Title: The Hedgewitch of Foxhall
Author: Anna Bright
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication date: March 12, 2024
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Summary
Ffion has refused to join the Foxhall Coven because she believes they’re power-hungry witches who take too much power from nature. When one day, they go too far, Ffion has to figure out how to get back when they’ve taken from her. And fast. Since the magic in Wales is disappearing.
Meanwhile, Prince Taliesin is looking for a witch to help him restore magic to his kingdom. Ffion begrudgingly agrees to help him–while also possibly working with his brother, Dafydd, behind his back. Will they complete their quest in time to save Wales?
Review: The Hedgewitch of Foxhall
Thanks to HarperTeen and NetGalley for an advanced copy of The Hedgewitch of Foxhall by Anna Bright to review! Standalone fantasy can be difficult to find in YA fantasy, so it’s always a breath of fresh air when you find one. Especially when it has a gorgeous cover like this one.
This is a historical fantasy based on Welsh folklore, which I haven’t seen a lot of in YA. The folklore/magic aspect is pretty well developed for the most part, as well as the world itself. Historical fantasies lend themselves well to that, immersing the reader into this magical world Bright has created.
Splitting the narration into three different voices took away from the overall story, though. The characters themselves felt a little flat, leaving me wanting more from each of them. Focusing on just one of the princes would have helped Bright to better develop the characters’ voices, and would have made me more invested in the novel itself.
Despite that, it was an enjoyable read, especially if you like learning about different kinds of folklore. There is a bit of a love triangle, so be warned of that. It will be a good fantasy to curl up with when the weather is cold outside!
3.5/5 stars