Title:  The Wonkiest Witch (Wonky Inn #1)

Author:  Jeannie Wycherley

Published:  September 21, 2018

Source:  received from Pelican Cross Promotion

Type:  audiobook

Blurb: 

Alfhild Daemonne has inherited an inn.

And a dead body.

Estranged from her witch mother, and having committed to little in her thirty years, Alf surprises herself when she decides to start a new life. She heads deep into the English countryside intent on making a success of the once popular inn. However, discovering the murder throws her a curve ball. Especially when she suspects dark magick.

Additionally, a less than warm welcome from several locals, persuades her that a variety of folk – of both the mortal and magickal persuasions – have it in for her.

The dilapidated inn presents a huge challenge for Alf. Uncertain who to trust, she considers calling time on the venture. Should she pack her bags and head back to London?

Don’t be daft.

Alf’s magickal powers may be as wonky as the inn, but she’s dead set on finding the murderer. Once a witch always a witch, and this one is fighting back.

A clean and cozy witch mystery.

Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in this fantastic new witch mystery series, from the author of the award winning novel, Crone. Read The Wonkiest Witch now!

Check it on Amazon & Goodreads          

Introduction

I know Halloween is over, but Autumn is not. With cloudy skies and rainy weather, there is no perfect time like the present to indulge in witchy books, especially the fun ones. And that’s why I’ve started listening to the Wonky Inn series by Jeannie Wycherley. I’ll be talking about book one today. The rest will follow shortly, I’m sure!

The Wonkiest Witch is a charming introduction to Jeannie Wycherley’s Wonky Inn series, with a blend of cozy mystery and magic, topped with a generous dose of humor. The story centers on Alfhild Daemonne, aka Alf, a witch who has decided never to use her powers, because of an incident in her past. After her mother’s passing, she inherits a dilapidated inn as well as several other buildings and businesses, in a small village in England. She takes it as a challenge to bring the inn back to its former glory, feeling a connection with the place. However, she did not expect to discover a dead body on the premises.

From here until the end, we have a variety of characters, each bringing their own charm to the story. Alf slowly taps into her magic and seeks help from her guide to figure out how to neutralize the dark forces that don’t want her in town.

Themes & characters

Although the plot is not extremely complex, there are many themes that shine through. Alf wants a place that can feel her own, and she struggles to reconcile the magical heritage with the desire for normalcy. Self-acceptance and identity are the themes that shine brighter than the others.

The story also touches on community and trust, as our main character learns who her true friends are in a world where secrets and supernatural quirks abound.

Alf Daemonne is witty and independent, yet vulnerable at times. Her reluctance to embrace magic makes her relatable, and her inner conflict adds depth to an otherwise lighthearted plot. The inn becomes a character in itself, with its charm and spirits (as in ghosts).

There is a variety of supporting cast, some with a shorter appearance, others with a direct involvement in solving the murder. We have even an owl! All of them contribute to the cozy atmosphere and bring more of that comic effect.

Writing & reading experience

Jeannie Wycherley’s writing flows with ease, mixing the cozy mystery charm with whimsical fantasy and magical realism. Her description of the abandoned inn gives an almost gothic atmosphere, creating an apparent contrast with the charm of English countryside life. The word “wonky” is woven into the title, as well as in Alf’s description of her (wonky) abilities. While there’s a mystery at center of the plot, much of the writing is focused Alf’s growth and interactions rather than solving the mystery.

I’ve received the audiobook from Pelican Cross Promotion and I’m so happy to have experienced this book in its audio format. Kim Bretton is a delight to listen to. Her warm, expressive voice and authentic British accent are perfect for the setting and characters. She managed to give Alf an authentic voice, but she also did a fantastic job when it comes to the other characters. The way she transformed her tone to match their age, or their particularities…. Amazing! 

Conclusion

Cover Review: While I am not usually a fan of this cover style, I think it suits the story almost perfectly. There are some elements a bit too grim, but that’s ok. I still love it!

All in all, The Wonkiest Witch is the ideal feel-good, witchy escape with cozy mystery vibes and a dash of magic. If you’re looking for a thriller with a heavy dose of magic, this book may not be for you. But if you want a cozy, charming story with a warm atmosphere, this is definitely for you!

I’d like to thank Pelican Cross Promotion for the audiobook and until next time, happy reading!