The Great Witch of Brittany: Book Review

I don’t know about you, but I love good books about witches. Witchy fiction is one of my favorite genres to read, so I’m always on the lookout for books about witches and magic. One of my favorite witchy authors, Louisa Morgan, recently published the prequel to her witchy book series, and, lucky for us, it’s her best yet! Read on to hear my thoughts on Morgan’s 2022 novel, The Great Witch of Brittany.

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The Great Witch of Brittany: Synopsis

Ursule has always known herself to be different from the rest of the clan. On more than one occasion her willful disposition has drawn far more attention than it should, but never more so than when she makes a fateful prediction that changes the course of her life. For years, she’s watched as her mother spins tales to women seeking knowledge from a seer. One evening she sees beyond the story her mother weaves to the truth, and when she speaks the seeker’s fate aloud it sets off a chain of events that will change everything.

According to the elders, there hasn’t been a true seer in her family for generations. As far as she knows, the line of Orchiere witches ended years ago. But Ursule has a secret ability she hasn’t shared with any of the clan, including her mother. Travelers aren’t typically able to read, yet Ursule learned at a very young age, something she’s kept secret for years. After finding an ancient book and oracle in her mother’s belongings, she soon discovers she possesses more than just knowledge. Ursule has the gift of sight, a power that, until now, has lay dormant for decades.

As with most great things, her power comes at a great cost. After a twisted turn of events, she and her mother are forced to flee the clan in hopes of escaping persecution. Away from their fellow Romani, they are forced to settle and live a simpler life, one of work and hardship. Dreaming of a better life, Ursule makes a fateful choice that will change not only her life but the course of the Orchiere women for generations to come.

The Great Witch of Brittany: Musings

To be fair, I’ve not read every witchy book out there, but I know a good one when I read it. For me, this book encompasses all the things I love about witchy books (and reading in general). It tells an important story about culture, tradition, and bravery in the face of persecution. It also features tons of spell work, familiars, potions, remedies, and rituals, all of which I want in witchy fiction. Plus, it’s a continuation of a series that I LOVE: the story of the Ochiere witches!

Morgan’s ability to draw a reader into the scene through her atmospheric writing and stellar inner dialogue makes this book, and all her books, stand out among witchy fiction. Her storytelling ability simply amazes me every time I read one of her books. Each of her characters is robust, spilling off the page in rich detail. Best of all, her books translate really well to audiobooks, so even busy readers can enjoy good witchy fiction on the go.

The Great Witch of Brittany: Rating

Louisa Morgan has a way with words, and her talent shines through in The Great Witch of Brittany. She’s able to weave a spell of magic, mystery, forlorn, and longing that I couldn’t put down. This is my fourth book of hers, and I can say with all certainty she is a must-buy author for me. By far my favorite in her Orchiere witches series, The Great Witch of Brittany is a sweeping story that every witchy book lover should read! If you love historical fiction and witchy reads, PLEASE read this book.

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