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The Bewitching
Win a free print copy of this book!
0 days and 17:02:28
5 copies available
U.S. only
Three women in three different eras encounter danger and witchcraft in this eerie multigenerational horror saga from the New York Times bestselling author of Mexican Gothic.
“Back then, when I was a young woman, there were still witches”: That was how Nana Alba always began the stories she told her great-granddaughter Minerva—stories that have stayed with Minerva all her life. Perhaps that’s why Minerva has become a graduate student focused on the history of horror literature and is researching the life of Beatrice Tremblay, an obscure author of macabre tales.
In the course of assembling her thesis, Minerva uncovers information that reveals that Tremblay’s most famous novel, The Vanishing, was inspired by a true story: Decades earlier, during the Great Depression, Tremblay attended the same university where Minerva is now studying and became obsessed with her beautiful and otherworldly roommate, who then disappeared under mysterious circumstances.
As Minerva descends ever deeper into Tremblay’s manuscript, she begins to sense that the malign force that stalked Tremblay and the missing girl might still walk the halls of the campus. These disturbing events also echo the stories Nana Alba told about her girlhood in 1900s Mexico, where she had a terrifying encounter with a witch.
Minerva suspects that the same shadow that darkened the lives of her great-grandmother and Beatrice Tremblay is now threatening her own in 1990s Massachusetts. An academic career can be a punishing pursuit, but it might turn outright deadly when witchcraft is involved.
“Back then, when I was a young woman, there were still witches”: That was how Nana Alba always began the stories she told her great-granddaughter Minerva—stories that have stayed with Minerva all her life. Perhaps that’s why Minerva has become a graduate student focused on the history of horror literature and is researching the life of Beatrice Tremblay, an obscure author of macabre tales.
In the course of assembling her thesis, Minerva uncovers information that reveals that Tremblay’s most famous novel, The Vanishing, was inspired by a true story: Decades earlier, during the Great Depression, Tremblay attended the same university where Minerva is now studying and became obsessed with her beautiful and otherworldly roommate, who then disappeared under mysterious circumstances.
As Minerva descends ever deeper into Tremblay’s manuscript, she begins to sense that the malign force that stalked Tremblay and the missing girl might still walk the halls of the campus. These disturbing events also echo the stories Nana Alba told about her girlhood in 1900s Mexico, where she had a terrifying encounter with a witch.
Minerva suspects that the same shadow that darkened the lives of her great-grandmother and Beatrice Tremblay is now threatening her own in 1990s Massachusetts. An academic career can be a punishing pursuit, but it might turn outright deadly when witchcraft is involved.
357 pages, Hardcover
First published July 15, 2025
2360 people are currently reading
99009 people want to read
About the author
Silvia Moreno-Garcia
150 books26k followersSilvia Moreno-Garcia is the author of several novels, including Mexican Gothic, Gods of Jade and Shadow and The Daughter of Doctor Moreau. She has also edited a number of anthologies, including the World Fantasy Award-winning She Walks in Shadows (a.k.a. Cthulhu's Daughters). Mexican by birth, Canadian by inclination.
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July 15, 2025UPDATE Is there a playlist?
Yes. One of the timelines is set in 1998 and thus it's mostly composed of alternative music from this decade. Enjoy:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4IS...
What genre is this?
Horror/suspense
What is this about?
A graduate student working on her thesis in the 1990s, an aspiring writer attending a women's college during the Great Depression, and a farmer's daughter growing up in the mountains of Hidalgo at the dawn of the 20th century, will all encounter witchcraft and danger.
Will this be available in the UK? In Spanish (or other languages)?
It will be out in the UK in July 2025 through Arcadia/Quercus. At this point (June 2025) Spanish translation rights have been purchased, no release date for that edition is forthcoming. No other languages have been acquired. Translation deals are hard to get and it has become harder to be translated in most markets.
Will this be available from Goldsboro as a limited edition with the sprayed edges?
Yes to Goldsboro.
Will there be other special or signed editions?
Aside from Goldsboro, there should be a number of signed copies available in the UK and the US. Check with your local bookstores.
Yes. One of the timelines is set in 1998 and thus it's mostly composed of alternative music from this decade. Enjoy:
https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4IS...
What genre is this?
Horror/suspense
What is this about?
A graduate student working on her thesis in the 1990s, an aspiring writer attending a women's college during the Great Depression, and a farmer's daughter growing up in the mountains of Hidalgo at the dawn of the 20th century, will all encounter witchcraft and danger.
Will this be available in the UK? In Spanish (or other languages)?
It will be out in the UK in July 2025 through Arcadia/Quercus. At this point (June 2025) Spanish translation rights have been purchased, no release date for that edition is forthcoming. No other languages have been acquired. Translation deals are hard to get and it has become harder to be translated in most markets.
Will this be available from Goldsboro as a limited edition with the sprayed edges?
Yes to Goldsboro.
Will there be other special or signed editions?
Aside from Goldsboro, there should be a number of signed copies available in the UK and the US. Check with your local bookstores.
September 4, 2025
Dangerous witches, powerful curses, and unseen, unidentifiable entities lurking in the shadows—this supernatural tale intertwines three timelines into a story that will keep you on the edge of your seat and make you leave the lights on for a month. Yes, I’m sold! This is another masterful supernatural horror from Silvia Moreno-Garcia that I simply couldn’t resist. It’s gripping, terrifying, and endlessly fascinating—proving yet again her unmatched talent in the genre.
The story unfolds across three timelines, each centered around remarkable women and bound together by ominous words: “Back then, when I was a young woman, there were still witches.” Indeed, witches are still out there, lurking in the darkness, waiting to strike.
Timeline 1: 1908
We meet Alba, mourning the sudden loss of her father and tormented by the mysterious disappearance of her brother, Tadeo. Her family suspects no foul play, dismissing any talk of curses or supernatural forces, but Alba remains unconvinced. Valentin, her brother’s close friend, is the only one who believes her family is bewitched, and he vows to help her uncover the truth.
Timeline 2: 1934
Beatrice Tremblay is a college student and budding horror writer, gaining fame with her debut novel, Vanishing, inspired by the real-life disappearance of her eccentric roommate Virginia. Virginia was rumored to have a connection with the dead, channeling them through abstract art. But her sudden disappearance remains shrouded in mystery. Beatrice’s story is as much about ambition as it is about the ghosts of the past.
Timeline 3: 1998
Minerva, Alba’s granddaughter, is a student at the same academy where Beatrice once studied. Obsessed with Beatrice’s unpublished manuscript for her thesis, Minerva seeks out Carolyn, Beatrice’s former friend, now married to Edgar—the former fiancé of the vanished Virginia. Through Carolyn’s grandson Noah, Minerva gains access to Carolyn’s estate, where the manuscript is kept.
But as Minerva delves deeper into her research, she unwittingly unleashes something dark and malevolent. She begins to feel a sinister presence stalking her—something no one else can see. To survive, she must connect with the two women from decades past to unravel the mysteries that bind their fates. Can she defeat the force that threatens her life?
Overall:
This is a fascinating, unputdownable read that I wholeheartedly recommend to devoted fans of Silvia Moreno-Garcia and lovers of supernatural horror sagas.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/Del Rey/Inklore for providing a digital reviewer copy of this incredible book in exchange for my honest opinions.
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The story unfolds across three timelines, each centered around remarkable women and bound together by ominous words: “Back then, when I was a young woman, there were still witches.” Indeed, witches are still out there, lurking in the darkness, waiting to strike.
Timeline 1: 1908
We meet Alba, mourning the sudden loss of her father and tormented by the mysterious disappearance of her brother, Tadeo. Her family suspects no foul play, dismissing any talk of curses or supernatural forces, but Alba remains unconvinced. Valentin, her brother’s close friend, is the only one who believes her family is bewitched, and he vows to help her uncover the truth.
Timeline 2: 1934
Beatrice Tremblay is a college student and budding horror writer, gaining fame with her debut novel, Vanishing, inspired by the real-life disappearance of her eccentric roommate Virginia. Virginia was rumored to have a connection with the dead, channeling them through abstract art. But her sudden disappearance remains shrouded in mystery. Beatrice’s story is as much about ambition as it is about the ghosts of the past.
Timeline 3: 1998
Minerva, Alba’s granddaughter, is a student at the same academy where Beatrice once studied. Obsessed with Beatrice’s unpublished manuscript for her thesis, Minerva seeks out Carolyn, Beatrice’s former friend, now married to Edgar—the former fiancé of the vanished Virginia. Through Carolyn’s grandson Noah, Minerva gains access to Carolyn’s estate, where the manuscript is kept.
But as Minerva delves deeper into her research, she unwittingly unleashes something dark and malevolent. She begins to feel a sinister presence stalking her—something no one else can see. To survive, she must connect with the two women from decades past to unravel the mysteries that bind their fates. Can she defeat the force that threatens her life?
Overall:
This is a fascinating, unputdownable read that I wholeheartedly recommend to devoted fans of Silvia Moreno-Garcia and lovers of supernatural horror sagas.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group/Del Rey/Inklore for providing a digital reviewer copy of this incredible book in exchange for my honest opinions.
medium.com
January 14, 2025
“Back then, when I was a young woman, there were still witches.”
This book is amazeballs. Or that's what I'd say if I were the type of person to use the word “amazeballs,” anyway, which I totally am not. Ahem. The Bewitching is a witchy blend of horror and historical fiction that weaves together three distinct timelines (1998 and 1934 Massachusetts and early 1900s Mexico) into a captivatingly creepy multigenerational saga that will keep you reading long into the night.
This book is filled with witches and warlocks and all kinds of supernatural folklore, but it's not exactly what I'd consider to be scary. There are some creepy parts, sure, but we're not talking Stephen King levels of horror here. This is more historical fiction with a supernatural twist, not that 1998 can be considered “historical” because I turned nineteen in 1998 and that was basically, like, ten years ago. Ahem. Alba's timeline from 1908 Mexico is by far the creepiest, and it's no wonder that Nana Alba's stories of witches and witchcraft are so useful to her great-granddaughter almost a century later.
It's not hard to deduce who the villains of each timeline are, which, contrary to what you might expect, makes things all the more suspenseful. In Alba's timeline especially, you just want to grab her and shake some sense into her as you anxiously wonder what terrible thing the sorcerer or sorceress is going to do next.
And the ending(s)? Fantastic. Alba's timeline (again) was my favorite, but Minerva's has a The Craft-esque epilogue to it which was fun. Beatrice's ending is more tragic than the others – you know that's going to be the case from almost the very beginning – but in a way her story doesn't truly come to a conclusion until Minerva's does, so it's not all doom and gloom.
