The tattoos on your heart matter more than the ones on your skin.
Two years ago, Lizard Monroe was Berkeley's newest delinquent on parole. Now she's a hot young realtor with a great life, an awesome guy, and enough friends to chase away the ghosts of her past.
Almost.
The crystal ball has spoken - life isn't done messing with her yet. And neither is the need brewing in the eyes of the man she loves.
The eve of Halloween approaches. And whatever the sexy poet realtor wants to believe, moving beyond your past isn't the same as facing the future.
This is the first book in my new Witch Central series, featuring my well-loved clan of modern witches and those who love them. Light contemporary fantasy with a good dose of humor, a little romance, and characters you won't want to leave.
I have to state first that I really do not like romances and very rarely read them. However when Debora Geary dresses them up with witches and magic I find I can gobble them up! A sad secret - I even have to grab the tissues sometimes while I am reading them. When Debora finished her first series about this community of witches I was really disappointed but thank goodness they are back! Keep them coming please!
There are few books or authors that pull you in like Debora Geary's Witch series. There are fewer books or authors that make you feel like coming home to family and friends. Fewer still that can draw so many emotions from you and keep you wanting more and more. Debora Geary is one of those very few authors who has introduced us to a wonderful community of witches and non-witches that have become friends. Starting each new book is like walking into a family reunion - you get to spend time getting caught up on each person's lives, watching the young grow up and become interesting people, and seeing how life's hard choices make for incredibly good foundations. This book, as well as the series itself, has good, decent people making difficult choices, and opening themselves up to the magic of the world we live in. I've laughed out loud at the water or pillow fights, held my breath while the characters work out their problems, and cried with joy at the end. Each new character addition just adds more flavor and spice to the community that is Witch Central. Each of the books have life lessons mixed gently, or not so gently, with love and magic. In previous books we've been introduced to Lizard, watched her grow and mature. It is amazing to see where Ms. Geary took us as she wrote the next chapter of Lizard's life. To have the Witch Central foundation of great characters included in this latest novel is just icing on the cake. I actually miss having sparkly things around after reading this series. I always feel more positive and upbeat after reading, and it's all due to Debora Geary's talent with words and a marvelous story that just continues to grow. These books really are a joy. I can highly recommend them to anyone.
5+++++ stars!!! An Imperfect Witch was a special and very welcome addition and I could not put it down.
No sex, no mystery or suspense, no sexy alpha males...yet Debora Geary's books have captured my interest and I am addicted. Every character -be they toddler or elderly...and all ages in-between - captivates. Every book advances the story and sticks another hook into my heart.
This latest addition begins a new series but with many of our favorites from the Modern Witch series, and the Witchlight Trilogy. It could be read as a stand-alone, but shouldn't be, in my opinion. It's really important to know the back stories of every one - especially Lizard.
I want to be a witch, or at least be connected to these people in some way. I want them as my neighbors and coworkers...I want Lauren and Lizard to find me the perfect house. I want to celebrate Halloween with them! I want glitter pens! And the addition of the new character ( a crystal ball that has a personality of it's own) is brilliant!
I've long since realized that the plot of Debora Geary's books really doesn't matter at all (well... that's probably an exaggeration, but it matters very little), because what really drives the book are the characters and their interaction - it's just so refreshing to read a series where people are generally kind and generous towards one another for once.
What struck me while reading this installment of the witch series is that though easily overlooked, Debora Geary has an amazing way with words. I'd constantly find myself paging back to reread some sentence of another. She's a poet in the truest sense of the word, putting together sentences such that the whole is so much more than the sum of its parts. An ability very rarely seen, and undeniably a big reason why her books resonate so with me, and why each one makes me tear up so much.
I didn't realize that this series is a spinoff from the Modern Witch series. I haven't read that one yet, so coming in to this one, I felt very lost. I had no idea who any of the characters were and it seemed as if the author just picked off where the previous series left off. There are a lot of characters in this book and so I was very confused. It wasn't until about 30% of the way through that I started getting an idea of who everyone was, but that's just way too long for me. Also, I really didn't like the MC very much. Without knowing her background, which I'm assuming was explained in detail in the previous series, I felt like she was just a whiny brat. To me, she didn't deserve all the wonderful people around her who she abused constantly with her tantrums. I'm sure though that if I go back and read the previous series I'll probably feel differently, so I am going to give it a chance. Instead of continuing this series, I'm going to read the other one first and see if my feelings change. For anyone interested in reading this book, I absolutely advise reading A Modern Witch first to save you from the frustration and confusion I went through.
