A Tangle of Spells
The Widdershins sisters are finally leaving the Poacher’s Pocket, the home on Crowstone Island they had believed they were cursed to stay in forever, and are setting off for Pendlewick, a village on the mainland. But as well as being neglected, Blackbird Cottage, their new home, is full of unexplained mysteries – trails of salt across each entrance and silver coins at the corner of each room. And although it looks picturesque, Pendlewick also has its peculiarities with stories of witches, the sinister Hungry Tree and Tick Tock Forest.
When Fliss, Granny and their father start to behave strangely, Betty and Charlie know they must uncover the village’s dark secrets and use all their cunning to save them.
‘A Tangle of Spells’ is the third book about Betty, Fliss and Charlie and the Widdershins girls are as fabulous as ever. The story is completely engrossing and brilliantly plotted with hints and clues throughout, which all come together for a very satisfying conclusion. Although I fail to see why anyone wouldn’t have read the two previous books, it is still possible to enjoy this story as a stand alone.
Betty Widdershins is a force to be reckoned with. Intelligent and brave, she is determined to solve the mysteries of her new home and to save her family as things get darker. Although things are changing for the girls, their sibling bond is second to none and once again they show how each brings their own strengths to protect and support the family. Charlie remains as mischievous and animal loving as ever, bringing touches of humour to the story with her wicked smile and mispronounced words.
There is a darker tone to this story as the girls face a more ominous threat than in the previous books, facing very sinister opponents and eerie locations. The story is full of vividly imagined places, creating a wonderful sense of atmosphere.
The choice of names used in this story is as wonderful as ever. ‘Pendlewick’ is surely a reference to the Pendle witch trials of 1612 and ‘pilliwinks’ were an instrument used for torture. The Splintered Broomstick, Peckahen Farm, Scally and Wags are just a few examples of the carefully chosen names which add to the whole.
Thoroughly enjoyable, ‘A Tangle of Spells’ is a brilliant read.
A Tangle of Spells
Michelle Harrison
Simon and Schuster ISBN: 978-1471183881