The world of witchcraft has been a subject of fascination for centuries. From ancient folklore to modern-day pop culture, witches have captured the imaginations of people around the globe. With so many books on the topic, it can be overwhelming to choose the best witch books to read. This section will provide a brief overview of some of the most popular and highly recommended books on witchcraft.
A Discovery of Witches (All Souls Series)
Diana Bishop, a descendant of witches, stumbles upon an enchanted manuscript in Oxford’s library. The discovery leads her to meet vampire Matthew Clairmont, and together they embark on an epic fantasy adventure to unravel the mysteries hidden within the book’s pages. Currently, the series is 14% off, making it an excellent time to dive into this captivating world.
Conjure Women: A Novel
Conjure Women is a historical novel that tells the story of enslaved women living on a plantation in the Civil War era-South. Rue, a young woman who learned healing skills from her mother, May Belle, must navigate what happens when children in the community begin to fall ill in the immediate aftermath of the war.
Practical Magic
Fans of the movie Practical Magic can now enjoy the original series that inspired it. This fall, take advantage of the 42% discount and add the magical books to your reading list. For more classic fall books, check out the 25 Best Classic Fall Books list.
Witches of America
According to journalist Alex Mar’s reported memoir, witches are gathering all across California. The book explores the world of modern witchcraft and its various forms, including traditional Wicca, feminist witchcraft, and more. Mar delves into the lives of real-life witches and their apprentices, as well as the polyamorous relationships that often exist within these communities.
Everyone Knows Your Mother Is a Witch
Rivka Galchen’s historical fiction novel, Everyone Knows Your Mother Is a Witch, does not actually feature witches. Instead, it tells the story of the real-life witchcraft trial of Katharina Kepler, the mother of renowned scientist Johannes Kepler. This captivating novel is currently available at a discount of 57%.
The Witches of Eastwick
The Witches of Eastwick is a novel by John Updike that tells the story of three women who form a coven in Eastwick, Rhode Island. Their peaceful existence is disrupted by the arrival of a mysterious man named Darryl. The book has also been adapted into a popular movie starring Cher, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Susan Sarandon. Currently, the novel is on sale for 17% off.
Witches: A Novel
In Brenda Lozano’s Witches, Zoe is a reporter investigating the murder of Paloma, a former healer known as Gaspar. Paloma had taught her cousin Feliciana the secrets of vigils performed by Mazatec curanderos.
White is for Witching
Helen Oyeyemi’s gothic novel tells the story of Haitian twins raised in Britain. One twin suffers from a mysterious disorder and begins hearing voices. Currently, the novel is 36% off.
Mr. & Mrs. Witch: A Novel
Similar to the 2005 film Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Mr. & Mrs. Witch is a story about Savannah, a powerful witch, and Griffin, a witch hunter, who unknowingly marry each other. Chaos ensues at their wedding, and they are tasked with killing each other. The novel follows their journey as they navigate their newfound relationship and try to survive in a world where their love is forbidden.
Payback’s a Witch (The Witches of Thistle Grove)
Witch Emma Harlow’s magical powers have weakened due to her absence from Thistle Grove. She returns home for a spell-casting tournament, where her family serves as judges. Emma begins to question why she left in the first place. Currently, the tournament is being offered at a 35% discount.
The Witches of New York: A Novel
In this novel set during the Gilded Age, three witches named Adelaide, Eleanor, and Beatrice run a tea shop. They offer fortune-telling services and provide secret remedies to women who seek them out. Currently, the book is being sold at a discounted price of 15%.
Circe
Circe is a sorceress from Greek mythology who is encountered by Odysseus in Homer’s The Odyssey. In Madeline Miller’s novel, Circe is given a full story and reimagined as a magical character living on the island of Aeaea.
The Witching Hour (Lives of Mayfair Witches)
Anne Rice, known for her Vampire Chronicles, also wrote about witches in her book, The Witching Hour. The novel follows the Mayfair family over centuries. Currently, the book is 45% off.
The Manningtree Witches: A Novel
- Historical fiction novel
- Brings to life the Essex witch trials
- Through the lens of a young woman, Rebecca
- Accused of witchcraft
Macbeth
William Shakespeare’s Macbeth features three iconic witches who are known for their famous line, “Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn and cauldron bubble.” The play is a classic and highly recommended for those who have not yet read it.
The Master and Margarita
The Master and Margarita is a 50th Anniversary Edition of a classic work of Russian literature. This satirical novel is a humorous yet devastating critique of Soviet life. The second part of the book follows Margarita, the Master’s lover, who transforms into a witch. Currently, the book is available at a discounted price of 40%.
Secret History of Witches
- Louisa Morgan’s novel follows five generations of witches from 17th-century France to 1940s London.
- The novel explores the secret history of witches and their struggles to survive in a world that fears and persecutes them.
- Morgan’s narrative highlights the power and resilience of women who have been marginalized and oppressed throughout history.
- The novel also sheds light on the complexities of witchcraft, including its ties to nature, spirituality, and magic.
- Through her vivid storytelling, Morgan invites readers to consider the ways in which witchcraft has shaped our world and continues to inspire and empower women today.
Summary
The world of witchcraft and magic has always been a fascinating topic for many readers. There are numerous books available that explore this realm of fantasy and mysticism.
Some of the best witch books include “Practical Magic” by Alice Hoffman, “The Witching Hour” by Anne Rice, and “The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane” by Katherine Howe. These books offer a unique perspective on the world of witches and magic, and are a must-read for anyone interested in this genre.