As an aside, I really enjoyed the little nods to other famous horror writers that Moreno-Garcia worked into this novel. Writer Beatrice “Tremblay” is a focus of the 1934 timeline (and of Minerva's thesis in 1998), and “ancient department heads” of Stoneridge College include “Stephen Graham Jones” (Philosophy) and “Nicholas Mamatas” (Classics). I figured from the very beginning that the “Tremblay” thing could have been a tribute to Paul Tremblay, but it wasn't until I got to the department heads bit that I was all, “Hey, wait a minute!” Stephen Graham Jones is a rather distinctive name, so there's pretty much no missing it at that point.
Overall, this is a fantastic novel and Moreno-Garcia is quickly becoming one of my favorite horror writers. If you enjoy stories about witches, multigenerational (and multicultural) sagas, and/or horror novels set in quaint New England towns (and Mexico), definitely consider giving The Bewitching a read. It's a creepy and sorcery-laden ride.
4.75 stars, rounded up.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Del Rey for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is July 15, 2025.
This book is amazeballs. Or that's what I'd say if I were the type of person to use the word “amazeballs,” anyway, which I totally am not. Ahem. The Bewitching is a witchy blend of horror and historical fiction that weaves together three distinct timelines (1998 and 1934 Massachusetts and early 1900s Mexico) into a captivatingly creepy multigenerational saga that will keep you reading long into the night.
This book is filled with witches and warlocks and all kinds of supernatural folklore, but it's not exactly what I'd consider to be scary. There are some creepy parts, sure, but we're not talking Stephen King levels of horror here. This is more historical fiction with a supernatural twist, not that 1998 can be considered “historical” because I turned nineteen in 1998 and that was basically, like, ten years ago. Ahem. Alba's timeline from 1908 Mexico is by far the creepiest, and it's no wonder that Nana Alba's stories of witches and witchcraft are so useful to her great-granddaughter almost a century later.
It's not hard to deduce who the villains of each timeline are, which, contrary to what you might expect, makes things all the more suspenseful. In Alba's timeline especially, you just want to grab her and shake some sense into her as you anxiously wonder what terrible thing the sorcerer or sorceress is going to do next.
And the ending(s)? Fantastic. Alba's timeline (again) was my favorite, but Minerva's has a The Craft-esque epilogue to it which was fun. Beatrice's ending is more tragic than the others – you know that's going to be the case from almost the very beginning – but in a way her story doesn't truly come to a conclusion until Minerva's does, so it's not all doom and gloom.
As an aside, I really enjoyed the little nods to other famous horror writers that Moreno-Garcia worked into this novel. Writer Beatrice “Tremblay” is a focus of the 1934 timeline (and of Minerva's thesis in 1998), and “ancient department heads” of Stoneridge College include “Stephen Graham Jones” (Philosophy) and “Nicholas Mamatas” (Classics). I figured from the very beginning that the “Tremblay” thing could have been a tribute to Paul Tremblay, but it wasn't until I got to the department heads bit that I was all, “Hey, wait a minute!” Stephen Graham Jones is a rather distinctive name, so there's pretty much no missing it at that point.
Overall, this is a fantastic novel and Moreno-Garcia is quickly becoming one of my favorite horror writers. If you enjoy stories about witches, multigenerational (and multicultural) sagas, and/or horror novels set in quaint New England towns (and Mexico), definitely consider giving The Bewitching a read. It's a creepy and sorcery-laden ride.
4.75 stars, rounded up.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Del Rey for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is July 15, 2025.
February 12, 2025
This is not your usual witch tale - not by a long shot! Told in three timelines, The Bewitching is mesmerizing, intriguing, bizarre, mysterious, and thought provoking. Three women are told “Back then, when I was a young woman, there were still witches.” These are not Disney witches, nor are that what will be found when you follow the yellow brick road. These witches are way beyond that.
Alba, Minerva, and Beatrice are three women connected with interesting tales and fates. Each has an interesting backstory, and each has a distinct personality. Each has a connection to witchcraft and beyond.
The first half of the book was a slow burn for me, but I stuck with it as the premise was intriguing. The second half of the book picks up and I was fully invested and wanted answers. I never knew where this book was going or where Silvia Moreno-Garcia was going to take me. The aspect of witches and warlocks was intriguing and piqued my interest. There was one part of the book which was a bit cringe-worthy and other parts that were a bit graphic but otherwise, I found this to be an interesting albeit different book.
Intriguing, dark, well written, and mysterious.
3.5 stars
*This was a witches Words buddy read with Carolyn and Brenda. Please read their reviews as well to see if they were bewitched by The Bewitching.
Thank you to Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore | Del Rey and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
Alba, Minerva, and Beatrice are three women connected with interesting tales and fates. Each has an interesting backstory, and each has a distinct personality. Each has a connection to witchcraft and beyond.
The first half of the book was a slow burn for me, but I stuck with it as the premise was intriguing. The second half of the book picks up and I was fully invested and wanted answers. I never knew where this book was going or where Silvia Moreno-Garcia was going to take me. The aspect of witches and warlocks was intriguing and piqued my interest. There was one part of the book which was a bit cringe-worthy and other parts that were a bit graphic but otherwise, I found this to be an interesting albeit different book.
Intriguing, dark, well written, and mysterious.
3.5 stars
*This was a witches Words buddy read with Carolyn and Brenda. Please read their reviews as well to see if they were bewitched by The Bewitching.
Thank you to Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore | Del Rey and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
July 15, 2025
Title/Author: The Bewitching by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
Page Count: 368
Publisher: Del Rey
Format: Audiobook (but I own a physical)
Other Books I Enjoyed by This Author: Silver Nitrate, Untamed Shore, The Lover (amazon original) and Mexican Gothic (I own all of her books though)
Affiliate Link: https://bookshop.org/a/7576/978059387...
Release Date: July 15th, 2025
General Genre: Gothic, Folk, Horror, Historical
Sub-Genre/Themes: Dual narratives, Dark academia, witches, witchcraft, cursed family, mystery, secrets & lies, missing persons, supernatural, black magic, spell craft, romance, sapphic yearning & desire, horror fiction,
Writing Style: Intricately plotted, character-driven, historical accuracy and detail, menacing, creepy, fast-paced/compelling
What You Need to Know: "Minerva is a graduate student researching the life of Beatrice Tremblay, an obscure horror author. Tremblay's most famous novel was inspired by a true story: decades earlier, Tremblay attended the same university where Minerva is studying and became obessed with her otherworldly roommate, who disappeared under mysterious circumstances. These events echo stories Minerva's Nana Alba told about her girlhood in 1900s Mexico, where she had an encounter with a witch. Minerva begins to sense that the malign force that stalked Tremblay and the missing girl might still walk the halls of the campus in 1990s Massachusetts." --NoveList Plus
I listened to a gifted audiobook from Libro FM
My Reading Experience: Well, Silvia Moreno-Garcia is my go-to when I'm craving an intricately plotted, historically accurate, compelling, tale with larger-than-life characters and strong female protagonists. I know I'm in good hands when I show up to one of her books. The Bewitching delivers on so many favorite themes, tropes, and sub-genres of gothic and folk horror, it's hard to know what to highlight first!
I would say the folk magic and witchcraft of Alba's story is my favorite aspect of this book, followed very closely by the dark academia--Minerva is researching information for her thesis when she uncovers the story of a missing student who attended the same university where she is currently enrolled--the mixed media "found footage" elements of journal entries and loose pieces of paper found buried in books is everything
As we bounce back and forth between the two tales and uncover how they are connected, the story flies by! I listened to the audiobook so basically, I just looked for things that needed to get done around the house so I could listen to my book--I went on a lot of walks and cleaned everything and even listened while I was grocery shopping yesterday lol
There are some elements of the story that gave me Nosferatu and Doctor Sleep vibes--although, I think it would be spoilerly to disclose why--so we will talk about that at a later time :)
Highly recommend enjoying in this format!
Final Recommendation: If you enjoy dual timelines, strong female protagonists, folk magic + witchcraft, cursed families, dark academia, mysteries unfolding surrounding missing people, gothic vibes, sapphic yearning and romance, this is the book for you! Plus, it acts as a love letter to horror fiction AND it showcases Moreno-Garcia's knack for historical fiction. So, pretty much the whole package--don't miss it!
Comps: A Secret History of Witches & The Great Witch of Brittany by Louisa Morgan, Plain, Bad Heroines by Emily M. Danforth, Woodworm by Layla Martinez, The Book of Witching by C. J. Cooke
Page Count: 368
Publisher: Del Rey
Format: Audiobook (but I own a physical)
Other Books I Enjoyed by This Author: Silver Nitrate, Untamed Shore, The Lover (amazon original) and Mexican Gothic (I own all of her books though)
Affiliate Link: https://bookshop.org/a/7576/978059387...
Release Date: July 15th, 2025
General Genre: Gothic, Folk, Horror, Historical
Sub-Genre/Themes: Dual narratives, Dark academia, witches, witchcraft, cursed family, mystery, secrets & lies, missing persons, supernatural, black magic, spell craft, romance, sapphic yearning & desire, horror fiction,
Writing Style: Intricately plotted, character-driven, historical accuracy and detail, menacing, creepy, fast-paced/compelling
What You Need to Know: "Minerva is a graduate student researching the life of Beatrice Tremblay, an obscure horror author. Tremblay's most famous novel was inspired by a true story: decades earlier, Tremblay attended the same university where Minerva is studying and became obessed with her otherworldly roommate, who disappeared under mysterious circumstances. These events echo stories Minerva's Nana Alba told about her girlhood in 1900s Mexico, where she had an encounter with a witch. Minerva begins to sense that the malign force that stalked Tremblay and the missing girl might still walk the halls of the campus in 1990s Massachusetts." --NoveList Plus
I listened to a gifted audiobook from Libro FM
My Reading Experience: Well, Silvia Moreno-Garcia is my go-to when I'm craving an intricately plotted, historically accurate, compelling, tale with larger-than-life characters and strong female protagonists. I know I'm in good hands when I show up to one of her books. The Bewitching delivers on so many favorite themes, tropes, and sub-genres of gothic and folk horror, it's hard to know what to highlight first!
I would say the folk magic and witchcraft of Alba's story is my favorite aspect of this book, followed very closely by the dark academia--Minerva is researching information for her thesis when she uncovers the story of a missing student who attended the same university where she is currently enrolled--the mixed media "found footage" elements of journal entries and loose pieces of paper found buried in books is everything
As we bounce back and forth between the two tales and uncover how they are connected, the story flies by! I listened to the audiobook so basically, I just looked for things that needed to get done around the house so I could listen to my book--I went on a lot of walks and cleaned everything and even listened while I was grocery shopping yesterday lol
There are some elements of the story that gave me Nosferatu and Doctor Sleep vibes--although, I think it would be spoilerly to disclose why--so we will talk about that at a later time :)
Highly recommend enjoying in this format!