Anyone who follows the Modern Witch series, will love this book... this is Lizard's book.... our resident poet, which layers of crust covering a soft, soft heart. Lizard was introduced to everyone in "Witches on Parole" -- so if you haven't read that... you might want to read it first. I'm a die hard fan so I missed that in the sequence... so I have to double back, but I'm going to enjoy Lizard taking those first steps into Witch Central's community.
Love all of these books. Ms. Geary couldn't write a bad book if her life depended on it. Love the characters, the magic and all her stories. Big bonus-this is Lizard's grown up story!
It's partly my own fault but I think this book needs to be read after reading the previous series. A lot of the references I was completely lost on and the sheer amount of characters baffled me - I think I got it by the end? I enjoyed it but it was a little too corny at times and I cringed at the poetry. I wished I liked it more as the concept was fun, execution on the other hand a little lacking. It felt like the author had used a thesaurus at times and the flowery language took away from the novel.
~recommended by HJM My favorite line: "Dare to live the life you want, not the one he left you." (The context was being abandoned as a child by her father, but a beautiful reminder for anyone after any relationship ends.)
While this may be light reading for some, the Witch Central books hold a special message of family, friendship and home. I have read all of them numerous times and they always lift my heart. And who could resist witches in Berkley...imaginary??
I wanted to love this story but without reading the previous series I felt lost. Without backstories, I was not invested in the characters and this impaired my ability to understand the point of this book.
While reading this book, I discovered that Geary has stopped writing these series. Which makes me sad. This is another cute, fun installment in her Witch Central books.
Note - this one seemed a little 'racier' to me than past books. No problem for me, but there is definitely more language and such.
Lizard Munroe learned early to never hope, never plan, never look further than today. Lizard Munroe doesn't hope. And she doesn't rely on anyone else but herself. The tats she wears proclaim her self-dependence and hard core. Look deeper inside that core, though, and you'll find a soft poet's heart that aches for something more: family, love, security, a future. Since being adopted into Witch Central, she's learned to grudgingly accept the meddling influences of a group of witches that have proven their love and loyalty despite her past, but that acceptance is going to seem an easy task when she compares it to the challenge that is about to be placed before her. As the small world she's begun to carve hangs threatened, Lizard must learn to finally let go of her hurt and open her arms and heart to the possibility of a future. Otherwise, the stability she's found may once again crumble into dust. Can Lauren, the older sister of her heart if not her blood; Moira, the fierce Irish matriarch; the orb, a glowing relic of witchdom's past and the rest of the Witch Central clan save Lizard and lead her into the life she's destined to live? Or will hearts be left broken and shattered before the holiday of Samhain is done?
Though Lizard isn't my favorite character in Geary's wonderful series, I did enjoy getting to know her better and understand the issues that she struggles with. Geary shows time and again that she is a gifted writer with a talent for short sentences that pack a powerful punch. Brief and to the point, but filled with so much meaning, her words wrap the reader up in the tale and make her truly ache (and applaud) for the characters. I always eagerly anticipate the next Debora Geary book and this one, like all of its predecessors, did not disappoint. Lovely, lively read.
The first book in Debora Geary’s new Witch Central series is here! An Imperfect Witch continues the stories of our Witch Central cast. In this instance, beloved Lizard is struggling with adjusting to her new life in Witch Central. After all, old insecurities are sometimes hard to shake. Now Lizard has to make a choice- does she go forward with her new life- her new friends, her new love- and take a chance at all life has to offer, or does she give into the Lizard of the past?
Rich with all the elements I love about the Modern Witch series, An Imperfect Witch is a great start to this new series. It’s full of the characters I love- witch and non-magical alike- and all the things that make me want to live in Witch Central: the support, the love, the silliness, and the encouragement. Each time a new Witch book comes out, it’s like visiting with old friends.
