Enchanted by Darkness: A Review of The Witch and His Crow by Ben Alderson
Sometimes a book comes along that captures your imagination and feels like a magical escape from reality—The Witch and His Crow by Ben Alderson is precisely that. As someone who thrives on tales woven with wonder and tension, I found myself irresistibly drawn to this captivating MM queer paranormal romance. From the moment I cracked open its pages, I knew I was in for an unforgettable journey.
Set against the backdrop of the Witch Trials, Alderson’s debut transports us to a world where vengeance and survival dance precariously on the edge of dark magic. Meet Hector Briar—a survivor marked by the scars of a horrific past. At just six years old, he witnessed the murder of his parents at the hands of Witch Hunters. Now a predator in the shadows of Oxford, Hector finds himself embroiled in a deadly game where survival is never guaranteed, especially when alliances blur and allies become enemies.
One of the things that struck me most was the slow-burn romance between Hector and the enigmatic Arwyn Morgan, a rival whose allure is matched only by his murky intentions. Alderson excels at exploring their chemistry through sharp dialogue and real emotional tension. Their dynamic unfolds beautifully, adding depth to an already rich narrative. The highlight for me was the intertwining of flirtation and humor amid the perilous stakes—those moments of sharp banter not only made me chuckle but also kept the romantic tension simmering just beneath the surface.
I adored Hector’s character—the chaos and brilliance he embodies makes him incredibly relatable. His crow familiar, Caym, serves as a delightful foil, balancing levity with the deeper themes of loyalty and betrayal. The stakes are heightened further by Alderson’s creation of a richly layered world that intricately ties together traditional witchcraft and contemporary dilemmas. The author’s meticulous research shines through, with nods to historical witch trials adding context and depth to the narrative. It’s a fantastic mix of horror and intrigue, where elements of astrology and shadowy concealment feel both timeless and fresh.
A memorable line—"In a game of darkness, it is important we find our light. Hector, that’s you. It’s always been you."—resonated deeply. It encapsulates not only Hector’s journey but also the ongoing battle between hope and despair within the witching world Alderson has crafted. Alderson has an exquisite ability to weave humor into heavier themes, ensuring the story maintains an engaging tone throughout.
While I was utterly absorbed by the intricacies of the plot, I couldn’t help but hope for a deeper exploration of the magical mechanics outlined throughout the story. Still, the surprises Alderson delivers kept me guessing and eagerly turning the pages, especially as we approach the tantalizing cliffhanger that promises more in the next installment—mark your calendars for The Demon and His Viper coming in March 2026!
For anyone who enjoys a heady mix of romance, danger, and rich storytelling, The Witch and His Crow is a must-read. It ignited my imagination and transformed my reading experience into a vivid cinematic journey. This book is not just an escape; it’s an exhilarating ride through a world brimming with magic, complex characters, and the tantalizing promise of more tales to unfold.
As I close the cover on this enchanting tale, I can’t help but feel a yearning for more. Alderson has set the stage for an incredible series, and I, for one, cannot wait to dive back into the perilous world of witchcraft that promises just the right amount of danger, romance, and edge-of-your-seat excitement. Would I recommend it? Unquestionably—especially for those who crave stories where every page crackles with potential and every character feels achingly real.
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