Title: Witches Under Way
Author: Debora Geary
First published January 26, 2012
419 pages, Kindle Edition
Rating: 4.37
Overview
Samantha and Maya are ready to embark on their own WitchLight journey, but it won’t be a walk in the park. As they travel through different realms, they must confront their deepest fears and insecurities.
Along the way, they encounter meddling witches, friendly bakers, and a mischievous pair armed with silly string. However, the biggest test of their journey will be choosing the ultimate challenge for each other.
Will they emerge stronger and closer than ever before? Find out in Debora Geary’s heartwarming novel, Witches Under Way.
Editoral Review
Debora Gearys Witches Under Way is a captivating and heartwarming story that blends magic, romance, and family bonds. Set in the picturesque town of Nells Tavern, the book tells the tale of a close-knit coven of witches who use their powers to protect their community and heal their own traumas.
First published in 2012, the novel belongs to the urban fantasy and paranormal romance genres and has since gained a loyal following among fans of those genres. Geary, who is herself a practicing witch, imbues the story with a sense of authenticity and reverence for the craft, while also exploring the human side of witchcraft.
Through her charming and relatable cast of characters, she explores themes of love, loss, identity, and belonging, as well as the social and ethical issues that witches face in a world that often misunderstands and stigmatizes them. The plot centers on Maddy, a young witch who has recently inherited her grandmothers bookstore and her magical powers, and her romance with Jason, a non-magical guy who is drawn to her despite his skepticism about witchcraft.
The two navigate the challenges of their relationship, such as Maddys reluctance to expose her true self and Jasons struggle to fit in with the close-knit coven. Meanwhile, the coven members face their own personal demons, such as addiction, grief, and betrayal, as well as external threats, such as a sinister corporation that seeks to exploit their powers.
Gearys prose is light, breezy, and humorous, with a touch of whimsy that adds to the books charm. She uses multiple perspectives to give voice to each characters unique experiences and emotions, and employs vivid descriptions of food, nature, and magic to create a vivid sense of place.
The pacing is brisk, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader engaged without losing sight of the central themes and conflicts. One of the books strengths is its emphasis on the power of female friendship and empowerment.
Geary presents a diverse and complex group of women, whose bonds of love and loyalty transcend their differences in age, background, and personality. They support each other through thick and thin, celebrate their strengths, and forgive their weaknesses.
Moreover, Geary challenges patriarchal stereotypes and prejudices by portraying her witches as strong, independent, and self-sufficient beings who dont need princes to rescue them. However, the book also has some weaknesses that may detract from its appeal to some readers.
For instance, the romance between Maddy and Jason may seem too predictable and formulaic, lacking the spark and tension of a truly compelling love story. Also, some of the conflicts and resolutions may feel too contrived or convenient, especially towards the end of the book where the escalating stakes may strain credulity.
Overall, Witches Under Way is an enjoyable and uplifting read that offers a refreshing take on the urban fantasy genre. Gearys humor, heart, and sensitivity make her characters and their struggles come alive, and her message of acceptance and inclusivity resonates with contemporary issues of diversity and equality.
Fans of Charlaine Harris, Kim Harrison, and Alice Hoffman will find much to love in this series. For those who enjoy a bit of magic, romance, and female empowerment in their reading, Witches Under Way is a delightful treat that will warm your heart and stir your soul.
