The Somewhat Wicked Witch of Brigandale by C M Waggoner
Sometimes a witch just wants peace. Sometimes her son insists on royal chaos. And sometimes you have to roll up your sleeves and hex the court.
I was ready for whimsy and mild chaos, but also a story grounded in a witch’s pragmatism. I was hoping for humor, heart, and clever problem-solving — maybe a dash of chaos for spice. Basically, please don’t let it be twee.
The humor hits exactly like Terry Pratchett-adjacent wit — sharp, dry, occasionally ridiculous, but never mean-spirited.
Gretsella is perfection: world-weary, fiercely practical, endlessly doting under layers of exasperation. I loved that she’s not just “funny old witch,” she has real stakes and real competence.
The story balances heart and humor beautifully. Bradley is delightful without being insufferable, and the coven interactions are little gems of chaos and camaraderie.
Prophecies, talking animals, and scheming courtiers? All of it plays out with surprising cleverness and coherence. This isn’t just silliness for its own sake.
How practical it is despite being a fantasy romp. Gretsella doesn’t just wave a wand; she evaluates risks, plans contingencies, and actually does things. That rare “funny but competent” witch energy.
How heartwarming it gets under the layers of comedic chaos. You genuinely feel the family bond and the love behind Gretsella’s begrudging heroics.
How tightly it hits that Pratchett-esque tone without feeling like imitation. It’s respectful homage, not mimicry.
Featured Song:
“Witchy Woman” – Eagles
Classic witch vibes, sly, slightly mischievous.
Vibe Album:
The Minstrels’ Tales – Blackmore’s Night
Light, medieval-fantasy-appropriate, whimsical, perfect for cottage-based mischief.
Artist Recommendation:
Amanda Palmer – theatrical, heartful, chaotic, a little snarky.
Colour Palette: forest green, charred wood, potion-purple, burnt-orange candlelight
Soundtrack: creaking floorboards, bubbling cauldrons, the occasional squeaky squirrel
Season: autumn, peak cosy chaos
Mood: witty, practical, slightly exasperated, but full of warmth
Scent: dried herbs, soot, faintly sweet confections
The Empress – because this is about nurturing, protection, and making order out of chaos. Gretsella is a practical mother figure, weaving care, cunning, and competence together — she is the Empress energy incarnate.
Equal Rites (Granny Weatherwax-style witch antics, heart + humor)
The Witch’s Guide to Cooking with Children (practical magic meets domestic chaos)
Merlin (charm, clever mischief, magical problem-solving)
