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535
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1880s
2016
Adult
18+ years
The Witches of New York by Ami McKay follows the lives of two witches, Eleanor St. Clair and Adelaide Thom, who run a tea shop, and a new witch, Beatrice Dunn, in Gilded Age New York. They face societal challenges and hidden dangers while navigating their magical abilities. References to the dehumanizing treatment of women and children and depictions of suicide are present in the book.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Dark
Unnerving
Contemplative
29,089 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ami McKay's The Witches of New York is praised for its immersive historical detail and strong, magical feminist themes. Readers appreciate the richly developed characters and atmospheric setting. However, some criticism centers on the pacing, with parts deemed slow. Overall, it’s a compelling blend of history, magic, and social commentary.
Readers who enjoy The Witches of New York by Ami McKay are typically fans of historical fiction intertwined with elements of magic and the supernatural, akin to The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern and Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman. These readers appreciate richly detailed settings, strong female protagonists, and a touch of witchcraft.
29,089 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Eleanor St. Clair
A witch and owner of a tea shop, she upholds her family's herbal and magical traditions, mentoring Beatrice in spellcasting and herbology.
Adelaide Thom, or Zula Moth, or Moth
A witch with the power of foresight, who co-owns a tea shop and works to create a new identity after a traumatic past.
Reverend Francis Townsend
A zealous preacher acting as an antagonist whose actions are fueled by misogyny, violence, and the misguided belief that he is saving Beatrice from witchcraft.
Dr. Quinn Brody
A former Civil War surgeon turned psychiatrist who lost an arm and is Adelaide's love interest, offering support to the witches with his interest in ghosts.
Gideon Palsham and The Collectors
Mysterious characters connected to dark, unknown motives, with Palsham being a central villain against the witches, harboring a deep-seated hatred toward them.
The Dearlies
Mischievous, angelic beings who provide dream-based guidance and forewarning to the witches, showing a strong connection with supernatural realms.
The Ghosts
Various spectral figures that Beatrice encounters, most of whom aid her and her friends; notable among them are Delphine St. Clair, Eleanor’s mother, and other spirits connected to Beatrice’s awakening powers.
535
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1880s
2016
Adult
18+ years
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