Embracing the Darkness: A Review of The Witch and His Crow
From the moment I stumbled upon Ben Alderson’s The Witch and His Crow, I felt an electrifying pull. As a lover of MM queer paranormal romance, the promise of a thrilling story steeped in witchcraft, tension, and unexpected alliances was simply irresistible. With its captivating tagline—"In a game of darkness, it is important we find our light"—I knew I was in for an enchanting journey. Spoiler alert: I was absolutely not disappointed!
This book opens with Hector Briar, a character forged in tragedy. Witnessing the brutal murder of his parents by witch hunters at the tender age of six, Hector has transformed into a relentless predator, navigating the perilous streets of Oxford. The setting feels rich and alive, a character in its own right. Throughout, Alderson deftly mixes familiar elements of traditional witchcraft with modern-day challenges, painting a world where the lines between hunter and hunted blur dangerously.
The emotional heart of the story revolves around Hector’s complex relationship with Arwyn Morgan, a tattooed rival who embodies both danger and intrigue. Alderson’s talent for weaving slow-burn romance into tense narratives shines brightly here. The chemistry between Hector and Arwyn sizzles—it’s palpable, often conveyed through their sharp, snarky dialogues. This delicate interplay of desire and mistrust kept me on the edge of my seat and had me holding my breath during intimate moments, especially that steamy shower scene. Seriously, wow.
One of my favorite aspects of the novel is its exploration of trust and intention, themes relevant not just in witchcraft but in any relationship. As Hector and Arwyn’s alliance deepens, readers are prompted to consider the blurred lines between friend and foe—an engaging reflection of real-life dynamics. The crow familiar, Caym, adds a delightful element of levity, reminding us not to take everything too seriously, even while the stakes are dire.
Alderson’s writing style is immersive and evocative. He strikes a balance between humor and darker themes effectively. His meticulous research into the historical context of witch trials invites readers to reflect on the weight of the past while unveiling a vibrant world of magic. Historical elements enhance the story, making Alderson’s vision as intriguing as it is educational. I found myself lost within the pages, visualizing each scene as if it were unfolding before me, a cinematic experience that I savored.
Looking ahead, I can’t help but wonder how Alderson will continue to develop his characters and world in the next installment, The Demon and His Viper, set to release in March 2026. The cliffhanger left me yearning for more, and I can only imagine what fantastic twists and turns await us!
In conclusion, The Witch and His Crow is not just a story about magic and danger; it’s about survival, loyalty, and the quest for self-acceptance. This first book in the series promises a thrilling adventure for anyone who appreciates romance soaked in mystery and richly developed characters. If you’re as obsessed with supernatural tales as I am, make sure to add this gem to your reading list. I genuinely couldn’t put it down—it has solidly claimed a spot among my favorite reads of the year!
Discover more about The Witch and His Crow (The Witch Trials #1) on GoodReads >>