A review by hopemays_library
The House Witch by Delemhach

funny lighthearted relaxing medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Finlay Ashowan is a witch who has a skewed self perception of not being aligned with a particular element. His talent appears to be more domestic than elemental. He is what's known as a house witch. He has an awareness of what makes people comfortable and what foods they crave and can heal them. His powers only extend to what he considers the borders of his home, and they're as strong as his home is large. Finlay Ashowan just became the cook for the kingdom of Daxaria. Not only is FIn learning more about his abilities but he is also learning that he doesn't have to spend his life in a lonely solitude. 

Fin knows the rough history witches have with being hunted and abused for their powers. His estranged father and teacher have taught him that deficient and mutant witches such as himself are insignificant, and that's something that gives him an affinity for others who are being abused or are hurt. So he tries to keep to himself all the while quietly seeing to the comfort and safety of the people around him. However, Fin soon finds  a family and home that has grown around him. He even learns that he is worthy enough to fight for those he loves.

This is a medium paced, cozy, and light hearted book. The author did a wonderful job creating strong characters with depth and complexity who learn to truly be themselves throughout the story. The book is somewhat diverse, with a couple of gay and bi characters, and several cultures are represented. It should be noted that though Daxaria accepts LGBT+ there are still people there in one religion who are awful about it and at one point attack someone over it. This happens offscreen and they are dealt with, but it does happen. It's part of a pattern of hurt people being defended by a growing circle of people, meant more to show that as unacceptable, and the growing friendships and acceptance between the characters.

The book ends at a good spot, if you wish to not read books 2 and 3, you could easily call it a happy ending. However, I'm very intrigued to see how the next chapter of fins story unfolds!


 
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