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inthebrineydeep's review
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
3.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexual assault, Sexual harassment, and Death
ceebee86's review
dark
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.75
A really solid book.
I found that I did not give it a perfect 5 because some parts in the first half felt like such a slog.
But this thing is really Victorian gothic to the core.
I really do appreciate the theme of SA survival. I could feel the familiar nausea in Winnie as she was experiencing it herself in the story.
Winnie as a whole was pleasant to read actually. Her cleverness and humanity shine through. Not all authors can write a clever character.
I also really liked the “telling a fairy tale” format that was used for expositional moments. It made it feel like the vibe wasn't abruptly halted to explain something.
What brought this rating way up was the love interest. The development he went through and the way his character evolves as he comes to love Winnie was absolutely perfect to my tastes.
I found that I did not give it a perfect 5 because some parts in the first half felt like such a slog.
But this thing is really Victorian gothic to the core.
I really do appreciate the theme of SA survival. I could feel the familiar nausea in Winnie as she was experiencing it herself in the story.
Winnie as a whole was pleasant to read actually. Her cleverness and humanity shine through. Not all authors can write a clever character.
I also really liked the “telling a fairy tale” format that was used for expositional moments. It made it feel like the vibe wasn't abruptly halted to explain something.
What brought this rating way up was the love interest. The development he went through and the way his character evolves as he comes to love Winnie was absolutely perfect to my tastes.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Pedophilia, Emotional abuse, Sexual assault, Blood, Death, and Grief
Moderate: Violence, Suicide attempt, and Vomit
lifewithloopy's review
3.75
I enjoyed this book quite a bit and wanted to give it 4 stars. My reason for knocking off the quarter star is that there are some repetitive descriptions of one of the main supporting characters. That detail can get a little tedious.
Otherwise, this is a fun read with an alternative take on the Gothic Romance genre. To be honest, I was over half way through the book before anything overtly romantic happened. The romance is pretty restrained, closer to something thing in Victorian-era novels, which I really appreciated.
If you saw 'faeries' and 'romance' and thought of ACOTAR, you're going to be disappointed. This book is not that. I think if you liked Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, you might like this book.
I'm interested to see where this world goes and will be reading Rosemary & Thyme when it comes out.
Otherwise, this is a fun read with an alternative take on the Gothic Romance genre. To be honest, I was over half way through the book before anything overtly romantic happened. The romance is pretty restrained, closer to something thing in Victorian-era novels, which I really appreciated.
If you saw 'faeries' and 'romance' and thought of ACOTAR, you're going to be disappointed. This book is not that. I think if you liked Jonathan Strange & Mr Norrell, you might like this book.
I'm interested to see where this world goes and will be reading Rosemary & Thyme when it comes out.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Pedophilia, Blood, Child abuse, Death, Sexual assault, and Sexual harassment
Minor: Abandonment, Grief, Murder, Animal cruelty, and Classism
l1brarygirl's review
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
3.5
This was different than Atwater's other Regency novels, which I loved. This one had less romance and upped the Gothic faerie vibes. It didn't have the cozy vibes I loved but I still really liked this one. It does deal with some heavier topics (see TW)
Of particular note: This book takes place in the early 1850s, which places it as much as 30-40 years after Half a Soul and 25-30 years after Longshadow
Of particular note: This book takes place in the early 1850s, which places it as much as 30-40 years after Half a Soul and 25-30 years after Longshadow
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gore, Sexual assault, Blood, Injury/Injury detail, Sexual harassment, Pedophilia, and Child abuse
Moderate: Death, Adult/minor relationship, Murder, Abandonment, Misogyny, Chronic illness, Kidnapping, Violence, Fire/Fire injury, Sexism, and Confinement
Minor: Animal cruelty, Grief, Drug use, and Vomit
katyakat's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Olivia Atwater weaves a spellbinding tale with "The Witchwood Knot," drawing readers into a dark and enchanting faerie realm that mirrors Victorian England with stunning accuracy. But also introduces us to Winifred Hall, a formidable and unapologetic woman whose strength permeates every page. Winnie is a beacon of determination and grit, tackling tasks that many would shy away from—not without fear, but despite it. She navigates an unjust world with a keen sense of justice and a refusal to be cowed by her circumstances.
