Genre : Fiction, Paranormal, Young Adult Fantasy
Published on : March 12, 2019
Publisher : Titan Books
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The Near Witch is only an old story told to frighten children. 

If the wind calls at night, you must not listen. The wind is lonely, and always looking for company. 

There are no strangers in the town of Near. 

These are the truths that Lexi has heard all her life. 

But when an actual stranger, a boy who seems to fade like smoke, appears outside her home on the moor at night, she knows that at least one of these sayings is no longer true. 

The next night, the children of Near start disappearing from their beds, and the mysterious boy falls under suspicion. 

As the hunt for the children intensifies, so does Lexi’s need to know about the witch that just might be more than a bedtime story, about the wind that seems to speak through the walls at night, and about the history of this nameless boy. (via Goodreads)

„It starts with a crack, a sputter, and a spark.“

Lexi is our protagonist. She’s fierce and I really admire her determination and love for her family. She’s a fantastic and a strong female lead in a small town dominated by men. Wren is such an adorable little sister and she’s pretty smart too. I liked their strong sibling relationship.

Schwab is undeniably a brilliant storyteller. She always has the perfect words! I loved the vivid description, the fairytale-like atmosphere mixed with mystery and dark fantasy. The story gave me an eerie feeling which I really liked.

I think you have to consider that this book is Schwab’s debut novel and was written back in 2011 so there are things that will definitely make your eyes roll and I myself have some minor problems with the story. It’s not as unique and exceptional as the Shades of Magic and Vicious but it has the Schwab signature which still makes this book an astounding debut.

I’m so glad this book has been republished and the in-universe novella, The Ash Born Boy, is a great addition too. If you love Schwab and you haven’t read this, then what are you waiting for?

My Rating : ★★★★☆

Disclaimer : Huge thanks to Titan Books for sending me a free copy. This did not affect my overall opinion of the book.