Witchlings (Witchlings, #1)
by Claribel A. Ortega (Goodreads Author)

4.5 out of 5 stars

Seven is worried that when she is sorted into her witches coven she might not be in the same coven with her best friend. However, she never imagined that she would be a Spare, a witch without a coven at all. Seven and the other two Spares are set an impossible task to defeat a horrific Nightbeast. They must complete the task, or they will lose their magic forever, or worse, be turned into toads!

This book has everything I was looking for! There’s a great magic system and interesting world-building. I really liked that the witches’ world has a distant past that must be reckoned with. You really get a sense of the depth of the history behind their laws and the way their everyday lives are ordered.

I especially enjoyed the exploration of deep themes about belonging, courage, family love, friendship, and justice for every person in their world.
I loved the humorous writing style in this book! Despite the serious subject material, the writing is funny and light-hearted. There is a great balance in the pacing as well, and it all comes together for some excellent story-telling!
The plot is exciting and there is a lot of suspense and mystery, mixed in with quieter moments for the characters.

The best thing about this book is the gradual character development for the main character, Seven. As she gets to know the other Spares, they slowly begin to trust and care for each other until a friendship forms. Seven learns that people are more complex than you realize, and you can’t know their hearts until you give them a chance.

I loved this book so much!

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.