Review of The Hearth Witch’s Guide to Magic & Murder by Deirdre Sullivan
As a book blogger with a penchant for intertwining mystery with the mystical, The Hearth Witch’s Guide to Magic & Murder by Deirdre Sullivan immediately caught my eye. The title alone evokes a sense of enchantment, hinting at a story steeped in witchcraft and intrigue. Who wouldn’t be curious about a murder mystery wrapped in the warm, cozy vibes of hearth magic? While I dove into the book with high expectations, my journey through its pages was a mixed bag of delight and dissatisfaction.
A Whimsical Cast of Characters
One of the standout features of this novel is its diverse cast of characters. Avery and Saga, our charming lead duo, are wonderfully likable. Their banter dances between humor and adorable misunderstandings, providing lighthearted moments that kept me flipping the pages. Avery’s historical insights into London added richness to the narrative, transporting readers to a city where the past and the present collide in a magical tapestry. The fey café, Hygge, serves as an enchanting backdrop, making it impossible not to wish I could sip a cup of tea there while absorbing the wonders unfolding around me.
However, the book’s eclectic structure—especially its use of footnotes—was a double-edged sword. While I appreciated the author’s evident intelligence and extensive research, the footnotes often interrupted the flow of the story. They provided interesting tangents about different languages, historical facts, and mythic elements. Yet, there were moments when I found myself yearning to plunge deeper into the main narrative rather than get sidetracked by what felt like academic asides.
Pacing and Clarity
The pacing, too, presented a challenge for me. Although I adore a slow-burn romance, the chemistry between Avery and Saga left me anxiously waiting for what felt like an eternity for any semblance of actual movement between the two. The timeline of events is short, which adds to the frustration; I wished for one decisive moment of connection instead of just pining.
The murder mystery itself, while fascinating, posed some unanswered questions. Some aspects regarding the organs and their significance felt fuzzy, leaving me scratching my head rather than gaining clarity as the story unfolded. Furthermore, the introduction of Saga’s ex-fiancé and his backstory felt extraneous and didn’t contribute meaningfully to the plot.
A Taste of Hearth Witchery
As a reader intrigued by the concept of hearth witchery, I longed for more immersive magic in the kitchen. While Saga had a way with plants and their healing properties, it felt like she missed the mark on employing that connection in her cooking. The final inclusion of recipes with magical instructions was a delightful surprise, yet I couldn’t help but wish for those same intentional magic moments to have come alive during the narrative itself.
Despite its quirks, The Hearth Witch’s Guide to Magic & Murder is a promising start to a new series. The characters are compelling, and the enchanting setting of Hygge certainly leaves readers wanting more. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have read this book thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley, and I find myself curious to see how Sullivan develops this magical world further.
Final Thoughts
For those who enjoy urban fantasy blended with mystery, this book may be right up your alley—especially if you’re drawn to diverse character dynamics and a sprinkle of humor in your reads. Although I didn’t fall head-over-heels in love with the story, I found enough charm in Avery and Saga’s journey to look forward to what the next installment might bring. Perhaps the sequel will resolve some of my lingering questions and deepen the enchanting experience I’m yearning for. Happy reading!
Discover more about The Hearth Witch’s Guide to Magic & Murder (The Hemlock… on GoodReads >>