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Season of the Witch
Asked by a former lover to investigate the disappearance of her stepson, information thief and skilled "remote viewer" Gabriel Blackstone begins to investigate a pair of beautiful witch sisters who use their magic to attain vast levels of power, a case during which Gabriel finds himself in mortal danger. By the author of The Midnight Side.
416 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2007
80 people are currently reading
3,464 people want to read
About the author
Natasha Mostert
9books149followers(from website)When my publisher asked me to submit a 200 word biography for their authors' website, I thought about dropping the usual bio platitudes and submitting the following: "Natasha Mostert is a spectacularly brilliant, raven-haired psychic who saw her first ghost at the age of four. She likes to take midnight rides on horseback and practises levitation twice a day. However, upon reflection I didn't think my editor would be too amused by this flight of fancy. So here it is, the official (and much less exciting) Natasha Mostert biography:
Natasha Mostert is South African. She grew up in Pretoria and Johannesburg but currently lives in London with her husband, Frederick. She still keeps an apartment in the university town of Stellenbosch in the Cape province.
She is the author of five novels. Her fourth novel, SEASON OF THE WITCH, is a modern gothic thriller about techgnosis and the Art of Memory and won the Book to Talk About: World Book Day 2009 Award. Film rights were sold to Allotria Productions with Emmy-award winning screenwriter, Andrew Davies, commissioned to write the script. Her fifth novel, THE KEEPER, is a thriller about martial arts, chi and quantum physics. Mostert returned to the subject of memory in her latest novel, DARK PRAYER, which is described by Kirkus Reviews a "brainy, fast-moving thriller" in which "Mostert brings together fascinating strands of biology, psychology and mysticism."
Mostert is a keen kickboxer. Visit her website at to find out more about her involvement with the CPAU Fighting for Peace project, which teaches Afghan women how to box and feel empowered in their lives.
Educated in South Africa and at Columbia University, New York, Mostert majored in modern languages and also holds graduate degrees in Lexicography and Applied Linguistics. She has worked as a teacher in the Department of Afrikaans and Dutch at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg and as project coordinator in the publishing department of public television station WNET/Thirteen in New York City. Her political opinion pieces have appeared on the op-ed page of The New York Times, in Newsweek, The Independent and The Times (London).
Future goals include writing poetry, executing a perfect spinning backkick and coming face to face with the ghost of Edgar Allen Poe.
Natasha Mostert is South African. She grew up in Pretoria and Johannesburg but currently lives in London with her husband, Frederick. She still keeps an apartment in the university town of Stellenbosch in the Cape province.
She is the author of five novels. Her fourth novel, SEASON OF THE WITCH, is a modern gothic thriller about techgnosis and the Art of Memory and won the Book to Talk About: World Book Day 2009 Award. Film rights were sold to Allotria Productions with Emmy-award winning screenwriter, Andrew Davies, commissioned to write the script. Her fifth novel, THE KEEPER, is a thriller about martial arts, chi and quantum physics. Mostert returned to the subject of memory in her latest novel, DARK PRAYER, which is described by Kirkus Reviews a "brainy, fast-moving thriller" in which "Mostert brings together fascinating strands of biology, psychology and mysticism."
Mostert is a keen kickboxer. Visit her website at to find out more about her involvement with the CPAU Fighting for Peace project, which teaches Afghan women how to box and feel empowered in their lives.
Educated in South Africa and at Columbia University, New York, Mostert majored in modern languages and also holds graduate degrees in Lexicography and Applied Linguistics. She has worked as a teacher in the Department of Afrikaans and Dutch at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg and as project coordinator in the publishing department of public television station WNET/Thirteen in New York City. Her political opinion pieces have appeared on the op-ed page of The New York Times, in Newsweek, The Independent and The Times (London).
Future goals include writing poetry, executing a perfect spinning backkick and coming face to face with the ghost of Edgar Allen Poe.
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December 14, 2022BR with my MacHalo Freaks starting January 1, 2016.
💀 DNF at 13% � do you think this is some kind of DNF record for me? Naaah, I've done much worse than that.
Do you know how I keep promising you short reviews but inevitably end rambling on and on and on forever? Well this time I'm really going to do it. Cross my heart, hope to die and all that crap. I mean, I only read 13% of the book, how long could this take? I see a few doubtful looks here and there, I think I'm starting to take offense. Oh, COME ON on people, have a little faith, will you?!
The first 13% of this book in a nutshell:
The pace is slllloooooooowwwww (which seems to be a prerequisite for 90% of the books I've read so far this year *headdesk*), the writing is I-don't-like-you, the characters are I-don't-like-you-and-I-don't-care-if-you-die-a-horrible-painful-death and the plot is who-the-hell-knows (so little happens in the first 50 pages of this book I still have no idea what this might be about).
AND THAT IS IT. HA. See, o ye of little faith? Told you I could do short and uninteresting as efficiently as I do long and uninteresting! But you just don't listen, do you? No, it's not that you don’t listen, it's just that you don't trust me. That's it. I'm clearly offended now.
PS: no I did not rate this book. Because yes, I can be fair sometimes . And who knows, this might be a literary masterpiece in disguise, so who am I to judge?
� A very private, confidential message to Casey: yes, you completely lacked judgement when you picked this book for us poor MacHalos to read. BUT, in a glorious display of previously unheard of beginning-of-the-year magnanimity, I have very leniently decided not to punish you for your awful sin. Thou shalt not have to suffer through a penance read, my dear beer snob! You can resume breathing now.
This one is Casey's pick. Damn. This MacHalo thing is getting a bit too democratic, if you ask me. I mean, since when do lowly group members get to choose group reads? Gah. I'm afraid the good old days when mods were ruthless tyrants who ruled mercilessly over their plebeian subjects are long gone. Life sucks.
