Small moments in this young adult book ring true, and the story feels primarily about relationships, set against a witchy background.
In the world of Griffin's young adult fantasy novel The Nature of Witches, witches control the weather. And (this part of the storyline may feel familiar) climate change has weather patterns spinning out of control. Destructive blizzards, devastating tornadoes, desperate heat, and shockingly bitter cold are alternately threatening the land around them--and endangering the lives of witches and shaders (regular humans) alike.
Luckily, Clara is the most powerful witch in a generation. Unlike other witches whose powers peak during certain series, Clara's powers as an Ever span all of the seasons, and the promise of what she could achieve--all those she could help and save--is enormous. But she doesn't have a clue how to control her power, and she's destroyed some of those closest to her while trying to test it, so she's understandably hesitant to explore what's possible.
The magical school setting reminded me of Naomi Novik's A Deadly Education, although the tone of this book is more romantic without an edge. There are lovely moments of humor interspersed with the action and lots of (literally) flowery language (characters in love communicate by magically creating flowers that hold symbolism).
Small moments ring true, and the story feels primarily about relationships with a witchcraft background and setting. A chaste attraction involves lots of romance and a love that must not be (in order to save lives)--and I was up for all of it.
I received a prepublication digital edition of this book courtesy of Sourcebooks Fire and NetGalley.
Do you have any Bossy thoughts about this book?
Griffin's second witch-focused, standalone book is scheduled for publication in 2022.
If you like books about witches, you might like some of the books on the Greedy Reading List Six Wonderfully Witchy Books to Charm You.
Comments