In The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow, three estranged sisters reunite in 1893 New Salem to fight for both women’s suffrage and the return of witchcraft. In a world where magic is nearly forgotten, they rediscover ancient spells hidden in rhymes and folk tales. As they challenge oppressive forces, they must confront their own trauma and secrets. The novel blends history, fantasy, and feminism, weaving a powerful story of sisterhood, rebellion, and reclaiming power. Rich with lyrical prose and political urgency, it’s a spellbinding tale of witches who refuse to be silenced.
About Alix E. Harrow
An American author known for her lyrical and imaginative historical fantasy novels and short stories. Her works, such as The Ten Thousand Doors of January and The Once and Future Witches, often feature strong female characters, portals to other worlds, and a celebration of the power of stories and folklore. Harrow's evocative prose and imaginative narratives have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
Other Books by Alix E. Harrow
The Ten Thousand Doors of January
Alix E. Harrow’s The Ten Thousand Doors of January is a historical fantasy about January Scaller, a girl who discovers magical doors that lead to other worlds. Living under the care of a wealthy collector in early 1900s America, she finds a book that reveals hidden truths about her past—and the power of stories to reshape reality. As January seeks to reclaim her identity and navigate between worlds, she battles forces that seek to close the doors forever. A beautifully written novel about transformation, freedom, and the power of words, it’s a love letter to imagination and possibility.
Similar Books
The Children of Jocasta
In 'The Children of Jocasta', Natalie Haynes masterfully reimagines the classic tales of Oedipus and Antigone from a fresh perspective—a lens that brings women’s voices, often muted in Ancient Greek mythologies, to the forefront. This novel weaves the parallel stories of Jocasta and her daughter Ismene, offering a nuanced exploration of love, power, and choice amid the backdrop of a cursed lineage. Jocasta’s quiet strength and Ismene’s unyielding resilience breathe new life into familiar tales, while Haynes’s elegant prose enriches the narrative’s emotional depth. Engaging with timeless themes of fate and identity, this reinterpretation compels readers to reexamine the silenced stories within classical works and appreciate their enduring relevance.
The Wrath & the Dawn
by Renee Ahdieh
Series: The Wrath and the Dawn (#1)
In Renee Ahdieh's captivating novel 'The Wrath and the Dawn,' readers are transported to a lush world filled with intrigue, romance, and vengeance. The story centers around Shahrzad, who volunteers to marry the Caliph, Khalid, a ruler known for taking a new bride each night and executing her at dawn. Determined to avenge her best friend's death, Shahrzad weaves enchanting stories to captivate Khalid, unraveling mysteries and discovering unexpected truths. Ahdieh masterfully explores themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice against a backdrop of Middle Eastern folklore and political intrigue, keeping readers on the edge of their seats until the gripping conclusion.
The Water Dancer
Ta-Nehisi Coates' debut novel, The Water Dancer, blends historical fiction with magical realism to tell the story of Hiram Walker, a young man born into slavery with a mysterious power. After a near-death experience, Hiram discovers he possesses a supernatural ability called "conduction," which aids in his quest for freedom. The novel explores themes of memory, family, and liberation, offering a fresh perspective on the antebellum South and the Underground Railroad. Coates' lyrical prose and imaginative storytelling create a compelling narrative about the enduring human spirit.
Achilles: A Novel
Elizabeth Cook's 'Achilles: A Novel' reimagines the timeless legend of the Greek hero Achilles, blending myth with modern sensibilities to create a hauntingly beautiful narrative. Through lyrical prose, the novel delves deep into themes of love, destiny, and the inescapable pull of fate that surrounds the protagonist. Cook explores Achilles' complex relationships, particularly with Patroclus and Briseis, bringing emotional depth and nuance to these timeless characters. The story elegantly balances tragedy and introspection, providing a fresh perspective on his heroism and vulnerabilites. Cook’s ability to juxtapose the epic with the intimate makes this retelling both moving and thought-provoking.