*This book was gifted to me in exchange for an honest review; if you want to see my experience at the exclusive blogger breakfast with Adrienne, you can read the blog post here.
I know, I'm a few weeks late on posting this review, but I did share my thoughts about this book over on my TikTok around release date, you can see those videos here.
About The Book
'There were tales that only the island knew. Ones that had never been told. I knew, because I was one of them.'
Emery Blackwood's life was forever changed on the eve of her high school graduation, when the love of her life, August Salt, was accused of murdering her best friend, Lily. She'd once dreamt of running away with August, eager to escape the misty, remote shores of Saoirse Island and chase new dreams together. Now, she is doing what her teenage self swore she never would: living a quiet existence among this tight-knit community steeped in folklore and tradition, ruled by the seasons and ancient superstitions.
But when August returns after fourteen years to bury his mother's ashes, Emery must confront her first love and the reason he left so abruptly. But the town wants August gone again. And as the island begins to show signs of strange happenings, the emergence of deep betrayals and hidden promises threatens to reveal the truth behind Lily's death once and for all.
My Thoughts
I had been waiting somewhat impatiently for Spells' release date, for MONTHS - ever since Adrienne announced Spells on her social media. If you're new here, Adrienne Young is my favourite author, and Spells For Forgetting has been at the top of my 2022 Anticipated Releases list.
If you're looking for a spooky, atmospheric, witchy mystery with a romance subplot, I would highly recommend you pick up Spells For Forgetting.
Emery and August were fascinating characters to read about, being so well fleshed out, and both having their flaws and issues which made them feel so realistic and well-developed.
One of my favourite aspects of this story, which I haven't seen too many reviewers talk about, was the way that Saoirse Island created the perfect, entirely unique setting. I really enjoyed seeing the way that the characters responded to certain plot points, in the context of a community living such an isolated life. Many of the people living on Saoirse have never, and will never leave the island. Their dislike for outsiders and mainland society gives the community an almost cult-like feel.
Another aspect of Spells For Forgetting that I absolutely adored, as the way that witchcraft was woven into the story so effortlessly. Witchcraft and Paganism are vary rarely discussed in fiction in the way that Adrienne does in Spells. It is a fantastical aspect of the story, but it also features certain elements which are genuinely practised by witches, which was a really nice addition to a beautifully written novel.
I had such high expectations for Spells For Forgetting, and it did not disappoint. I very rarely give a book five stars, but Spells 100% deserved it!
Have you read Spells For Forgetting? Let me know in the comments!