Always a Witch (Witch #2) by Carolyn MacCullough

Book Summery (Via Goodreads): Since the gripping conclusion of Once a Witch, Tamsin Greene has been haunted by her grandmother's prophecy that she will soon be forced to make a crucial decision ? one so terrible that it could destroy her family forever. When she discovers that her enemy, Alistair Knight, went back in time to Victorian era New York in order to destroy her family, Tamsin is forced to follow him into the past. Stranded all alone in the nineteenth century, Tamsin soon finds herself disguised as a lady's maid in the terrifying mansion of the evil Knight family, avoiding the watchful eye of the vicious matron, La Spider, and fending off the advances of Liam Knight. As time runs out, both families square off in a thrilling display of magic. And to her horror, Tamsin finally understands the nature of her fateful choice.

Book Review:
Well, I was captivated with the first book. However, MacCullough elevates this story to another level by primarily focusing on time travel and historical fiction. The world building is fantastic. The evil Victorian Knights are downright loathsome. Once again, Tamsin makes for a fabulous narrator. What I did miss was Tamsin's interactions with her family, friends, and of course Gabriel once she travels back in time (this is a large portion of the story). I also would have liked to see more of the future that Tamsin had fought so hard to save. I felt like the ending was a bit rushed. Despite these shortcomings, I madly flipped through the pages. It was rather difficult to set this book down. I would love to see more of this series, or the beginning of another!

Favorite Quote:
"Just then the air is split open. 'Mother I said I wanted peonies, not posies. Posies are ridiculous in winter. Who ever heard of a bride carrying posies anyway?'

Gabriel turns his head. 'Are those Rowena's dulcet tones that I hear?'"

Cover Art Commentary:
I just adore the rich, deep colors of this cover. Tamsin looking over the ledge is a perfect image for contemplation...as she makes a "terrible" choice.

Rating:

Once a Witch (Witch #1) by Carolyn MacCullough

Book Summery (Via Goodreads): Tamsin Greene comes from a long line of witches, and she was supposed to be one of the most Talented among them. But Tamsin's magic never showed up. Now seventeen, Tamsin attends boarding school in Manhattan, far from her family. But when a handsome young professor mistakes her for her very Talented sister, Tamsin agrees to find a lost family heirloom for him. The search—and the stranger—will prove to be more sinister than they first appeared, ultimately sending Tamsin on a treasure hunt through time that will unlock the secret of her true identity, unearth the sins of her family, and unleash a power so vengeful that it could destroy them all.

Book Review:
This was a fun book full of magic, romance, and adventure. Tamsin feels like an outcast from the rest of her family because she has no "talent" or special powers. She especially feels overshadowed by her older sister Rowena. However, she has found a niche for herself in life, as student at an New York boarding school who enjoys spending time with her best friend and roommate Agatha. What I liked most about Tamsin is how laid back and easy-to-relate-to she is. Definitely a more realistic character than Rowena. There is romance in this book, but it doesn't overpower the overall story. One of my favorite components of this book is the time traveling. It was definitely unexpected, and added a lot of flair. I look forward to the follow-up, Always A Witch.

Favorite Quote:
"In a real, normal  household people celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas or Hanukkah. Halloween is for the kids to dress up in costumes. It's not a holiday when your whole family gathers in the deep woods behind your house and builds a bonfire and burns sweet herbs on the alter built to the four elements."

Cover Art Commentary:
I thought I liked the cover of the paperback (pictured at the right), then came along this beauty (pictured above). LOVE IT! The colors are richer and the ancient book has more depth to it. What do you think?

Rating: