Rewitched
A spellbinding, autumnal cosy fantasy about the magic of love in all its forms
by Lucy Jane Wood
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Pub Date 19 Sep 2024 | Archive Date 19 Sep 2024
Pan Macmillan | Macmillan
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Description
'Sometimes all you want is the novel equivalent of Gilmore Girls and this rather lovely debut hits those notes . . . Just add a spiced latte' - Stylist
It's time to rediscover her magic . . .
With found family, a dash of romance and an uplifting message about self-love, Rewitched is a cosy autumnal fantasy that will leave readers spellbound.
Belladonna Blackthorn hasn’t lost her magical spark, but she hasn’t seen it in a while either. Balancing work at her beloved London bookshop, Lunar Books, with handling her toxic boss and concealing her witchcraft from those around her – Belle is burnt out. Perfecting the potential of her magic is the last thing on her mind.
But, when her thirtieth birthday brings a summons from her coven and a trial that tests her worthiness as a witch, Belle risks losing her magic for ever. With the month of October to fix things and signs that dark forces may be working against her, Belle will need all the help she can get – from the women in her life, from an unlikely mentor figure and even from an (infuriating) coven watchman who’s sworn to protect her . . .
'I was completely charmed by this delightful and endearing novel about rediscovering your spark' - Sarah Beth Durst, author of The Spellshop
Available Editions
EDITION | Other Format |
ISBN | 9781035045457 |
PRICE | £16.99 (GBP) |
PAGES | 416 |
Available on NetGalley
Featured Reviews
From the first page I was LITERALLY OBSESSED!! I feel like Lucy's personality really shines through in this and I genuinely laughed out loud so much. LOVED, LOVED, LOVED!
Ever since this book has been announced I was so eager to read it and I was overjoyed that I had received a proof while I was at work, that I started to read that day.
I adored this book from the very first page, Bella is a refreshing character that stands up for herself and others when against the odds, her relationship with the characters is heart-warming to read, and every interaction Run aka the handsome watchman, is so fun to read and watch them slowly fall for each other.
I also love the magic building in this book, all the different types and how different potions are made according to the person instead of everyone following the same recipe. And a cat named Jinx? Sold!
There were some twists and turns I loved, and I can't help but think there is going to be a sequel given how it ended, which I won't say no to.
Rewitched is a perfect cosy autumn read that I can't wait to hit the shelves!
This was such a cosy autumnal read that i can't wait to revisit again when the nights start drawing in and the days get cooler! It gave such a warm and atmospheric feeling the whole time i was reading it. You'd think that would be boring or get repetitive, but there was just enough of an engaging and threat heavy plot to keep things interesting all the way till the end, and it was kind of a given that everything would more or less work it's self out in the end since the threat wasn't overly oppressive.
It really reminded me almost all the way through of a cosier, lower stakes, layed back version of Her Majesty's Royal Coven.
The characters were really fun and interesting, and generally seemed upbeat and lively, which made it at times seem like a bit of a sitcome (think Gilmore girls, Sabrina the teenage witch, charmed etc) - at least with how they were reacting and interacting with each other.
This was simply a lighthearted fun read, with witchy elements and romance thrown in too! It's definitely worth the read if you're in the mood for something cosy and light.
Thank you to netgalley, the publisher, and the author for giving me the chance to read this book early!
Honestly cannot recommend this book enough, this was like a hug in a book and will be my go-to cosy Autumnal comfort read - was like it Her Majesty's Royal Coven met Gilmore Girls but set in London.
Oh, what a wonderful story! The well written characters wound their own magic to deliver a warm, cosy story with just a little bit of threat, enough to keep the pages turning, I found myself smiling throughout and enjoyed it so very much
Rewitched is an extremely cosy and heart-warming fantasy novel that I absolutely loved and recommend to lovers of the genre as the perfect fall read!
It's October, Belle is celebrating her 30th birthday. She's also a witch. In order to keep her magic she needs to pass a test.
I loved this. I flew through it as there was enough mystery to keep me turning the pages.
The characters were fun and varied. Plus, who doesn't love a bit of magic?
I really hope that this might be the start of a series.
I love this book so much I think I am going to have to read it again! It is a wonderful, mystical, magical story and I found myself completely immersed in Belle’s world. I think I may have shouted at some of the characters! Just so good!
The genre of magic is one that I dont normally read. However, there was nothing of the occult about this book, and plenty of light hearted witchy magic. What an unusual character Bella is, strong willed but also doubting herself. With the help of a little band of people, including the lovely Artorius, she finds a way to defeat the coven, who are a bunch of greedy opportunists, and to find her own place in the world of magic.
