I have to start this by saying… I’ve been in a proper reading funk. And I mean years. Which feels almost criminal to admit when you’re someone who genuinely loves books as much as I do. It just… wasn’t happening. I’d pick things up, read a bit, then drift off again. No real reason, no big drama — just not in the mood. But I think (finally!) that little phase has packed its bags and left. About time too. This book is actually a bit of a symbol of that whole era for me. I picked up The Witches of New York a few years ago (one of many Vinted finds — you know how it is when you spot something witchy and can’t resist). The premise alone had me hooked: witches, New York, historical setting… yes please.
I first started reading it on a train to Lisbon — we were off to collect Michael’s motorbike, which tells you exactly how long ago that was because he’s had it for ages now! But between people-watching (one of my favourite travel pastimes, not going to lie) and staring out the window, I didn’t get very far.
And then… well. Over the course of the next year (I know, I know — it’s almost embarrassing), I dipped in and out of it. And here’s the thing — every time I picked it up, I really enjoyed it. I just never felt pulled to keep going. Such a strange feeling.
Anyway, fast forward to now, and a friend suggesting we start a little book club (which I absolutely love the idea of, by the way). That alone seemed to give me the nudge I needed. Suddenly I wanted to read again. And just like that… the spark came back. And so I finally finished this one.
About The Witches of New York
Set in 1880s New York, the story follows three women — Adelaide, Eleanor, and Beatrice — who run a tea shop in the Bowery that’s… not quite what it seems. On the surface, it’s a place for remedies, advice, and a bit of comfort. But underneath? There’s magic. Quiet, subtle, often whispered magic.
The book leans much more into the everyday witch kind of energy rather than anything overly dramatic. Think herbal remedies, spiritual intuition, protection spells — all wrapped up in a historical setting that feels rich without being overwhelming.
There’s also a mystery woven through it involving missing girls, which adds a darker edge without turning it into a full-on thriller.
My thoughts
I’ll be honest — the pacing is quite slow at times. If you’re someone who likes things to happen quickly, this might test your patience a little. But weirdly, I didn’t mind that. It felt quite gentle, almost cosy in a way.
What I really loved was the atmosphere. There’s something about the mix of old New York and quiet witchcraft that just works. It feels grounded, not overly fantastical, which made it all the more believable.
Beatrice was definitely my favourite. Watching her grow and slowly come into herself was probably the most satisfying part of the whole story. She starts off quite unsure and sheltered, and you really see her begin to expand and find her place — I always love that kind of character journey.
Adelaide and Eleanor, though… I’m still not entirely sure how I feel about them. I wanted to connect more, but something didn’t quite click for me. I can’t even fully explain why. Maybe there’s more to their backstories that just wasn’t explored deeply enough? Or maybe it’s intentional, leaving a bit of mystery around them.
It actually made me wonder if there’s more to come — like a sequel or companion story. I haven’t checked yet, but I probably will at some point because I am curious… just not urgently.
A little about the author
Ami McKay is known for blending historical fiction with strong female characters and just a touch of the mystical. As well as The Witches of New York, she’s also written The Birth House, which was hugely popular and very much rooted in women’s stories and traditions. I must see if I can get hands on a copy!
What I found interesting is that she often focuses on overlooked or “quiet” aspects of women’s lives — things like intuition, community, healing… all the stuff that doesn’t always make it into mainstream historical narratives. And you can really feel that in this book.
Final thoughts about The Witches of New York
Despite taking me forever to finish (honestly, no book deserves that), I really did enjoy it. It’s not a fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat kind of read — it’s more of a slow wander through a magical little corner of old New York. And maybe that’s exactly what I needed without realising it.
Also, a quick note on the cover — because mine (the blue one on the left) is actually different to the one I keep seeing on Amazon. There seem to be a few different editions of The Witches of New York floating around, all with slightly different designs. I do have to say though, I actually prefer the Amazon version — it just feels a bit more in line with the whole witchy, atmospheric vibe of the story. I’ll pop both covers into this post so you can see the difference!
Since finishing this, I’ve already read another book in two days (who even am I?!), and I’m about to start another one this afternoon — all witchy, of course. So yes, I think it’s safe to say… the reading funk is officially over. Thank goodness for that.
If you’ve read The Witches of New York, I’d love to know what you thought — especially about Adelaide and Eleanor because I still feel like I’m missing something there! And if you love witchy stories, you might like to try out some of my books!
