I have been in a bit of a slump lately..my life has felt heavy, and so did my books. Not physically, but both my monthly book club selection (Heaven and Earth Grocery) and a read along with a friend (Beartown) cover darker topics and I needed a break! I was craving some whimsy and lightness and this book was just what I needed. It’s a cozy, warm, found family fantasy (alliteration) that will bring a smile to your face.
Mika Moon is a witch in Britain, one who chaffs against the rules of the society of witches she is a member of – they meet only once a year, and live in secret, because gathering together is considered dangerous. It’s a very lonely life. But she finds ways to connect with others and live her witchy potion-making dreams through her online persona, wherein she is “pretending” to be a witch. But no one knows she is really a witch, or at least that’s what she thinks… But a mysterious offer for her to travel to a secret location to teach three young witches appears, which could change everything. Why are they living together? Who are the people taking care of them? And what other secrets are they hiding? This book is a charming escape you’ll enjoy.
Also, I saw another review that said this book had House in the Cerulean Sea vibes, except that in this case the protagonist was a female witch, and I agree. Both have orphans, humor, and roooooomance, so if you liked that book you’ll probably like this one too.
Finally, I have to share one of my favorite lines and concepts from the book, which comes up often. It’s phrasing that will stick with me as our family is big on kindness.
“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.”
