The Stats

Title: The Witches of Moonshyne Manor

Author: Bianca Marais

Narrated By: Amy Landon

Publisher: MIRA (23 August, 2022)

Time: 10 Hours 47 Minutes

Genre: General Fiction (Adult), Women’s Fiction, Fantasy, LGBTQIA+, Magical Realism

Trigger Warnings: Cancer, Death, Abusive Behavior

Read if you like: Practical Magic, HP, Halloweentown, Twitches

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

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The Witches of Moonshyne Manor was the December 2022 selection for The Gloss Book Club.

Feature Image Stock Photo by Leeloo Thefirst

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The Review

“The Witches of Moonshyne Manor” by Bianca Marais is an enchanting and delightful read that skillfully combines magic, sisterhood, and unexpected friendships. Set in Moonshyne Manor, the story follows a coven of five octogenarian witches who face imminent threats to their home and their bond.

Marais adeptly introduces readers to the eccentric characters and the magical world they inhabit. The witty banter and camaraderie among the witches, reminiscent of “The Golden Girls,” immediately immerse you in their lives. Queenie, Jezebel, Tabitha, Ivy, Ruby, and Ursula, each possessing unique powers and personalities, form a diverse and compelling group of protagonists. However, I must note that there seemed to be an unintentional bias in the initial descriptions of the Black Witches, Queenie and Tabitha, which leaned towards the “angry Black Women” trope. Fortunately, as the characters develop, they break free from this stereotype. Marais truly excels in portraying the strength and power found in aging, female relationships, and found family, leaving readers with a heartwarming and uplifting experience.

The plot unfolds at a steady pace, blending humor, mystery, and feminist themes. As the witches strive to save their beloved manor, they must confront their past, unravel a legacy theft, and navigate their complex relationships. Marais explores important social issues, including sexism, ageism, and female empowerment, with depth and sensitivity. She adds comedic humor through the character of Persephone, a Gen Z character whose name holds a spoiler.

Marais’s writing style is engaging and accessible, allowing the story to flow effortlessly and ensuring a thoroughly enjoyable read. The inclusion of recipes and instructions for magical practices adds an immersive element to the narrative, though as a listener of the audiobook on Libby, I found this aspect slightly confusing at first. I imagine that having a physical copy of the book would enhance the enjoyment of these details.

In conclusion, “The Witches of Moonshyne Manor” is a captivating tale that will enchant fans of magical realism, mystery, and heartwarming stories. Bianca Marais once again proves why she is a must-read author, delivering a delightful and empowering novel that celebrates the power of women and the strength of unlikely friendships.

Short Review (AKA TLDR)

An Honest Lie by Tarryn Fisher is a psychological thriller that combines a girls’ trip to Las Vegas with a chilling exploration of a protagonist’s dark past in a cult. While the dual timeline adds intrigue, the pacing feels slow, and the plot fails to fully converge, resulting in a disjointed reading experience. Although the cult theme is well-executed, the believability falters in the chaotic and somewhat unrealistic events that unfold. While the book offers moments of entertainment and suspense, it ultimately falls short of its potential, leaving readers wanting more. It’s an enjoyable listen, but one that is easy to forget.