Final Recommendation: If you enjoy dual timelines, strong female protagonists, folk magic + witchcraft, cursed families, dark academia, mysteries unfolding surrounding missing people, gothic vibes, sapphic yearning and romance, this is the book for you! Plus, it acts as a love letter to horror fiction AND it showcases Moreno-Garcia's knack for historical fiction. So, pretty much the whole package--don't miss it!
Comps: A Secret History of Witches & The Great Witch of Brittany by Louisa Morgan, Plain, Bad Heroines by Emily M. Danforth, Woodworm by Layla Martinez, The Book of Witching by C. J. Cooke
August 28, 2025
**4.5-stars rounded up**
Minerva was raised on her Nana Alba's stories. Stories that included bizarre things, superstitions, magic and witchcraft. These shaped Minerva's interests into adulthood, as many of us can probably relate to.
Minerva is now a graduate student at a prestigious Massachusetts college, focusing on the history of Horror Literature. More specifically, Minerva is researching the life and work of Beatrice Tremblay, a lesser known author of macabre tales, who once attended the same school.
During her research, Minerva discovers that Tremblay's most famous novel, The Vanishing, was inspired by true events that happened in her own life.
In The Bewitching, we're treated to Minerva's timeline in 1990s Massachusetts; to stories from Nana Alba's life in 1900s Mexico and beyond; as well as Beatrice Tremblay's time in school during the Great Depression, and the events that inspired her most famous novel.
This might sound like a lot, with all the different people and places, but trust me when I say, it's beautifully-woven together into one easily understandable, overarching tale.
Admittedly, I am a huge Silvia Moreno-Garcia stan. I'm obsessed with her ideas and the way she tells stories. While not every single one has been a hit, more often than not, they have been, and I always love diving into a new book from her, as you never know what you are going to get.
I was intimidated going into this, as it is told in three different time periods, following three different perspectives, and I tend to not love sweeping sagas like that. However, I loved each of these perspectives. I was equally enamored by each, which is a hard feat to pull off.
This story is dripping in atmosphere, across all three time periods. It's amazing to me how she was able to completely capture the essence of all three time periods in such a lush and compelling way.
The characters are full of life and distinct in tone. I loved the mystery, intrigue and lore behind it all. It was so good, I can't wait to read it again someday. I'd love to take some more time with it; perhaps finding even more connections.
10/10 recommend for Readers who love vibrant, unsettling atmospheres, and witchy stories, both historical and modern. Also, slight dark academia vibes...
Thank you so much to the publisher, Del Rey, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
I expected to like this, but I was actually surprised at how connected I felt to the story, and how much I ended up loving all the various aspects it was comprised of. This will live in mind for a long time to come!
Minerva was raised on her Nana Alba's stories. Stories that included bizarre things, superstitions, magic and witchcraft. These shaped Minerva's interests into adulthood, as many of us can probably relate to.
Minerva is now a graduate student at a prestigious Massachusetts college, focusing on the history of Horror Literature. More specifically, Minerva is researching the life and work of Beatrice Tremblay, a lesser known author of macabre tales, who once attended the same school.
During her research, Minerva discovers that Tremblay's most famous novel, The Vanishing, was inspired by true events that happened in her own life.
In The Bewitching, we're treated to Minerva's timeline in 1990s Massachusetts; to stories from Nana Alba's life in 1900s Mexico and beyond; as well as Beatrice Tremblay's time in school during the Great Depression, and the events that inspired her most famous novel.
This might sound like a lot, with all the different people and places, but trust me when I say, it's beautifully-woven together into one easily understandable, overarching tale.
Admittedly, I am a huge Silvia Moreno-Garcia stan. I'm obsessed with her ideas and the way she tells stories. While not every single one has been a hit, more often than not, they have been, and I always love diving into a new book from her, as you never know what you are going to get.
I was intimidated going into this, as it is told in three different time periods, following three different perspectives, and I tend to not love sweeping sagas like that. However, I loved each of these perspectives. I was equally enamored by each, which is a hard feat to pull off.
This story is dripping in atmosphere, across all three time periods. It's amazing to me how she was able to completely capture the essence of all three time periods in such a lush and compelling way.
The characters are full of life and distinct in tone. I loved the mystery, intrigue and lore behind it all. It was so good, I can't wait to read it again someday. I'd love to take some more time with it; perhaps finding even more connections.
10/10 recommend for Readers who love vibrant, unsettling atmospheres, and witchy stories, both historical and modern. Also, slight dark academia vibes...
Thank you so much to the publisher, Del Rey, for providing me with a copy to read and review.
I expected to like this, but I was actually surprised at how connected I felt to the story, and how much I ended up loving all the various aspects it was comprised of. This will live in mind for a long time to come!
July 21, 2025
Gosh, I was so looking forward to this. Ended up throwing in the towel. Yep, this is what...my third DNF...ever?
Three separate timelines and multiple characters in each. I'd just get invested in one and then, poof, we're in a completely different place and I'm struggling to remember: wait, who are these people? How are they related?
Sorry, too much jumping around for anything to gel for me. Bummer.
July 22, 2025
A Journey Through Folklore & Fright
It is a multigenerational horror saga where danger and bewitching magic intertwine. Yes please!
Three women—spanning eras—are mysteriously bound by a dark force lurking in the shadows, creating a tapestry of terror that’s as eerie as it is exciting, as intriguing as it is unpredictable
Horror and Folklore Collide
With a title like Bewitching, I was all set for a cauldron brimming with classic witchery—potions, herbs, and timeworn incantations. Instead, I found myself immersed in a world where witches draw their power from the rich traditions of Mexican folklore, offering a refreshing break from the norm. At first, the unconventional take threw me off balance, but as the story’s eerie horror elements steeped in folklore and an unsettling atmosphere slowly crept in, I couldn’t help but be drawn into its thrilling, otherworldly allure.
A Haunting Rhythm: Uneven Pacing Disrupts the Spell
For me, pacing is the skeleton that holds any story together. I appreciate a slow build when it has an engaging structure that keeps me eagerly clicking through each page. Unfortunately, the pacing here felt uneven, flashes of action, only to be swallowed by a sluggish rhythm that sometimes breaks the spell. This imbalance makes the pacing feel like a ghostly waltz, where moments of tension build beautifully only to slow down again.
You’ve Been Warned
One part of the story left me utterly stunned—the kind of twist that makes you gasp and think, ‘Don’t go there!’—only to be left completely astonished when it does. Consider this your friendly warning: prepare for the unexpected, because this narrative isn’t afraid to push boundaries
More Than Spells and Potions
Despite a few pacing hiccups and one particularly shocking moment or two…, the daring blend of Mexican folklore with spine-tingling horror is both refreshing and deeply engaging, challenging everything you thought you knew about witches. In the end, it left me delightfully bewitched!
Take this journey if you're eager to explore the darker side of legends.
Oh, the author is Mexican Canadian!!
A Witches Words buddy read with some of my favorite witches. Debra and Carolyn
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley
It is a multigenerational horror saga where danger and bewitching magic intertwine. Yes please!
Three women—spanning eras—are mysteriously bound by a dark force lurking in the shadows, creating a tapestry of terror that’s as eerie as it is exciting, as intriguing as it is unpredictable
Horror and Folklore Collide
With a title like Bewitching, I was all set for a cauldron brimming with classic witchery—potions, herbs, and timeworn incantations. Instead, I found myself immersed in a world where witches draw their power from the rich traditions of Mexican folklore, offering a refreshing break from the norm. At first, the unconventional take threw me off balance, but as the story’s eerie horror elements steeped in folklore and an unsettling atmosphere slowly crept in, I couldn’t help but be drawn into its thrilling, otherworldly allure.
A Haunting Rhythm: Uneven Pacing Disrupts the Spell
For me, pacing is the skeleton that holds any story together. I appreciate a slow build when it has an engaging structure that keeps me eagerly clicking through each page. Unfortunately, the pacing here felt uneven, flashes of action, only to be swallowed by a sluggish rhythm that sometimes breaks the spell. This imbalance makes the pacing feel like a ghostly waltz, where moments of tension build beautifully only to slow down again.
You’ve Been Warned
One part of the story left me utterly stunned—the kind of twist that makes you gasp and think, ‘Don’t go there!’—only to be left completely astonished when it does. Consider this your friendly warning: prepare for the unexpected, because this narrative isn’t afraid to push boundaries
More Than Spells and Potions
Despite a few pacing hiccups and one particularly shocking moment or two…, the daring blend of Mexican folklore with spine-tingling horror is both refreshing and deeply engaging, challenging everything you thought you knew about witches. In the end, it left me delightfully bewitched!
Take this journey if you're eager to explore the darker side of legends.
Oh, the author is Mexican Canadian!!
A Witches Words buddy read with some of my favorite witches. Debra and Carolyn
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley
April 6, 2025
live, laugh, love, decapitation
Read my review
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy.
Bookstagram | Blog
Read my review
thank you to netgalley and the publisher for providing me with an advance copy.
Bookstagram | Blog
July 19, 2025
I was completely bewitched by this novel. I think I’m definitely drawn to books with multiple timelines with each one having their own MC. This fit the bill perfectly.
In 1998 Minerva is a graduate student in a small college outside of Boston. She is writing her thesis on her favorite horror novelist, Beatrice Tremblay, who also went to the same school. She is convinced that one of Beatrice‘s novels is based upon a missing classmate named Virginia. While digging into the disappearance, it appears Virginia may have been interested in the occult/witchcraft. This is all too familiar to Minerva as her great grandmother Alba had many stories that involve witchcraft. The novel then switches to Alba‘s story in 1908 and Beatrice’s story in 1934.
I liked all the different elements mixed in, including the witchcraft, Mexican folklore and the mystery surrounding the disappearance of Ginny. I enjoyed the slow burn pacing as things progressed amongst each timeline. However, the ending felt really rushed, and there were a few unanswered questions that I had. I enjoyed Alba‘s timeline, but I didn’t see how it fully connected with the other two timelines. There wasn’t an aha moment for me that I was like oh that’s how they’re connected. Besides the familial relationship to Minerva it seemed a bit out of place.
Overall, this is one of those books I was able to take my time with and enjoy. I’m late to the game with the author and certainly will be checking out her back list.
