The very secret society of irregular witches by Sangu Mandanna

This was my first read of the year and it was an absolute JOY. It's definitely going on my list of favorite books read this year. It's cozy, enchanting, uplifting, and it's about witches as normal people. Well, as normal as witches can be, I suppose. I mean, it doesn't depict witches as evil and out to get you. The witches in this story are normal people, with normal problems. Maybe more complicated problems, actually, because of magic being involved. In any case, if you're looking for the perfect Halloween-y read and haven't read this, go get it now. Note that I read it in January so it doesn't have to be October for this to be a treat 😉

Abby Cooper, Psychic Eye by Victoria Laurie

I discovered this delicious series years ago, and slowly made my way through the now-16-book series. This is one of the few series that I rationed, making myself wait and read other things before buying the next one. Every single book on this series was exactly what I wanted it to be - not only fun and enjoyable but also realistic. The author is a psychic intuitive herself, so knows what it feels like to get guidance from Spirit. This is the thing that kept me reading, really. It's rare that descriptions of working with intuition and Spirit actually represent what it feels like, at least in part!

Wicked: The life and times of the wicked witch of the west by Gregory Maguire

It's been a long time since I've read this time, but it still figures on my favorites list of witchy and magical books. It tells the story of the land of Oz before Dorothy gets there... but you don't need to know or even like The Wizard of Oz to enjoy this. I think it's a great fantasy book regardless - great world building and characterisation. The tie-in with a beloved children's movie is a bonus.

The girl who chased the moon by Sarah Addison Allen

Or really ANYTHING by Sarah Addison Allen! She's a modern author of what they call magical realism - magic as part of everyday life, and probably my favorite genre. These books are not like Harry Potter magic - they're ethereal and mystical and cosy. If you're read Alice Hoffman's Practical Magic (or seen the movie), you'll know what I mean. Perfect as part of a Fall reading list, to be enjoyed while the rain beats at the windows and the wind howls outside, while you're safe and warm under a blanket. A cup of tea should probably also be involved.

Secondhand spirits by Juliet Blackwell

This is the first in another fun series, this called the Witchcraft Mystery series. This one is set in San Francisco and is about a witch who owns a  vintage clothing store. The story includes some pretty dicey magical situations, and some pretty improbable storylines. It's most definitely not magical realism, and includes more cartoon-like magic than the Psychic Eye series above. But it's well written, has loveable characters and is a fun witchy read.

See you yesterday by Rachel Lynn Solomon

This one is less about magic, and more about a weird time loop, but it's still so very magical, and highly enjoyable. The story is unique, the writing is interesting, the characters have everything they need to seem real. I couldn't put this one down, I really wanted to see how it ends! 

Be careful what you wish for by Alexandra Potter

Have you ever wondered what would happen if all your wishes came true? The main character in this book finds out. And it isn't all good. Alexandra Potter writes really interesting, quirky books with a bit of magic thrown in. I've read several and enjoyed them all.

The Ex hex by Erin Sterling

Another fun one for you - can you tell I don't like dark and gloomy witchy books? This one's a rom com and to be honest I didn't think I'd enjoy it. Essentially, a pissed off girl puts a hex on the jerk who just dumped her... and then their paths reconnect later in life. But it was so fun that I absolutely loved it. I believe there's a second book to this story that I have to get, too!