Witchspark

Welcome to the Magic Isles, an alternative pre-Victorian Britain where every child is tested for the right to use magic.

But something is awry. Only the very rich and powerful seem to be passing the test, and magic is on the decline. Two very different girls decide to sign up for a forbidden ‘course for witches’ – and for very different reasons.  

12-year-old Eglantine wants to acquire sorcery skills to save her kidnapped father and prevent her evil uncle from stealing their rather special house. Meanwhile, Princess Victoria does possess magical powers, but rather wishes she didn’t! Her powers are out of control and her inheritance of the throne is under threat. With the help of Miss Hegotty’s clandestine course, can they each overcome sinister forces, expose prejudices, and achieve their destiny? 

This is an enthralling adventure with two strong female protagonists, one of whom (like the author) has a limb difference – a foreshortened arm. Stereotypes are destroyed, friendships forged, and self-belief harnessed as their separate stories unfold and ultimately overlap.   

A deeply satisfying read serving up a magical concoction including dragon butlers, enchanted hats, walking beach huts – and even a rat called Lord Byron!