In 1998 Minerva is a graduate student in a small college outside of Boston. She is writing her thesis on her favorite horror novelist, Beatrice Tremblay, who also went to the same school. She is convinced that one of Beatrice‘s novels is based upon a missing classmate named Virginia. While digging into the disappearance, it appears Virginia may have been interested in the occult/witchcraft. This is all too familiar to Minerva as her great grandmother Alba had many stories that involve witchcraft. The novel then switches to Alba‘s story in 1908 and Beatrice’s story in 1934.
I liked all the different elements mixed in, including the witchcraft, Mexican folklore and the mystery surrounding the disappearance of Ginny. I enjoyed the slow burn pacing as things progressed amongst each timeline. However, the ending felt really rushed, and there were a few unanswered questions that I had. I enjoyed Alba‘s timeline, but I didn’t see how it fully connected with the other two timelines. There wasn’t an aha moment for me that I was like oh that’s how they’re connected. Besides the familial relationship to Minerva it seemed a bit out of place.
Overall, this is one of those books I was able to take my time with and enjoy. I’m late to the game with the author and certainly will be checking out her back list.
July 21, 2025
Strongest emotion I felt reading this was "Girl, that's your uncle 😭"
September 10, 2025
This urban fantasy is like a love letter to literature students, especially those who appreciate horror. In fact the tension between academia and the horror genre in and of itself is fascinating and something I have always wished more writers would explore. This is basically the best book she’s written since Mexican Gothic, in my humble opinion. The clash of cultures which the protagonist must negotiate as she attempts to solve the mystery of the witchy haunting which plagues her, alongside multiple unexplained disappearances, is beautifully handled. The pacing is relentless and readers will be sucked in immediately. It’s wonderfully written start to finish and not to be missed.
Basic central plot:
Minerva is finishing her MA Thesis and staying on campus during the off season as she is a dorm monitor and working her way through her higher degree. Her thesis explores the horror stories of a lesser known female writer from the 1970’s and in order to get the research materials she needs, she contacts Carolyn (a former highly moneyed graduate) to obtain the archive she inherited and holds at her estate. Shortly after visiting Carolyn’s estate, eerie events begin to plague Minerva. These events escalate in a deliciously creepy horror all on their own.
Secondary historical plot:
Alba, Minerva’s grandmother, is under attack by seemingly demonic forces which follow her and the man she loves.
Themes in conflicts:
Privileged vs. Working Class
Nihilism vs. Work Ethic
Black Magic vs. Psychically Gifted
Academia vs. the Horror genre
I truly loved every page of this book. It’s so well written and the subject matter is fascinating. I think it is extremely difficult to pull off a tale of black sorcerers hunting the innocent these days. For one, most stories have simply been written to death and are spent. For another, most people understand that the subject of witchcraft in and of itself is really usually an excuse for misogyny—a socially acceptable way to hate women. But this novel never falls into either trap. The storyline is unique and original, and the narrative very carefully differentiates between black sorcery and white witches. Black sorcery becomes a symbol of greed and in this novel it is associated with men more than with women.
I strongly recommend this novel, and not merely to fantasy lovers. I have given this book to my friends who read all genres, and even those who normally avoid fantasy have loved it.
Basic central plot:
Minerva is finishing her MA Thesis and staying on campus during the off season as she is a dorm monitor and working her way through her higher degree. Her thesis explores the horror stories of a lesser known female writer from the 1970’s and in order to get the research materials she needs, she contacts Carolyn (a former highly moneyed graduate) to obtain the archive she inherited and holds at her estate. Shortly after visiting Carolyn’s estate, eerie events begin to plague Minerva. These events escalate in a deliciously creepy horror all on their own.
Secondary historical plot:
Alba, Minerva’s grandmother, is under attack by seemingly demonic forces which follow her and the man she loves.
Themes in conflicts:
Privileged vs. Working Class
Nihilism vs. Work Ethic
Black Magic vs. Psychically Gifted
Academia vs. the Horror genre
I truly loved every page of this book. It’s so well written and the subject matter is fascinating. I think it is extremely difficult to pull off a tale of black sorcerers hunting the innocent these days. For one, most stories have simply been written to death and are spent. For another, most people understand that the subject of witchcraft in and of itself is really usually an excuse for misogyny—a socially acceptable way to hate women. But this novel never falls into either trap. The storyline is unique and original, and the narrative very carefully differentiates between black sorcery and white witches. Black sorcery becomes a symbol of greed and in this novel it is associated with men more than with women.
I strongly recommend this novel, and not merely to fantasy lovers. I have given this book to my friends who read all genres, and even those who normally avoid fantasy have loved it.
May 22, 2025
♥ My Thoughts and Rating ♥
This was a great horror occult fantasy novel! It explores different generations in the years of 1908, 1934, and 1998. It follows three different women, whose names are Alba, Beatrice and Minerva. I usually don’t like multiple timelines in a story, but this book was the exception! It captured my attention right away! It is about witchcraft and historical events. This book is extremely mysterious, dark, emotional, tense, adventurous and hopeful. The atmosphere in this book is very eerie and left me feeling anxious. It is a medium paced read that comes with lovable characters.
These female characters were diverse, intriguing, engaging, strong and powerful. This story explores the impact of past traumas, generational trauma and the exploration of witchcraft and the occult! This is my first book read by this author and it definitely won’t be last! I loved her writing, it really brought this whole book together. Overall, I rate this a 4 out of 5 star rating!
♥ Content warnings & who I think would enjoy this book ♥
Content warnings include death, incest, blood, animal death, animal cruelty, sexual content and gore. I think if you’re a fan of horror occult books, you would really enjoy this one!
♥ Thank You ♥
Thank you to NetGalley, author Silvia Moreno-Garcia and Random House Publishing Group - Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore | Del Rey for this digital advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
♥ Expected Release Date ♥
This book is expected to be published on July 15, 2025!!
♥ Notes ♥
This author does have other books out right now as well, if you would like to check them out!
♥ Quick Review ♥
╰┈➤ Horror Occult / Fantasy
╰┈➤ 3 Timelines / 3 Women
╰┈➤ Witchcraft
╰┈➤ Generational Trauma
╰┈➤ Eerie Atmosphere
╰┈➤ Contains Historical Events
╰┈➤ Dark / Emotional / Tense
╰┈➤ Strong & Powerful Women
》* 。 • ˚ ˚ ˛ * 。° 。 • ˚《
❥ ୨⎯ Connie ⎯୧ ❥
ツ౨ৎ
This was a great horror occult fantasy novel! It explores different generations in the years of 1908, 1934, and 1998. It follows three different women, whose names are Alba, Beatrice and Minerva. I usually don’t like multiple timelines in a story, but this book was the exception! It captured my attention right away! It is about witchcraft and historical events. This book is extremely mysterious, dark, emotional, tense, adventurous and hopeful. The atmosphere in this book is very eerie and left me feeling anxious. It is a medium paced read that comes with lovable characters.
These female characters were diverse, intriguing, engaging, strong and powerful. This story explores the impact of past traumas, generational trauma and the exploration of witchcraft and the occult! This is my first book read by this author and it definitely won’t be last! I loved her writing, it really brought this whole book together. Overall, I rate this a 4 out of 5 star rating!
♥ Content warnings & who I think would enjoy this book ♥
Content warnings include death, incest, blood, animal death, animal cruelty, sexual content and gore. I think if you’re a fan of horror occult books, you would really enjoy this one!
♥ Thank You ♥
Thank you to NetGalley, author Silvia Moreno-Garcia and Random House Publishing Group - Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore | Del Rey for this digital advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
♥ Expected Release Date ♥
This book is expected to be published on July 15, 2025!!
♥ Notes ♥
This author does have other books out right now as well, if you would like to check them out!
♥ Quick Review ♥
╰┈➤ Horror Occult / Fantasy
╰┈➤ 3 Timelines / 3 Women
╰┈➤ Witchcraft
╰┈➤ Generational Trauma
╰┈➤ Eerie Atmosphere
╰┈➤ Contains Historical Events
╰┈➤ Dark / Emotional / Tense
╰┈➤ Strong & Powerful Women
》* 。 • ˚ ˚ ˛ * 。° 。 • ˚《
❥ ୨⎯ Connie ⎯୧ ❥
ツ౨ৎ
September 3, 2025
This is what I wanted The Year of the Witching to be. This checked off so many boxes for me, with the disturbing scenes, gothic witchy vibes, multiple timelines, historical elements, writing that's compelling and flows easily, characters I got invested in, etc etc. Although I did predict two big reveals, I had such a great reading experience from start to finish, and this is absolutely going on my top 10 books of 2025 and will be a new favorite that I will recommend to anyone looking for the perfect autumnal read.
August 2, 2025
Silvia Moreno-Garcia always hits for me, but I really loved The Bewitching! It's an intergenerational witchy horror novel with a tinge of vampirism and it's fantastic. Three generations of women encounter dangerous witchcraft and their stories are skillfully woven together.
In rural 1900's Mexico, Alba is a young woman being courted by a farmboy but dreaming of the big city, and being groomed by her attractive young uncle.
In 1990's New England, Minerva is an international graduate student writing a thesis on a little known female horror writer from the mid-1900's. Minerva gains access to the author's journal about the disappearance of a friend who inspired one of her stories, but history and the present begin blur together in strange ways and some of the things that she reads in the journal are happening to her...
It's an eerie and brilliantly told story with themes of privilege, exploitation, survival, and working for a better future. I loved it. The audio narration is great, though the tone for the diary part is a little stilted. I kind of get that choice to differentiate it but it might not appeal to everyone. I received an audio copy from Libro.FM and a review copy via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
Content warning for grooming and incest that's pretty disturbing, but not at all romanticized.
In rural 1900's Mexico, Alba is a young woman being courted by a farmboy but dreaming of the big city, and being groomed by her attractive young uncle.
In 1990's New England, Minerva is an international graduate student writing a thesis on a little known female horror writer from the mid-1900's. Minerva gains access to the author's journal about the disappearance of a friend who inspired one of her stories, but history and the present begin blur together in strange ways and some of the things that she reads in the journal are happening to her...
It's an eerie and brilliantly told story with themes of privilege, exploitation, survival, and working for a better future. I loved it. The audio narration is great, though the tone for the diary part is a little stilted. I kind of get that choice to differentiate it but it might not appeal to everyone. I received an audio copy from Libro.FM and a review copy via NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
Content warning for grooming and incest that's pretty disturbing, but not at all romanticized.
March 23, 2025
This was a huge swing and a miss for me.
The pacing is ridiculously slow with what seems like a lot of unnecessary filler.
I do feel like at least 30% could be taken out and you'd have a better story to follow.
The witchcraft element was uninspiring and the strange relationship between 2 related characters was off putting.
The pacing is ridiculously slow with what seems like a lot of unnecessary filler.
I do feel like at least 30% could be taken out and you'd have a better story to follow.