From the moment Victorian governess Winifred Hall sets foot in Witchwood Manor, readers are transported into a world where nothing is as it seems. With a sharp wit and keen eye, Winifred navigates the intricate web of faerie mischief, determined to rescue her abducted charge. But as she delves deeper into the shadows of the manor, she discovers that even the most innocent-looking corners hold sinister secrets.
The atmosphere of "The Witchwood Knot" is palpable, with every page steeped in a sense of foreboding and mystery. Atwater expertly crafts morally ambiguous characters and cunning plot twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. The fae and otherworldly creatures are portrayed with a refreshing complexity, reminding readers that not everything is as black and white as it seems.
One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its portrayal of vulnerability and resilience. Winifred's journey is fraught with danger and uncertainty, yet she never wavers in her determination to uncover the truth. Her character development is nuanced and compelling, adding depth to an already richly layered narrative.
As the story unfolds, Atwater seamlessly incorporates snippets of fairytales and folklore, enriching the world-building and adding an extra layer of intrigue. Each revelation brings new depth to the story, inviting readers to unravel the mysteries of Witchwood Manor alongside Winifred.
In "The Witchwood Knot," Olivia Atwater delivers a mesmerizing blend of gothic romance and dark faerie tale, captivating readers with its whimsical charm and spellbinding narrative. A must-read for fans of atmospheric fantasy and intricate storytelling.
#TheWitchwoodKnot #OliviaAtwater #GothicRomance #DarkFantasy #VictorianEngland #BookReview #MustRead
From the moment Victorian governess Winifred Hall sets foot in Witchwood Manor, readers are transported into a world where nothing is as it seems. With a sharp wit and keen eye, Winifred navigates the intricate web of faerie mischief, determined to rescue her abducted charge. But as she delves deeper into the shadows of the manor, she discovers that even the most innocent-looking corners hold sinister secrets.
The atmosphere of "The Witchwood Knot" is palpable, with every page steeped in a sense of foreboding and mystery. Atwater expertly crafts morally ambiguous characters and cunning plot twists, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. The fae and otherworldly creatures are portrayed with a refreshing complexity, reminding readers that not everything is as black and white as it seems.
One of the novel's greatest strengths lies in its portrayal of vulnerability and resilience. Winifred's journey is fraught with danger and uncertainty, yet she never wavers in her determination to uncover the truth. Her character development is nuanced and compelling, adding depth to an already richly layered narrative.
As the story unfolds, Atwater seamlessly incorporates snippets of fairytales and folklore, enriching the world-building and adding an extra layer of intrigue. Each revelation brings new depth to the story, inviting readers to unravel the mysteries of Witchwood Manor alongside Winifred.
In "The Witchwood Knot," Olivia Atwater delivers a mesmerizing blend of gothic romance and dark faerie tale, captivating readers with its whimsical charm and spellbinding narrative. A must-read for fans of atmospheric fantasy and intricate storytelling.
#TheWitchwoodKnot #OliviaAtwater #GothicRomance #DarkFantasy #VictorianEngland #BookReview #MustRead
Content Warnings
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship, Death, Violence, Death of parent, Blood, Abandonment, Body horror, Child abuse, Classism, Drug use, Emotional abuse, Grief, Kidnapping, Sexism, Misogyny, Panic attacks/disorders, and Sexual harassment
ash_oak_crafts's review
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
A super atmospheric gothic read, with a sprinkling of The Nutcracker. At times I got the creeps from this strange faerie other world known as the Witchwood Knot. I adored the gently tragic love story. Great magical world with wonderfully developed setting.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual harassment
Moderate: Sexual assault
Minor: Death
onthesamepage's review
dark
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Why do I always have such a hard time reviewing Olivia Atwater's books, when her books are so easy for me to read?
Maybe it's because I can't specifically put into words why her stories work so well for me. I read Half a Soul last year and never wrote a review for it for the same reason. It's like I consume the books in a happy daze, and come out at the other end satisfied without knowing why. I'll give it a try, though.
One thing important to note is that this book does have ties to Half a Soul. You'll have more fun unravelling the mystery if you read that first, as it does have a bunch of easter eggs.
Why do I always have such a hard time reviewing Olivia Atwater's books, when her books are so easy for me to read?
Maybe it's because I can't specifically put into words why her stories work so well for me. I read Half a Soul last year and never wrote a review for it for the same reason. It's like I consume the books in a happy daze, and come out at the other end satisfied without knowing why. I'll give it a try, though.
One thing important to note is that this book does have ties to Half a Soul. You'll have more fun unravelling the mystery if you read that first, as it does have a bunch of easter eggs.
