A Resistance of Witches Review

Hello, all!

Since it's the season of the witch, I'm here to tell you all that you need to add A Resistance of Witches by Morgan Ryan to your autumn TBRs.

Pub Date: 7-15-25
Adult - Historical Fantasy

Lydia Polk longs for a life beyond reading tarot cards and tea leaves, the family trade passed down by her mother and grandmother. When she's accepted to the Royal Academy of Witches, Lydia seizes the chance for something greater. With war raging in Europe, witches become vital to the British government's covert fight against Hitler. As a Projectionist, Lydia tracks magical artefacts, but when a Nazi witch infiltrates the Academy during her scrying, the fallout is devastating.

 With the coven vulnerable, some Elders grow cautious, but Lydia resolves to recover the Grimorium Bellum in France—an ancient text with dangerous power. Joined by a resistance fighter and an American with unique magic, they confront enemies across France. Lydia soon learns the book has its own motive, forcing her to make a world-altering decision as the Third Reich witches close in.

I love a mix of historical fiction and fantasy, and this was wonderfully done. All three main characters—Lydia, Rebecca, and Henry—brought something unique to the story, blending cleverness, resilience, and steadiness in the face of war. Besides the characters, I loved the magical elements and how Ryan wove them into the plot. At times, it felt like a witch version of the Monuments Men, and I was here for it. I thought the pacing was also well done, keeping me on the edge of my seat. Given the timeframe, there are a lot of heartbreaking moments, and I thought the brutality of war was handled with care. I'm so impressed with this debut and will definitely be picking up whatever this author comes out with next.

Rating: 4/5