✉️ Private message to Casey: yes, you will definitely get a penance read ifI we don't like this one. Now feel free to shudder, my dear.
💀 DNF at 13% � do you think this is some kind of DNF record for me? Naaah, I've done much worse than that.
Do you know how I keep promising you short reviews but inevitably end rambling on and on and on forever? Well this time I'm really going to do it. Cross my heart, hope to die and all that crap. I mean, I only read 13% of the book, how long could this take? I see a few doubtful looks here and there, I think I'm starting to take offense. Oh, COME ON on people, have a little faith, will you?!
The first 13% of this book in a nutshell:
The pace is slllloooooooowwwww (which seems to be a prerequisite for 90% of the books I've read so far this year *headdesk*), the writing is I-don't-like-you, the characters are I-don't-like-you-and-I-don't-care-if-you-die-a-horrible-painful-death and the plot is who-the-hell-knows (so little happens in the first 50 pages of this book I still have no idea what this might be about).
AND THAT IS IT. HA. See, o ye of little faith? Told you I could do short and uninteresting as efficiently as I do long and uninteresting! But you just don't listen, do you? No, it's not that you don’t listen, it's just that you don't trust me. That's it. I'm clearly offended now.
PS: no I did not rate this book. Because yes, I can be fair sometimes . And who knows, this might be a literary masterpiece in disguise, so who am I to judge?
� A very private, confidential message to Casey: yes, you completely lacked judgement when you picked this book for us poor MacHalos to read. BUT, in a glorious display of previously unheard of beginning-of-the-year magnanimity, I have very leniently decided not to punish you for your awful sin. Thou shalt not have to suffer through a penance read, my dear beer snob! You can resume breathing now.
This one is Casey's pick. Damn. This MacHalo thing is getting a bit too democratic, if you ask me. I mean, since when do lowly group members get to choose group reads? Gah. I'm afraid the good old days when mods were ruthless tyrants who ruled mercilessly over their plebeian subjects are long gone. Life sucks.
✉️ Private message to Casey: yes, you will definitely get a penance read if
June 7, 2016
This book is just a delicious read on so many levels. Purely recreational and effortless, but not simple by any means. It's a feast for the senses - I wanted to step inside and live in it, rub the pages all over my SKIN! Mostert really knows how to seduce the imagination without needing to resort to the obvious. It's like being captivated by wondering what's underneath the soft blouse instead of having bare breasts thrust in your face.
Sensual, yes, AND cerebral! And haunting, ethereally erotic, with mysticism and suspense and alchemy and gnostic elements. Definitely my kind of combination. Reminded me a little of William Gibson's "Pattern Recognition", but what "Pattern Recognition" lacks in 'yin' and femininity, "Season of the Witch" more than makes up for without sentimentality, emotionality, or affectation.
Sensual, yes, AND cerebral! And haunting, ethereally erotic, with mysticism and suspense and alchemy and gnostic elements. Definitely my kind of combination. Reminded me a little of William Gibson's "Pattern Recognition", but what "Pattern Recognition" lacks in 'yin' and femininity, "Season of the Witch" more than makes up for without sentimentality, emotionality, or affectation.
March 20, 2019
5 stars
I read Season of the Witch 10 years ago and have consistently found myself thinking about aspects of this book. It's bewitching and haunting and unlike any other book in the genre. Looking forward to rereading it this year in 2019 and seeing if the appeal is still there.
I read Season of the Witch 10 years ago and have consistently found myself thinking about aspects of this book. It's bewitching and haunting and unlike any other book in the genre. Looking forward to rereading it this year in 2019 and seeing if the appeal is still there.
January 1, 2011
This is one of those books that will stay with you long after you've read it.
I came across this book at my local community centre & i think the cover drew me in. The cover i've got has a crow beak open as if in a cry & a woman mainly her eye & in her eye is a symbol which looks to me like a woman (very hard to explain).
I was drawn in by the prologue it was captivating. The story centre's around Gabriel & he lives in London he steals information for a living, a computer hacker, with the help of his friend Isidore, mainly from big companies. He is contacted by a guy called William Whittington as his son had disappeared & he'd been given Gabriel's name as he was able to visit other people's minds. Gabriel wasn't interested in taking the job & told William. Then William mentioned the name Cecily Frankz, known as Frankie to everyone. The mere mention of her name stopped Gabriel in his tracks sending his memories for long ago & changed everything. He meets the Monk sisters, Morrighan & Minnaloushe, realizes straight away there's more to them than meets the eye but by then he's too drawn to them & intrigued by them that he seems to lose himself around them.That did make me a little mad as to me its saying that men can't help themselves around beautiful women but if they'd been ugly or less beautiful he wouldn't of been captivated by them.Yet Gabriel didn't know what he was getting into & it was going to change his life & everything stands for. Once he's boarded the ride he's on it till the end no matter what.
I really enjoyed this book & found it very hard to put down. There was maybe one or two chapters that was a little slow but they was needed to explain the rest of the story. In between most of the chapters there was an extract from a diary which i liked even when they didn't make any sense to me till i'd finished the whole book.
Its a book that will stay with you long after you've read it. I would recommend it i enjoyed it a lot. I really could go on & on but i'd end up spoiling it for everyone.
April 10, 2011
Prepare to be seduced by a gothic novel of intrigue, murder, love, the art of memory and remote viewing...
Season of the Witch by Natasha Mostert (Bantam Books)
It's very easy to mistake this book for just another unoriginal gothic sci-fi novel. After all, the synopsis on the book jacket seems to mention concepts that have been explored way too many times before.
