Healer and witch Nancy Werlin is a prominent figure in the world of magic and healing. Known for her unique abilities and extensive knowledge, she has made significant contributions to both fields. Werlin's journey began when she discovered her innate magical abilities at a young age. As a healer, Werlin specializes in various alternative and holistic healing modalities. She believes in the power of natural remedies and the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Werlin has spent years studying various healing practices from different cultures around the world.
Werlin’s new novel is cause for celebration—for its sleek, sharp prose; intelligent ideas; and precise characterization, to name but a few of its attributes. Set in 1531 France, this is the tale of Sylvie, an untaught telepathic healer, who, after the death of her grand-mère, mistakenly removes much of her mother’s memory while trying to ease her grief. In the company of clever, rambunctious young neighbor Martin, Sylvie leaves her tiny hamlet in quest of a mentor to teach her how to use her powers safely; the two travel to Lyon with the caravan of an enterprising trader to find the renowned magic-user Madame du Bois. But both Madame du Bois and the trader turn out to be something of a surprise—and will Lyon’s new inquisitor prove to be a help to Sylvie, or a danger? Every sentence here pushes character and plot forward, so there’s plenty of momentum and suspense; but what is more unusual is the way Werlin prods characters (and readers) to think through ideas of faith and reason in making their own choices. The story has its articulate and challenging “lessons” (for instance, even after you discover who it is you’re meant to be, “you must work hard every day to become that person”). Just as much, it invites questions and rigorous reasoning, refusing to bow to romantic sentiment (“But men owned their wives,” Sylvie thinks, considering the legal realities of marriage). A refreshingly honest and elegantly written work of historical fantasy.
In the company of clever, rambunctious young neighbor Martin, Sylvie leaves her tiny hamlet in quest of a mentor to teach her how to use her powers safely; the two travel to Lyon with the caravan of an enterprising trader to find the renowned magic-user Madame du Bois. Although Werlin skillfully evokes Healer and Witch s period setting, Sylvie s journey of self-discovery and its accompanying themes of female empowerment are timeless.
Werlin has spent years studying various healing practices from different cultures around the world. She has mastered techniques such as energy healing, herbal medicine, and crystal therapy. In addition to her healing expertise, Werlin is also a skilled witch.
Healer and Witch - by Nancy Werlin
"Sylvie and her mother and grandmother are beloved, trusted healers in their medieval French village, though some whisper that fifteen-year-old Sylvie and her grand-mere deal in more than herbs and medicines. After her grandmother dies, and an attempt to use magic to heal her mother's grief brooks tragic consequences, Sylvie leaves her village in search of a teacher."--
Book Synopsis
After eleven young-adult novels, best-selling and award-winning author Nancy Werlin casts a brilliant new spell in a middle-grade historical fantasy for fans of classic fare.
Nancy Werlin's first story for middle-grade readers tackles and transcends traditional fantasy tropes: can a young woman gifted with magic learn to manage her powers--and claim her strength--without violence? Sylvie and her mother and grandmother are beloved, trusted healers in their medieval French village, though some whisper that fifteen-year-old Sylvie and her grand-mere deal in more than herbs and medicines. Perhaps they're a bit . . . witchy? After her grandmother dies, and an attempt to use magic to heal her mother's grief brooks tragic consequences, Sylvie leaves her village in search of a teacher. The journey subjects her to strange alliances, powerful temptations, danger, and deceit. In the end, there may be only one wise woman Sylvie can trust in a world that would define her limits: herself. Beautifully crafted, this quietly powerful work for younger readers assures a whole new audience for an established author.
Review Quotes
Werlin's first foray into middle grade is a thrilling and suspenseful experience; there are twisting reveals and adventure aplenty, though the story isn't afraid to stop for lovely moments of quiet contemplation and recollection along the way. A budding, respectful romance and hints of deeper powers will have readers hoping for a sequel. It's well worth joining kind and clever Sylvie on her harrowing journey of discovery.
--Booklist (starred review)
A refreshingly honest and elegantly written work of historical fantasy.
