Fall book idea - Witch of Wild Things
“The way everything had to break in order to root, to sprout, to heal”
Sage Flores recently moved back to her hometown after being fired from her job. After spending years running away from her power and family, she is forced to reconnect with her family trauma and long time high school crush, Tennessee Reyes.
She takes a job offer at Cranberry Rose Company where she gets to use her unique power to communicate to plants and gets to know her old flame Tennessee.
Throughout the story the book explores themes of family, heritage, sister relationships and a slow burn romance.
I loved Sage and her point of view through the story. The healing process she goes through when she moves back time home town keeps you interested and the romance between her and Tennessee is just a plus!
I absolutely loved diving into "Witch of Wild Things" by Raquel Vasquez Gilliland this past fall season, and it quickly became one of my top recommendations! The cover itself, with its beautiful dark, whimsical forest scene and a cozy house, perfectly sets the mood for the magic within. When I first heard about Sage Flores, a woman returning to her roots after a major life upheaval, I was immediately intrigued. This isn't just a simple homecoming story; it's a profound journey of self-discovery, healing, and reconnecting with a power she'd long tried to suppress. The narrative really drives home that powerful quote: 'The way everything had to break in order to root, to sprout, to heal.' It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, finding your true self means confronting the past and allowing yourself to be vulnerable. Sage's ability to communicate with plants isn't just a quirky detail; it's central to her identity and her path to reclaiming her heritage. It’s written with such a rich, sensory detail that you can almost feel the earth beneath your feet and hear the whispers of the wild. These 'witchy vibes' are woven throughout the narrative in a way that feels utterly natural and enchanting, rather than forced. Her connection to the natural world is a source of both strength and solace, offering a unique lens through which to explore themes of belonging and purpose. If you've ever felt a pull towards nature or a sense of magic in the everyday, you'll deeply resonate with Sage's experiences. Beyond the magic, the human elements are incredibly strong. The 'family drama' is complex and raw, delving into unresolved issues and the unique bonds of sister relationships. It truly makes you reflect on the strengths and vulnerabilities within our own families. It’s not just about secrets; it’s about understanding generational patterns and finding forgiveness, both for others and for oneself. And then, there’s Tennessee Reyes – oh, Tennessee! The 'high school crush turned lover' trope can sometimes feel cliché, but here it’s handled with such a delicate, slow-burn intensity. Their shared history and the challenges they face create an authentic connection that feels earned and deeply satisfying. It’s not just a romance; it’s two people finding their way back to each other amidst personal chaos, supporting each other’s growth, and it’s incredibly heartwarming to watch unfold. While I noticed some reviews might give it around a 3.7/5 stars, for me personally, this book hit all the right notes and soared way beyond that number. It’s a story that champions healing, embraces unique abilities, and shows the profound power of coming home—not just to a place, but to yourself. If you're looking for a read that combines magical realism with deep emotional growth, a captivating 'high school crush turned lover' arc, and genuine 'family drama' set against a backdrop of enchanting 'witchy vibes', then please pick up "Witch of Wild Things." It’s more than just a fall book; it’s an experience that stays with you long after the last page, leaving you with a sense of hope and a touch of magic.