That, coupled with the pretty, but rather romanc-y book cover makes this one of those gems that people will pass by simply because this book, at first glance, doesn't necessarily scream "read me".
The basic premise behind the story revolves around Gabriel Blackstone.
A hacker by trade, he makes a living (a very well-paid one) by stealing information and corporate company secrets for the competition.
What makes him unusual is that he's a very skilled remote viewer, meaning that he is able to scan people's thoughts and enter the minds of others (A process referred to in the book as slamming the ride).
When an ex-lover of his approaches Gabriel to help locate her missing stepson, last seen in the company of two beautiful sisters, he is forced to use his gift (albeit very reluctantly) in search of any clues that will help him solve the mystery of the missing stepson.
Soon he finds himself entangled in the lives of Morrighan and Minnaloushe Monk, the beautiful sisters of Monk house, who as it turns out, are direct descendents of John Dee, a well-known mathematician, astrologer and occultist.
Against his better judgement Gabriel is soon swept into a world beneath a world, seduced by a house of a million doors, troubled but intrigued by the symbols in the Monk house and caught in the spell of two hypnotic sisters, one of them, who he is sure, is a ruthless murderer.
But which one is it? And how to stop himself from falling losing his objectivity when he is already falling in love with one of them?
Season of the witch is a story about memory and magic. It unfurls worlds where the occult meets reality, where mysticism and symbolism is more than just a passing fancy and where alchemy of the soul becomes more than just a passing obsession.
What I loved about this book is that the author's writing seduces and pulls the reader into a world impossible to escape from. The blend of erotic imagery and the vivid descriptions of the mystical spins a web that one just can't escape from. The twists and turns in this book will also leave you reeling.
Author, Natasha Mostert truly manages to lend a timeless feel to the scenes at Monk House. Added to that is the fact that she effortlessly weaves historical references to alchemy, the art of memory, practitioners of magic and the concept of remote viewing, thereby making this book more than just another average novel exploring clichéd concepts of the occult.
Season of the Witch by Natasha Mostert (Bantam Books)
It's very easy to mistake this book for just another unoriginal gothic sci-fi novel. After all, the synopsis on the book jacket seems to mention concepts that have been explored way too many times before.
That, coupled with the pretty, but rather romanc-y book cover makes this one of those gems that people will pass by simply because this book, at first glance, doesn't necessarily scream "read me".
The basic premise behind the story revolves around Gabriel Blackstone.
A hacker by trade, he makes a living (a very well-paid one) by stealing information and corporate company secrets for the competition.
What makes him unusual is that he's a very skilled remote viewer, meaning that he is able to scan people's thoughts and enter the minds of others (A process referred to in the book as slamming the ride).
When an ex-lover of his approaches Gabriel to help locate her missing stepson, last seen in the company of two beautiful sisters, he is forced to use his gift (albeit very reluctantly) in search of any clues that will help him solve the mystery of the missing stepson.
Soon he finds himself entangled in the lives of Morrighan and Minnaloushe Monk, the beautiful sisters of Monk house, who as it turns out, are direct descendents of John Dee, a well-known mathematician, astrologer and occultist.
Against his better judgement Gabriel is soon swept into a world beneath a world, seduced by a house of a million doors, troubled but intrigued by the symbols in the Monk house and caught in the spell of two hypnotic sisters, one of them, who he is sure, is a ruthless murderer.
But which one is it? And how to stop himself from falling losing his objectivity when he is already falling in love with one of them?
Season of the witch is a story about memory and magic. It unfurls worlds where the occult meets reality, where mysticism and symbolism is more than just a passing fancy and where alchemy of the soul becomes more than just a passing obsession.
What I loved about this book is that the author's writing seduces and pulls the reader into a world impossible to escape from. The blend of erotic imagery and the vivid descriptions of the mystical spins a web that one just can't escape from. The twists and turns in this book will also leave you reeling.
Author, Natasha Mostert truly manages to lend a timeless feel to the scenes at Monk House. Added to that is the fact that she effortlessly weaves historical references to alchemy, the art of memory, practitioners of magic and the concept of remote viewing, thereby making this book more than just another average novel exploring clichéd concepts of the occult.
September 24, 2007
I really liked this book when I first started reading it. The first few chapters were fast-paced and engaging. After I was hooked, it fell on its face. The character development was lazy if not altogether lacking. (spoiler coming) I found it irritating that the author made the redhead seductive and sexy and lovable and her dark-haired sister the "bad guy". I'm SO over that. There were also a couple typos which always annoys me. It pulls me right out of the story every time.
I will say that while I was reading and thinking, "I can't believe I'm still reading this", it occurred to me that this would make a great movie. A film version of this story could be visually amazing.
I will say that while I was reading and thinking, "I can't believe I'm still reading this", it occurred to me that this would make a great movie. A film version of this story could be visually amazing.
January 23, 2010
Wow, this book is really good amazing! Of course, I rated it a
5
star. Hmm...I would definitely recommend this book to...:
Age(s):
-13/14
-Older
...or for those who are genre-picky...!
Genres:
-Thriller
-Romance
-Magic
-Alchemy
-Mystery
There are some "sexual" things in it, but seriously guys, don't laugh about it. It takes place in modern England, where Gabriel Blackstone (the main character)is a remote viewer (RV) that can see through people's mind psychically, that needs to solve the murder case of Robert Whittington, his friend Frankie's step-son. The mystery of it all leads to the two Monk sisters: Minnaloushe and Morrighan, where Rob used to hang out with them. Throughout the book, one of the sisters keeps a diary and when she writes about people, she uses the first letter of their name. Since both of the sisters have the letter 'M' as the beginning of their first names, it's hard to figure it out, especially for Gabriel, since he falls in love with the writer. But who? Could he be falling in love with Robert's murder?
Okayy...so, that was as general as I could get. *sorry* But I do love this book, and you guys HAVE TO READ IT!!!! OhMyGod, it's �AMAZING�. And Idislike
hate
telling spoilers, so yeah. You won't hear it from me! >:D
....................so yeah, I need to finish my book map essay
�ciao!
Age(s):
-13/14
-Older
...or for those who are genre-picky...!
Genres:
-Thriller
-Romance
-Magic
-Alchemy
-Mystery
There are some "sexual" things in it, but seriously guys, don't laugh about it. It takes place in modern England, where Gabriel Blackstone (the main character)is a remote viewer (RV) that can see through people's mind psychically, that needs to solve the murder case of Robert Whittington, his friend Frankie's step-son. The mystery of it all leads to the two Monk sisters: Minnaloushe and Morrighan, where Rob used to hang out with them. Throughout the book, one of the sisters keeps a diary and when she writes about people, she uses the first letter of their name. Since both of the sisters have the letter 'M' as the beginning of their first names, it's hard to figure it out, especially for Gabriel, since he falls in love with the writer. But who? Could he be falling in love with Robert's murder?
Okayy...so, that was as general as I could get. *sorry* But I do love this book, and you guys HAVE TO READ IT!!!! OhMyGod, it's �AMAZING�. And I
....................so yeah, I need to finish my book map essay
�ciao!
Read
June 13, 2014Hmpf. DNF at 23%.
I don't love doing this, especially when the premise itself is really interesting. The truth is the characters haven't really resonated with me, I put this down ages ago and have not once since considered picking it up. Moving on.
I don't love doing this, especially when the premise itself is really interesting. The truth is the characters haven't really resonated with me, I put this down ages ago and have not once since considered picking it up. Moving on.
August 26, 2014
Intriguing characters, in particular the enigmatic Monk sisters who entice lead character Gabriel into their lives whilst he tries to discover what has happened to a missing man.
Mystery and magic combine to make this a really interesting book that proved engrossing after a slightly slow start. Part based in fact, this book definitely gives food for thought and arose my interested in reading the author's three previous books.
Thanks to Transworld Publishing for the copy I received via netgalley.
Mystery and magic combine to make this a really interesting book that proved engrossing after a slightly slow start. Part based in fact, this book definitely gives food for thought and arose my interested in reading the author's three previous books.
Thanks to Transworld Publishing for the copy I received via netgalley.
May 29, 2012
Super plot, interesting ideas, and great sense of atmosphere almost (but not quite) ruined by mediocre writing, unlikeable characters, and horrible dialogue.
May 8, 2014
3.5 stars, there were some unexpected twists and I found the premise extremely original and interesting, but in the end it sometimes did not always hold my attention, although it read quite easily.
May 14, 2020
This is not the kind of book i usually read-though i have read some fantasy or magical books that were a wonder. The sisters were very well described and their amazing mansion, but then it became so predictable and lost my interest- but if you like witchy novels it is good ,and i love a London setting.
May 6, 2021
DNF for me. Characters did not grab my attention and the plot is super slow. Reading the summary I was intrigued by the concept of remote viewing and how it allows the person gifted with such a power to use it for good as is the case with Gabriel but it isn't all that interesting. I felt the story dragged on and on and about half way I stopped reading. Not worth it for me to even find out what happened to Frankie's son.
November 7, 2023
I didn't finish this but I'm still giving it two stars. I made it about 1/3 of the way through. At first I was intrigued and now it feels too cumbersome to read. There is a lot going on. It could also be I'm just not in the right headspace to finish this one. I did think the writing was decent.
August 6, 2012
This was an usual, but very engrossing book. It is cerebral, esoteric and very intelligently thoughtful. It's also full of suspense, mystery, drama and gothic atmosphere.
Gabriel Blackstone is a hacker and information thief extraordinaire. He lives for the thrill of finding a way past the obstacles standing between him and whatever data he has a buyer willing to pay for. He's also a "remote viewer" meaning he can drop into other people's minds and wander around to see what's going on inside their heads. He doesn't really care about anything or anyone but himself. Or so he thinks.
Then, Frankie, his first love and the one who got away reappears in his life and begs for his help. Her new, older and wealthy husband - who is dying - is desperately searching for his son, Robert, from whom he has been estranged, but wants to reconcile with before he dies. Frankie wants Gabriel to try to find out what happened to Robert, if he's dead or alive and where he is now.
After agreeing reluctantly to help, Gabriel discovers that Robert was deeply involved with a pair of stunningly gorgeous, but very mysterious sisters - who may be involved in Robert's disappearance.
As Gabriel delves deeper into the secretive, intoxicating Monk sisters' lives, he thinks he's in control of the situation and investigating them. But he quickly becomes involved with them himself and the more he learns about them and the strange world they live in, the more he begins to lose the threads of reality, and the ability to tell good from evil or to extricate himself from their seductive embrace.
The author is a very skilled writer, who creates fascinating characters with multiple layers, conflicted motivations, and inscrutable actions. The descriptions in the book that support the plot are heavy with symbolism, magical references, and philosophical undertones, but they are so beautifully written that they roll across your mind with the smoothness of a piece of silk, and add wonderful texture and colour to the plot.
Naming the main character Gabriel alone is crazy-symbolic, since he's the avenging angel trying to discover the secrets of the Monk sisters and bring them to justice - or at least, that's how he starts out. Things quickly turn complicated and who's doing what to whom become murky. There are lots of little touches like Gabriel's name sprinkled through the book, which will be interesting to those interested in magic, the occult, or philosopy.