The witchcraft element was uninspiring and the strange relationship between 2 related characters was off putting.
July 25, 2025
3.7 Stars
One Liner: Atmospheric, though predictable
1990s
Nana Alba’s stories always talked about the witches. Great-granddaughter Minerva spent her life listening to them. It’s no surprise that Minerva chose to graduate in the history of horror literature and is researching the life of Beatrice Tremblay, a horror author not known by many.
When she finds out that the author’s novel, The Vanishing, was inspired by a true story, Minerva is curious. Turns out, Trembley was a student at the same university and became obsessed with her roommate, only to disappear under mysterious circumstances.
Soon, Minerva finds out common elements in Trembley’s life and her Nana Alba’s stories about the 1900s in Mexico. Looks like the same situation is repeating with her. Can Minerva figure out the next step?
The story comes in three timelines (1998-Minerva, 1908-Alba, and 1934-Beatrice). Minerva and Alba’s POVs are in the third person, and Beatrice’s is in the first person.
My Thoughts:
I read Gods of Jade and Shadow by the author and enjoyed the atmospheric settings in it. This book promises something good, and it does to a good extent. Don’t expect it to be a mystery or a thriller despite the vibes. It is slow-burn atmospheric horror (of sorts).
The book is divided into three timelines with three women narrators. Two of them are proper historical, while Minerva’s track is in 1998. Still, the setting gives a nice ‘oldish’ vibe. I like that Minerva and Alba’s tracks have 13 chapters each, and Beatrice’s (Betty) has 7. This evens out the story and sorts it into neat sections.
The timelines are in alternate chapters with clear headings and numbers. Very easy for readers to follow each track without confusion.
The pacing is quite slow in the first half. It takes a lot of time to establish the setting and the characters. Of course, right away, we know how things are likely to go. I didn’t feel any attempt to hide it or mislead the readers, so I’m guessing it was a deliberate move.
The mention of the actual witches (type of witches, to be specific) comes rather late. Until then, it’s all hints and vibes. Even afterward, there isn’t much info about them. I could have done with a creepy story or two, like the couple of ones we get in the earliest timeline.
The main characters are well-defined and are what they seem. There’s no unwanted romance in Minerva’s timeline, which I appreciate. It doesn’t suit her character arc. Though I’m not sure what to think of the Conrad guy.
The book is informative too, in the sense that I learned a bit about Mexican beliefs as well as life on the university campus as a student-cum-employee.
The ending is just right, filling the gaps as required and retaining the sense of fear and caution. That said, I would have enjoyed this much more if the dangerous elements/ scenes were a bit more. The horror quotient could have been upped by a level or two.
To summarize, The Bewitching is an atmospheric slow burn that can give you chills. While some elements could have been better, the narration flows well and can keep you interested from start to finish.
Thank you, NetGalley and Del Rey(Inklore), for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheBewitching
One Liner: Atmospheric, though predictable
1990s
Nana Alba’s stories always talked about the witches. Great-granddaughter Minerva spent her life listening to them. It’s no surprise that Minerva chose to graduate in the history of horror literature and is researching the life of Beatrice Tremblay, a horror author not known by many.
When she finds out that the author’s novel, The Vanishing, was inspired by a true story, Minerva is curious. Turns out, Trembley was a student at the same university and became obsessed with her roommate, only to disappear under mysterious circumstances.
Soon, Minerva finds out common elements in Trembley’s life and her Nana Alba’s stories about the 1900s in Mexico. Looks like the same situation is repeating with her. Can Minerva figure out the next step?
The story comes in three timelines (1998-Minerva, 1908-Alba, and 1934-Beatrice). Minerva and Alba’s POVs are in the third person, and Beatrice’s is in the first person.
My Thoughts:
I read Gods of Jade and Shadow by the author and enjoyed the atmospheric settings in it. This book promises something good, and it does to a good extent. Don’t expect it to be a mystery or a thriller despite the vibes. It is slow-burn atmospheric horror (of sorts).
The book is divided into three timelines with three women narrators. Two of them are proper historical, while Minerva’s track is in 1998. Still, the setting gives a nice ‘oldish’ vibe. I like that Minerva and Alba’s tracks have 13 chapters each, and Beatrice’s (Betty) has 7. This evens out the story and sorts it into neat sections.
The timelines are in alternate chapters with clear headings and numbers. Very easy for readers to follow each track without confusion.
The pacing is quite slow in the first half. It takes a lot of time to establish the setting and the characters. Of course, right away, we know how things are likely to go. I didn’t feel any attempt to hide it or mislead the readers, so I’m guessing it was a deliberate move.
The mention of the actual witches (type of witches, to be specific) comes rather late. Until then, it’s all hints and vibes. Even afterward, there isn’t much info about them. I could have done with a creepy story or two, like the couple of ones we get in the earliest timeline.
The main characters are well-defined and are what they seem. There’s no unwanted romance in Minerva’s timeline, which I appreciate. It doesn’t suit her character arc. Though I’m not sure what to think of the Conrad guy.
The book is informative too, in the sense that I learned a bit about Mexican beliefs as well as life on the university campus as a student-cum-employee.
The ending is just right, filling the gaps as required and retaining the sense of fear and caution. That said, I would have enjoyed this much more if the dangerous elements/ scenes were a bit more. The horror quotient could have been upped by a level or two.
To summarize, The Bewitching is an atmospheric slow burn that can give you chills. While some elements could have been better, the narration flows well and can keep you interested from start to finish.
Thank you, NetGalley and Del Rey(Inklore), for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheBewitching
August 31, 2025
loved this story which takes place in three different timelines.Also loved all the music references! Audiobook
April 8, 2025
Feisty women, witchy occult, disturbing creatures,
1998: Minerva is a graduate student at Stoneridge College focused on the history of horror literature, researching the life of Beatrice Tremblay, an obscure author of writing witch tales.
1908: Tells the story of Minerva’s Nana Alba, an eldest daughter living on a farm desperately trying to keep afloat as soemthing starts haunting her family.
1934: Betty reveals her own student days at the college Minerva attends, telling the mystery disappearance of her friend which inspired one of her stories.
Moreno-Garcia excels at interweaving generation stories that connect in eerie ways, delivering a satisfying finale that normally carries a gut-punching message.
“Maybe they felt they had to tell them. That it would be dangerous if they were forgotten,” she said.
Admittedly, I saw the twist for every single one of the timelines which took away some of the momentum.
Moreno-Garcia keeps the pace tense, the occult haunting, and the idea of telling stories at the forefront.
Arc gifted by Del Rey.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
1998: Minerva is a graduate student at Stoneridge College focused on the history of horror literature, researching the life of Beatrice Tremblay, an obscure author of writing witch tales.
1908: Tells the story of Minerva’s Nana Alba, an eldest daughter living on a farm desperately trying to keep afloat as soemthing starts haunting her family.
1934: Betty reveals her own student days at the college Minerva attends, telling the mystery disappearance of her friend which inspired one of her stories.
Moreno-Garcia excels at interweaving generation stories that connect in eerie ways, delivering a satisfying finale that normally carries a gut-punching message.
“Maybe they felt they had to tell them. That it would be dangerous if they were forgotten,” she said.
Admittedly, I saw the twist for every single one of the timelines which took away some of the momentum.
Moreno-Garcia keeps the pace tense, the occult haunting, and the idea of telling stories at the forefront.
Arc gifted by Del Rey.
Bookstagram
Tiktok
July 23, 2025
“The Bewitching” combines three women’s alternating stories of dealing with dark forces. Minerva Contreras has been raised listening to her grandmother’s stories and has developed an affinity for the supernatural. A graduate student, she is writing her thesis on Beatrice Tremblay, a relatively unknown horror writer from the 1930s. Tremblay's sole novel, "The Vanishing," drew inspiration from the actual disappearance of Virginia, a student at Minerva's current college, with dark overtones of witchcraft suggested. As Minerva delves deeper into Tremblay’s personal documents, she feels the sinister presence of an evil shadow.
“Back then, when I was a young woman, there were still witches.” Minerva can recall her grandmother, Nana Alba’s words as she was growing up. Nana’s tale, set in Mexico in 1908, recounts how she sought the guidance of known witches after a tragedy, hoping to ward off a curse that was enveloping her after claiming her brother and a friend.
The third timeline revolves around Beatrice’s account of Ginny’s disappearance. Ginny initially introduced herself to Beatrice declaring, “I’m your roommate... I like dancing and painting and designing my own clothes, I speak to ghosts, and I can draw your natal chart. I’m a Spiritualist.” Such an uninhibited spirit was considered scandalous by most in her circle, but Beatrice was strongly drawn to her. Ginny’s behavior became troubling enough that there was talk of having her committed to prevent her from doing self-harm. One day she simply vanished and most seemed to chalk it up as symptomatic of her erratic behavior.
Silvia Moreno-Garcia consistently delivers impressive novels, characterized by her imaginative scope, compelling characters, and richly detailed settings. The atmosphere here leans more towards eerie than outright horror. The pacing can occasionally be slow, as is the case here with the lengthy development of Nana Alba’s and Minerva’s traumas. Additionally, the book does contain one very disturbing scene and a few graphic ones. Not a perfect book, but– as with all Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s work– a highly entertaining one.
Thank you to the Random House Publishing Group - Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore / Del Rey and to NetGalley for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review. #TheBewitching #NetGalley
“Back then, when I was a young woman, there were still witches.” Minerva can recall her grandmother, Nana Alba’s words as she was growing up. Nana’s tale, set in Mexico in 1908, recounts how she sought the guidance of known witches after a tragedy, hoping to ward off a curse that was enveloping her after claiming her brother and a friend.
The third timeline revolves around Beatrice’s account of Ginny’s disappearance. Ginny initially introduced herself to Beatrice declaring, “I’m your roommate... I like dancing and painting and designing my own clothes, I speak to ghosts, and I can draw your natal chart. I’m a Spiritualist.” Such an uninhibited spirit was considered scandalous by most in her circle, but Beatrice was strongly drawn to her. Ginny’s behavior became troubling enough that there was talk of having her committed to prevent her from doing self-harm. One day she simply vanished and most seemed to chalk it up as symptomatic of her erratic behavior.
Silvia Moreno-Garcia consistently delivers impressive novels, characterized by her imaginative scope, compelling characters, and richly detailed settings. The atmosphere here leans more towards eerie than outright horror. The pacing can occasionally be slow, as is the case here with the lengthy development of Nana Alba’s and Minerva’s traumas. Additionally, the book does contain one very disturbing scene and a few graphic ones. Not a perfect book, but– as with all Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s work– a highly entertaining one.
