About this book

An enchanting middle-grade debut of magic and courage in a world of witches!

Will Arianwyn ever become a real witch?

Arianwyn has flunked her witch's assessment: She knows she's doomed. Declared an apprentice and sent to the town of Lull in disgrace, Arianwyn may never become a real witch like everyone else — much to the glee of her arch-rival, Gimma.

But the remote Lull is not as boring as it seems. Strange things are being sighted in the woods, and a dangerous infestation of hex creeps throughout the town. Then the worst thing Arianwyn can imagine arrives in Lull: Gimma turns up on vacation determined to make her life miserable.

Despite being a little over her head, Arianwyn starts to get the hang of being a witch, even if she's only an apprentice. But there's one thing she's wrong about: The worst is still to come. For a mysterious darkness has begun to haunt her spells, and there may be much more at stake than just her pride...

Reviews

"[The Apprentice Witch] takes readers on a pleasant trip back to a simpler age…Arianwyn is a likeable hero, with well-drawn struggle -- both professional and personal." -- The New York Times Book Review

"There is something in the air of its world that causes a reader to breathe deeply and be immersed. Its characters feel known to us, its forests trodden by our feet… One of the delightful aspects of The Apprentice Witch is the effortless and natural feel to the worldbuilding." -- Kenny Brechner for Publishers Weekly "Shelftalker"

" An insecure young witch comes into her own in this pleasantly old-fashioned fantasy debut… This one is as cozy as a teapot and as comfy as old slippers." -- Kirkus Reviews

"These believable and engaging characters appreciate each other’s talents and collaborate to annihilate their demon foes. Readers who enjoy fantasy and challenging predicaments will appreciate Arianwyn’s transformation from a failure to a competent and valued sorcerer." -- School Library Connection

"With brisk pacing and sophisticated writing, this book is one of those rare, unputdownable gems. This tale is somewhat remniscient of J.K. Rowling's Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, and fans of magical fantasy will be enthralled with the details of this fascinating world." -- School Library Journal

"Will at once open a new and imaginative world and feel like a book you have loved forever." -- Jennifer Nielsen, New York Times bestselling author of The False Prince

"The Apprentice Witch is entirely more charming, adventurous, and full of heart than a book has any right to be. Make no mistake: there's magic afoot." -- Trenton Lee Stewart, New York Times bestselling author of The Secret Keepers and the Mysterious Benedict Society series

"A charming tale of magic, bravery, and friendship, reminiscent of Diana Wynne Jones." -- The Guardian

"Impossible to put down." -- The Bookbag

"Infused with mystery, adventure, and bundles of charm." -- The Bookseller

"Delivers mystery and action in a whirlwind of cinematic, magical adventure." -- Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books

"A great adventure story, filled with wonderful spells and mysterious creatures. Arianwyn is a fantastic character, unsure of herself but determined to succeed. The atmosphere throughout the book is tense and exciting, right until the dramatic climax." -- Booktrust