Half Spent Was the Night

The Witches' Yuletide

By: Ami McKay

Narrated by: Ami McKay

Beloved author Ami McKay is back, bringing us a magical follow-up in the tradition of Victorian winter tales to her mesmerizing bestseller, The Witches of New York.

During the nights between Christmas and New Year's, the witches of New York—Adelaide Thom, Eleanor St. Clair and the youngest, Beatrice Dunn—gather before the fire to tell ghost stories and perform traditional Yuletide divinations. (Did you know that roasting chestnuts was once used to foretell one's fate?)

As the witches roast chestnuts and melt lead to see their fate, a series of odd messengers land on their doorstep bearing invitations for a New Year's Eve masquerade hosted by a woman they've never met. Gossip, dreams and portents follow, leading the witches to question the woman's motives. Is she as benevolent as she seems or is she laying a trap? And so, as Gilded-Age New York prepares to ring in the new year, the witches don their finery and head for the ball, on the hunt for answers that might well be the end of them.

Half Finished Was the Story

Overall, this was a nice little follow up to The Witches of New York, which I loved. The story just felt too rushed, so much so that it should have been panned out to make another full book. It was great to hear more of the three witches, though.

Too short...

the story was a beautiful one, but I wanted to hear more adventure of these three ladies. I would have given five stars, but it was too short. I loved Witches of New York, and was delighted to see another story about the trio. it was lovely, but too short.

Prelude to the next book leaves me . . .

hanging in there . . . waiting for the next book. I really enjoyed these characters and want more!

A good stopping point for the story

Loved the extension of the Witches of NY story. Strong imagery - could easily imagine the sights and sounds. Wishing I had a savvy Raven by my side in life!

Nice little addition to "Witches" but not enough

Appreciated revisiting these characters and this was an enjoyable short story, but I would like a full sequel to the original. I like these women and want to return to this world.