Thank you to the Random House Publishing Group - Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore / Del Rey and to NetGalley for providing an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review. #TheBewitching #NetGalley
May 30, 2025
Starred review in the June 2025 issue of Library Journal
THIS BOOK IS A TRIUMPH.
Three Words That Describe This Book: oppressively uneasy, witchcraft (both as plot and real history/folklore), intricately plotted (but easy to follow)
Draft Review:
"Back then, when I was a young woman, there were still witches," says Nana Alba to her great-granddaughter in this brilliant, sinister, and captivating Gothic within a Gothic, within a Gothic. Minerva came from Mexico to a small college near Boston to study her idol, the influential but often forgotten horror novelist Beatrice Tremblay, and her most famous work, The Vanishing. Told in three timelines, clearly noted at the start of each chapter– 1908, when Alba was a young women and lost everything she held dear; 1934 through the journals of Tremblay describing the still unsolved disappearance of her roommate Virginia, discovered by Minerva during her research; and 1988, as Minerva not only struggles to write her dissertation, but also becomes entangled in and disoriented by dangers both past and present, real and supernatural. As aspects of the three timelines begin to organically overlap, a single tale of palpable terror emerges, but it is all anchored by Minerva as she grows in confidence, strength, and knowledge, to see the part she must play in finding justice for Virginia. A tale that effortlessly merges witch folklore across time and space, giving readers a chilling horror novel, a multi-generational saga, a satisfying mystery, and a reminder of the interconnectedness of humanity, all in one bewitching* package.
Verdict: Moreno-Garcia’s latest is a triumph. For fans of intricately plotted Horror that easily immerses readers into a darkly alluring world such as The Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Jones or Plan Bad Heroines by Danforth.
More words: sinister, dark academia, a Gothic within a Gothic within a gothic, very real danger as well-- it is palpable and set in with such attention to detail that you feel the evil just around the corner, multi generational saga, captivating, original, mystery/true crime vibes
An example in how to tell a story within a story within a story perfectly. The story is beautiful and sinister, and entrancing (bewitching is the perfect word), and the layers make it BETTER.
I need to start with the "intricately plotted." That part was brilliant. So there are 3 stories here. But instead of just using the year-- 1998, 1908 and 1934-- Each year 's chapter is numbered. I put 1934 last because it is the middle story and the more passive story-- from a journal and manuscript.
So as you read you know where you are 1908: 4 and 1ht 1988: 5. ETC. The 1908 and 1988 have 13 chapters each and the 1934 has 7. I cannot imagine that is NOT on purpose. 13 and then half of 13.
The book reads as if the stories are interfiled. As things repeat and overlap in each, but it NEVER feels forces because Minerva is the thread that connects it all. They simply all converge.
I noted that is like 3 puzzles that overlap to make one picture.
Minerva, while not alone in the 1908 storyline, is there in her great grandmother- Alba. It is Alba's story. It is sinister and oppressively uneasy tale of a very important year of her life-- when witchcraft took everything she held dear but also, came alive in her and gave her a purpose. Minerva remembers what her Nana Alba daughter her and uses it in the 1988 storyline, but we the reader get to see more from 1908.
Repeated line from Nana Alba--"Back then, when I was a young woman, there were still witches."
Minerva is at Stoneridge College near Boston studying in 1988-- a place where students have gone missing. She is a grad student working on studying her idol, Beatrice Tremblay and her great, but often forgotten work of Horror-- The Vanishing. Minerva followed in Beatrice's footsteps traveling from Mexico to MA just to he where Beatrice studied.
The Vanishing was said to be based on the disappearance of Beatrice college roommate-- Virginia. The mystery was never solved and it was assumed she ran off with a local boy. But Minerva gets access to Beatrice's journals held by another college friend-- Carolyn-- the richest family in the town where Stoneridge is. and the 1934 storyline comes from what Minerva reads. 1934 comes to life in those 7 chapters. But then overlaid with the 1988 storyline of how things appear to be happening again and what happened to Nana Alba, it all feels like one story-- and it is,
A mystery as well. The "truth" is revealed at the end and it is awesome-- both for Mystery and Horror fans. It has a true crime vibe. Everything here feels real. Readers get invested in finding the truth of what happened to Virginia. And like a great mystery, Minerva gets caught up in the danger of finding the answers.
Clearly autobiographical which makes the story have more heart and emotion. And as someone who went to college in New England just 5 years after this book is set, I loved the music and pop culture references here as well. Spot on.
An original witch story as well because it is based on the witch folklore of Mexico and New England. I love how Minerva knows and studies both. It has a lot to say about how these traditions developed thousands of miles apart and yet, they share so much. There was a scholarly aspect here-- since Minerva is an academic-- readers will learn quite a bit about the witch folklore of both MA and Mexico
I may rank this one ahead of Mexican Gothic as Moreno-Garcia's best Horror novel. It is that rare gem that is perfectly and meticulously constructed and yet, reads effortlessly. When you stop, you realize how hard that is to pull off.
It reminds me of The Buffalo Hunter Hunter in that way. I keep thinking about Plain Bad Heroines by Danforth here. It had a Night Film my Pessl vibe as well.
The remaking by Clay McLeod Chapman is a great readalike here as that is a witch story that contains a story within a story within a story as well.
This will be another huge cross over hit for SMG. Mystery readers who like Cynthia Pelayo and Simone St. James will enjoy this, which reads, Horror fans who love a great haunting story, true crime fans-- because there is a lot about missing people stories here.
THIS BOOK IS A TRIUMPH.
Three Words That Describe This Book: oppressively uneasy, witchcraft (both as plot and real history/folklore), intricately plotted (but easy to follow)
Draft Review:
"Back then, when I was a young woman, there were still witches," says Nana Alba to her great-granddaughter in this brilliant, sinister, and captivating Gothic within a Gothic, within a Gothic. Minerva came from Mexico to a small college near Boston to study her idol, the influential but often forgotten horror novelist Beatrice Tremblay, and her most famous work, The Vanishing. Told in three timelines, clearly noted at the start of each chapter– 1908, when Alba was a young women and lost everything she held dear; 1934 through the journals of Tremblay describing the still unsolved disappearance of her roommate Virginia, discovered by Minerva during her research; and 1988, as Minerva not only struggles to write her dissertation, but also becomes entangled in and disoriented by dangers both past and present, real and supernatural. As aspects of the three timelines begin to organically overlap, a single tale of palpable terror emerges, but it is all anchored by Minerva as she grows in confidence, strength, and knowledge, to see the part she must play in finding justice for Virginia. A tale that effortlessly merges witch folklore across time and space, giving readers a chilling horror novel, a multi-generational saga, a satisfying mystery, and a reminder of the interconnectedness of humanity, all in one bewitching* package.
Verdict: Moreno-Garcia’s latest is a triumph. For fans of intricately plotted Horror that easily immerses readers into a darkly alluring world such as The Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Jones or Plan Bad Heroines by Danforth.
More words: sinister, dark academia, a Gothic within a Gothic within a gothic, very real danger as well-- it is palpable and set in with such attention to detail that you feel the evil just around the corner, multi generational saga, captivating, original, mystery/true crime vibes
An example in how to tell a story within a story within a story perfectly. The story is beautiful and sinister, and entrancing (bewitching is the perfect word), and the layers make it BETTER.
I need to start with the "intricately plotted." That part was brilliant. So there are 3 stories here. But instead of just using the year-- 1998, 1908 and 1934-- Each year 's chapter is numbered. I put 1934 last because it is the middle story and the more passive story-- from a journal and manuscript.
So as you read you know where you are 1908: 4 and 1ht 1988: 5. ETC. The 1908 and 1988 have 13 chapters each and the 1934 has 7. I cannot imagine that is NOT on purpose. 13 and then half of 13.
The book reads as if the stories are interfiled. As things repeat and overlap in each, but it NEVER feels forces because Minerva is the thread that connects it all. They simply all converge.
I noted that is like 3 puzzles that overlap to make one picture.
Minerva, while not alone in the 1908 storyline, is there in her great grandmother- Alba. It is Alba's story. It is sinister and oppressively uneasy tale of a very important year of her life-- when witchcraft took everything she held dear but also, came alive in her and gave her a purpose. Minerva remembers what her Nana Alba daughter her and uses it in the 1988 storyline, but we the reader get to see more from 1908.
Repeated line from Nana Alba--"Back then, when I was a young woman, there were still witches."
Minerva is at Stoneridge College near Boston studying in 1988-- a place where students have gone missing. She is a grad student working on studying her idol, Beatrice Tremblay and her great, but often forgotten work of Horror-- The Vanishing. Minerva followed in Beatrice's footsteps traveling from Mexico to MA just to he where Beatrice studied.
The Vanishing was said to be based on the disappearance of Beatrice college roommate-- Virginia. The mystery was never solved and it was assumed she ran off with a local boy. But Minerva gets access to Beatrice's journals held by another college friend-- Carolyn-- the richest family in the town where Stoneridge is. and the 1934 storyline comes from what Minerva reads. 1934 comes to life in those 7 chapters. But then overlaid with the 1988 storyline of how things appear to be happening again and what happened to Nana Alba, it all feels like one story-- and it is,
A mystery as well. The "truth" is revealed at the end and it is awesome-- both for Mystery and Horror fans. It has a true crime vibe. Everything here feels real. Readers get invested in finding the truth of what happened to Virginia. And like a great mystery, Minerva gets caught up in the danger of finding the answers.
Clearly autobiographical which makes the story have more heart and emotion. And as someone who went to college in New England just 5 years after this book is set, I loved the music and pop culture references here as well. Spot on.
An original witch story as well because it is based on the witch folklore of Mexico and New England. I love how Minerva knows and studies both. It has a lot to say about how these traditions developed thousands of miles apart and yet, they share so much. There was a scholarly aspect here-- since Minerva is an academic-- readers will learn quite a bit about the witch folklore of both MA and Mexico
I may rank this one ahead of Mexican Gothic as Moreno-Garcia's best Horror novel. It is that rare gem that is perfectly and meticulously constructed and yet, reads effortlessly. When you stop, you realize how hard that is to pull off.
It reminds me of The Buffalo Hunter Hunter in that way. I keep thinking about Plain Bad Heroines by Danforth here. It had a Night Film my Pessl vibe as well.
The remaking by Clay McLeod Chapman is a great readalike here as that is a witch story that contains a story within a story within a story as well.
This will be another huge cross over hit for SMG. Mystery readers who like Cynthia Pelayo and Simone St. James will enjoy this, which reads, Horror fans who love a great haunting story, true crime fans-- because there is a lot about missing people stories here.
August 29, 2025
3-1/2 Stars!
