I read a lot of witchy novels and I am always on the look out for a fresh take on the witch trope, so I was thrilled when Bonnier Books UK sent me an ARC of Rachel Burge's new novel, Waking the Witch. I have already read The Twisted Tree by the same author and enjoyed it, so I was eager to read this new story.
Waking the Witch is set just off the coast of Wales on Bardsey Island, which is often said to be the site of Avalon. It is there that young Ivy travels with her friend Tom, in search of Ivy's mother, who gave her up at birth. Ivy has grown up in care, moving from one foster home to another and she is looking for answers as to why she was abandoned. Following up on a lead, she learns that her mother lives on the island and so Ivy writes her a letter, which results in a strange phone call from her mum telling her to stay away from the island and warning Ivy that there are dark shadows who are trying to find her and harm her.
Ivy ignores her mother's warning and goes to the island anyway, eager to find some sense of family and homecoming, but there are strange shadows that follow her, shadows which can takes over anyone and make them attack her. When Ivy finally meets her mother, she finds herself pulled into the midst of a battle between good and evil. How far will mother and daughter go to save one another?
This is a witchy tale with an Arthurian twist, but in this book the popular mythology is subverted, with Morgan le Fey being a benevolent force and with a much darker depiction of Merlin than I have ever read before. The characters are well drawn, with Tom providing the light relief of humour to quite a dark story.
This is an evocative novel which successfully incorporates witches, shape-shifting, demonic possession and reincarnation, all woven together quite beautifully. As Ivy discovers more of her family history she must come to terms not only with who she really is, but what she really is too. The book ends with a bit of a cliffhanger, so I expect that there will be a sequel coming soon as well, which I am looking forward to reading.
All in all this is another fabulous magical world created by Burge, full of twists and turns and things that I didn't expect. I loved the Arthurian slant and the witchy vibes were strong throughout the story. Waking the Witch is an atmospheric read, perfect for curling up with on a rainy day. Happy reading!
Marie x
AD; This novel was sent to me by the publisher for the purposes of review. It is released today August 18th, and is available in paperback, digital and audio book formats.
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