Wiccan Easter is called Ostara. Ostara is a festival that celebrates the spring equinox and the arrival of spring. It takes its name from the Germanic goddess Ostara, who represents fertility and new beginnings. During Ostara, Wiccans gather to honor the changing seasons and the reawakening of nature. It is a time to celebrate the balance between light and darkness, as the days become longer and warmer. Traditionally, Ostara is associated with fertility rituals, symbolizing the Earth's renewal and the abundance of life.
Guided by an ancient grimoire and the whispers of her ancestors, Ursule is destined to walk the same path as the great witches of old. But first, the Orchière magical lineage must survive. And danger hovers over her, whether it’s the bloodlust of the mob or the flames of the pyre.
Return to the world of A Secret History of Witches with the bewitching tale of Ursule Orchière and her discovery of magical abilities that will not only change the course of her life but every generation that comes after her. The author lets us know at the start of the book that she was inspired to write Ursule s story after people who read Secret History wrote asking about this character and her story, which I think is really nice.
Traditionally, Ostara is associated with fertility rituals, symbolizing the Earth's renewal and the abundance of life. It is a time for planting seeds, both literally and metaphorically, as Wiccans set intentions and goals for the coming months. One of the most well-known symbols of Ostara is the egg, representing new life and potential.
The Great Witch of Brittany – by Louisa Morgan – independent book review – Historical Fiction (France)
Author Louisa Morgan has written a series of historical novels about witches, but this is the first I’ve read. I generously gave it four stars on Goodreads.
It takes place in France between the years 1762-1820, spanning both the French Revolution and Reign of Terror— though neither plays a huge role. It’s MOSTLY an action-packed story (that I enjoyed reading), following the life of Ursule Orchière. Born into a Romani family, Ursule soon shows herself to possess much more “magic” than her theatrical, fortune-telling mother Agnes. Ursule actually HAS the gift of sight.
But society at this time is not kind to outliers. Circumstances (no spoilers, promise) eventually force Agnes and Ursule to leave their wandering community and settle permanently on a modest farm in the remote countryside, run by a big-hearted farmer named Remy and his bitter wife Madeleine. Conflicts with Madeleine ebb and flow over the years as Ursule’s family expands and as she gains mastery over her powers and skills. All the while navigating the dual threats posed by widespread prejudice against Romani AND religiously-fueled witch-hunting.
Ursule’s story offers plenty of drama — attempted rape, love affairs, witch burnings, jealousies, personal and social rejection, marriages, and frequent childbearing. Ursule uses her talent to ease suffering and ensure the safety for those she loves. So, this is NOT a novel about the Devil and evil witchcraft. Because while Ursule DOES have SOME ability to see into the future, most of her “spells” come from documented knowledge in the family Grimoire she inherited about ways to apply herbs and plants to commonplace situations.
Louisa MorganPhoto from her Website
THE GREAT WITCH OF BRITTANY is a plot-driven historical novel. The writing is certainly serviceable. It carries the reader along, but isn’t anything special. In fact, there were quite a few times when I felt the pace was rather uneven and the plot wandering. But, overall, I enjoyed what turned out to be a story about extended family, as much as it is about witches.
More about the author, Louisa Morgan, aka Louisa Marley.
It takes place in France between the years 1762-1820, spanning both the French Revolution and Reign of Terror— though neither plays a huge role. It’s MOSTLY an action-packed story (that I enjoyed reading), following the life of Ursule Orchière. Born into a Romani family, Ursule soon shows herself to possess much more “magic” than her theatrical, fortune-telling mother Agnes. Ursule actually HAS the gift of sight.
Many Wiccans decorate eggs and incorporate them into their rituals and celebrations. Another important element of Ostara is the hare or rabbit, which is often depicted as a symbol of fertility. These creatures are associated with the goddess Ostara and are said to help bring about growth and abundance. Overall, Ostara is a joyful and optimistic celebration of rebirth and renewal. It marks the transition from winter to spring and reminds Wiccans of the cycles of nature and the endless possibilities that come with each new season..
Reviews for "Wiccan Easter: A Time for Healing and Renewal"
1. Mary Smith - 1 star
I was extremely disappointed with "Wiccan Easter is Called". The writing was poorly developed, and the plot was disjointed. It was difficult to follow the story and understand the author's intended message. Additionally, the characters lacked depth and were incredibly one-dimensional. I found it hard to connect with any of them or care about what happened to them. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone looking for a well-written and engaging story.
2. John Doe - 2 stars
While the concept of "Wiccan Easter is Called" seemed intriguing, the execution fell short for me. The pacing was slow, and I found myself losing interest in the story. The writing style was also a bit pretentious, with excessive use of flowery language that seemed unnecessary and detracted from the narrative. Furthermore, I felt like the book lacked a clear direction and the ending left me feeling unsatisfied. Overall, I was disappointed by this book and wouldn't recommend it to others.
3. Emily Johnson - 1 star
I couldn't get through "Wiccan Easter is Called". The prose was overly descriptive and lacked substance. The author seemed more focused on painting a picture with words rather than actually telling a coherent story. I found myself getting lost in the convoluted sentences and struggling to make sense of what was happening. Additionally, the characters were uninteresting and failed to evoke any emotions from me. I'm sorry to say that this book was a complete miss for me, and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone.