The Invocations is an enthralling book about witches and witch hunters in the modern world. Sutherland intertwines the lives of three girls as they embark on a mission to find a serial killer of witches. Each girl is well-developed with their flaws, voice, and unique goal; Zara wants to raise the dead, Jude wants to cure herself of a debilitating curse, and Emer wants to help desperate women, using her gift as a curse writer. Not only does Sutherland weave a tale of mystery into a paranormal thriller, but she also does not shy away from topical issues about women living in a patriarchal society.
The characters are easy to feel empathy for, making the tone of the book quite tense as the stakes grow and grow. The pacing is excellent and decorated with jaw-dropping plot twists to keep you on your toes. The way emotions are described makes it easy for the reader to set themselves right in the action. The only issue is that Zara quickly becomes a third wheel as a romance arises between Emer and Jude. This is redeemed by Zara’s wit and determination in her goals as well as the beautiful love story developing amongst demons, murderers, and hunters (oh my!). How does Sutherland fit it all in?
For anyone who is a fan of witchcraft and the occult, this book is for you. Believe me when I say that once you pick up The Invocations, you won’t be able to put it back down.
Rowan Beddows, 18
The Invocations
Krystal Sutherland
Hot Key Books, January 2024
Paperback, €10.99
ISBN 9781471410932
