By Jen Craven
In recent years, a bewitching literary genre has been quietly casting its spell on readers worldwide. Known as “Witchlit,” this enchanting subgenre of fantasy and magical realism has been captivating the imaginations of readers and offering a unique blend of the mystical, the supernatural, and the everyday. Let’s delve into the mysteries of Witchlit and the allure of witchy stories that are perfect for the fall season.
What is Witchlit?
Witchlit, short for “witch literature,” is a subgenre of fiction that revolves around the lives, adventures, and magical practices of witches. These stories often blend elements of fantasy, magical realism, and contemporary fiction to create a world where magic and the mundane coexist seamlessly. Witchlit tales often feature witches as relatable, multidimensional characters, focusing on their personal growth, relationships, and struggles, all set against the backdrop of mystical and supernatural experiences.
The Popularity of Witchy Stories
The question arises: why are witchy stories so popular? Several factors contribute to their widespread appeal:
Empowerment: In witchy stories, protagonists harness the power of the supernatural to overcome obstacles, providing readers with a sense of empowerment and agency.
Escape and Enchantment: Witchlit offers an escape from the ordinary into a world filled with enchantment, wonder, and endless possibilities.
Connection to Nature: Many witchy narratives emphasize the connection between witches and nature, tapping into the human desire to reconnect with the natural world.
Timelessness: Witchcraft has fascinated humanity for centuries, and these stories tap into a timeless fascination with the occult and mystical arts.
Diverse Representation: Witchlit often features diverse characters, backgrounds, and perspectives, allowing readers from all walks of life to see themselves reflected in these enchanting narratives.
New and Favorite Witchy Novels for Fall
As autumn’s cool breeze sweeps in, it’s the perfect time to curl up with a cup of tea and a captivating witchy novel. So, light a candle, grab a warm blanket, and let the witchy tales transport you to realms where magic is real and every leaf holds a secret spell. Here are some new and beloved witchy stories to add to your fall reading list. Happy reading!
1. “Weyward” by Emilia Hart
Altha is facing a trial for witchcraft; teenage Violet’s uncanny connection with nature is severed by men at every turn; Kate is held in a gleaming glass tower and is in an abusive relationship. Three generations of women across the decades are in danger, but all find power and connection in the wilds of Cumbria, leading them to showdowns with their oppressors.
2. “Practical Magic” by Alice Hoffman
Dive into the world of the Owens sisters, who come from a long line of witches. This tale of love, family, and magic is perfect for those who want a witchy read with a touch of romance.
3. “The Once and Future Witches” by Alix E. Harrow
This reimagining of history with a fantastical twist follows the three Eastwood sisters in 1893 New Salem who create a secret society, advocating for women’s rights in a world where magic has been forgotten and butting heads as conflict over witchcraft builds.
4. “Playing the Witch Card” by KJ Dell’Antonia
Flair Hardwicke inherits her grandmother’s bakery in Kansas, and while she knows magic is real, after she finally leaves her cheating husband, she is convinced love isn’t. Refusing to continue her Nana’s fortune-telling side business, Flair accidentally bakes a batch of Tarot card cookies that unleashes the family’s power.
5. “The Ex” Hex by Erin Sterling
Nine years ago witch Vivienne Jones cast a seemingly harmless curse on her ex-boyfriend. Nearly a decade later, the heartbreaker Rhys Penhallow returns to town where calamities strike one after another. While it’s hard to deny Rhys and Vivienne are feeling some serious chemistry, they must focus on finding a way to break the curse before it’s too late.
6. “The Witches of Moonshyne Manor” by Bianca Marais
Five octogenarian witches live in Moonshyne Manor, but when an angry mob arrives to demolish their house, the women soon learn that they’re behind on their mortgage payments. Determined to save their home, the witches try risky bargaining and attempt to use their aging powers to fight evil and threatening forces.
7. “The Witch Elm” by Tana French
For those who prefer a darker, psychological twist to their witchy tales, “The Witch Elm” is a mystery that unfolds when a man stumbles upon a skull in the garden of his ancestral home. As the secrets of his family’s past unravel, he must confront the supernatural and his own demons.