A Witch to Change the World

by Suzanne Snowden

What happens when the most powerful witch of today meets the most powerful witch of 1502? Passions ignite, secrets are revealed, and the world will never be the same.

Adam Parrish is a modern-day witch. A pediatric oncologist by day and a hunter of evil witches by night, he’s conflicted by his two callings. Saving the world all on his own is not what it’s cracked up to be, and it’s hell on a social life, but what choice does he have?

Vivienne Lanier is a witch and a midwife in 1502. When she touches an illuminated manuscript, she's thrown through time to its present-day location at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. She has to find her way back home to care for her granddaughter who needs her, but the 21st century is full of surprises, and none is more interesting than Dr. Adam Parrish. Has she finally met her soulmate only to lose him to her duty?

When other witches discover Vivienne’s otherworldly power and her ability to heal anyone of anything, Adam realizes the danger she faces. Can he protect her and keep the secret of her time travel?

When equals fall in love, can they bridge a five-hundred-year gap to live their happily ever after?

Content Notes: This book is a slow burn romance that features open-door sex scenes between mature characters. There is a discussion about a rape that happened in the past and a subplot that involves children in a hospital and treatments for cancer. Explicit language is used. This book features characters living in Washington DC who hold progressive/liberal political perspectives.

304 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2024

About the author

Suzanne Snowden wanted to be a writer when she was in elementary school, but she forgot about it for fifty years. One day, while visiting the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C. she wandered off by herself and found a metal staircase leading down to the basement where they stored the old card catalogues. (In retrospect, she thinks she probably should not have done that. But in her defense, the stairs were not blocked off and there were no signs!)

As she surveyed the rows and rows of card catalogue cabinets, a story came to her. She began to imagine a doctor who came to the library to relax and a witch who ended up there from the Middle Ages. Then she wrote a book about it. One book turned into three and now she's writing a paranormal romance series featuring mature characters called, "The Witch Wars." The first book, "A Witch to Change the World" is out now, the second book, "A War of Witches" will be out at the end of 2025, and the third book "A Witch to Save the World" will be published in the early Spring of 2026.

What was she doing the fifty years she was not writing her books?

She was getting ready for them. She did this by going to college, by becoming a radio announcer and hosting a Love Song show, then by getting married and divorced, by teaching radio communications to high schoolers, then by getting married and having babies, then by working at the library.

All along the way she was reading, reading, reading.

Reviews

[Joanne Bough · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Witch to Change the World by Suzanne Snowden is a delightful and captivating read that blends magic, adventure, and a dash of mystery, making it a perfect escape for anyone with a love for the mystical. It is an enthralling and richly woven world where witches hold the power to influence change, yet each spell and choice comes with consequences and moral questions that make the story engaging and thought-provoking.
The protagonist is a witch determined to use her abilities to make the world a better place. However, the journey is far from simple. The writing draws you in with vivid descriptions of enchanting landscapes, diverse and intriguing characters, and a plot that twists and turns in unexpected directions. Each chapter adds depth to the magical universe, and you’ll find yourself eagerly turning the pages to uncover what comes next.
A Witch to Change the World is a balance between light hearted moments and deeper themes. As the witch grapples with the responsibility that comes with her powers, the story prompts you to consider the complexities of good intentions and the true meaning of change.
A Witch to Change the World is a magical and uplifting story with a powerful message and just the right blend of adventure and wonder. A truly enjoyable read that’s perfect for anyone looking for an escape into a world of spells, secrets, and the hope of making a difference.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series to see where the story goes next. I hope the next book delivers just as much magic and adventure.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved it. The characters were memorable and the plot grabbed me from the beginning.
It could use a good editor, but this is one of the best self published novels I’ve ever read. I can’t wait to read more in this series!

[Lynne Macdonald · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book.
I would read it again and get the series.

[Janice Green · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cross between Outlander and A Discovery of Witches with two strong protagonists and smart, witty banter. I can’t wait for the sequel!

[Ruhi Shaik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dare I say this was one of my top reads of the year… Yes, yes I do!

A Witch to Change the World was such a refreshing and unique read with older main characters. Initially, I was unsure about a story with mature protagonists, as it was my first venture into this trope. However, I wanted to branch out from the typical "18-year-old discovers their powers and saves the world" plot line, and this book absolutely hit the mark!

One of my favourite things about this book was Suzanne's ability to dive straight into the plot. I didn't have to wait hundreds of pages for something significant to happen. Yet, simultaneously I learnt many things about the characters without it hindering the progression of the plot.

Both the main characters Vivienne and Adam are richly developed, with distinct personalities and visions that drive the narrative forward. Their depth and complexity added layers of authenticity to the story, making it all the more engrossing.

Oh and let's not forget about the romance! I absolutely loved that it did not overtake the plot but still had me hooked. The pacing was just right for me. I for once appreciated all the details and was excited every time Adam and Vivienne grew closer and closer.

