Review : Once a Witch
Once a Witch by Carolyn MacCullough
Pages : 308
Genre : YA, Fantasy
Series : Witch, Book 1
My Rating : 
What it’s about :
For many years, Tasmin has been the black sheep of the family : despite an important prophecy announcing her as the most Talented witch of her generation, her powers never manifested. When a handsome yet mysterious stranger gives Tasmin a special mission, her life takes an expected turn as she discovers the hidden truths behind her family and the prophecy.
I’ve always had a special fondness for witches (maybe because there’s been one or ten people I would gladly have changed into frogs!), so I was naturally drawn to Once a Witch. A light fantasy read with an interesting premise, the book started out good but never really lived up to my expectations.
The setting, though nothing new, is interesting. I like the idea of everyone born with a different talent, which sounds close to reality (don’t we all have different things we’re great at?) Tasmin was engaging enough, as was her whole family.
The problem, for me, was more in the plot and its predictability. I guessed most of what would happen very early in the book, and kept waiting for the moment I would be proven wrong. Sadly, except a few “twists” I couldn’t have guessed, there were very little surprises. This could have been saved by a few humorous scenes, or a charming romance, but everything felt a bit bland.
It wasn’t bad : I finished it and would read the sequel, but it was all a bit forgettable. Once a Witch is a nice read, but I would have a hard time to pinpoint something that makes it “special”, distinct from the other books of the genre. Still, if you enjoy an easy, not too over-the-top fantasy set in our world, you might want to give this one a try.
Series Reading Order :
- Once a Witch
- Always a Witch (Coming August 2011)
I like that cover a lot – too bad the book isn’t better.
Good reads are o.k. this one may appeal to a younger crowd but maybe they get better further into the series?
Interesting take on this one! I’ve been trying to decide if I want to read it.
How disappointing. The title sounds really interesting and the cover is eye-catching. I would have bought this had I seen it in the bookstores.
Glad I read this review before finding it in bookstores.
I enjoy books about witches too. I love the idea of magic. And while this does look and sound like something I would normally pick up, I am trying to diversify my reading. If I’m in the mood for some magical feel good read, I will keep this one in mind.