A Gathering of Crones

Great part 2 in the series

Wow what a ride. The first book introduced us to the main character who just turned 60 and found out she was a witch. This one introduces us more to the reason for the Crones, and the threat that the Crones are fighting against. Complete with monsters, and magical combats, the four Crones, plus one, need to gather and defeat their nemesis before he kills them, and steals their pendants. And takes over the world. The characters in this are what really make this book work, but the action takes you on a ride that makes you pause after you’ve read it to take a breath as you assimilate all that happened. I was drawn in in such a way that my normal world is on hold as I take a trip into Confluence. As someone who is close to 60 myself, I like a character that has flaws, but also is able to still make a difference. Claire is a woman who has gone through the housewife and mother phase, and understands her commitments as a Mom and Grandmother; but also has to find her own self, and her sense of purpose. I also enjoy the magical world this author has created, and the way she weaves some Arthurian lore with her own creatures and background story. In addition, the emotional reveals of the character, caused me to have a few tears in my eyes as I empathized with the things she went through with her housemates. Though this story is part of a series, the author does a wonderful job of bringing you up to speed so if you started with just this book, you would not be lost; but I do recommend that you begin with the first one, and then read this one. The third in this series is due out in August 2022, and I can tell you right now, I am very excited to read it. If it is like this one, I know I will be in for a treat. Highly recommend this book and this series.