Thank you for giving me the chance to read and review the book, which I found enjoyable.
This is an enchanting book, pun fully intended! As Belle's 30th birthday is fast approaching, she discovers that she will have to undergo an appraisal of sorts, a test of her witchcraft and character, in front of her entire coven. Of course there's a snag - Belle doesn't really use her talent in her day to day life as the manager of a bookshop and her best friend has planned her birthday party for the same date! There's definitely toil and trouble ahead..
I absolutely loved this book. I especially enjoyed how well developed all the main characters were; Belle's mentor,Watchman and her family jumped off the page and I could vividly imagine them all.
Set in October, this is a perfect autumn read with a few twists I didn't see coming - I really hope there's a sequel.
Thank you to Netgalley and Pan Macmillan for the review copy.
This was such a fun book to read. Sarcasm and black humour runs through it even through the sad and the bad. This is a fantastical novel, however the author makes all the witchery and magic seem very normal. There is our heroine with a challenge to overcome in the world of witchcraft but also in her day job to make sure she can pay her rent and in her life with her flat mate. The romance is very cute and hold the book together well. This was a joy to read.
Having followed Lucy Jane Wood for many years, as soon as she announced she had written a book I knew I had to read it and I knew it would be amazing.
Rewitched is easily now one of my all time favourite books. It was the most wonderful cosy, magical, nostalgia inducing read. This book genuinely felt like it was made for me, there was no part that I did not love. There was that special humour of Lucy's throughout this that constantly has me smiling and laughing.
I don't think I've ever related so much to a character before as I did with Belle. I turned thirty earlier this year and had that same panic of wondering what I had achieved in my thirty years of life. I loved how this explored the idea of rediscovering your potential and learning to believe in yourself.
I adored following the magical adventure that Belle went on and found the magic system and world so fascinating. It was so reminiscent of the worlds from my favourite childhood magical stories whilst still having fun unique elements. The story itself was also gripping and I flew through this.
Rewitched also had the best cast of side characters I've read in a long time and I fell in love with all of them. They all had such individual distinct personalities and were all lovable in their own way.
Overall this was such an exciting and inspiring yet comforting read that I would recommend to everyone. I can't wait for my special edition preorder and of course for Lucy's next book!
In this wickedly cozy fantasy, a young witch is in danger of having her magic taken from her if she fails to appreciate it and live up to her potential. Rewitched is a quick and easy read with some really compelling characters (I want to say Jinx) and a brilliant ending. Would recommend to anybody looking for a warming autumn read!
I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
First how beautiful is the cover of this book
I loved the story it was sweet happy witchy
I don’t read much about witches so this was a little different for me but I really enjoyed it getting to know the characters finding out how they use their magic the adorable book shop which I would love to own.
Belladonna was my favourite she’s so sweet strong and amazing I loved her name too.
No spoilers here so struggling to write the perfect reviews let’s just say it’s amazing and a must read
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for this eARC of 'Rewitched' by Lucy Jane Wood.
'Rewitched' tells the story of just turned 30 year old Belladonna (aka Belle) having to prove her magic to a bunch of old farts whilst also learning about how important her family and friends are to her and how intertwined witch life is with her own. Belle is such a strong lead and throughout this book I just fell deeper and deeper in love with her. The side characters were well written from Ariadne to Rune and my man Arty - I will fight to protect this old man with my life. And the mini twist in this tale was so unexpected to me, I loved it.
Rewitched by Lucy Jane Wood is a wonderfully cosy fantasy about one womens journey to rediscover her magical spark... 🐈⬛️ 🔮🧹
On her thirtieth birthday, a rather overwhelmed and self-doubting Belladonna Blackthorn is summoned by her coven to take part in her EquiWitch trial. Her magical peers have the power to delve into Bella's private memories and determine whether or not she is worthy of maintaining her power by passing judgement on her turbulent magical history. Unfortunately, due to her insecurities and inability to weird her magic to the best of her ability, her coven gives her one last chance to prove herself.
While the slowburn romance is very sweet, it's Bella's journey of self-love, which I absolutely adored. Yes, she's a Witch, but she's also very relatable and decidedly human. She has flaws, rough edges and is plagued with self-doubt throughout and watching her rekindle her love for magic and find her confidence along the way was incredibly empowering and satisfying.
While I liked Rune, I found him to be a little to elusive and I wish we had the opportunity to learn more about him. Christopher was, of course, the worst and Artorius was absolutely adorable and needs to be protected at all costs.
I loved how descriptive the author is. I wish I could actually visit Lunar Books as it sounded heavenly. Rewitched really was like one big autumnal hug down to the pumpkins, cinnamon rolls and cosy vibes... and a few unexpected twists, among the way.