--The Horn Book (starred review)
A delightful page-turner that will entice readers of historical fiction and fantasy alike. It's a refreshing stand-alone novel with a resilient protagonist who realizes the greatest magic of all is being true to oneself. . . . Thoroughly enjoyable and engaging, filled with magic, mystery, strength, and love.
--Kirkus Reviews
An introspective historical fantasy . . Werlin's gentle reflection on trauma and healing, the ethics of power, and seemingly dual natures explores Sylvie's place in the world and her relationship to those she cares for.
--Publishers Weekly
Gracefully explores themes of identity, family and belonging. . . Werlin (Zoe Rosenthal Is Not Lawful Good) brings compassion and complexity to her depictions of the relationships between characters, challenging standard notions of good and evil. . . . Although Werlin skillfully evokes Healer and Witch's period setting, Sylvie's journey of self-discovery and its accompanying themes of female empowerment are timeless.
--Shelf Awareness (starred review)
Against the backdrop of a turbulent era Nancy Werlin spins a sophisticated coming-of-age story in 'Healer & Witch, ' a novel for readers ages 9-12 that is set in France. . . . a properly inventive, historically respectful story with a touch of magic (and romance) in its realism.
--The Wall Street Journal
About the Author
Nancy Werlin (she/her) is the author of eleven books for teens, including Zoe Rosenthal Is Not Lawful Good, the National Book Award Finalist The Rules of Survival, the Edgar Award winner The Killer's Cousin, and the New York Times bestseller Impossible. Nancy Werlin lives outside Boston.
Review Quotes
She has honed her magical abilities through rigorous training and years of practice. As a witch, she uses her knowledge of spellcasting and ritual work to manifest positive change in the world. Werlin is well-versed in various magical traditions, including Wicca and witchcraft. Werlin's unique combination of healing and witchcraft has allowed her to offer a comprehensive approach to her clients. She understands that true healing requires addressing both the physical and spiritual aspects of an individual. Werlin often combines her healing techniques with magical rituals to create powerful transformations for her clients. Beyond her individual practice, Werlin is also a teacher and mentor to aspiring healers and witches. She has dedicated herself to sharing her knowledge and empowering others to embrace their own magical abilities. Werlin's workshops and classes are known to be transformative experiences, providing students with the skills and confidence to pursue their own paths in the world of magic and healing. Werlin's contributions and impact on the worlds of healing and witchcraft have not gone unnoticed. She has been recognized with numerous awards for her work, including the prestigious "Magician of the Year" award. Her books and articles on healing and witchcraft have become must-reads for those interested in these fields. In conclusion, Nancy Werlin is a remarkable healer and witch who has made significant contributions to both the magical and healing communities. Through her expertise, passion, and dedication, she has inspired and empowered countless individuals on their own journeys of self-discovery and transformation. Werlin's continued presence and influence in the magical and healing realms ensure that her impact will be felt for generations to come..
Reviews for "The Illusion of Control: Unveiling the Hacker's True Motivations in Nancy Werlin's Novel"
1. Sarah - 2/5 stars - I was really disappointed with "Heaker and Witch Nancy Werlin". The plot was confusing and hard to follow, and the characters were underdeveloped. I never felt a connection to any of them, which made it difficult for me to care about what was happening. Additionally, the writing style felt choppy and awkward, making it a struggle to get through the book. Overall, I found it to be a lackluster read and wouldn't recommend it to others.
2. John - 1/5 stars - I couldn't even finish "Heaker and Witch Nancy Werlin". The story seemed to drag on without any clear direction, and the dialogue was stilted and unnatural. It felt like the author was trying too hard to be witty and clever, but it fell flat for me. I also found the main character to be incredibly annoying and unlikable, which made it even harder to stay engaged in the story. I wouldn't recommend wasting your time on this book.
3. Emily - 2/5 stars - I had high hopes for "Heaker and Witch Nancy Werlin", but unfortunately, it didn't live up to my expectations. The premise sounded intriguing, but the execution was lacking. The pacing was off, with slow sections and sudden bursts of action that didn't flow well. The world-building was also confusing and inconsistent, making it hard to immerse myself in the story. While there were a few interesting moments, overall, I found it to be a forgettable read.