I recently finished reading The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna, and I can confidently say it was an enchanting escape from reality. As a lover of whimsical stories about magic, I was drawn to its promise of a warm and uplifting narrative centered around an isolated witch named Mika Moon. The book’s description painted a picture of a cozy environment and a journey of self-discovery that I simply couldn’t resist.
From the very first pages, I felt enveloped in the cozy atmosphere that others have described as a “warm blanket on a cold day.” Mika’s journey from isolation to finding a sense of belonging is beautifully crafted and resonated with me on many levels. As she travels to Nowhere House to teach three young witches, I appreciated her gradual realization that love and family can be found in the most unexpected places. This theme of connection, echoed by a reader who remarked on how the story reminds us that being different doesn’t make one unlovable, truly stood out to me.
The writing style is engaging and witty, with rich descriptions that made me visualize the charming setting of Nowhere House. Each character, from the quirky children to the gruff but endearing librarian Jamie, felt uniquely crafted, making it easy to become emotionally invested in their journeys. This ensemble cast adds layers of complexity to the story, pleasing the “found family” trope that I find so appealing, reminiscent of what Sarah M Stewart noted about the subtleness of the fantasy elements grounding the story in a contemporary feel.
However, while I adored much of the book, there were a couple of drawbacks that I feel compelled to mention. One was the romantic subplot involving Mika and Jamie. Although their chemistry had its moments, I found it occasionally felt forced and detracted from the themes of self-acceptance and belonging that intrigued me most. Another reader voiced a similar concern, reflecting that the romance felt a bit unneeded in an otherwise engaging narrative.
Also, while the book was described as having a good dose of magic, I sometimes felt that the fantasy elements took a backseat to character development. For someone who craves a bit more magic in their magical reads, it might not be as satisfying. Another review captured this sentiment well, expressing that while the fantasy was subtly integrated, it still felt very contemporary.
That said, the heartwarming aspects of the story vastly outweighed any of these minor criticisms. There’s an underlying message of bravery in letting oneself be loved, which resonated deeply with me. Mandi’s review beautifully encapsulated this sentiment—it’s easy to relate to Mika’s struggle with vulnerability in a world that reminds her to keep her distance.
Ultimately, The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches is a delightful read perfect for anyone looking for a book that blends magic, heart, and charming characters. Despite a few issues with pacing and the romance being less than perfect, the overall experience was lovely. This cozy tale is likely to linger in my thoughts, much like Emily Henry mentioned in her endorsement.
If you’re searching for a gentle escape filled with warmth, laughter, and a sprinkling of magic, then I highly recommend this book. It’s a sweet and comforting read that I believe many will enjoy, particularly those who appreciate stories about found family and the courage it takes to show up in the world as one truly is.