. 🌻

✨In a world where a broomstick can be a hatchback and a cup of tea more lucky than you think. Where witches live among people. Where people live among witches.

Mika Moon is unmoored. Her life as a witch. Enjoying magic by herself. Growing up by herself. She knows how to be by herself. The rent on her flat is nearly up, and she is not going back to her childhood home and the ghosts that haunt it. 🪐

The thing is witches are lonely. They are cursed to be orphans and safer away from other witches. Mika loves magic, she is magic, but she has to keep it secret. She has to keep herself secret. She shares bits here and there. A witchcraft instagram page, with recommendations for incense. Teas shared with her neighbour that do more than warm you up. She shares herself in a thousand little Mika is thrust into a world of love and chaos and rule breaking.

This book is just so adorable - like an absolutely perfect low stakes low urban fantasy with a sprinkling of romance. The lit reference, the Austen references. The ardent love. It’s all too perfect. Right down to the cozy bookshop and attic bedroom. With the windows open even in winter🐌

I couldn’t have asked more of this book. Almost immediately, I knew I was going to adore it with all my heart and soul.

Mika is a witch. Except not the kind you’re used to. She’s part of a group of witches who meet on the third Thursday of every third month… and that’s it. Outside of that time, there’s no communication between them for fear of being found and somehow traced back to one another. That’s a lonely life to lead. So when she receives a message on one of her videos saying WITCH WANTED and is offered the job of training 3 young witches to control their magic, she’s tempted. Oh, so tempted. And taking the job will perhaps be the best thing that’s ever happened to her.

I’m not sure I can accurately put into words how much I loved this book. It’s found family. It’s grumpy-sunshine. It’s slow burn, and heartfelt, and broken. Mika is every person who’s ever felt alone, or unworthy, or scared of letting anyone in, and she finds this amazing group of people who pull her into their circle and make it clear that they’re never going to let her go… after they nearly get her killed. Of course.

I’ve seen people compare this to House in the Cerulean Sea, and I can absolutely see why. It has those same found family, hug in a book, cosy blanket vibes, and it’s absolutely a new comfort read for me. I immediately ran to preorder it because there’s an *exclusive epilogue* as a preorder incentive and I will never be able to get enough of Mika and her bizarre, wonderful new family.

The audio narration was enjoyable, and suited the story well.

This book was soooo darn cute!!!!! I loved it!! Loved the witchiness, loved the kids, loved the grumpy hero vs sunshine heroine romance, loved loved loved Ian Kubo- Hawthorne (who reminded me of Oliver Putnam in Only Murders in the Building) and I very definitely got the House in Cerulean Sea vibes which is an added plus. The last third of the book was maybe a bit rushed and everything wrapped a little too conveniently but who cares. I loved it!! The narrator dod an excellent job of bringing the characters to life. If you want a British version of House in the cerulean sea with witches, don’t miss this out!!