The Bewitching follows three women in 3 different timelines. Alba was a young girl in Mexico in the early 1900s who eventually becomes great grandmother to Minerva. The Alba chapters for me were the slowest and my least favorite of the 3 voices in this book. Minerva is a college student in the 1990s in Massachusetts. The Minerva chapters were my favorite of the 3 timelines. As Minerva works on her thesis, she learns more and more about Beatrice, an author from decades earlier whose roommate disappeared. Thus, we are given our 3rd narrator, Beatrice.
It was very interesting reading this different take on witches. Apparently the witches of Mexican folklore are a bit different from what most of us usually expect. This book was quite a slow burn that took just a little too long for me and I would not describe this as suspenseful. I also was expecting a little more "bewitching" in this book. The horror aspect was pretty well done, though.
The Bewitching follows three women in 3 different timelines. Alba was a young girl in Mexico in the early 1900s who eventually becomes great grandmother to Minerva. The Alba chapters for me were the slowest and my least favorite of the 3 voices in this book. Minerva is a college student in the 1990s in Massachusetts. The Minerva chapters were my favorite of the 3 timelines. As Minerva works on her thesis, she learns more and more about Beatrice, an author from decades earlier whose roommate disappeared. Thus, we are given our 3rd narrator, Beatrice.
It was very interesting reading this different take on witches. Apparently the witches of Mexican folklore are a bit different from what most of us usually expect. This book was quite a slow burn that took just a little too long for me and I would not describe this as suspenseful. I also was expecting a little more "bewitching" in this book. The horror aspect was pretty well done, though.
March 11, 2025
I'm still singing the praises of Garcia's "Mexican Gothic," and I also really loved "Silver Nitrate." I was quick to request a copy of this one, because the thought of her doing a witchy story was pretty exciting. There were spooky moments and an intriguing mystery, for sure, but overall "The Bewitching" didn't really compare to those other two novels.
Let's get this out of the way, first: The romantic tension between Alba and her uncle, while skillfully written, made me uncomfortable. I'm sure it was supposed to, and it became a purposeful plot element. But it's definitely worth noting before going into this read that if an incestual plotline is an automatic "nope" for you, then one of the three POV's in this book will give you trouble. Aside from that aspect, Alba's story was definitely the creepiest of the three due to the witch/curse elements and I was most invested in her storyline and her fate. Garcia is great at crafting women who at first appear to be damsels in distress but then flip the script and reveal more of themselves in a way that's inspiring. You root for them.
The “modern” (1990's) chapters with Minerva were the least interesting to me. Every male character was such a nosy POS and even her best friend kept bossing her around. The action in these sections grew repetitive after a while. And did we really need to know what band she was listening to every time she pulled out her discman? But I loved the many specific references to places in the Boston area! I lived there for ten years and I miss it SO much. Garcia even name dropped Emerson College, the one I graduated from! (I will never be able to pay off that student loan. Wicked sad.) The setting of a snowy university in New England was a great one for a creepy story.
I’m not the sort of reader who tries to predict endings, or who gets any sort of smug satisfaction when I do. But the conclusions of each of the narratives were not surprising to me. Maybe because many clues were left along the way, or because they were simply a little bit formulaic. I wouldn't say the story is dripping in atmosphere, either, but there are effective moments throughout. The witchcraft aspect is a little sporadic and heavier in some sections than in others. Much of the plot involves the mystery of a woman's disappearance and Minerva trying to find out what may have happened to her, though I got the feeling that she didn't care THAT much about the answer. I will say that I deeply related to Minerva's aversion to socializing and her desire to just stay at the dorm and read.
This story made me pause and think about which of my friends would actually take me seriously if I claimed I was being cursed by a witch. (Answer: Most of them!)
Thank you to Netgalley and to the Publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review! All opinions are my own.
Biggest TW: Mention of animal harm/death, Incest, Self-harm
Let's get this out of the way, first: The romantic tension between Alba and her uncle, while skillfully written, made me uncomfortable. I'm sure it was supposed to, and it became a purposeful plot element. But it's definitely worth noting before going into this read that if an incestual plotline is an automatic "nope" for you, then one of the three POV's in this book will give you trouble. Aside from that aspect, Alba's story was definitely the creepiest of the three due to the witch/curse elements and I was most invested in her storyline and her fate. Garcia is great at crafting women who at first appear to be damsels in distress but then flip the script and reveal more of themselves in a way that's inspiring. You root for them.
The “modern” (1990's) chapters with Minerva were the least interesting to me. Every male character was such a nosy POS and even her best friend kept bossing her around. The action in these sections grew repetitive after a while. And did we really need to know what band she was listening to every time she pulled out her discman? But I loved the many specific references to places in the Boston area! I lived there for ten years and I miss it SO much. Garcia even name dropped Emerson College, the one I graduated from! (I will never be able to pay off that student loan. Wicked sad.) The setting of a snowy university in New England was a great one for a creepy story.
I’m not the sort of reader who tries to predict endings, or who gets any sort of smug satisfaction when I do. But the conclusions of each of the narratives were not surprising to me. Maybe because many clues were left along the way, or because they were simply a little bit formulaic. I wouldn't say the story is dripping in atmosphere, either, but there are effective moments throughout. The witchcraft aspect is a little sporadic and heavier in some sections than in others. Much of the plot involves the mystery of a woman's disappearance and Minerva trying to find out what may have happened to her, though I got the feeling that she didn't care THAT much about the answer. I will say that I deeply related to Minerva's aversion to socializing and her desire to just stay at the dorm and read.
This story made me pause and think about which of my friends would actually take me seriously if I claimed I was being cursed by a witch. (Answer: Most of them!)
Thank you to Netgalley and to the Publisher for this ARC in exchange for an honest review! All opinions are my own.
Biggest TW: Mention of animal harm/death, Incest, Self-harm
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2025
I need to sit and think about this book more, but I don’t want to. It’s very creepy, and I don’t recommend reading it at night, especially when it gets closer to the end. The plot concerns several timelines: One in Mexico in 1908 and one in New England in 1998, and then another from 1934 interspersed throughout. A great-grandmother and her great granddaughter, both encountering malevolent forces and trying to banish them before they themselves are killed. .Minerva, in the latter timeline, is trying to research for her thesis about a novel based on the true story of her roommate mysteriously vanishing over sixty years prior.
I honestly can’t decide which timeline I liked better. I grew attached to young Alba, but I also identified with Minerva with her post-graduate studies in snowy climes (although it’s summer when the events occur) and listening to obscure bands on her Discman. I was in college in 1998 and often walked around with my Discman, so that brought back a lot of fond memories. I didn’t connect much with Ginny, in 1934, but I liked her personality and was easily drawn into the investigation of what happened to her.
The paranormal scenes are chilling, and I guarantee you will feel something similar to what Alba describes as a “portent” as you read them. Spooky, spooky stuff.
I recommend this, if you think you can handle stories about witches. Moreno-García once again delivers a compelling, mysterious novel that will keep you up at night…that is, if you disregard my warning about reading it at night.
Also, close your windows!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Del Rey for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
I honestly can’t decide which timeline I liked better. I grew attached to young Alba, but I also identified with Minerva with her post-graduate studies in snowy climes (although it’s summer when the events occur) and listening to obscure bands on her Discman. I was in college in 1998 and often walked around with my Discman, so that brought back a lot of fond memories. I didn’t connect much with Ginny, in 1934, but I liked her personality and was easily drawn into the investigation of what happened to her.
The paranormal scenes are chilling, and I guarantee you will feel something similar to what Alba describes as a “portent” as you read them. Spooky, spooky stuff.
I recommend this, if you think you can handle stories about witches. Moreno-García once again delivers a compelling, mysterious novel that will keep you up at night…that is, if you disregard my warning about reading it at night.
Also, close your windows!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Del Rey for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
Want to read
December 5, 2024THE COVER??? THE PLOT??? i will know no peace in 2025 and i’m ecstatic
July 4, 2025
As usual, Moreno-Garcia is great at blending folklore and the occult with gothic sensibilities, wrapped in a story featuring determined and likeable protagonists. I did enjoy the story here, and I appreciate the breadth and scope of spanning not just multiple generations but also multiple continents. The heart of this story beats strong, and it carries with its pulse themes of independence and self-worth. There is a continued idealism of those who may be disadvantaged by society but able to exceed their predetermined stations to excel, with the strength of family and the confidence of intuition and wisdom preparing their way.
All of that said, I didn’t love this story. While I enjoyed the three individual stories they felt like just that, individual, and their connections were incidental. There is one very specific thing about the 1908 storyline and one very specific thing about the 1934 storyline that helped our 1998 protagonist, and it felt like the entirety of those stories were just vehicles for that limited amount of information. I would have liked more weaving of experiences. To that same end, each of the three stories felt like it wasn’t given enough time or space to really flourish. What I have enjoyed most in past work by this author that I have read is how she creates these intimate characters and relationships between those characters, and that character (and relationship) depth are what allow the slow-burn stories to continuously increase in tension and keep the reader on the edge of their seat. All the characters, in all three stories, are interesting and complicated, and that goes for primary and ancillary characters, which is great. But we don’t really get to spend enough time really being with them, and with the relationships they create, because we are constantly moving timelines and it seems every new chapter is more concerned with hitting specific story beats than it is with really allowing for interior exploration. There are a handful of great ancillary characters in the main 1998 storyline and they get relegated to occasional car rides and stand-offs, whereas those relationships, especially if they were allowed some sort of glimpse into what our character was experiencing, could have really made this story feel robust and engaging. Instead, they were just kind of there, a little color but not used nearly to their full potential. Similarly, the writing felt almost prosaic. All three timelines felt the same, there was little in style or tone or character intentionality to distinguish them, which was a shame. A major benefit of having three distinct time periods in your story is to make each of them unique, and honestly, save for the riding of horses instead of cars, the differences in time and place did not feel as well-established or stylized as I would have hoped for. In general, the world-building felt secondary to the folklore, with the bulk of the main storylines world-building being done by listing the different bands the main character was listening to on her Discman. (Again and again and again mentioning the bands, and never the same one twice. It was a bit much, especially when combined with the repeated call outs to contemporary horror authors).
I wish I enjoyed the novel more. I think the ideas are great, and the introduction of Mexican folklore into a contemporary New England setting is exciting, and the characters are interesting and have a lot of potential. But the narrative connecting those things felt underserved, being divided into three which told variations on a theme that weren’t particularly additive to one another, so instead of one large, multi-layered story it felt like three small, mostly similar stories told in slightly different ways. While this is in no way a bad novel, I had high expectations, being a fan of this author, and felt a little underwhelmed. If you are interested in complicated protagonists and the collision of Mexican folklore and New England WASPs then there is certainly enough here to be interesting to you.
