There’s something irresistibly enchanting about curling up with a book about witches as autumn leaves turn golden and Halloween approaches. Lucy Jane Wood’s debut novel Rewitched delivers exactly that cozy autumnal magic, while weaving a deeper story about self-worth, found family, and the courage to embrace who you truly are.
The Story
Belle Blackthorn is, quite literally, a hot mess of a witch. Working at beloved Lunar Books while hiding her magical abilities from her non-wicche best friend Ariadne, she’s spent years dimming her own light. When her 30th birthday brings an unexpected summons from her coven for an “EquiWitch” trial to prove she deserves to keep her powers, Belle must confront her own self-doubt before it’s too late.
With only the month of October to prepare, Belle finds help from unlikely places: her mother Bonnie, a mysterious elderly warlock named Artorius Day who agrees to mentor her, and the infuriatingly handsome watchman Rune who’s tasked with protecting her. But dark forces seem determined to see her fail, and Belle must decide if she’s willing to fight not just for her magic, but for everything—and everyone—she holds dear.
What Works
Rich World-Building
Wood crafts an intricate magical system that feels both fresh and familiar. From sooth stones that offer guidance to the complex politics of the Selcouth coven, every magical element serves the story while creating a world readers will want to explore further.
Character Development
Belle’s journey from self-doubt to self-acceptance feels earned and authentic. The supporting cast shines equally bright – particularly Artorius, whose tragic backstory adds surprising depth to what could have been a typical mentor figure.
Romance
The slow-burn romance between Belle and Rune crackles with chemistry. Their banter provides welcome moments of lightness, while their growing connection feels grounded in mutual respect and understanding.
Found Family Dynamics
The heart of the story lies in its exploration of chosen family. Belle’s relationships—with her mother, with Ariadne, and with Artorius—form the emotional core that gives the magical elements real weight.
Room for Improvement
Pacing Issues
The first third moves somewhat slowly as Belle wrestles with accepting her trial. While this internal conflict is important, it occasionally feels repetitive.
Villain Development
The Gowden sisters, while effectively menacing, could have been developed further earlier in the story. Their motivations, when revealed, feel slightly rushed in comparison to the care given to other character arcs.
Magic System Clarity
While creative, some aspects of the magical system (particularly regarding the EquiWitch trial requirements) can be confusing to follow. A bit more explanation early on would help readers better understand the stakes.
Standout Elements
- The atmospheric descriptions of Lunar Books and autumn in London
- The complex family dynamics, particularly between Belle and her grandmother
- Creative magical elements like the grimoire challenges and sooth stones
- The authentic portrayal of female friendship between Belle and Ariadne
- Themes of self-acceptance and embracing one’s true nature
Perfect For Readers Who Love
- Cozy witch fiction like The House in the Cerulean Sea
- Bookshop settings like The Midnight Library
- Found family narratives
- Slow-burn romance with plenty of witty banter
- Stories about finding your place in the world
Final Thoughts
Rewitched by Lucy Jane Wood is a promising debut that delivers both comfort and complexity. While it has some first-novel stumbles, Wood’s voice shines through with warmth and wit. The novel’s messages about self-worth and chosen family resonate beyond its magical elements, while still delivering the cozy autumn vibes readers crave.
Most impressively, Wood avoids the common pitfall of making her protagonist’s journey about external validation. Belle’s growth comes not from proving herself to others, but from learning to believe in herself—a message that feels both timely and timeless.
- Strengths: Character development, world-building, emotional depth
- Areas for Growth: Pacing, villain development
- Recommended For: Fans of cozy fantasy, romantic comedy, and stories about self-discovery
Rewitched by Lucy Jane Wood casts a spell that lingers long after the last page, reminding us that sometimes the most powerful magic lies not in what we can do, but in who we allow ourselves to become.
