This is V.E. Schwab's debut novel so maybe the writing wasn't as polished as it could have been. It reads like a very slow paced paranormal fairytale, mixed with romance. The story might come across as more atmospheric on audio but I'm not sure. Admittedly, these aren't genres I usually prefer reading but it's good to mix things up every once in a while.

3.5 stars and worth a read or listen but I'd suggest borrowing it through the library. ( )

Just good enough to want to finish, but not good enough to enjoy finishing. ( )

I've read many of Schwab's books and, for good or bad, compare all of them to the Shades of Magic series because I LOVE those books so much. It was fun to read this one, a reissue of one of her earliest books. The story is fast paced and inventive, the characters are interesting, and I found myself reading it every time I had a spare minute. I enjoyed it quite a bit, but Lexi and Cole just can't compete with Lila and Kell! ( )

I loved this! It was a great mixture of cute story, great characters and an intriguing plot. A few bits dragged on a bit, so I’d give this a 4.5 in reality, but not enough to round down to a 4. Would definitely recommend!!! ( )

3.5/5 stars

When you have read a book that an author has released after years of refinement, it is hard to warm up to their earlier works, especially if you love what you have already read.

I found myself looking for classic V.E. Schwab writing until I came to my senses and made peace with the fact that this is her debut novel. I started looking at the growth rather than making a comparison, and that enriched my experience with 'The Near Witch'.

The book's re-release comes with a forward from the author which is bound to make you feel things. It was the perfect beginning and set the expectations right. The Near Witch is the story of an age-old witch. It is a light-hearted fantasy with good and evil witches with the undertones of politics and gender bias.

The story follows a curious Lexi as she tries her best to protect her sister and hunt for the truth when the appearance of a stranger in their village coincides with the disappearance of children. She knows that something is fishy and she is hellbent on figuring that out despite hurdles from her uncle and the village council.

Will she figure out why the children are disappearing? Is the stranger really to blame? If not, how will she navigate the situation?

The Near Witch is brilliant for a debut novel and is very easy on the reader. If you are looking for a fast-paced standalone fantasy, this is a good one.

Short review as I am jumping into 'The Ash-Born Boy'. ( )