The Silver Witch by Paula Brackston

Book Summery (Via Goodreads):A year after her husband’s sudden death, ceramic artist Tilda Fordwells finally moves into the secluded Welsh cottage that was to be their new home. She hopes that the tranquil surroundings will help ease her grief, and lessen her disturbing visions of Mat’s death. Instead, the lake in the valley below her cottage seems to spark something dormant in her – a sensitivity, and a power of some sort. Animals are drawn to her, electricity shorts out when she’s near, and strangest of all, she sees a new vision; a boatful of ancient people approaching her across the water.
On this same lake in Celtic times lived Seren, a witch and shaman. She was respected but feared, kept separate from the community for her strange looks. When a vision came to her of the Prince amid a nest of vipers she warned of betrayal from one of his own. Prince Brynach both loved and revered her, but could not believe someone close to him wished him harm, even as the danger grew.
In her own time, Tilda’s grief begins to fade beside her newfound powers and a fresh love. When she explores the lake’s ancient magic and her own she discovers Seren, the woman in her vision of the boat. Their two lives strangely mirror each others, suggesting a strong connection between the women. As Tilda comes under threat from a dark power, one reminiscent of Seren’s prophecy, she must rely on Seren and ancient magic if death and disaster are not to shatter her life once more.

Book Review:
Despite its lengthy description, I wasn't sure what to expect. Let me start with the setting. Brackston does a beautiful job of describing the small Welsh island, both in present and past. It took me back to a simpler time, which is added my Tilda's ability to make all electronic's malfunction in her presence. The downside of this is that we never discover the meaning behind the malfunctions. I enjoyed the alternating voices of Tilda and Seren, and eventually their interactions. I honestly could have read a book solely on Seren. Her story is rather intriguing and mysterious. Tilda had her own charms as well. I rather liked how she enjoyed the simple things in life...a mug of tea, running, reading, etc...I feel like Tilda and I could have been friends in real life. The grave/dig site gave this novel a touch of mystery and adventure which making near impossible to set this book down! I'll definitely be looking to Brackston's books in the future!

Thanks to Thomas Dunne Books for this copy.
Published April 21st 2015
This is my honest review.

Cover Art Commentary:
Seriously, how could you NOT love this cover? I love the simplicity, yet magical feel of it!

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