Review: Witchspark

Witchspark is the most magical, heart-warming story sparkling with friendship, hope and humour that completely captured me as I was swept into a fantastical alternative Britain for a spellbinding adventure.

12-year-old Eglantine Bury is abruptly awoken when she is shaken out of bed by none other than her sentient house, Huswyvern, who warns her that her uncle Lichen is visiting, and he is bringing trouble with him – the terrifying Whistlewitch. 

When Eglantine’s father is subjected to illegal magic, Eglantine’s worst fears are realised … she is in danger of losing her home, and her father is taken by the Whistlewitch who has given her an ultimatum:  hand over her home within three months, or lose her father forever.  The only way to defeat the Whistlewitch and save both her home and father is to find her Witchspark and bond with Huswyvern.  But Eglantine has failed her spark test so how can she possibly find her magical spark?

Meanwhile, 14-year-old Princess Victoria feels stifled by her mother’s over-protective determination to keep her safe, not allowing her any freedom within the Royal Palace.  On top of this, she is fighting to control the magical powers which she cannot have as magic is forbidden to royals.  As her magical abilities create havoc within the royal household, she fears that her secret will be revealed … and she will lose her royal status.  Could someone who should have her best interests at heart be determined to usurp power?  And, what would they do if they find out about her Witchspark?

Both girls are in danger, they both need help and they are both desperate enough to seek it from a source banned by the Department of Isle-Spark Regulations who strictly control the use of magic within the Magic Isles.  Can the lessons from Miss Hegotty’s Course for Aspiring (and Ungovernable) Witches help them both on their magical journeys?  Can someone who they only meet through correspondence bring these two girls together to help each other in finding friendship, self-belief and the courage to fully embrace their Witchspark and all it offers to them?

This is THE most magical adventure that swept me into a richly portrayed alternative Victorian Britain, a world where sentient houses, ghosts and mythical creatures care for a young girl who is in danger of losing all that she holds most dear.   I found the magical system absolutely fascinating and loved the idea of an inner magical force and its link to nature and talent.  I also really enjoyed learning about the underpinning politics and power struggles governing the use of magic.  Those from rich families and males are more likely to pass the isle-spark test than those who are females or from poorer backgrounds.  Could there be a reason for the imbalance? And is there someone willing to fight back against this injustice?

I loved that this adventure has such strong female protagonists who stand up for both themselves and others – even when this leads to danger from those in positions of power.  Eglantine is the most wonderful young girl.  She has incredible inner strength and courage, never giving up in her determination to find her magical powers, a resilience and strength she has honed from overcoming difficulties due to her limb difference and in facing prejudice and hatred from her dreadful uncle Lichen.  I adored the friendship she has with both her sentient house, Huswyvern and Arthur, her loyal wyvern dragon butler who are both such fantastic, likeable characters.    I also adored Princess Victoria who, far from enjoying the freedom others might think royalty affords her, feels constricted.  She is fighting an inner battle with her uncontrollable magical abilities, seeking to give up a part of herself, but will she learn to embrace who she truly is and find the freedom she lacks?

After that ending, which brought a huge smile, I can’t wait for these ungovernable young ladies’ next adventure!

The illustrations, including framed chapter heading and full-page illustrations, are stunning and really complement the magical story-telling imbued with both warmth and peril. 

A truly mesmerising, magical adventure which sparks with humour, heart and girl power!  Perfect for young adventurers 9+.

Thank you to Fritha Lindqvist and Usborne for sending me a copy of Witchspark in exchange for my honest opinion.