“The Herbwitch’s Apprentice” by Ireen Chau

In the kingdom of Olderea, being a witch means a death sentence isn't far behind.

So when 16-year-old reluctant debutante Amarante discovers she's half-witch, she’ll do anything to get rid of her new found powers. Besides, having all of high society and the royal family (including the charming Prince Ash) discover her secret won’t help her reputation for troublemaking. As her powers grow, Amarante starts to realizes that magic and the witches who wield it, aren’t as evil as the whole kingdom believes. 

But strange things start to happen in the palace and when the Queen falls deathly ill, Amarante knows that there are more dangers hiding within the glittering halls of the castle than in the hidden Witch Village. In the midst learning proper etiquette for a debutante and potion brewing as a herbwitch, Amarante must work with Prince Ash to investigate before an innocent witch gets condemned for the crimes against the throne. 

However, as Amarante chases down the truth, she realizes finding the culprit will require her own magic to come to light. And exposing her secret will mean death - and the condemnation of the prince she wants to help.

I received this book in exchange for an honest review. 

"The Herbwitch's Apprentice" by Ireen Chau is a regency inspired fantasy and OH MAN I am a fan!! I found this book on Instagram and was instantly intrigued by the synopsis as well as Ireen's beautiful character art. So when she posted an ARC request form, I knew I had to jump on board and I am so glad I did!

The story is written in first person POV from debutante and new herbwitch Amarante's perspective. Amarante's voice was so strong and I felt like I knew her right away. She was funny, witty, and adventurous but still had lots to learn about herself and the world around her. I really enjoyed reading the story through her perspective.

All the side characters in this story were so fun and unique. Although there were many debutante characters that I got mixed up, the important ones always stood out. My favorite side character was definitely the ex-blacksmith’s blunt daughter, Tori Strongfoot. I think she and I would be great friends! xD

And now I get to talk about the new love of my life Prince Ash. He’s daring, dependable, and a match for Amarante in wits. (Not to mention he’s adorable.) Amarante and Ash's relationship was amazing and not only was it sweet but it was also a little awkward. It's very rare to find "romantic" relationships that are actually realistic in MG/YA but Ireen Chau kicked it out of the park. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment they shared on the page but their relationship never took away from the actual plot of the book.

I really enjoyed the magic system in this book. It was simple and yet perfect for this story! In “The Herbwitch’s  Apprentice” their are two types of witches: Charmwitches and Herbwitches. Charmwitches specializes in the inorganic such as enchantments and protection spells. Herbwitches have an affinity to the living world such as animal and plant magic. What I really liked about the magic in this book was that it never felt dark like many YA books with “witches” feel. This magic was just like special abilities to help in everyday life and keep people healthy and safe if used properly.

“The Herbwitch’s Apprentice” is an exciting adventure full of mystery, magic, and regency charm. The first quarter of the book felt a little slow but now that I've finished the book, I realize all the details were needed. Although it could be a little predictable, the plot was fun and the prose had just enough adventure and sass from Amarante to keep you turning pages late into the night.

I would have loved more emotion from Amarante. Although it doesn't detract from the story, I think it could have added to it. She goes through a lot of change and some scary situations but it doesn't really seem to bother her. Amarante is a strong character which I adore but I wish there was a little more of an emotional response from her as she progresses through the story. But once again, this book was still extremely fun and a great read!

Also as a side note, I don’t usually put content ratings on a book unless it’s heavier or darker material. But I’m here to tell you that although there is action, peril, and some sweet romance this book was completely clean!! I would highly recommend this book to anyone 13 and up.

I so enjoyed this story! It was such a great fantasy adventure that was both humorous and heartfelt with the perfect dash of magic.

I give "The Herbwitch's Apprentice" five out of five potion bottles (or attacking swans, your choice).

"The Herbwitch's Apprentice" releases on March 24th, 2021! 

Until next time!

~ K.J. Haakenson