This is the third in Paula Brackston's series of witching novels. Tilda has moved to a small cottage by a lake in Wales after her husband's unexpected death. Soon she discovers that whenever she's around fuses blow out, light bulbs burn out and clocks stop working. Eventually she begins having visions. She discovers a possible link to a shaman/seer, Seren, who lived in the area 1,000 years ago. Along the way she finds a new love. Tilda's story is told in alternating chapters with Seren's.

Something about this book made me think of Nora Roberts' novels. I think the author is trying for a more "literary" version of a romance novel. It's well written and well-told if a little repetitive in spots.

I felt most of the characters were rather one-dimensional without a lot of personality, even Tilda, the main character. The Tilda-Dylan romance felt perfunctory to me, as if the author was checking off items on a list of requirements for a romance novel.

Rosanne S. (Franklin Square, NY)

Witchy Women

So I requested to read The Silver Witch because it intrigued me. While not my usual read, I really appreciated the opportunity to get a taste of Paula Brackston's witchy novel.

Brackston writes beautifully and perhaps that kept me moving through the novel more than the subject matter. A mix of historical fiction and fantasy it delivers something for everyone. The chapters alternate between the time of Seren in 10th century Wales and current times with Tilda. As Tilda discovers the link between she and Seren the historical facts as well as a love story unfold.

I can now say I "gave it a try" and though I enjoyed what I read I doubt that I will try another.