I want to thank the author, the publisher Del Ray, Random House, and NetGalley, who provided a complimentary eARC for review. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
All of that said, I didn’t love this story. While I enjoyed the three individual stories they felt like just that, individual, and their connections were incidental. There is one very specific thing about the 1908 storyline and one very specific thing about the 1934 storyline that helped our 1998 protagonist, and it felt like the entirety of those stories were just vehicles for that limited amount of information. I would have liked more weaving of experiences. To that same end, each of the three stories felt like it wasn’t given enough time or space to really flourish. What I have enjoyed most in past work by this author that I have read is how she creates these intimate characters and relationships between those characters, and that character (and relationship) depth are what allow the slow-burn stories to continuously increase in tension and keep the reader on the edge of their seat. All the characters, in all three stories, are interesting and complicated, and that goes for primary and ancillary characters, which is great. But we don’t really get to spend enough time really being with them, and with the relationships they create, because we are constantly moving timelines and it seems every new chapter is more concerned with hitting specific story beats than it is with really allowing for interior exploration. There are a handful of great ancillary characters in the main 1998 storyline and they get relegated to occasional car rides and stand-offs, whereas those relationships, especially if they were allowed some sort of glimpse into what our character was experiencing, could have really made this story feel robust and engaging. Instead, they were just kind of there, a little color but not used nearly to their full potential. Similarly, the writing felt almost prosaic. All three timelines felt the same, there was little in style or tone or character intentionality to distinguish them, which was a shame. A major benefit of having three distinct time periods in your story is to make each of them unique, and honestly, save for the riding of horses instead of cars, the differences in time and place did not feel as well-established or stylized as I would have hoped for. In general, the world-building felt secondary to the folklore, with the bulk of the main storylines world-building being done by listing the different bands the main character was listening to on her Discman. (Again and again and again mentioning the bands, and never the same one twice. It was a bit much, especially when combined with the repeated call outs to contemporary horror authors).
I wish I enjoyed the novel more. I think the ideas are great, and the introduction of Mexican folklore into a contemporary New England setting is exciting, and the characters are interesting and have a lot of potential. But the narrative connecting those things felt underserved, being divided into three which told variations on a theme that weren’t particularly additive to one another, so instead of one large, multi-layered story it felt like three small, mostly similar stories told in slightly different ways. While this is in no way a bad novel, I had high expectations, being a fan of this author, and felt a little underwhelmed. If you are interested in complicated protagonists and the collision of Mexican folklore and New England WASPs then there is certainly enough here to be interesting to you.
I want to thank the author, the publisher Del Ray, Random House, and NetGalley, who provided a complimentary eARC for review. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 16, 2025
4 stars. Brilliant, spellbinding, and unsettling in the exact way only a Silvia Moreno-Garcia book can be, The Bewitching was an unputdownable, slow burn of a family saga with enough hauntings and secrets to keep a reader up at night.
March 17, 2025
The Bewitching weaves together three stories spanning a century, all connected. In 1908, young Alba is living on a struggling farm with her mother and siblings in rural Mexico after the death of her father; Beatrice Tremblay is a young queer woman in 1934 recounting the story of her vanished friend and unrequited first love Virginia from their small college in Massachusetts; and lastly Minvera, the great-granddaughter of Alba in 1998, attending at the same college as Beatrice. As Minerva researches the life and works of horror novelist Beatrice, three timelines divulge as each of the women encounter strange occurrences and experience supernatural horrors... Witchcraft.
Moreno-Garcia has this magical way of blending the eerie and the enchanting that makes you feel like you’re sipping tea with a witchy aunt who’s spilling all the best family secrets. I rooted for her as she unraveled the mystery of her family’s past, all while dodging danger.
I could practically smell the damp earth and hear the rustle of leaves in the creepy, gorgeous Mexican countryside she paints so vividly. Moreno-Garcia sneaks in these clever little nods to folklore and history. I enjoyed all the timelines and how they weaved together.
Moreno-Garcia has this magical way of blending the eerie and the enchanting that makes you feel like you’re sipping tea with a witchy aunt who’s spilling all the best family secrets. I rooted for her as she unraveled the mystery of her family’s past, all while dodging danger.
I could practically smell the damp earth and hear the rustle of leaves in the creepy, gorgeous Mexican countryside she paints so vividly. Moreno-Garcia sneaks in these clever little nods to folklore and history. I enjoyed all the timelines and how they weaved together.
August 4, 2025
Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s The Bewitching is an exquisite fusion of gothic storytelling, psychological complexity and cultural resonance, offering a narrative that lingers long after the final page. from its opening moments, the book casts a spell not through cheap theatrics, but through an atmosphere so immersive that it feels almost tactile, like running your fingers across a velvet curtain in a dimly lit room, uncertain what might be waiting on the other side.
at its core, this novel is about women navigating the intersections of power, survival and societal judgment. the protagonist feels strikingly real: simultaneously vulnerable and calculating, a woman shaped by circumstance but unwilling to be consumed by it. she is not written to be easily “liked" and that’s precisely what makes her so compelling. her choices and moral ambiguities force us to sit in discomfort and confront the messy truth of survival in a world that delights in punishing women who dare to step outside its bounds.
the supporting cast is no less complex. every character, even those with minimal page time, feels intentional and carefully drawn, from allies who serve as quiet mirrors of the protagonist’s potential futures to antagonists who are far more than simple foils. this is one of Moreno-Garcia’s great strengths: she writes people as ecosystems, full of contradictions, rooted in their environments and shaped by unspoken histories.
the book is rich and layered, as it interrogates gendered power dynamics, the cost of reputation, the double-edged nature of desire and the thin, permeable line between superstition and self-preservation. the title is not merely a nod to the supernatural but a commentary on how “bewitching” often becomes a label applied to women who dare to exist outside the neat confines prescribed to them. rather than asking, “is she a witch?” the narrative invites us to consider why society is so eager to brand certain women as such in the first place.
the atmosphere is breathtaking and Moreno-Garcia has an uncanny ability to weave a sense of place that borders on the magical, a world dripping with unease, where candlelight dances across stone walls, whispers curl through drafty corridors and the past feels like it’s pressing its cold fingers against your neck. the pacing is deliberate, allowing the tension to build in small, nearly imperceptible increments until you realize you’ve been holding your breath for chapters at a time.
what makes it worthy of a perfect rating is its refusal to offer easy resolutions. the emotional impact of this book lies in its unsettling honesty, in its willingness to explore how justice, morality and redemption rarely align neatly. it doesn’t give you the satisfaction of moral binaries; instead, it asks you to wrestle with the discomfort of blurred lines.
in the end, I believe it is not simply a story of witchcraft or revenge. it’s a meditation on autonomy, resilience and the ways women carve power for themselves in spaces designed to strip them of it. it is as thought-provoking as it is spellbinding and for readers willing to surrender to its shadows, it offers an experience that feels nothing short of transformative.
at its core, this novel is about women navigating the intersections of power, survival and societal judgment. the protagonist feels strikingly real: simultaneously vulnerable and calculating, a woman shaped by circumstance but unwilling to be consumed by it. she is not written to be easily “liked" and that’s precisely what makes her so compelling. her choices and moral ambiguities force us to sit in discomfort and confront the messy truth of survival in a world that delights in punishing women who dare to step outside its bounds.
the supporting cast is no less complex. every character, even those with minimal page time, feels intentional and carefully drawn, from allies who serve as quiet mirrors of the protagonist’s potential futures to antagonists who are far more than simple foils. this is one of Moreno-Garcia’s great strengths: she writes people as ecosystems, full of contradictions, rooted in their environments and shaped by unspoken histories.
the book is rich and layered, as it interrogates gendered power dynamics, the cost of reputation, the double-edged nature of desire and the thin, permeable line between superstition and self-preservation. the title is not merely a nod to the supernatural but a commentary on how “bewitching” often becomes a label applied to women who dare to exist outside the neat confines prescribed to them. rather than asking, “is she a witch?” the narrative invites us to consider why society is so eager to brand certain women as such in the first place.
the atmosphere is breathtaking and Moreno-Garcia has an uncanny ability to weave a sense of place that borders on the magical, a world dripping with unease, where candlelight dances across stone walls, whispers curl through drafty corridors and the past feels like it’s pressing its cold fingers against your neck. the pacing is deliberate, allowing the tension to build in small, nearly imperceptible increments until you realize you’ve been holding your breath for chapters at a time.
what makes it worthy of a perfect rating is its refusal to offer easy resolutions. the emotional impact of this book lies in its unsettling honesty, in its willingness to explore how justice, morality and redemption rarely align neatly. it doesn’t give you the satisfaction of moral binaries; instead, it asks you to wrestle with the discomfort of blurred lines.
in the end, I believe it is not simply a story of witchcraft or revenge. it’s a meditation on autonomy, resilience and the ways women carve power for themselves in spaces designed to strip them of it. it is as thought-provoking as it is spellbinding and for readers willing to surrender to its shadows, it offers an experience that feels nothing short of transformative.
July 18, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Del Rey, Random House Worlds, Inklore | Del Re for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
Publisher: Three women in three different eras encounter danger and witchcraft in this eerie multigenerational horror saga.
1908-Alba in Mexico witnesses grievous losses and encounters a terrifying witch.
1934- Virginia, a schoolmate of author Beatrice Tremblay, goes missing. Did she run away with a lover from the other side of the tracks, or did something more sinister happen?
1998- Alba's great-granddaughter, Minerva, is a liberal arts student researching more about Beatrice Tremblay, and she becomes fascinated with Virginia's disappearance. But will the darkness that both Alba and Virginia described find her too?
A bit of a slow-burning gothic/horror novel. But trust me, it does get good. Silvia Moreno-Garcia leads us on a long and very creatively written narrative that balances folklore across three timelines.
Expected Publication Date 15/07/25
Goodreads Review Date 14/07/25
#TheBewitching #NetGalley.
Publisher: Three women in three different eras encounter danger and witchcraft in this eerie multigenerational horror saga.
1908-Alba in Mexico witnesses grievous losses and encounters a terrifying witch.
1934- Virginia, a schoolmate of author Beatrice Tremblay, goes missing. Did she run away with a lover from the other side of the tracks, or did something more sinister happen?
1998- Alba's great-granddaughter, Minerva, is a liberal arts student researching more about Beatrice Tremblay, and she becomes fascinated with Virginia's disappearance. But will the darkness that both Alba and Virginia described find her too?
A bit of a slow-burning gothic/horror novel. But trust me, it does get good. Silvia Moreno-Garcia leads us on a long and very creatively written narrative that balances folklore across three timelines.
Expected Publication Date 15/07/25
Goodreads Review Date 14/07/25
#TheBewitching #NetGalley.
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