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A review by lauren_miller
The Honey Witch by Sydney J. Shields
adventurous
emotional
lighthearted
tense
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
4.25
Note: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I have to say, this may be one of my favorite reads of the year. The first two thirds? 5 stars, absolutely lovely and delicate and magical—the awkwardness of lacking a purpose and not fitting in with society's expectations, the revelation that you are meant for something more, the coming of age (and into your powers) montage, the studying of magic and all that it can do for people and the world... This chunk really read like Anne of Green Gables with magic and it was incredible. I vibed so much with the author's writing and the slow care with which the plot developed. It felt so thoughtful and cheerful and fulfilling...
However, the last third was like a complete 180 in terms of maturity and intensity. Whereas the first half was meandering and playful and almost juvenile at times, this last bit felt wayyyy more mature and intense, like the stakes were 1000% higher and I. was. anxious. So yeah, the pacing was a bit off for me, and to be honest, did I figure out Lottie's whole situation the second we met her? Yes. Did I care? Not really, it just annoyed me how long it took Marigold to figure it out. That aside, I had a really great reading experience.
So, 4.25 out of 5 stars, definitely recommend if you like cozy historical fantasy!
I have to say, this may be one of my favorite reads of the year. The first two thirds? 5 stars, absolutely lovely and delicate and magical—the awkwardness of lacking a purpose and not fitting in with society's expectations, the revelation that you are meant for something more, the coming of age (and into your powers) montage, the studying of magic and all that it can do for people and the world... This chunk really read like Anne of Green Gables with magic and it was incredible. I vibed so much with the author's writing and the slow care with which the plot developed. It felt so thoughtful and cheerful and fulfilling...
However, the last third was like a complete 180 in terms of maturity and intensity. Whereas the first half was meandering and playful and almost juvenile at times, this last bit felt wayyyy more mature and intense, like the stakes were 1000% higher and I. was. anxious. So yeah, the pacing was a bit off for me, and to be honest, did I figure out Lottie's whole situation the second we met her? Yes. Did I care? Not really, it just annoyed me how long it took Marigold to figure it out. That aside, I had a really great reading experience.
So, 4.25 out of 5 stars, definitely recommend if you like cozy historical fantasy!