I'm grateful for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this remarkable book. I can't wait to add a physical copy to my collection and eagerly anticipate any future releases from Suzanne, especially the next book in this series!

[Megan Cutter · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. More than a meh, but less than really liking it.

A word of warning, the audiobook is done with virtual voice, which is just awful. It bugs me when I don't look before I purchase and end up with AI audio. The banter in this book was really good, but with AI its just dull and lifeless.

Dr. Adam Parrish is a pediatric oncologist and fixer for the witches. His son Grant works at the Library of Congress. He is visiting one evening when he hear glass breaking and finds a woman with silver hair and old clothing standing in front of a very old manuscript. It takes him a while to truly believe she is from the past, but Vivienne is from the 1600s and is a witch of enormous power.

Adam and Vivienne have to work together to get her back to her world.

The books starts strong with great banter and action, but then it just kind of fizzled out. It really isn't very cohesive as a whole either. Several subplots just kind of come and go without really gelling. The ending is so anticlimactic it was almost sleep inducing.

Side note: the cover is gorgeous!

[Liora Ellington · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Witch to Change the World” blends historical and contemporary fantasy with a compelling romance. Adam Parrish, a modern-day witch and pediatric oncologist, and Vivienne Lanier, a 1502 midwife, are thrust together when Vivienne accidentally time-travels to the present. Their chemistry is electric, but Vivienne’s mission to return home and Adam’s battle against evil witches complicate their relationship. The slow-burn romance, intriguing characters, and time-traveling twist make for a fascinating read. The book also tackles heavy themes, including duty, love, and sacrifice. A must-read for fans of magical realism and supernatural romance.

[Hunter Skye · Rating 5 out of 5]

A witch romance that actually delivers on the magic. Ms. Snowden builds an interesting world with a believable magic system. If you liked A Discovery of Witches or The Last Witch Hunter, you will enjoy this mature, time travel love story. The FMC is refreshingly never a damsel-in-distress. She's over-powered in a good way and the MMC isn't threatened by her strength. It is a slow burn but it is worth the wait. Extra points for well-handled, grown-up spicy times. I can't wait for the next book in this satisfying series.

[Michelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

I met the author at a witch market and bought mine copy from her. So I really wanted to like this more. I do like the concept but for me it never really got going. There was too much of what the male main character was doing and his backstory and political opinions specific to the current climate but then hardly any for the female main character even in the sex scenes. Then there was the witch wars this was to be an intro book for that never really came to be until a hint of them at the end and I lost interest in the series as a whole.

[LizJ. · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Witch to Change the World by Suzanne Snowden is my first book with this author and it is sooooo gooooood!! I loved the characters and the magic/fantasy! I loved it from start to finish and I can't wait to see what she brings next!!!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Molly Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a good book! The world building was incredible, the characters were really well developed and interesting, the writing and pacing were good. The story was interesting and it kept my attention. I really liked this book and will continue to read from this author since I was very impressed by their writing!

[Cathy Greco · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book! I loved the magic, world and romance. This grabbed me from the beginning and didn't let go until the end. The chemistry between the 2 protagonists can be felt viscerally! I can't rave enough about this book and can't wait to continue the series. This is a new to me author and I'm looking forward to checking out her other books.

Thank you Booksirens for the opportunity!

[Jameson Wells]

Thoroughly enjoyed the story, plot line, and character developments. Very engaging and original. I suspect I'm not the intended audience for the steamier scenes which I just skimmed over (to be enjoyed by those for whom they were written). But I was fully absorbed by everything else in this novel. Looking forward to the release of the second book in the series in the end of Dec 2025.

[Angela Swoveland · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to see Suzanne at a local author night at a local distillery. She gave an overview and read a small section of A Witch to Change the World and I was hooked. This book draws you in and keeps you wanting more and more and more!! Truly amazing characters and such a great ending. I cannot wait for book 2!!

[Hanna Belle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great first book in the series! I loved the characters, fantasy elements, and the story. Can't wait for more!

I received an advance copy via BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Liza · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vivienne, a witch, manages to accidentally time travel from the year 1502 to 2024. Adam is a modern day witch enforcer. He helps Vivienne negotiate the modern world while they try to find a way for her to go home.

Good characters.

[Nicole Presnell · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice enjoyable romance

I really enjoyed this romance. It was a slower paced romance with low spice but it was enjoyable. I really appreciated the development of the romance, it didn't feel rushed at all. I really liked the ending and can't wait for the story to continue

[Brittany Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent characters, great world-building, and writing that flows really well. A book that grabs you from the start and doesn’t let go!

[duganequine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written

It hard to find a new story line. But this knocks it out of the Park. I can't wait to see the new series.

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

A fun book that goes from slow burn to explosive pretty quickly.

[Charlie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Actually 3.5. But the first half is a solid 4. It started out so strong, but fell off once the sexual relationship began. I don't object to sex except, as in this case where it interferes and basically slows the plot. Also, the turn toward the plans for the future, at the end of the book, sound like just another Witch war complete with evil villains. Probably not reading further