Kelley Armstrong's novel, "Waking the Witch," is a captivating story that delves into the world of magic and witchcraft. The book follows the main character, Savannah Levine, as she navigates her way through a murder investigation that leads her down a dangerous path. Savannah, a young and powerful witch, has grown up among supernatural creatures and has honed her abilities under the guidance of her guardian, Paige Winterbourne. However, when Paige goes missing, Savannah is forced to step out of her comfort zone and take charge of the investigation. With the help of her friends, including witch coven leader Adam Vasic and half-demon investigator Gabriel Walsh, she sets out to unravel the mystery. As Savannah digs deeper into the case, she encounters a web of deceit, betrayal, and hidden secrets.
The plot is fairly standard detective stuff but with a very impressive cast of characters, brought vividly to life and full of the imperfections that make them all the more real. The fantasy elements are very much underplayed and it works really well, having that almost standard fiction but with a fantasy twist really gives the book an edge. I am not a big fan of the detective novel, although I have enjoyed a few in the past like Nekropolis and of course Dirk Gently but I really did bond with this book and although the pace is somewhat sedate, it's one of the books real strengths. It's like the difference between running and strolling, running gets you there really fast and is (allegedly) very good for you but a gentle walk in the country allows you to take in natures glorious vista and notice all the little details. Kelley Armstrong manages to weave an impressive back story to the town and it's people so much so you almost feel like one of the neighbours.
Savannah herself is a very likeable character - a confident and capable witch who is tempered by a very human vunerability and sensitivity, she doesn t try too hard or pretend to be someone she s not and doesn t need to masculinize herself in order to take charge of a situation. It s the eleventh novel in the Women of the Otherworld series that contain stories about both Savannah and her Witch mother Cabal Sorcerer father both now deceased.
As Savannah digs deeper into the case, she encounters a web of deceit, betrayal, and hidden secrets. She soon realizes that there is more at stake than just finding Paige, as she uncovers a dangerous experiment involving witches and supernatural beings. With her own life on the line, Savannah must use all her skills and wit to outsmart the culprits and save herself and those she cares about.
Waking the Witch
A #1 New York Times best-selling author, Kelley Armstrong is a shining star in the world of paranormal fiction. With Waking the Witch, she shows why critics rank her among "the big girls of the genre" (Kansas City Star). The orphaned daughter of a notorious dark witch and a sorcerer, Savannah Levine is a motorcycle-riding, spellcasting beauty at age 21. Recruited by a paranormal detective, Savannah longs to prove her worth. So when her adoptive parents go on vacation, she heads for a small town in Washington where two women have been murdered—and evil forces have clearly played a hand. But after a third body surfaces, Savannah wonders if she's truly prepared for the dangerous world around her. Armstrong is acclaimed for crafting engaging mysteries set within fully realized fantasy realms that are populated by every manner of supernatural being. Narrator Johanna Parker captures the author's unique world with a mesmerizing performance. "There is never a false line in Armstrong's writing." –Charlaine Harris
- Kelley Armstrong - Автор
- Johanna Parker - Рассказчик
Серия: Women of the Otherworld Издатель: Recorded Books, Inc. Издание: Unabridged
"Waking the Witch" not only presents an intriguing murder mystery but also delves into the complexities of the supernatural world. Armstrong masterfully weaves together elements of witchcraft, magic, and paranormal creatures to create a rich and immersive narrative. The characters are well-developed, with their flaws and strengths shining through as they confront various challenges. One of the notable aspects of the book is its exploration of the relationships between the characters. Savannah's complex dynamic with her mother, as well as her growing affection for Adam and Gabriel, adds depth and emotional resonance to the story. These relationships are tested and put to the test as the characters face dangerous situations and make difficult choices. Additionally, "Waking the Witch" tackles themes of identity, belonging, and the power of self-discovery. Savannah's journey forces her to confront her past, question her place in the supernatural world, and come to terms with her own powers and potential. This personal growth and development add layers of complexity to the plot and make the story even more engaging. Overall, Kelley Armstrong's "Waking the Witch" is an enthralling and magical read that will captivate fans of urban fantasy and supernatural mysteries. The combination of an intricate plot, well-rounded characters, and thought-provoking themes make this novel a standout in the genre. Whether you're already a fan of Armstrong's work or new to her writing, "Waking the Witch" is sure to leave a lasting impression..
Reviews for "The Burden of Power: Savannah Levine's Struggle in "Waking the Witch"
1. Sarah - 2 out of 5 stars - I was really disappointed with "Kelley Armstrong Waking the Witch". I found the storyline to be lacking in excitement and the characters were underdeveloped. The plot moved slowly, and I struggled to get into the story. Overall, it felt like a drag to finish reading the book, and I probably won't be picking up another book in this series.
2. John - 2 out of 5 stars - I had high hopes for "Kelley Armstrong Waking the Witch", but it fell short for me. The main character, Savannah, felt unrealistic and lacked depth. The pacing of the book was off, with long periods of nothing happening and then rushed action scenes. The mystery element was also lackluster and didn't intrigue me enough. Unfortunately, I wouldn't recommend this book to others.
3. Emily - 3 out of 5 stars - While "Kelley Armstrong Waking the Witch" was an okay read, it didn't captivate me like I expected it to. The plot felt predictable and the twists didn't have the impact I was hoping for. The writing style was engaging enough to keep me turning the pages, but the overall story left me feeling underwhelmed. It's not a terrible book, but I wouldn't prioritize it on your reading list.