It would be easy for Geary to take these stories on a saccharine path, but she doesn’t do that. There’s still an edge and stubbornness to the characters, and they still face very real challenges. Granted, they have some pretty cool magical tools at their disposal to help save the day, but that doesn’t make their problems any less real. Most of us have been scared, at one time or another, to make a commitment and make decisions like Lizard is faced with in this book- and most of us haven’t had Witch Central to have our backs during this time, to know when to push us and to know when to catch our falls.
I’m so glad the Modern Witch series was only the beginning. An Imperfect Witch was the perfect way to start the new series- a character everyone loves, the trademarks we love from the first series and a great water fight. I can’t wait for the next book!
This is an original review from http://bookedandloaded.com - this title was provided from audible.com in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own and are not influenced in any way.
An Imperfect Witch by Debora Geary is the first book in her Witch Central series. With a light feel full of family and growth, this audiobook was a joy to listen to.
An Imperfect Witch was kind of a random pick for me and not my normal go-to full of higher magic and action. This soft and sweet listen doesn't quite fit into one genre either. It had a touch of magic and a touch of mystery, but overall this book was really about family and personal growth. It also touched on some of the more raw pieces of myself - mostly family support. The fact that the author is able to create a family (and this doesn't mean just blood relatives in any way) that feels so genuine is truly a testament to the writing that went into Witch Central. The variety of characters that are written with true clarity made for a entertaining listen.
This first book is mostly focused on Lizard Monroe, but we are certainly introduced into the whole that is Witch Central. Lizard's growth and struggle to accept herself was easy to relate to and I think most readers will feel the same way. If you are looking for something on the sweet side with a touch of mystery, you have come to right place at Witch Central!
Audiobook thoughts: The narration matched the voice of the book very well and I really enjoyed the pace set by Martha Harmon Pardee. Pardee never missed a beat and kept me in the story the entire time. Even with a variety of ages and genders Pardee flowed through them easily and naturally. This was a very pleasant book to listen to and as a whole it just worked.
This is a story about growing up. Lizard takes steps towards maturity in this book; she's trying to buy a house, figure out what she wants in her relationship, and stop snapping at her friends.
It is a good book, not so good as some of Geary's other books but as a good it's still four stars.
Lizard is a good person, we find out her story in the WitchLight Trilogy so you're best off reading that series before this one. Lizard used to live on the streets and fend for herself, but now that she's on her feet she still brings her old friends noodles because no one should starve. This book is about her finding a better way to help and Lizard finding space for family. The only problem is she still views help as charity.
I think what this book is really about is what lengths family and friends will go to help you when you most need it; when even you don't realise you need it. How strong the bonds are that tie a community together. This book does make you think about how fortunate we are to make food on the table and a roof over our heads, but also makes the reader reflect a bit on their life; look how much you really have and be thankful.
The Witch Central trilogy is a good trilogy to read and features more of the crystal ball Lauren was gifted by Moira in the A Modern Witch series. This crystal ball develops its own personality and goes through some revelations of its own which are quite cute to watch. An ancient and revered tool in the modern day community, trying to make those with power listen.
I'd recommend this to anyone who's enjoyed the A Modern Witch series, but it's ideal read after both the A Modern Witch series and the WitchLight Trilogy.
I'm so excited Witch Central is back with a new series! This book is a continuation of Lizard's story from the Witchlight Trilogy Witches on ParoleWitches Under WayWitches in Flight But you can still enjoy this book if you haven't read them yet. However, you really should read the "A Modern Witch" series first(https://www.goodreads.com/series/6461...) to get a feel for the characters and their witchy capabilities. All the books are amazing, G-rated, stories full of wonderful, fully developed characters that immediately pull you in. For Amazon Prime members, these books are a good choice your monthly free book. I started getting them that way, but I've found myself buying them because I love to go back and re-read them, they are that good.
I just started reading Debora Geary's books this past June and fell in love with them. I read all of the "Modern Witch" books and the "Witchlight Trilogy" within a few weeks of each other.
An Imperfect Witch brings back the character's you grew to love in the other series. While this book could stand alone, it's helpful to read the others first.
