Jen

This one was recommended to me because of other books I have read. However, I couldn't get into it. While I finished it, I wasn't drawn to the characters, and while the world was new and interesting at first, it didn't offer enough to keep me drawn to the story. I was bored halfway through the book and the ending left me wanting something more.

It is rare for a book to pull me in from the first page, but the elegant flow of the words and the imagery it provided had me hooked from the get-go. I was drawn to the vivid descriptions, and the way the words flowed really provided a wonderful reading experience. I love both history and Greek mythology as well as character-driven books that explore both humanity and the self. Circe is a Greek goddess, daughter of a Titan, and an outcast in many ways. We get to experience what humanity is through the lens of her divinity, and her struggles both internal and external throughout the book.

It did get a bit slow in the middle but picked up again. I enjoy books that cause you to think, and that can have a deeper meaning beyond just the story. Circe explores themes of identity, power, self-discovery, and also pushing beyond limits imposed by others.

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches is a lighthearted and cozy read that also touches on deeper themes like loneliness, connection, acceptance, and the longing to belong. I enjoyed getting to know the quirky, warm-hearted characters, and the story had a charming, whimsical feel that made it easy to settle into.

While I was drawn in by the atmosphere and emotional depth, one of the major plot developments toward the end didn't quite land for me and felt a bit frustrating. Still, the book overall delivered a fun and heartwarming experience that I’m glad I picked up.