A review by kearstinreading
The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna

funny hopeful lighthearted 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

4.75

As an avid reader in search of a witchy novel that could capture the enchanting charm of "Gilmore Girls," I stumbled upon "The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches" with hopeful curiosity. Admittedly, I didn't have high expectations when I started, but within just a few pages, I found myself utterly enchanted by the character of Mika Moon and the tenacious young girls at Nowhere House.

This captivating tale explores the life of Mika Moon, a witch with a twist. Unlike the traditional portrayal of covens and the collective drawing of power from one another, Mika belongs to the very secret society of irregular witches. This society operates on a unique principle that witches should keep their distance from one another. Too much magical power in one place can lead to chaos and unwanted attention, so they meet only quarterly, in short bursts. This leaves Mika, who grew up without a family, largely alone, drifting from place to place, avoiding forming meaningful connections. Her only constant is an online persona where she posts videos pretending to be a witch, a clever disguise that conceals her true identity.

The plot takes an intriguing turn when Mika receives a mysterious invitation, or rather, a nearly desperate letter, inviting her to visit Nowhere House to be an instructor. Accepting the invitation defies the rules of her secretive society, yet Mika embarks on this journey to the enigmatic Nowhere House, a place where her life takes a mesmerizing turn. Here, she becomes entwined in the lives of three young girls and the unconventional group of adults who care for them.

"The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches" is a novel bursting with magic, the profound bonds of found family, and a touch of romantic love. The narrative unfolds like a cozy, heartwarming moment by the fireside with a warm mug of coffee. It's a story that leaves you with a tear in your eye at the thought of leaving this beautifully crafted world behind. The book excels in conveying the importance of human connections, even within a world so uniquely defined by its enchanting elements. Mika's journey is both captivating and heartwarming, making this novel a delightful and emotionally resonant read.