It was somewhat flattering, Winnie realised, to be considered as a worthy opponent, instead of as a woman.
The first thing that hit me about this book was the atmosphere. Sometimes books are marketed as "gothic", and I think about it for a while and decide I have no clue what they're talking about. But there was no doubt in my mind about what I was reading here. From the description of the house, to the woods, to the mysteries and secrets surrounding Witchwood Manor, the vibes were absolutely incredible. The other thing I really enjoy about Atwater's books is her version of the fae. I'm not a fan of the romanticized version that's very popular these days. I like it when they're cruel and clever, and the author really delivers on that front.
“I am still not afraid of you—I am not even afraid of being desired. I am simply afraid of what desire becomes whenever I dare to decline it.”
The story is compelling in and of itself, but the characters and the relationships really bring it to life. The romance was the kind that creeps up on you slowly, until you suddenly blink and realize these characters have wormed their way into your heart as well as each other's. So many books get marketed as enemies to lovers these days, and I tend to find most of them not to my personal preference, but Witchwood Knot understands what that looks like. Mr. Quincy and Winnie are on opposite sides, and no pretty face or lust is going to change that.
I really appreciated the exploration of Winnie's past trauma, and how that played into her relationship with Mr. Quincy. I think that because they start off as enemies, mutual respect ends up being the basis for their entire dynamic, and it worked so well for me. There was so much good quality longing, too—I was absolutely living for it.
The ending makes me really interested in the subsequent books. I have no idea if those will continue with the same characters, although I hope they do, because I'm kind of attached to them now.
Ending this with one of my favourite (somewhat spoilery) quotes:
“I would have you play my songs until your fingers bled,” he confessed hoarsely. “I would compose new music, just to hear you play it with such passion. I cannot bear it, governess— how dare you love my music more than I do?”
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual harassment and Violence
Moderate: Child abuse and Death
Minor: Rape
mothmania's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Blood and Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Sexual harassment and Death
caitcoy's review
dark
emotional
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
I wasn't entirely sure how I'd feel about this one since I didn't love Half a Soul and had been unsure about continuing with that series. As a side note, while I think you can certainly read this without having read those, I actually regretted not finishing that series first since there are some characters/history in common. Happily, Witchwood Knot was one of those atmospheric fae stories that I knew within the first chapter that I would love.
This is considerably darker than Half a Soul and has very strong Labyrinth vibes and I was really delighted by the darker take on fae and the clear influence of Atwater's deep love of fairy tales. And while I'm not always someone who loves a strong focus on themes, I really appreciated the way that Atwater spoke about the dangerous position that someone of Winnifred's station could be in around men who could easily take advantage. And yet Winnie never felt powerless, she had to navigate a world where she had less overt power and find ways to protect herself and did so admirably. I also really loved the way that the romance was handled and the strong focus on consent and power balances.
As someone who enjoys cozy stories really only when there's an element of danger or threat that might cause others to feel like they're not cozy enough, The Witchwood Knot perfectly struck that balance. If you like T. Kingfisher's blend of dark and cozy, a heavy focus on fae and fairy tales with a bit of a very slow-burn romance, I'd definitely recommend picking this up. I feel certain already that it'll feature in my favorites of the year.
This is considerably darker than Half a Soul and has very strong Labyrinth vibes and I was really delighted by the darker take on fae and the clear influence of Atwater's deep love of fairy tales. And while I'm not always someone who loves a strong focus on themes, I really appreciated the way that Atwater spoke about the dangerous position that someone of Winnifred's station could be in around men who could easily take advantage. And yet Winnie never felt powerless, she had to navigate a world where she had less overt power and find ways to protect herself and did so admirably. I also really loved the way that the romance was handled and the strong focus on consent and power balances.
As someone who enjoys cozy stories really only when there's an element of danger or threat that might cause others to feel like they're not cozy enough, The Witchwood Knot perfectly struck that balance. If you like T. Kingfisher's blend of dark and cozy, a heavy focus on fae and fairy tales with a bit of a very slow-burn romance, I'd definitely recommend picking this up. I feel certain already that it'll feature in my favorites of the year.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Child abuse, Sexual harassment, Death, and Sexual assault
florecita_lectora's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual violence, Pedophilia, Murder, and Sexual harassment
Moderate: Grief, Death, Blood, Child abuse, Confinement, and Kidnapping
Minor: Abandonment