I'm not looking for a classic fantasy with wands and pointy hats. I want a book where witchcraft feels grounded, maybe even gritty. Think small-town secrets, ancient practices in a modern setting, or witches just trying to pay their rent.
Any recommendations for a witch story that's more about atmosphere and character than epic magical battles? I've already read The Once and Future Witches.
by Keyfas
5 Comments
Practical Magic
Ottessa Moshfegh – *Lapvona*
Edit: it’s not “modern” but definitely gritty and grounded
*Conjure Wife* by Fritz Leiber–witches in an academic setting. If you count 1977 as “modern,” then *Shagduk* by J.B. Jackson, and even more so its follow-up *Ursula of Ulm*. More witches in an academic setting.
Her Majesty’s Royal Coven by Juno Dawson might fit in the witches-in-modern-setting vibe you’re looking for! Fairly distinct women written as women first before witches, if that makes sense, but there is some epic-ness to it.
(Minor spoilers)
The Changeling by Victor Lavalle features some modern witches, but they aren’t the main story point.