The Black Witch Chronicles is a young adult fantasy series written by Laurie Forest. The series is set in a world where different races, such as humans, fae, and werewolves, coexist but are deeply divided by distrust and animosity. The story follows a young girl named Elloren Gardner, who is the granddaughter of the infamous Black Witch. Elloren is a sheltered and naive girl who has grown up in a secluded village, unaware of the prejudices and injustices in the wider world. However, when she is sent to continue her magical education at Verpax University, she is thrust into a world of political intrigue, racial tensions, and the realization that her own magical abilities are far greater than she ever imagined. As she navigates the challenges of her new life, Elloren must confront her own prejudices and question everything she has been taught, as well as learn to use her power responsibly and fight against the widespread discrimination that threatens to tear her world apart.
"Maximum suspense, unusual magic--a whole new, thrilling approach to fantasy "
--Tamora Pierce, #1 New York Times bestselling author
It s emotional, chock-full of deep themes like racial prejudice, bullying, and oppression, and riddled with my favorite tropes like enemies to lovers and forbidden romance. It was really hard to watch some of the characters from different races fall in love and not be allowed to act on their love for fear of being alienated by their race and family.
As she navigates the challenges of her new life, Elloren must confront her own prejudices and question everything she has been taught, as well as learn to use her power responsibly and fight against the widespread discrimination that threatens to tear her world apart. The series delves deep into themes of prejudice, oppression, and the power of empathy, as Elloren becomes an unlikely champion for change amidst the chaos and violence of a deeply divided society. The Black Witch Chronicles has gained a dedicated fan base and has been praised for its complex characters, rich world-building, and thought-provoking exploration of important social issues.
The Black Witch - (Black Witch Chronicles) by Laurie Forest
Debut author Forest brings a vividly imagined new fantasy realm to life in The Black Witch Chronicles, in which a fiercely determined heroine must embrace a power she never knew she had in order to protect everyone she loves from the darkness sweeping across their world.
Book Synopsis
The New York Times bestselling series!
"Maximum suspense, unusual magic--a whole new, thrilling approach to fantasy!"
--Tamora Pierce, #1 New York Times bestselling author
Powerful magic. A deadly legacy. A world at the edge of war. Prepare to be spellbound by fantasy series, The Black Witch Chronicles.
Elloren Gardner is the spitting image of her grandmother, who drove back the enemy forces in the last Realm War. But while her people believe she will follow in her grandmother's footsteps and become the next Black Witch of prophecy, Elloren is devoid of power in a society that prizes magical ability above all else.
When she is granted the opportunity to pursue her dream of becoming an apothecary, Elloren joins her brothers at Verpax University. But she soon realizes that the university may be the most treacherous place of all for the granddaughter of the Black Witch.
As evil looms and the pressure to live up to her heritage builds, Elloren's best hope of survival may be among a secret band of rebels. if only she can find the courage to trust those she's been taught to fear.
Critics are raving about Laurie Forest's incredible debut, The Black Witch:
"Forest uses a richly imagined magical world to offer an uncompromising condemnation of prejudice and injustice."
--Booklist, starred review
"A noteworthy debut."
--Publishers Weekly, starred review
"Briskly paced, tightly plotted."
--Kirkus Reviews, starred review
- The Black Witch
- The Iron Flower
- The Shadow Wand
- The Demon Tide
- The Dryad Storm
- Wandfasted (ebook novella)*
- Light Mage (ebook novella)*
Review Quotes
"Forest uses a richly imagined magical world to offer an uncompromising condemnation of prejudice and injustice."
--Booklist, starred review
"Exquisite character work, an elaborate mythology, and a spectacularly rendered universe make this a noteworthy debut, which argues passionately against fascism and xenophobia."
--Publishers Weekly, starred review
"Briskly paced, tightly plotted. set in a rich alternative universe with a complicated history that can help us better understand our own."
--Kirkus Reviews, starred review
"We fell under the spell of this rich, diverse, Potter-worthy university world!"
--Justine magazine
When she is granted the opportunity to pursue her dream of becoming an apothecary, Elloren joins her brothers at Verpax University. But she soon realizes that the university may be the most treacherous place of all for the granddaughter of the Black Witch.
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Reviews for "The Black Witch Chronicles: A Twist on Traditional Fantasy Tropes"
1. Jessica - 2/5
I have to admit, I was quite disappointed with "The Black Witch Chronicles". While the premise sounded incredibly intriguing, the execution fell flat for me. The characters lacked depth and development, and I found it difficult to connect with any of them. The world-building felt haphazard, with little explanation of the magical elements that were introduced. Additionally, I found the writing style to be inconsistent, sometimes clunky and repetitive. Overall, I struggled to stay engaged with the story and ultimately did not find it as enjoyable as I had hoped.
2. Mark - 1/5
As a fan of fantasy novels, I had high hopes for "The Black Witch Chronicles", but I was sorely disappointed. This book relies heavily on tired and cliched tropes, providing nothing new or exciting to the genre. The main character, Elloren, is incredibly unlikable and lacks any depth or growth throughout the story. The pacing is slow and repetitive, with unnecessary subplots that add nothing to the overall plot. There are also problematic elements within the story, such as the portrayal of diverse characters and the handling of sensitive topics. Overall, I found "The Black Witch Chronicles" to be a tedious and problematic read.
3. Sarah - 3/5
While "The Black Witch Chronicles" had its flaws, I can't deny that it entertained me to some extent. The plot, though predictable, had enough twists and turns to keep me turning the pages. However, the characters felt underdeveloped and lacked complexity. Elloren's journey from ignorance to enlightenment felt rushed and forced, making it difficult to fully invest in her character arc. The world-building had potential but lacked depth, leaving me wanting more. Despite its shortcomings, if you're looking for a light and easy read, "The Black Witch Chronicles" might suffice, but don't expect anything extraordinary.