This story features Lizard who was first introduced in the "Witchlight" books. A tough as nails tattooed, pierced former parolee who is still trying to figure out what she wants in life. She is a former street kid turned real estate agent. She has found love and friendship amongst the tight knit witch community. She lives for today and doesn't think too far ahead. A new arrival in her life has Lizard questioning her life and her future.
One thing I love about Debora Geary's writing is her ability to evoke emotions. I feel like I know these characters. I am often shocked to find myself sniffling over a scene (or two or five). The books are light reads but they are so powerful. The love, friendship, and open door policy of the characters make you wish these were your friends and family. I love stories that tug at my heart. This book definitely delivers!!
I give this book 5 stars and I cannot wait until the next one.
Another series! I'm so happy. Debora's Witch Central books are like soothing balm after dealing with the real world. There is so much love and laughter. Lizard is back in this one - yeah! Josh is still with her, but he is losing patience. She needs to relax and let him in. Her problem is she doesn't like to plan ahead - she never really knew what her life would be like the next day much less the next year. But hopefully he can get her to just go with the flow more, take risks. And yes, commitment is considered dangerous to poor Lizard.
She also gets a big surprise in this book. And really, I won't spoil it. You'll have to read it yourself. This is very light reading, especially after reading something depressing. I'm now halfway through the next in this new series - An Unlikely Witch. It's just great to see all the characters that we know and love and catch up as their lives keep moving forward.
And Debora Geary is an exclusive Amazon seller, but she will hook you up if you need a Nook version. Simply purchase the Amazon e-book, e-mail (deborageary@gmail.com) her the receipt and she'll e-mail the file back to you.
An Imperfect Witch reminds us that there are steps forward we should take so that we can guide someone like our past selves reach their potential. However, there are always fears. There is the fear in yourself, that you aren't good enough, that you are ready, that there are other people there who could do this job better than you. If you don't even know how to fix your life, then how can you lead someone to fix theirs? These are the self probing questions Lizard is faced with when she is met with her new charge.
I am a huge fan of Debora Geary. She gives you the type of heart warming read you just want to curl up with pillows and sink into. The challenges, the relationships, the love these characters face is real. You are able to relate to them.
An Imperfect Witch only gets 4 stars due to personal preference. Lizard is not my favorite character of the series and while her struggles were well developed, I didn't feel the same connection with her as with Lauren or Nell. Once again I would recommend this for all those who want a light read (especially for those that are getting sick of chick lit romances and want something better).
I actually really liked this book, as I've liked all of the rest of the series. It’s great for cozy, heart warming stories about loving families and finding love and some magic in the world.
I'm marking it down for cultural insensitivity Most of the characters are white and blond, with some brown and red-heads thrown in. They often espouse being warm and open to others but don't have any diversity amongst their friends. At one point the protagonist is frustrated when trying to sell a house to the "Cohens" because they are both lawyers and argue everything too much. Hmmm. There's also an unhappy ghost in the house, and the same protagonist remonstrates with the ghost, asking whether the ghost is unhappy because the house might be sold to a Mexican family. The ghost never even mentioned that possibility, it was all in the head of the protagonist, even as she stated she was against that kind of prejudice. The characters tell themselves not to judge by appearances and end up valuing the character ... but the incident still plays into a lot of stereotypes that didn't need to be brought up at all.
Ok, I've been raving about Debora's witches for over a year now and this one just stunned me! Every book has been better than the previous and this one didn't disappoint! Debora has a way of pulling your emotions in so many directions with a story that is so rich in family it'll make your head spin (in a good way).
An Imperfect Witch revisits Lizard, one of my favorite characters in this world. She had a pretty crazy introduction in the Witchlight Trilogy and now, her world is totally upended. She has to reconcile her now successful adult life with her younger street life and questions if she deserves it. This causes her to suddenly begin doubting herself. This is complicated by her very serious boyfriend of two years and a teenage girl who Lizard discovers squatting in vacant houses. This is a spinoff/continuation of the Modern Witch series and I recommend starting at the beginning of the series with A Modern Witch. A bit gooey, but that's what makes this written world special.