Throughout history, the image of the witch has been fraught with intrigue, fear, and persecution. Countless stories and legends have depicted witches as powerful and malevolent beings, capable of wielding dark magic and causing harm to others. However, in some instances, the witch ruler has been elevated to a position of authority and reverence. In various cultures and societies, the witch ruler has emerged as a figure of power and leadership. Often depicted as wise and knowledgeable, these rulers were believed to possess a deep understanding of the supernatural and the ability to use magic for the greater good. In certain instances, they were even considered the spiritual leaders of their community or tribe.
Hugely entertaining, timely, and triumphant.
Brown s tale of environmental depredation and turmoil is by turns poignant, graceful, endearing, and inspiring, with his mostly gentle robot protagonist at its heart. Though Roz is different from the creatures she lives with or encounters including her son, Brightbill the goose, and his new mate, Glimmerwing she makes connections through her versatile communication abilities and her desire to understand and help others.
In certain instances, they were even considered the spiritual leaders of their community or tribe. In these societies, the elevation of the witch ruler was not a result of fear or coercion, but rather a recognition of their unique abilities and qualities. These rulers were often tasked with mediating disputes, providing guidance, and performing rituals or spells for the betterment of their community.
A PINCH OF MAGIC
A gripping, atmospheric tale of sorcery, secrets, and sisterhood, infused with the titular pinch of magic.
When an ancient curse threatens her life and the lives of her sisters, Betty Widdershins seeks a way to break it.
Adventurous, 13-year-old Betty and her two sisters—Fliss, elder, and Charlie, younger—all live on the island of Crowstone in a decrepit village inn operated by their grandmother Bunny, who has always been strangely reluctant to let her granddaughters go anywhere. After Betty’s abortive attempt to surreptitiously leave Crowstone, Bunny reveals the family secret: All Widdershins girls have been under a curse for over 150 years. If one ever leaves Crowstone, she will die by the next sunset. Bunny gives Fliss a mirror, Betty nesting dolls, and Charlie a traveling bag, each containing a different magical power, to use if they need to hide or escape quickly. Intent on altering their fate, the sisters accidentally trigger the curse by leaving Crowstone while helping a young stranger escape from prison. For heroine Betty, who has “spent her life wishing for bigger things,” the imminent threat of losing her sisters proves life-changing. Facing death by the end of the day, Betty must rely on the magical objects, her sisters, and clever thinking to uncover the origins of the Widdershins curse while simultaneously confronting a rapid-fire series of perilous plot twists, betrayals, and shocking revelations in an effort to remake her family history. Betty and her family appear to be white.
A gripping, atmospheric tale of sorcery, secrets, and sisterhood, infused with the titular pinch of magic. (map) (Fantasy. 8-12)
Pub Date: Aug. 4, 2020
ISBN: 978-0-358-19331-9
Page Count: 416
Publisher: HMH Books
Review Posted Online: May 2, 2020
Kirkus Reviews Issue: May 15, 2020
Categories:Share your opinion of this book
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They were seen as channels between the earthly and the spiritual realms, and their authority was often unquestioned. The elevation of the witch ruler also highlights the complex relationship between power, gender, and magic. In many societies, women were marginalized and oppressed, viewed as weak and submissive. However, the witch ruler subverts these norms, showcasing the strength and agency of women in a traditionally male-dominated world. By harnessing the power of magic, these rulers challenge existing power structures and assert their own authority. It is important to note that the elevation of the witch ruler is not a universal concept. In many cultures, witches were seen as evil and dangerous, and their persecution was widespread. However, in those societies where the witch ruler emerged, they represented a symbol of female empowerment and resilience. Overall, the elevation of the witch ruler sheds light on the diverse perspectives and beliefs surrounding witchcraft. From being feared and persecuted to being revered and respected, the image of the witch ruler captures the complex and often contradictory attitudes towards magic and power..
Reviews for "Ruling with an Iron Fist: Dissent and Rebellion in the Witch Ruler's Kingdom"
- Sarah - 2 stars - I had high hopes for "Elevation of the witch ruler" but was ultimately disappointed. The story lacked depth and the characters felt one-dimensional. The plot was weak and predictable, and I found the writing style to be clunky and awkward. Overall, I was not engaged or invested in the story, and I wouldn't recommend it to others.
- Michael - 1 star - I couldn't even finish "Elevation of the witch ruler". The writing was confusing and disjointed, making it difficult to understand what was happening. The characters were unlikeable and had no clear motivations. The pacing was incredibly slow, and by the time I gave up on the book, nothing significant had happened. I wouldn't waste my time on this one.
- Emily - 2 stars - "Elevation of the witch ruler" had an interesting premise, but it fell short in execution. The world-building was lacking, and I never felt fully immersed in the story. The dialogue was unrealistic and the romance subplot felt forced. The ending was underwhelming and left me with more questions than answers. Overall, this book didn't live up to its potential.