There is definitely excitement and suspense in the story, but it is more quiet and intellectual than rough-and-tumble. The best way I can think of to describe this is that it's a thinking person's suspense novel. I really enjoyed it.
Gabriel Blackstone is a hacker and information thief extraordinaire. He lives for the thrill of finding a way past the obstacles standing between him and whatever data he has a buyer willing to pay for. He's also a "remote viewer" meaning he can drop into other people's minds and wander around to see what's going on inside their heads. He doesn't really care about anything or anyone but himself. Or so he thinks.
Then, Frankie, his first love and the one who got away reappears in his life and begs for his help. Her new, older and wealthy husband - who is dying - is desperately searching for his son, Robert, from whom he has been estranged, but wants to reconcile with before he dies. Frankie wants Gabriel to try to find out what happened to Robert, if he's dead or alive and where he is now.
After agreeing reluctantly to help, Gabriel discovers that Robert was deeply involved with a pair of stunningly gorgeous, but very mysterious sisters - who may be involved in Robert's disappearance.
As Gabriel delves deeper into the secretive, intoxicating Monk sisters' lives, he thinks he's in control of the situation and investigating them. But he quickly becomes involved with them himself and the more he learns about them and the strange world they live in, the more he begins to lose the threads of reality, and the ability to tell good from evil or to extricate himself from their seductive embrace.
The author is a very skilled writer, who creates fascinating characters with multiple layers, conflicted motivations, and inscrutable actions. The descriptions in the book that support the plot are heavy with symbolism, magical references, and philosophical undertones, but they are so beautifully written that they roll across your mind with the smoothness of a piece of silk, and add wonderful texture and colour to the plot.
Naming the main character Gabriel alone is crazy-symbolic, since he's the avenging angel trying to discover the secrets of the Monk sisters and bring them to justice - or at least, that's how he starts out. Things quickly turn complicated and who's doing what to whom become murky. There are lots of little touches like Gabriel's name sprinkled through the book, which will be interesting to those interested in magic, the occult, or philosopy.
There is definitely excitement and suspense in the story, but it is more quiet and intellectual than rough-and-tumble. The best way I can think of to describe this is that it's a thinking person's suspense novel. I really enjoyed it.
October 31, 2014
Season of the Witch by definitely weaved its spell, making for a very intriguing and fascinating read. Contrary to its title, this book is not your typical story of witches and witchcraft. The book is a mixture of the mystical/arcane with technology, science fiction and history. This unique blend creates its own brand of magic that’s different yet compelling.
One of the things that stood out for me about this book was the writing. I thought Mostert did a great job of mixing history with the arcane along with elements of science fiction. You got a little bit of everything here, from the remote viewing (RV) abilities of Gabriel, Frankie and Morrighan to the connection between memory, witchcraft and man’s search for true enlightenment. You can tell from the writing that she put in the time and research for the details. While the information being relayed can be confusing (I actually had to re-read certain passages to make sure I understood what was being said), you can’t deny how interesting the information being detailed. Mostert balanced the fact and fiction really well without it becoming a lecture or a lesson.
While the leading man of the book, Gabriel, is a great character onto himself, the Monk sisters, Minnaloushe and Morrighan, was another reason that made this book such an enjoyable read. The otherworldly aspect of the story became present with their arrival. Once they came onto the scene, the story took supernatural and seductive tone. The Monk sisters were 2 of the more unique characters that I’ve come upon. They each had their own distinct personality and yet they both had a certain charm that was hard to ignore. They were a big part of what made the book so entertaining and absorbing.
If you can get through the book’s first couple of chapters, the story really makes your patience worthwhile. The book takes a different look at the concept of a witch and what constitutes being powerful. Mostert delivered a story that is suspenseful, mysterious, magical, seductive and informative. This was not what I expected if you went by its title, but it certainly gave you a different and very entertaining read.
One of the things that stood out for me about this book was the writing. I thought Mostert did a great job of mixing history with the arcane along with elements of science fiction. You got a little bit of everything here, from the remote viewing (RV) abilities of Gabriel, Frankie and Morrighan to the connection between memory, witchcraft and man’s search for true enlightenment. You can tell from the writing that she put in the time and research for the details. While the information being relayed can be confusing (I actually had to re-read certain passages to make sure I understood what was being said), you can’t deny how interesting the information being detailed. Mostert balanced the fact and fiction really well without it becoming a lecture or a lesson.
While the leading man of the book, Gabriel, is a great character onto himself, the Monk sisters, Minnaloushe and Morrighan, was another reason that made this book such an enjoyable read. The otherworldly aspect of the story became present with their arrival. Once they came onto the scene, the story took supernatural and seductive tone. The Monk sisters were 2 of the more unique characters that I’ve come upon. They each had their own distinct personality and yet they both had a certain charm that was hard to ignore. They were a big part of what made the book so entertaining and absorbing.
If you can get through the book’s first couple of chapters, the story really makes your patience worthwhile. The book takes a different look at the concept of a witch and what constitutes being powerful. Mostert delivered a story that is suspenseful, mysterious, magical, seductive and informative. This was not what I expected if you went by its title, but it certainly gave you a different and very entertaining read.
March 21, 2011
Inhalt:
Gabriel Blackstone hat die Fähigkeit, ein Fernwahrnehmer zu sein. Heute ist er Computerhacker und hat seine Gabe weites gehend von sich gedrängt. Als eine Person aus seiner Vergangenheit ihn um Hilfe bittet, ahnt er nicht, in welchen Strudel aus Geschehnissen er sich begibt�
-/äپ:
Wahnsinn! Mostert schreibt ganz zu Anfang von dem siedend heißen England im Sommer und ich war direkt gefesselt von ihrer Art, den Leser an selbstverständliche als auch absonderliche Dinge heranzuführen. Ihre Charaktere verschmelzen mit dem Hintergrund der Welt um Gedanken und Psyche. Langsam kriecht der Horror in den Nacken des Lesers und ließ mich kurzzeitig aufschreien oder vor Verzweiflung japsen.
