I needed time to process my thoughts after finishing this book. I loved it so much that I doubt my words can fully do it justice—but I’ll give it a try.

This novel delivered everything my soul was craving: magic in the modern world, a gripping revenge thriller, and an exploration of feminine rage and empowerment. A close friend and I often discuss how stories about women’s empowerment can sometimes unfairly diminish the good men who do exist. This book strikes the perfect balance, celebrating the good guys while utterly dismantling the bad ones.

At the heart of the story is Piers Corbin, a woman on a journey of self-discovery. After fleeing a violent marriage, she starts over with a distant aunt in Upstate New York. Piers, who has always been drawn to poisonous things, begins to uncover what that affinity means—its connection to her family and to a shadowy magical realm lurking beneath society’s surface.

With its eerie forests, sinister fungi, and dark witchy vibes, this book is a must-read for fans of thrillers, mysteries, and magical realism.

This story was an exhilarating read from start to finish! The premise was unique and immediately drew me in, reminiscent of the suspenseful twists of Gone Girl combined with the enchanting elements of Practical Magic, and a touch of Poison Ivy’s fierce spirit from Batman. The author masterfully crafted a plot that kept me on edge, especially as it built toward the climactic conclusion.

The pacing was perfect, with every chapter pulling me deeper into the tangled web of intrigue. My heart was racing when I reached the final act, and I found myself gripping my Kindle in anticipation. Emil did something so infuriating to me in the final act that I wanted to punch him (if you know, you know!).

What I appreciated most was the empowering narrative of a woman’s journey to reclaim control and seek justice. It was a thrilling ride filled with drama, surprises and a deeply satisfying sense of vengeance. This book was an absolute joy to read, and I’m genuinely sad it’s over. Highly recommended for anyone who loves a gripping, revenge-driven story. I absolutely adored it!

This book quickly became one of my favorite reads of the year. The concept alone had me intrigued from the start, but the writing style is so engaging that once I started I couldn’t put this down.

The main character, Piers, is strong but flawed, and very relatable despite the fantastical circumstances she ends up in. The way the witchcraft in this story is interwoven with feminine strength and the ability to take back a sense of power against abusers is absolutely masterful. I want to recommend this to every woman I know.

Ava Morgyn’s The Bane Witch is a wickedly enchanting blend of dark fantasy, suspense, and revenge. From the first page, you’re hooked by Piers Corbin’s eerie connection to poison and the haunting choices that define her story.

When Piers escapes her toxic marriage (quite literally) and discovers her birthright as a Bane Witch, things spiral deliciously out of control. Morgyn creates a rich world where poisonous plants, witchcraft, and small-town secrets brew into a perfect storm. Watching Piers navigate family legacies, her flirtation with the sheriff, and her pursuit of justice against evil men is both thrilling and empowering. But it’s the looming presence of a serial killer that brings the real tension—will Piers be predator or prey?

The Bane Witch by Ava Morgyn was a 5/5 star read for me!

I thought the writing was incredibly well done and did a great job of adding atmosphere to a book about a woman named Piers Corbin who has always been drawn to poison—both in plants and dangerous relationships.

After faking her death to escape a violent marriage, Piers moves to the mountains to live with her estranged great-aunt. There, Piers discovers her legacy as a Bane Witch: a woman who can consume deadly plants and eliminate evil men. As she embraces her dark inheritance, working at her aunt’s café and toying with a local sheriff’s interest, she catches the attention of a nearby serial killer. With her past and present closing in, Piers must confront her own nature and the killer before it’s too late.

​This book was a great moody rumination with feminist overtones that didn't feel heavy-handed. Instead, this added to the empowerment of what being a witch is about, which we have learned about from other tales and folklore. The author left me at the edge of my seat enough to keep me turning the pages while still maintaining an atmospheric tale that centered on a unique form of magic.

​I would recommend this to any reader in my life who loves thrillers, mystery, and fantasy.