📚 Book Review 📚
Rewitched by Lucy Jane Wood - 5/5 ⭐
Dive into a cosy autumnal fantasy with this beautiful story of Belladonna AKA Belle, our bookish FMC 🌹
🔥 Slow burn
🔥 Self-love
🔥 Magic
🔥 Witchcraft
Belle is thrown into a lifelong decision from her coven, learn to use your magic or lose it!
For years Belle has lived as un-witchy as possible. Whilst working in a bookshop, she hides her identity of being a witch from the world! Then on her 30th Birthday she receives a summons from her coven who are throwing her into a trial that will reveal her future as a witch.
Rewitched is a magical, cosy read of romance, magic and self-discovery. The writing style is completely captivating with phenomenal descriptions that will transport the reader deep into Belle's world.
I was lucky enough to receive Rewitched as an ARC and I'm proud to say that I've just pre-ordered my signed edition from Waterstones, because who doesn't want a trophy book on their shelf 🫶🏻
Wow wow wow I LOVED this book. I’ve watched Lucy on YouTube for such a long time and when she announced this book, I was absolutely thrilled for her and just couldn’t wait to read this and it did not disappoint. I adored the characters and just wanted the best for Belle. Reading this book when I was in a rough patch mentally was the absolute best decision. Lucy’s story was the perfect cosy, magical escape and her personality shines through the novel. Reading this book was like being wrapped up in a fluffy duvet, with an absolutely perfect cup of coffee and your favourite candle lit. As someone who doesn’t necessarily read the fantasy genre that often, this book was my favourite kind of fantasy, set in the modern world, with a magic system that isn’t complicated. All in all, I adored this book and will absolutely be reading anything Lucy writes in the future (and likely re-reading in autumn for the full cosy vibes).
Belladonna Blackthorn is turning 30, and has tried for the last 15 years to forget all about her magical abilities. When she is instructed to appear before the coven to prove she is worthy of keeping her magic, she realises just how much she needs to learn in order to fulfill her potential.
Although this was a bit of a slow burner, I really enjoyed getting to know Bella, her colleagues at Lunar Books and her BFF Ariadne. I loved the idea of the cozy bookshop, where Bella uses some of her magic, discreetly, to help smooth things along, in spite of all the obstacles that the owners nephew, Christopher, keeps putting in the way. I enjoyed her relationships with Ariadne and Jinx, the cat and the tension when Rune is assigned to make sure she attends the Coven when ordered to. The writing style is really good, the pace does pick up nicely, with some lovely twists and an excellent conclusion. Really readable, and a different imagining of magical powers.
Thanks to NetGalley, the author and the publishers for the opportunity to read and review this book.
A treat and a delight - it's such a pleasure to see Lucy come into her own as a writer and deliver a debut novel that is so quintessentially her.
REWITCHED is a gentle, witchy read, as well as a coming of age brought by entering a new decade of life, that'll ease you into the spooky season. There is something very comforting and nostalgic about it in the veins of things like Charmed and Practical Magic.
Hand on heart, this just might be the most comforting, cosy, magical book to ever exist. It’s like curling up with a hot chocolate, and a cat, on a chilly autumn evening. It’s a long hug from a friend you haven’t seen in a while. It’s a reassuring pat on the shoulder, telling you that it’s never to late to try. It’s practically everything I love distilled down into book form, and I’m about to rave about it, so buckle up.
Belle Blackthorn is about to turn thirty, and is drifting along in her life. Too scared to take over the bookshop she’s worked in for years, and never truly delving into the magic she was bestowed with at 15, she’s approaching the big 3-0 with the usual mix of emotions. Until it turns out that her coven tests witches on their 30th birthdays, to see what magical feats they’ve achieved, and if they’re ‘worthy’ of keeping their magic. Belle, who tends to use her magic to exclusively tidy up the children’s section of the bookshop, and whip up cups of tea while she sits on the sofa, is suddenly confronted with the real possibility that she might lose her magic…but thanks to a magical loophole, she’s granted the month of October to try and set things right, rediscover her sense of self, keep hold of the magic that she holds so dear, and just maybe grow closer to the watchman who’s been assigned to protect her from danger….
Every single page of this book felt infused with magic and love. I cannot overstate how heart-warming it is. It has the same warm, funny, and comforting feelings that media like Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Gilmore Girls, and Practical Magic have.
