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Nov 10, 2020LPL_LeahN rated this title 5 out of 5 stars
Witchcraft meets the suffragist movement in this dazzling tale from my favorite up-and-coming fantasy she-ro, Alix E. Harrow. James Juniper, Agnes, and Bella are the Eastwood Sisters, each a wayward force in their own right after escaping a toxic home life and separately making their way to the bustle of New Salem. They've got some issues to work out, abandonment and perceived betrayals, but something more powerful and determined than their grudges latches on and compels them to bring all the women of New Salem together to vanquish their oppressors. They have the will, now all that's needed are the lost words and ways... I like powerful stories that also have a healthy dose of mischief and fun, which this book delivered in spades. I also appreciate that Harrow didn't shy away from the women of color left behind during this moment in the suffragist legacy, addressing it with candor but recognizing the fierce will and agency these women created for themselves. Harrow has only written two novels, the first, The Ten Thousand Doors of January, blew me away as a debut. Her storytelling has an unexpected maturity, her voice a distinct strength. I so eagerly anticipated reading this, it exceeded my very high expectations, and I can't wait for whatever she comes up with next!