Meine Meinung:
Lange Zeit fesselte mich eine Erzählung so gut wie die von Mostert. Lange Zeit lag diese Lektüre bei mir ungelesen und ich bin froh, diese an einem Wochenende gelesen zu haben, an dem man richtig Zeit hat, diese auszukosten.
Die Schwestern Minnaloushe und Morrighain wirken wirklich unheimlich auf den Leser und stets fragte ich mich, was die beiden als nächstes tun würden. Immer versuchte ich, Gabriel davor zu warnen, noch mehr in die Welt der Schwestern einzutauchen, da ich um sein Leben fürchtete. Zwar steht im Vordergrund der Geschichte, den Erben eines reichen Geschäftsmannes zu finden, doch Gabriel lässt sich sosehr einlullen, dass er über die Schönheit und die Unternehmungen mit den Schwestern, sein Ziel vergisst. Dieses packende Element wies dem Leser den Weg in einen Sog von Geschehnissen. Fortwährend fragte ich mich, wer denn die Tagebuchschreiberin der beiden ist und wie man als Thrillerfan weiß, ist nie alles so, wie es der Autor einem zu verkaufen versucht.
Auch das Ende ist so gut und plastisch dargestellt, dass ich wirklich behaupten kann, es vom Grund her verstanden zu haben ohne Abstrusem oder irreführende Ausschweifungen.
Fazit:
Wer sich wirklich fallen lassen möchte, aber den Thrill eines unheimlichen Kartenhauses, das kurz vorm Zusammenbruch steht, liebt, sollte Mostert von vorne bis hinten genießen und lesen!
Gabriel Blackstone hat die Fähigkeit, ein Fernwahrnehmer zu sein. Heute ist er Computerhacker und hat seine Gabe weites gehend von sich gedrängt. Als eine Person aus seiner Vergangenheit ihn um Hilfe bittet, ahnt er nicht, in welchen Strudel aus Geschehnissen er sich begibt�
-/äپ:
Wahnsinn! Mostert schreibt ganz zu Anfang von dem siedend heißen England im Sommer und ich war direkt gefesselt von ihrer Art, den Leser an selbstverständliche als auch absonderliche Dinge heranzuführen. Ihre Charaktere verschmelzen mit dem Hintergrund der Welt um Gedanken und Psyche. Langsam kriecht der Horror in den Nacken des Lesers und ließ mich kurzzeitig aufschreien oder vor Verzweiflung japsen.
Meine Meinung:
Lange Zeit fesselte mich eine Erzählung so gut wie die von Mostert. Lange Zeit lag diese Lektüre bei mir ungelesen und ich bin froh, diese an einem Wochenende gelesen zu haben, an dem man richtig Zeit hat, diese auszukosten.
Die Schwestern Minnaloushe und Morrighain wirken wirklich unheimlich auf den Leser und stets fragte ich mich, was die beiden als nächstes tun würden. Immer versuchte ich, Gabriel davor zu warnen, noch mehr in die Welt der Schwestern einzutauchen, da ich um sein Leben fürchtete. Zwar steht im Vordergrund der Geschichte, den Erben eines reichen Geschäftsmannes zu finden, doch Gabriel lässt sich sosehr einlullen, dass er über die Schönheit und die Unternehmungen mit den Schwestern, sein Ziel vergisst. Dieses packende Element wies dem Leser den Weg in einen Sog von Geschehnissen. Fortwährend fragte ich mich, wer denn die Tagebuchschreiberin der beiden ist und wie man als Thrillerfan weiß, ist nie alles so, wie es der Autor einem zu verkaufen versucht.
Auch das Ende ist so gut und plastisch dargestellt, dass ich wirklich behaupten kann, es vom Grund her verstanden zu haben ohne Abstrusem oder irreführende Ausschweifungen.
Fazit:
Wer sich wirklich fallen lassen möchte, aber den Thrill eines unheimlichen Kartenhauses, das kurz vorm Zusammenbruch steht, liebt, sollte Mostert von vorne bis hinten genießen und lesen!
March 21, 2014
Disclaimer: Netgalley supplied me with this book.
Season of the Witch is a book of many contrasts. The sisters are quite different in looks and personality are presented as opposites, united under a common interest.
Gabriel himself is presented as a quite modern man (especially at the beginning of the tale), quite honestly motivated by greed. This was effectively and jarringly juxtaposed against the diary extracts of a mysteriously flowery writer who is more concerned with a higher calling.
These contrasts are dulled slightly as the story progresses, but by then you are drawn well into the story. The sisters growing modernity, and Gabriel's movement away from the technical and more towards the mystical may just illustrate their growing seduction of him.
So what genre is Season of the Witch?
Well, it is simply too multifaceted to be pigeon-hole into any one genre.
It is a story of crime. Who has drowned Robert Whittington? What will Gabriel discover when he hacks the sisters' computers?
Season of the Witch is a fantasy wrapped in science. Is alchemy a science or a magical practice?
It is a tale liberally peppered with mysteries. Which of the sisters is the writer of the diary? Are they the murderer? What shameful secret of Gabriel's past ruined his career? Who is the architect of the mysterious palace and what do they hope to achieve?
As you can see, with every chapter the story is layered in more and more questions.
Unfortunately, I quickly cottoned on to one of the largest mysteries very early on.
This disappointment only diminished my enjoyment of the story a little as it is just far too compelling! I felt the ending was incredibly fitting and that epilogue was a stroke of genius! I'll be looking into this author's other works.
