The Essence of Wild Things
In a world where contemporary fantasy often leans heavily on established witch tropes, Raquel Vasquez Gilliland’s “Witch of Wild Things” emerges as a refreshingly unique blend of botanical magic, family healing, and second-chance romance. This adult fantasy romance introduces us to the Flores women, whose gifts range from commanding lightning to communing with plants—abilities that are as much a burden as they are a blessing.
Plot Overview
Twenty-nine-year-old Sage Flores returns to her hometown of Cranberry, Virginia, after losing her teaching position. Armed with her gift of plant communication and haunted by her sister Sky’s ghost, she takes a job at Cranberry Rose Company. Her mission to discover rare heritage plants becomes complicated when she’s paired with Tennessee Reyes, the man who broke her heart in high school. As Sage navigates family dynamics, especially with her estranged sister Teal, she discovers that some roots run deeper than others, and healing often requires breaking open before growing anew.
Strengths and Blooms
Botanical Magic System
Gilliland’s approach to magic is wonderfully organic, quite literally. The author’s deep knowledge of plants and ecological systems shines through, creating a magic system that feels both mystical and grounded in reality. The way Sage communicates with plants and understands their consciousness adds a layer of environmental awareness that resonates with contemporary concerns.
Family Dynamics
The relationship between the Flores sisters forms the emotional core of the story. The author masterfully portrays the complexities of sisterly bonds damaged by trauma and misunderstanding. The evolution of Sage and Teal’s relationship, in particular, is handled with nuance and authenticity.
Romance
The second-chance romance between Sage and Tenn is developed with careful attention to both past and present dynamics. Their teenage online relationship adds a nostalgic layer that many readers will relate to, while their adult romance feels mature and well-earned.
Areas for Growth
Pacing Issues
The story occasionally meanders, particularly in the middle sections. Some readers might find the progression of events too leisurely, especially when balancing multiple subplot threads.
Character Development
While Sage is well-developed, some secondary characters could benefit from deeper exploration. Nadia, in particular, feels somewhat underdeveloped given her important role in the family dynamics.
Plot Resolution
The resolution of certain storylines, particularly regarding Sky’s return, feels rushed compared to the careful build-up. Some readers might wish for more explanation about the mechanics of Sky’s situation.
Writing Style and Atmosphere
Gilliland’s prose is lyrical without being purple, perfectly suited to a story about plant magic and family legacies. Her descriptions of plants and natural environments are particularly evocative, drawing readers into Sage’s world of botanical consciousness and ancient stories.
Themes and Deeper Roots
The novel explores several interconnected themes:
- The nature of inheritance, both magical and emotional
- The importance of environmental stewardship
- The complexity of family relationships
- The power of truth and authenticity in healing
- The relationship between humans and the natural world
Comparison to Similar Works
Readers who enjoyed Alice Hoffman’s “Practical Magic” or Sarah Addison Allen’s “Garden Spells” will find familiar comfort in “Witch of Wild Things,” though Gilliland’s approach to magical realism is distinctly her own. The book also shares thematic elements with Robin Wall Kimmerer’s “Braiding Sweetgrass,” particularly in its exploration of plant consciousness and human-nature relationships.
Target Audience
This book will particularly appeal to readers who enjoy:
- Contemporary fantasy with strong romantic elements
- Stories about sister relationships
- Ecological themes in fiction
- Second-chance romance
- Plant-based magic systems
Final Thoughts
“Witch of Wild Things” is a promising addition to the contemporary fantasy romance genre. While it has some areas that could be strengthened, its unique approach to magic, strong emotional core, and environmental consciousness make it a worthwhile read. Gilliland has created a world where the boundaries between human consciousness and plant awareness blur beautifully, reminding us that sometimes the most powerful magic lies in the connections we forge—with nature, with family, and with our own hearts.
Strengths: Unique magic system, strong emotional core, beautiful prose Areas for
Improvement: Pacing, secondary character development, plot resolution
Author Background
This is Gilliland’s third novel, following her young adult works. Her background as a poet is evident in her lyrical prose and attention to natural imagery. As a Mexican American writer, she brings a fresh perspective to the contemporary fantasy genre, incorporating elements of folklore and family dynamics that enrich the narrative. It will leave readers eager for the sequel, “Lightning in Her Hands.”
Recommended For
Readers seeking a fresh take on witch fiction, plant enthusiasts, and anyone who believes in the magic of second chances and family healing will find something to love in “Witch of Wild Things.”