Published by Lake Union Publishing Genres: Fiction, Mystery
Format: ARC, eBook
Whenever I see that Wendy Webb has a new book coming out, I get very, very excited. She has a knack for transporting me/readers into the lives of her characters. I loved being a silent observer as Cassie Graves investigates her family’s past while making changes to her present and future in The Witches of Santo Stefano! I found this book to be addictive, engrossing, magical, and beautiful. I loved the feeling of community and friendship which are paired with family secrets and mystery in this book.
Cassie had her life altered when she discovered her husband’s affair. She’s a smart and savvy woman and after having her heartbroken, she decides to go to Italy to continue researching her family’s history especially that surrounding the death of great-grandmother Violetta whose death certificate states her cause of death is stregoneria—witchcraft! I love a good book about witches and/or witchcraft, so this was a no brainer for me!!! Plus, it is written by Wendy Webb!!!!!! I could not wait to dig in and Wendy Webbb cast her spell on me!
I loved the theme of researching one’s family. Cassie’s trip to Italy and her research was intriguing. I loved how those in the community became invested in her research as well, sharing what they knew or heard. I also loved the talk of witches, the found spell book, and the glimpses into the lives of the characters in the past and present.
I could not get enough of this book. I found it to be engaging, enticing, and hard to put down. As I mentioned, I enjoy Wendy Webb’s writing. I love her vivid descriptions, her characters, and the plots of her books. I found this book to be atmospheric and magical!
The characters are well drawn, and I was invested in their plight. I would have enjoyed spending time with all of them. Plus, the descriptions of Italy, the hospitality, the delicious food and beautiful landscapes had me wanting to pack my bags and grab my passport!
This book touches on family, community, the kindness of strangers, self-reliance, love, romance, loss, and magic!
Wonderfully written, well thought out, engaging, addictive and pure magic!
Thank you to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
