DNF: Witchstruck by Victoria Lamb

DNF Explanation

Read: 117 of 320

Received: ARC from publisher, via NetGalley

Goodreads

I thought a book about witches (with actual magic) set in Tudor England during the tenuous reign of Mary (as in, Bloody) would be filled with all sorts of excitement and intrigue.

Unfortunately, no. Maybe this is a case of misplaced expectations, but if I had to pick one word to characterize Witchstruck that word would be "boring."

The characters rarely did anything useful with their magic, which I never understand because if I had magic I'd use it for everything. But, I don't know, maybe the magic in this world can't be used like that? It was all very "cast the circle, bring out the ritual knife" kind of magic, which was super serious and kind of sapped the sparkly joy out of magic. Except for when it wasn't and Meg could just do things with her mind. So, yeah, I'm not really clear on the rules of magic in this world.

And, yes, I know the fact that witches are considered evil and tracked down by witch hunters to be killed in horrific very Tudor-esque ways may be somewhat of a deterrent to using said magic, but, seriously, YOU HAVE MAGIC. Can't Meg figure out a way to use her powers (powers to alter the perceptions and thoughts of those around her, by the way) to manage to both be a magical witch AND stay secret?

Apparently not.  

I probably would have been able to get on board even with the frustrating misuse of magic if I had a compelling main character but Meg never struck that best friend chord with me. Her characterization was so wishy washy that I'm not even sure what character traits I'd assign to her.

In one breath she seemed like she had significant magical powers, and then in the next she's talking about how she really doesn't. She's totally on Elizabeth's side, but she doesn't want to stick her neck out to help Elizabeth in a plot to overthrow Mary.

And, I mean, I can see why she'd feel that way what with all the people losing their heads during that time and all, but a timid do nothing main character is a boring main character. Even if it's the smart thing to do (and Meg has already shown that she rarely does the smart thing).

Then there's the romance. Sure, Meg won't get involved to help Elizabeth, but she sure will get involved with a priest (sorry, "soon to be warrior priest" whatever) who has been sent by Mary to spy on Elizabeth. Because that's not stupid or anything.

Also, I had a hard time mustering up a swoon for a priest. Especially a bland priest.

Sorry, "soon to be warrior priest." Whatever.

By the time Meg found herself in a dangerous situation with witch hunters, I disliked her enough to root for the witch hunters. She was only in that situation because she didn't understand the importance of stealth (and then she couldn't figure out how to outwit a "simple" child kitchen maid. Really), and for a witch living in Mary's Tudor court as Elizabeth's pal, well, that's just dumb.

Bottom line

Does the intrigue pick up? Does the magic play a better role? Does Meg learn the value of sneakiness? Does the priest ditch his Catholic calling and transform into a dashing romantic hero? Does Elizabeth DO anything?

I don't know, but that would certainly improve things.

Do you have any questions about Witchstruck that I haven't addressed?
Feel free to ask in the comments!

Did you finish this book? What are your thoughts? Should I pick it up again?

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