Season of the Witch is a book of many contrasts. The sisters are quite different in looks and personality are presented as opposites, united under a common interest.
Gabriel himself is presented as a quite modern man (especially at the beginning of the tale), quite honestly motivated by greed. This was effectively and jarringly juxtaposed against the diary extracts of a mysteriously flowery writer who is more concerned with a higher calling.
These contrasts are dulled slightly as the story progresses, but by then you are drawn well into the story. The sisters growing modernity, and Gabriel's movement away from the technical and more towards the mystical may just illustrate their growing seduction of him.
So what genre is Season of the Witch?
Well, it is simply too multifaceted to be pigeon-hole into any one genre.
It is a story of crime. Who has drowned Robert Whittington? What will Gabriel discover when he hacks the sisters' computers?
Season of the Witch is a fantasy wrapped in science. Is alchemy a science or a magical practice?
It is a tale liberally peppered with mysteries. Which of the sisters is the writer of the diary? Are they the murderer? What shameful secret of Gabriel's past ruined his career? Who is the architect of the mysterious palace and what do they hope to achieve?
As you can see, with every chapter the story is layered in more and more questions.
Unfortunately, I quickly cottoned on to one of the largest mysteries very early on.
This disappointment only diminished my enjoyment of the story a little as it is just far too compelling! I felt the ending was incredibly fitting and that epilogue was a stroke of genius! I'll be looking into this author's other works.
January 6, 2011
This is an amazing book. I reread it after I finished it. It is a suspense novel, revolving around alchemy, magic, remote viewing, mystery and romance. It tells the story of Gabriel Blackstone, an information thief who steals data by hacking the computers of big companies. He is also a remote viewer and is able to enter the minds of others. He is asked by a former girlfriend, Cecily Frank, to find her missing stepson, last seen in the company of Morrighan and Minnaloushe Monk. Gabriel starts investigating after he "slams a ride" involuntarily. But this grows to be much more than a favour to a friend. He becomes intrigued by Monk house and its owners- the Monk sisters, alchemists, beautiful and mysterious women interested in transformation of the soul. They have exremely strong minds and roughly trained brains. The women are not only smart, but breathtakingly beautiful. Morrighan is an athelete and an environmentalist with raven hair and startling blue eyes. Minnaloushe is a mask seller and a nude model with red hair and ocean green eyes. Both sisters run a business from home selling cosmetics made according to spagyric principles- to separate and reassemble- a golden alchemical rule. But that is just what is seen on the surface. Gabriel becomes more and more bewitched by the sisters. They are very mysteroius and he realizes that they are always going to be an enigma for him. However, he manages to get to know them better and even digs out the big secret- who killed his ex-lover's stepson. Even as he falls in love, he knows that one of the two sisters is a ruthless killer. I'm not going to reveal all the twists and unexpected answers, for I don't want to spoil your reading pleasure. But this book is definitely going to surprise you in a positive way.
June 20, 2014
Prepare to be seduced by the mixture of sensuality, mystery and supernatural that this book offers. Gabriel Blackstone, a self proclaimed "information thief", also possesses ability to mentally pay visits to other people's minds (or to "slam a ride" as it is referred to in the book). Such "gifts" often come at a price and while he believes "remote viewing" days are behind him, an unexpected visit from an ex-girlfriend may change all that. She asks him to look into the disappearance of her stepson, and though reluctant to get involved at first, very soon Gabriel finds himself drawn into the mysterious, wildly sensual and potentially dangerous world of the enigmatic Monk sisters.
Mostert does a fantastic job not only of describing in great detail this magical world she created but also of putting her own original twist on all aspects of it. At first glance I expected this to be a light, easy read but this story not only entertains but also stimulates the reader on many different levels. Though on the surface none of the characters seemed easy to relate to, the way the story unfolded required a certain level of emotional and significant level of mental involvement on the part of the reader. The magnetic pull of the spider web Gabriel finds himself entangled in seemed to be impossible to resist.
This book is perfect for those mystery lovers who like their suspense wrapped in a layer of supernatural or occult, as well as those who truly appreciate discovering a book that does not fit all the predictable elements of its genre.
Mostert does a fantastic job not only of describing in great detail this magical world she created but also of putting her own original twist on all aspects of it. At first glance I expected this to be a light, easy read but this story not only entertains but also stimulates the reader on many different levels. Though on the surface none of the characters seemed easy to relate to, the way the story unfolded required a certain level of emotional and significant level of mental involvement on the part of the reader. The magnetic pull of the spider web Gabriel finds himself entangled in seemed to be impossible to resist.
This book is perfect for those mystery lovers who like their suspense wrapped in a layer of supernatural or occult, as well as those who truly appreciate discovering a book that does not fit all the predictable elements of its genre.
February 16, 2014
Un parola sola basta a descrivere il libro, anzi due: di troppo. Ci sono troppe cose che sono di troppo:
1) il passato tormentato del personaggio. E' messo lì solo per creare l'aria da "bello e dannato", ma è di troppo ed è inutile. Gabriel è bello e dannato anche senza "l'incidente" che gli è capitato. Al posto di aiutare la caratterizzazione del protagonista appesantisce la narrazione.
2) Le descrizioni. A volte sono un po' troppe, o troppo lunghe. A volte sono inutili.
3) le vittime. C'era il caso di fare sta strage? A mio parere una delle morti è inutili, ma non posso dirvi quale perché farei spoiler.
4) L'epilogo. Sarà anche carino, ma è di troppo. Come sono di troppe le ultime pagine. Per me il libro sarebbe stato perfetto se fosse finito con il risveglio di Gabriel in ospedale. Tutto quello che viene dopo, in realtà, lo trovo di troppo.
