In Alix E. Harrow's novel The Once and Future Witches, set in the late 19th century, the estranged Eastwood sisters reunite in New Salem with the aim of restoring lost magic and challenging patriarchal oppression through their involvement in the women's suffrage movement and labor unions. The story explores themes of sisterhood, resilience, and the resurgence of covert female resistance against overt male abuse. The book contains instances of physical and emotional abuse.

The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow has generally received praise for its rich prose and feminist themes. Reviewers admire the complex, well-drawn characters and the blend of historical and fantastical elements. Some critics note that the pacing can be slow, and the plot a bit predictable. Overall, it’s celebrated for its empowering message and vivid world-building.

Readers who enjoy The Once and Future Witches by Alix E. Harrow likely appreciate historical fantasy with strong feminist themes, much like in Naomi Novik's Uprooted or Katherine Arden's The Bear and the Nightingale. Fans of rich, lyrical prose and tales incorporating folklore in a reimagined historical setting would find this book appealing.

Mysterious / Fantastical / Emotional / Dark / Challenging

Alix E. Harrow

Adult

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Once and Future Witches and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Once and Future Witches Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Wayward Sisters”

Introduction and Part 1, Chapters 1-6

The Once and Future Witches Introduction and Part 1, Chapters 1-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 1, Chapters 7-12

The Once and Future Witches Part 1, Chapters 7-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Hand in Hand”

Part 2, Chapters 13-16

The Once and Future Witches Part 2, Chapters 13-16 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 17-21

The Once and Future Witches Part 2, Chapters 17-21 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 22-26

The Once and Future Witches Part 2, Chapters 22-26 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Burned & Bound”

Part 3, Chapters 27-35

The Once and Future Witches Part 3, Chapters 27-35 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “What Is Lost” - Part 5: “What Is Found”

Parts 4-5, Chapter 36-45 and Epilogue

The Once and Future Witches Parts 4-5, Chapter 36-45 and Epilogue Summary & Analysis

The Once and Future Witches

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Once and Future Witches?

Reading Age

Book Details