The Black Witch Chronicles is a young adult fantasy series written by Laurie Forest. The series is set in a world where magic exists and follows the main character, Elloren Gardner, as she navigates her way through a society divided by race, class, and magical abilities. Elloren Gardner comes from a powerful Mage family and is expected to carry on the family tradition. However, she is hesitant to embrace her magical abilities due to the dark history surrounding her family and their involvement in the Great War. Elloren's journey begins when she enrolls at Verpax University, a prestigious magical academy, where she learns more about herself, the history of her world, and the societal prejudices that exist. Throughout the series, Elloren faces challenges and discrimination due to her heritage.
From Barnes & Noble
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. 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.
Throughout the series, Elloren faces challenges and discrimination due to her heritage. She encounters various forms of racism and inequality from her peers, teachers, and the society at large. However, despite the adversity she faces, Elloren remains determined to overcome these obstacles and prove herself.
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
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.
The Black Witch Chronicles tackles important themes such as racism, identity, and the power of choice. The series explores the consequences of discrimination and the importance of challenging the established norms. It also emphasizes the potential for growth and change through education and understanding. Laurie Forest's writing brings the world of The Black Witch Chronicles to life, vividly describing the magical elements, intriguing plotlines, and complex characters. The series delves into the moral complexities of good versus evil, the cost of power, and the struggle for justice. Overall, The Black Witch Chronicles is a captivating fantasy series that explores relevant social issues while providing readers with an immersive and imaginative world. The series resonates with readers of all ages, promoting empathy, understanding, and the importance of standing up against prejudice..
Reviews for "The Black Witch Chronicles: Breaking Stereotypes in Fantasy Literature"
1. Emily - 1 star
I found "The Black Witch Chronicles" to be incredibly disappointing. While the concept had potential, the execution fell flat. The characters were one-dimensional, and their actions often lacked depth or logical progression. The writing style was also problematic, with excessive exposition and a lack of subtlety in character development. Additionally, the story seemed to drag on without any clear resolution or purpose. Overall, I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for a captivating fantasy read.
2. Michael - 2 stars
I had high hopes for "The Black Witch Chronicles," but unfortunately, it didn't live up to expectations. The worldbuilding felt superficial and lacked the necessary depth to truly immerse the reader. The narrative structure was disjointed, making it difficult to follow the plot and connect with the characters. The pacing was also off, with long stretches of inaction and sudden bursts of rushed action sequences. While the premise may have been intriguing, the execution left much to be desired. Overall, I was left feeling unsatisfied and unengaged throughout the entire book.
3. Sarah - 1.5 stars
"The Black Witch Chronicles" left me disappointed and frustrated. The portrayal of various races and cultures was problematic, relying on harmful stereotypes and reinforcing negative prejudices. The author seemed to lack understanding or sensitivity regarding these issues, which made reading the book an uncomfortable experience. The characters lacked diversity and often played into predictable archetypes. The writing style felt forced, with clunky dialogue and repetitive descriptions. I would caution against reading this book, especially for those seeking inclusive and diverse fantasy literature.