Queste sono state le grandi pecche del romanzo, anche se poi ha alcuni lati positivi: Gabriel è un protagonista interessante, non il migliore ma neanche malaccio, le due sorelle hanno dei nomi splendidi e sono dei personaggi veramente ben fatti e intriganti (e anche casa loro!). E' stata molto carina anche tutta la parte incentrata sul palazzo della memoria, mi ha ricordato il personaggio d Hannibal Lecter e l'ho trovato interessate. Come thriller psicologico è veramente ben costruito e originale, anche se la lettura è stata appesantita da tutti questi "di troppo".
Voto: 3 su 5.
1) il passato tormentato del personaggio. E' messo lì solo per creare l'aria da "bello e dannato", ma è di troppo ed è inutile. Gabriel è bello e dannato anche senza "l'incidente" che gli è capitato. Al posto di aiutare la caratterizzazione del protagonista appesantisce la narrazione.
2) Le descrizioni. A volte sono un po' troppe, o troppo lunghe. A volte sono inutili.
3) le vittime. C'era il caso di fare sta strage? A mio parere una delle morti è inutili, ma non posso dirvi quale perché farei spoiler.
4) L'epilogo. Sarà anche carino, ma è di troppo. Come sono di troppe le ultime pagine. Per me il libro sarebbe stato perfetto se fosse finito con il risveglio di Gabriel in ospedale. Tutto quello che viene dopo, in realtà, lo trovo di troppo.
Queste sono state le grandi pecche del romanzo, anche se poi ha alcuni lati positivi: Gabriel è un protagonista interessante, non il migliore ma neanche malaccio, le due sorelle hanno dei nomi splendidi e sono dei personaggi veramente ben fatti e intriganti (e anche casa loro!). E' stata molto carina anche tutta la parte incentrata sul palazzo della memoria, mi ha ricordato il personaggio d Hannibal Lecter e l'ho trovato interessate. Come thriller psicologico è veramente ben costruito e originale, anche se la lettura è stata appesantita da tutti questi "di troppo".
Voto: 3 su 5.
September 11, 2021
Hadn't read this book since high school. A reread has convinced me this is one of the greatest books I've ever read no matter how many years go by. It is a feast for the senses and the mind. It is science and magic altogether. It is beauty and light versus ugliness and deep darkness. Peaceful like the stillness of the sea at night and turbulent like the tempest. The mysterious, knowledgeable and adventurous sisters Monk invite you to their world and share their secrets. You delve into their everyday life and house full of peculiar ancient masks and plants and thousands of books and music and they sort of delve into the depths of you mind -literally....This book gives you so much food for thought and topics to look into that you feel like your mind is ready to explode. Fortunately, as the story is fictional it doesn't. Reading Natasha Mostert's masterpiece is a unique experience.
July 21, 2014
This is an absolutely fantastic book. This is the second book I've read by this author, and Natasha Mostert is definitely on her way to becoming one of my favorite authors. Season of the Witch has a well developed protagonist, and what I enjoyed most about this is that the story does not progress the way I expected it to. It certainly kept me guessing. The book deals with what could be considered supernatural components, but it never crosses the line into cheesy or unbelievable. You can tell the author does her research, and all of the holes are filled for the readers. There are plenty of reviews that discuss the plot, but if you are looking for an interesting story, a fast paced story line, and well-developed characters, then this book will not disappoint.
February 5, 2012
Amazing to say the least. A book so mystical you get lost in it. Even if you are not intersested in wichcraft and things like that you will have absolutly no problem understading the book. Very well writhen, this book as a great plot and is hard to put down!
September 26, 2016
#13/2016 ... Calling this a kaleidoscope view of San Francisco is exactly how it reads. A rich and personal history of the place I call home with a slew of unforgettable people, events and moments that shaped our city and the world.
March 13, 2014
This was a very quick read. The characters were all very enjoyable and the story kept me engaged. I look forward to reading more by this author.
June 23, 2019
Did not finish; do not resuscitate.
It pains me to abandon a book, but the pace is way to slow, even for the interesting concept I was once-fascinated by.
I stopped on page 76. It's taking way too long to get to the sisters and I have about 300+ books vying for my attention.
I RARELY abandon books and this is killing me right now. But it would be far worse to spend time on this than it would be to deny attention to a book that can keep my focus.
I'm in no way discrediting the author- it's well-written from what I've read, but the plot is dragging.
It pains me to abandon a book, but the pace is way to slow, even for the interesting concept I was once-fascinated by.
I stopped on page 76. It's taking way too long to get to the sisters and I have about 300+ books vying for my attention.
I RARELY abandon books and this is killing me right now. But it would be far worse to spend time on this than it would be to deny attention to a book that can keep my focus.
I'm in no way discrediting the author- it's well-written from what I've read, but the plot is dragging.
July 14, 2022
Nie wiem co mam o niej sądzić, na początku wydawała mi się zupełnie niezrozumiała, jednak po przekroczeniu pięćdziesiątej strony, kiedy akcja zaczęła się rozkręcać, byłam szczerze zdziwiona i miło zaskoczona. W pewnym momencie ledwo nadążałam z plot twistami, ponieważ pojawiały się jeden za drugim, totalnie nie spodziewałam się takiego zakończenia. Pomimo ciężkości w czytaniu m.in. przez lawinę opisów i oszczędności w dialogach, jestem skłonna dać 4/5 gwiazdek.
September 28, 2018
Two sisters with remarkable abilities who se almost other worldly ensnare the man tasked to investigate them. He falls so hard under their spell that he almost forgets what he was sent to do. This was an unusual story that captivated me the further along I got.
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