The Bone Witch – Rin Chupeco

When Tea accidentally resurrects her brother from the dead, she learns she is different from the other witches in her family. Her gift for necromancy means that she’s a bone witch, a title that makes her feared and ostracized by her community. But Tea finds solace and guidance with an older, wiser bone witch, who takes Tea and her brother to another land for training.

In her new home, Tea puts all her energy into becoming an asha — one who can wield elemental magic. But dark forces are approaching quickly, and in the face of danger, Tea will have to overcome her obstacles…and make a powerful choice. – Goodreads

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher via Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.

I found this novel wanting, though I guess that’s usually how it is with the first novel in a series. They can’t give too much away. its more like a sampler of what’s to come in future novels.

Personally I found some of the plot points/resolutions convenient as well as the world building and special powers. I would have liked to have seen more of Tea’s family life to solidify her identity and what she is losing/gaining as well as the importance of her relationships.

That being said – there were a lot of good points about this novel and there’s definitely room for growth.

I enjoyed the kinds of magic included and would have liked to have seen a bit more of it in different ways. The characters are diverse and there’s no lack of outspoken, demanding and tough-as-nails female characters as well as effeminate and gender-defying male characters.

I found the daeva to be somewhat misunderstood and lovable and kind of cute.

Not sure if I will continue with the series but other magic lovers might enjoy it.