Always a Witch

From the Publisher

Once A Witch
"A fantastic urban fantasy with an enchanting romance at its heart."—Cassandra Clare, New York Times bestselling author of City of Bones

"Carolyn MacCullough casts a mesmerizing spell with Once a Witch. Family secrets and sibling rivalry, time-travel and magical 'Talents' all brew together to create a superlative—and supernatural—coming-of-age story. Add an epic battle of good versus evil and an enchanting first kiss and this bewitching novel commands a sequel."—Megan McCafferty, New York Times bestselling author of the Jessica Darling series

"A light urban fantasy that goes down easy and will have readers asking for its sequel."—Kirkus Reviews

Drawing the Ocean
A New York Public Library Best Book for the Teen Age 
"MacCullough has a gift for using language with spectacularly evocative phrasing."—VOYA 
"MacCullough's subtle use of present tense and visually evocative writing create an eloquent portrait."—Kirkus Reviews 
"Sadie's narrative voice is absolutely authentic, and the story of her quirky, endearing relationship with Ryan is memorably poignant."—ALA Booklist

Stealing Henry
"MacCullough's dialogue is flawless. The journey is fascinating."—ALA Booklist, starred review 
"Finely crafted."—Kirkus Reviews

Children's Literature - Julia Beiker

The cover of this book deceives the reader into believing the pages reveal a dark, sinister novel; but, in actual fact, the story line is more accessible than the jacket image seems to indicate. The young witch, Tasmin, must travel back in time to save not only her families' talents or powers, but possibly their existence. Going back to the 1800's proves easy, the hard part occurs as she tries to figure out a way to return. It appears hopeless unless she brings along her special friend, Gabriel; except he does not have unlimited abilities to travel back in time without physical damage. Tasmin ends up going alone and finds her way into the household of the Knight family where all her adventures begin and end as a handmaid. Maids in this time frame have a rather short life expectancy. Although the topic of witches in itself can rattle cages this is an entertaining book with its witty dialogue and unexpected events that have the reader turning the next page. Capturing the voice of Tasmin adds to the plot, but at the end I still wonder about her age and how she looks. The traveling back in time gives a little history lesson about the Victorian era in New York City. Reviewer: Julia Beiker

School Library Journal

Gr 8 Up—Seventeen-year-old Tamsin Greene has finally found the Talent that her grandmother prophesied, yet her experiences still set her apart from her magical family. When sinister Alistair Knight from Once a Witch (Clarion, 2009) reappears, and Tamsin becomes aware that he has traveled back in time to destroy the Greenes, she must stop him. The danger increases exponentially when she becomes a maid to the powerful Knight family, the deadly magical enemies of the Greenes, in mid-19th-century New York City. In the process of trying to save her family, the teen is faced with the reality of her grandmother's prophecy and its life-changing implications for her and her Talent. Deft plotting and sinister characters and setting make for an enjoyable and gripping read, and a gentle romantic subplot adds to the appeal. Tamsin is an interesting and believable character, and the 19th-century figures are briefly but vividly drawn. Although this book will be most enjoyed by fans of the first title, MacCullough's prologue, judicious explanations in the body of the novel, and a satisfying ending will allow librarians to recommend it as a stand-alone novel.—Sue Giffard, Ethical Culture Fieldston School, New York City