The Apprentice Witch (Apprentice Witch #1)

Gr 4-8--Arianwyn just failed her witch's test, and she is humiliated. Thankfully, her grandmother pulls some strings that allow her to continue her education as an apprentice witch in Lull, a faraway town. Arianwyn sets out to prove that she is capable of greatness. Lull is right on the edge of the woods, where all sorts of dark creatures live. As a witch, Arianwyn must clear away and banish these creatures to make the area safe. What she hasn't told others is that a dark symbol haunts her dreams and thoughts. When an especially malevolent creature threatens the town, will Arianwyn have the courage to confront both this dark symbol and the beast? With brisk pacing and sophisticated writing, this book is one of those rare, unputdownable gems. This tale is somewhat reminiscent of J.K. Rowling's Fantastic Beasts and Where To Find Them, and fans of magical fantasy will be enthralled with the details of this fascinating world. The ending wraps up neatly, though there is enough room for potential sequels. VERDICT Recommended for libraries looking for solid fantasy with shades of J.K. Rowling.--Kristin Anderson, Bloomingdale Public Library, IL

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

In Nicolas charming debut novel, failed witch Arianwyn Gribble learns of the power that comes with knowing oneas self-worth and conquering the darkness within. After Arianwyn botches her evaluation, she thinks her dreams of becoming a full-fledged witch and member of the Civil Witchcraft Authority are over, but sheas given a second chance: she will continue to be an apprentice witch in the small town of Lull until the time of her reevaluation. After arriving in Lull, Arianwyn realizes more is afoot: evil spirits from the Great Wood (a adangerous and remotea forest filled with ancient spirits) are causing mayhem, a hex infection has taken root in the Great Wood, and a shadowy creature begins terrorizing the town, too. Nicol presents a world filled with magic and strange creatures, but unexplored plotlinesa such as the ongoing but vaguely described war that has caused a shortage of witches, allowing Arianwyn the opportunity to be reevaluateda and underdeveloped characters donat let the book to live up to its full potential. Still, Nicol lays enough groundwork to support future stories. Ages 8a 12. (July) Copyright 2017 Publishers Weekly Used with permission.

Advance Praise for The Apprentice Witch

"Will at once open a new and imaginative world and feel like a book you have loved forever." —Jennifer Nielsen, New York Times bestselling author of The False Prince

"The Apprentice Witch is entirely more charming, adventurous, and full of heart than a book has any right to be. Make no mistake: there's magic afoot." —Trenton Lee Stewart, New York Times bestselling author of The Secret Keepers and the Mysterious Benedict Society series

"A charming tale of magic, bravery, and friendship, reminiscent of Diana Wynne Jones." —The Guardian

"Impossible to put down." —The Bookbag

"Infused with mystery, adventure, and bundles of charm." —The Bookseller

"Delivers mystery and action in a whirlwind of cinematic, magical adventure." —Mr. Ripley's Enchanted Books