Member Reviews

A great mixture of storytelling and folk magic. This format of interweaving the spells into the story is definitely an interesting way to present the information, however it felt a little clunky at parts. I did read this through the kindle format, so it is possible that it just did not translate well into that format. The underlying story(ies) were very enjoyable though.

Was this review helpful?

This was a very interesting book/story. Throughout you are left wondering how everything connects, but the author brings everything together perfectly by the end. There are spells included even though this is a work of fiction. This left me wondering if the author believes that the spells could actually work and are real or are fiction as well. Great book for around Halloween.

Was this review helpful?

I wasn't sure what I was expecting going in based on the blurb. This was interesting. I don't think the writing style is for me but I think I am going to read it again. There was a lot of interesting folklore info.

Was this review helpful?

I love this book because it's reminiscent of a time when ancient wisdom was passed down through storytelling. It's a format that has been lacking. Fiction is full of fantasy and magic, sure, but most of it lacks the sincerity we need in modern spirituality. This book, on the other hand, bridges history, fiction, and genuine spellwork beautifully and I hope to see more of it in the future.

Was this review helpful?

Unfortunately, this one wasn't for me. I did love the format, the blending of journal entries with spells, it is very unique. I just had a hard time engaging with the stories. All the people sounded the same so it was repetitive.

Was this review helpful?

Rarely do I read a book more than once, but this book is the exception! I read it three times before I was able to move on another book. I love that the author took liberty some in creating his fiction. It was simply enthralling and mesmerizing! I’m not gonna lie, I’m probably gonna read it again… And again!

Was this review helpful?

Deliciously delightful and devilish! This book was so darn good. Several stories within a story! I loved all the plot twists and the connection with figures in history. This was an amazing read! I'm looking forward to reading more from this author. I voluntarily read this book via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinion.

Was this review helpful?

I was very excited by the premise of this book, and it did not disappoint. A spell book within a story is something I did not know I needed. I really liked how it was set up as journal entries for each of the coven members detailing their stories, while including in each entry the world that they used. This is such a unique book and the writing flows so well, so it was very easy to read page after page.

Was this review helpful?

This one is a bit special. It's a book of spells presented as stories. The first one might have thrown me if I hadn't heard so many good things about the book, because part of the spell involves invoking the devil who, as a Pagan, I don't believe in. Witches have been trying to dispel that kind of witch hunter propaganda for decades.

However, the writing flowed well and I was curious where it might go from there.

I thought interspersed rituals into the stories was a very interesting approach. It made them more interesting to have a context for when they might be used.

Was this review helpful?

I had high hopes for this book and to be honest the cover really appealed to me. I will say that I was expecting something different so before going into this book, know that it is written in a way to include non-fiction elements into a fiction novel. I had the impression that the book was non-fiction so that could be a bit confusing for some readers and definitely through me off.

That being said, the book isn't bad or boring, just not what I had in mind. I can see this book appealing to readers who like their fiction grounded in reality.

Was this review helpful?

This book was phenomenal!!! I took the advice from the beginning and read it twice! I loved how it’s a fictional non-fiction….if that even makes sense. The witches are his creation yet the ghost stories are real. And the spells? He created them!!
This was such a fun read, I definitely hope for this in paperback! I want to read it again.

Thank you Netgalley and Crossed Crow Books!! This exceeded my imagination!!!

Was this review helpful?

Whispers from the Coven, by Chris Allaun is and interesting blend of old magick, American Hoodoo, and Granny Magick. There are a lot of great books on magick out there, but this one is unique and special. It should be in every witches library.

Was this review helpful?

I received an ARC of *Whispers from the Coven* in return for an honest review. This enchanting novel blends historical fiction, journal entries, and a spell book to create a unique and immersive reading experience. The writing is magical, full of insight, and the stories become beautifully interconnected as the narrative unfolds. The characters are richly developed, and their individual tales intertwine seamlessly, revealing a tapestry of mystery and magic. Each entry adds depth and complexity, drawing the reader deeper into the world of the coven. It's a spellbinding read that will captivate fans of both history and the supernatural.

Was this review helpful?

4.5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Title: Whispers of the Coven
Author: Chris Allan
Genre: spirituality/religion

I trust any book with the forward by Devin Hunter.

Simple. Clear. And my favorite way of learning magick. Storytelling!
“Storytelling is a spell” - -Patricia Glasspool leader of the Lincoln Park Coven

I absolutely loved the story created by Chris Allan. It really kept me engaged and I love the spellbook/fiction book mash up. I laughed, I felt nervous, I giggled, I gagged, my way through each entry.
The actual spells were easy and clear. For the most part all material is easily accessible or in most witches inventory. Only a few had odd ideas that are more expensive or harder to get your hands on.
Highly recommend for beginner to advance. I would even recommend to non-witches that enjoy fiction stories and storytelling.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.

Was this review helpful?

This was such an interesting read. I wasn't sure what to expect when I first read the summary but I wasn't disappointed. Chris did a really awesome job of blending fact and folk lore.

Was this review helpful?

This is a really interesting format for a book, essentially providing case studies and identifying a relevant spell to address the issue that the person experiences. However, a lot of these spells veer into territory that I personally don’t feel great about, such as spells that reduce or take away another’s autonomy and choice (truth spells, love spells, etc). If this is part of your practice you’ll probably love this book. If not, it might make you uncomfortable like it did for me.

Was this review helpful?