Guest Review: The Winter Witch – Paula Brackston

Fledgling witch Morgana must defend her love, her home, and her life in this enthralling tale perfect for fans of Discovery of Witches

In her small Welsh town, there is no one quite like Morgana. She has never spoken, and her silence as well as the magic she can’t quite control make her a mystery. Concerned for her safety, her mother quickly arranges a marriage with Cai Bevan, the widower from the far hills who knows nothing of the rumours that swirl around her. After their wedding, Morgana is heartbroken at leaving, but she soon falls in love with Cai’s farm and the rugged mountains that surround it, while slowly Cai himself begins to win her heart. It’s not long, however, before her strangeness begins to be remarked upon in her new village. A dark force is at work there—a person who will stop at nothing to turn the townspeople against Morgana, even at the expense of those closest to her. Forced to defend her home, her love, and herself from all comers, Morgana must learn to harness her power, or she will lose everything.

Paula Brackston’s debut novel, The Witch’s Daughter, was the little book that could—with a captivating story, remarkable heroine, and eye-catching package, it has now netted over 40,000 copies in all formats. Now Paula returns with The Winter Witch, another enchanting tale of love and magic, featuring her signature blend of gorgeous writing, a fabulous and intriguing historical backdrop, and a headstrong and relatable heroine readers will cheer for

Series: 
Release Date:  January 29, 2013
Publisher:  St. Martin’s Press
Source:  NetGalley
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Reviewer’s Thoughts:

This book is absolutely wonderful.  From the moment I picked it up, I could not put it down.  The author’s meticulous attention to detail transports you back to 19th century Wales, painting a beautiful, breathtaking picture.  She introduces you to Morgana, a mute witch who conveys far more through expression and actions than she ever could in words.  After losing her father, Morgana’s mother worries for her, and arranges a marriage between Morgana and Cai, the most powerful man in town.  Reluctant at first, Morgana slowly becomes accustomed to her new life, slowly but surely becoming fond of her new home, and of Cai.

As time goes on, Morgana and Cai begin to develop deep feelings for one another.  Their romance is even more touching than most, as it proves that words are just words, and even the smallest of gestures can have the power to convey just how much you love and care for someone.  The idea for this goes beyond romantic, and was one of my absolute favorite things about this story.

Mixed in with the romance, is a thrilling mystery, as Morgana and Cai find themselves fighting the evils of another witch to save their home, their land, and each other.  Exciting, sweet and brilliantly written, this book is one of my favorites of the year so far.  I would recommend this to anyone who believes themselves a true romantic at heart. 

Cocktail Recipe

White Witch Cocktail

1/2 cup vanilla ice cream
1 ounce vanilla vodka
1 ounce white Creme de Cacao

Mix all ingredients in a blender at low speed for 10 seconds. Spoon into a chilled sherbet glass or wine goblet.

http://www.food.com/recipe/white-witch-cocktail-488912