It’s got sparkly magic, a cosy bookshop, handsome (immortal) love interests, eccentric older characters, a thread of strong friendships, and a reminder to always believe in yourself and your own personal magic. What more could a person want in a book? (Note: I don’t know what you, personally, would want more of in a book, but if you’re anything like me the answer is nothing, and this book is practically perfect)
It’s also laugh out loud funny. I could so easily visual the settings, characters, and the jokes, and it just brought me so much joy, frankly. This is probably the sappiest review out there, but genuinely, I cannot overstate how happy this book made me.
Now, Lucy Jane Wood may be a debut author, but I have to admit that I’ve followed her online content for years. Sometimes, when reading a debut book from someone with an online presence, there can be a bit of trepidation (I’ve been burned before) - but I trusted Lucy, as I knew that she is someone who also truly loves books, and was already a writer for a living, alongside her content creation. Plus, it didn’t hurt that this book sounded right up my alley. I’m so happy to say that my trust was well placed. I truly think she’s achieved what she’s set out to do with this book, and she should be incredibly proud.
Now…I’m off to push this book into the hands of everyone I know. If you’re after something to warm your cockles this autumn, with a large sprinkling of cosy magic, you HAVE to pick this book up. Seriously. Please, do yourself a favour and run to the bookstore as soon as it’s out.
Thank you to the publishers, and Netgalley, for the copy to review.
Possibly the cutest, coziest most magical read of this year.
I’ve been waiting a while to read this, only because I needed it to be spooky season to read it, and it did not disappoint.
The family, friendships, the cute/shy sexual tension between the love interests is simply on point.
Belle deserves all the love in the world, I have not related to a character in so long (without the magic unfortunately) but I am so so proud of how ar she has come. Ari is the sweetest best friend to ever exist in this fictional world, and even if she doesn’t know that Belle is a witch I feel like she always knew something was different about her bestie. It’s also so refreshing to see the male main character get flustered and shy so easily, there’s such a balance between the cocky/confident side of him and his baby steps back when he’s kinda crossed a line and belle gets angry.
I need a Jinx in my life.
I wasn’t expecting so much mystery and all the riddles but was happily surprised by them and how our main characters deal with them. I am so happy they found love in the most random places.
Thank you so so much to netgalley and pan Macmillan for sending me an ARC in exchange of an honest review.
How wonderful it was! A perfect book for autumn!
There is magic, an old house with a soul, family secrets, discovering spells and one's abilities. There is also a clash with the normal world, where magic takes second place.
All of this combined creates a great result because I just couldn't put it down, and I’m already waiting for more!
And the handsome guys along the way... if there is a second part, I definitely want to have it!
Oh my goodness! This story was so much more than i had anticipated, it is so so cosy and to be honest it made me feel nostalgic and brought me back to my teen years watching Sabrina the teenage witch after school every day. I feel this has it all a cosy plot, a touch of whimsy and a gorgeous slow burn romance that gave me the fuzzies (that is a saying and i'm sticking to it!)
Absolute perfection especially with the autumn/spooky season incoming!
Rewitched is the perfect cosy, witchy book and it was just the sort of book I needed.
The main character, Belladonna Blackthorn, is wonderful - I'm almost 30 myself so I found her struggles and worries very relatable. Her personal growth is what makes this story so special, the magic and world are fab too but the characters are what really drew me in. The side characters are full of life and all serve a purpose to the story, there's a little sprinkle of romance which I loved but it doesn't become the main focus of the story.
The magic system is excellent, it felt very traditional and nostalgic. The world is well thought out and the twists weren't predictable at all! The writing is amazing, you can't tell this is a debut book at all. It was so easy to read, I didn't feel confused by anything and I found myself highlighting a lot of quotes.
The whole story was just very heartwarming, it's the sort of book that feels like a warm hug, and I highly recommend it!
Really easy to read autumnal book, set around a young woman Belle who is about to turn 30 and works in a cosy magical bookstore where she flicks her fingers and things happen. Books tidy themselves, lights turn on just easy magic that she loves to use
But now she has to appear before the local coven to prove herself as a witch can’t be to hard right?
Except there are certain witches who don’t like her but for reasons she doesn’t even know about but the pages will fly by and you won’t be able to put this magical book down
It’s a lovely book to read especially snuggled in a chair with a cuppa and cozy blanket over you on these autum days
I went into this book thinking I was getting a fluffy and cosy easy read but I’m so happy to say that I was wrong! What I got instead was a truly magical story about love, friendship and second chances ✨🫶
As someone who is also turning 30 very soon, this book spoke to me and addressed that panic-inducing thought of “have I done enough up to now?!”. Honestly, Rewitched was such a joy and I’d recommend it to everyone who wants an uplifting and poignant read for Autumn 📖🍂✨