Title: Magic Lessons: The Prequel to Practical Magic
Author: Alice Hoffman
Release Date: October 6th 2020
Genre: Occult Horror
In an unforgettable novel that traces a centuries-old curse to its source, beloved author Alice Hoffman unveils the story of Maria Owens, accused of witchcraft in Salem, and matriarch of a line of the amazing Owens women and men featured in Practical Magic and The Rules of Magic.
Where does the story of the Owens bloodline begin? With Maria Owens, in the 1600s, when she’s abandoned in a snowy field in rural England as a baby. Under the care of Hannah Owens, Maria learns about the “Unnamed Arts.” Hannah recognizes that Maria has a gift and she teaches the girl all she knows. It is here that she learns her first important lesson: Always love someone who will love you back.
When Maria is abandoned by the man who has declared his love for her, she follows him to Salem, Massachusetts. Here she invokes the curse that will haunt her family. And it’s here that she learns the rules of magic and the lesson that she will carry with her for the rest of her life. Love is the only thing that matters.
Magic Lessons is a celebration of life and love and a showcase of Alice Hoffman’s masterful storytelling.
Magic Lessons is a hauntingly beautiful origin story. Maria Owen’s story.
This book. Everything about it was phenomenal and heart wrenching and I was there for it. Maria’s journey wasn’t an easy one. She endured so much. My chest tightened with each loss she faced. Through it all, she had her magic. Always magic. It both helped and hurt her.
I have a deep love for the Owens family. To read Maria’s origin story was amazing. The beginning is a little slow but you’re in for a ride. Be patient. Its so worth it! I loved the dark vibe of the story. Those were different times. A dark time for anyone suspected in the “Unnamed Arts”. Maria suffered tremendous losses but she also knew happiness and love. The characters were so well written, I wanted to know about all them all. They all piqued my interest in one form or another. I read deep into the night to finish. I had to know! I was invested. The highly emotional scenes caused me heartbreak and tears. This book was everything I had hoped for and more! It was fantastic. I will carry this story close to my heart. I give this 5 stars.
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*
The Literary Vixen 