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Echo: The Curse of the Blackwood Witches
Master forbidden magic, destroy an immortal enemy, and prevent the apocalypse—all before college finals.
Echo Blackwood has no idea she’s a witch, but after supernatural beasts attack her sister’s wedding, she discovers her long-dormant magic, and she’s quickly catapulted into an impossible war.
The novice witch is the only one who can stop the immortal Jivar—but her magic hides a sinister secret. The dark arts run through her veins, and using their power could cost her soul.
Desperate to control her magic and uncover the truth about herself, Echo and her newfound allies must race against time to defeat Jivar before he unleashes his fury and destroys the world.
Can Echo use the powers of evil to save the world? Or will fighting fire with fire only end in her ruin?
Imbued with all the thrilling action and marvelous magic, Echo: The Curse Of The Blackwood Witches is a riveting and unforgettable read that will sweep you up and refuse to let you go.
Echo Blackwood has no idea she’s a witch, but after supernatural beasts attack her sister’s wedding, she discovers her long-dormant magic, and she’s quickly catapulted into an impossible war.
The novice witch is the only one who can stop the immortal Jivar—but her magic hides a sinister secret. The dark arts run through her veins, and using their power could cost her soul.
Desperate to control her magic and uncover the truth about herself, Echo and her newfound allies must race against time to defeat Jivar before he unleashes his fury and destroys the world.
Can Echo use the powers of evil to save the world? Or will fighting fire with fire only end in her ruin?
Imbued with all the thrilling action and marvelous magic, Echo: The Curse Of The Blackwood Witches is a riveting and unforgettable read that will sweep you up and refuse to let you go.
- GenresUrban Fantasy
494 pages, Paperback
Published September 1, 2022
About the author
Yasmine Maher
6 books9 followersYasmine Maher is a fantasy author and full-time editor who weaves captivating tales filled with magic, whimsy, and larger-than-life characters.
When she’s not crafting her next adventure, you’ll find Yasmine reading, singing, binging Kdramas, or playing with her mischievous cats.
When she’s not crafting her next adventure, you’ll find Yasmine reading, singing, binging Kdramas, or playing with her mischievous cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
July 19, 2022
**ARC provided by the author in exchange for an honest review**
“There’s evil and good in all of us. Every day, we get to choose who to be through our actions.”
When literal beasts from another dimension wreck her sister’s wedding, law student Echo learns the truth about the secret magic in her veins. She is the last Blackwood witch, prophesied to destroy the immortal Jivar who plans to unleash his beastly forces on Earth, annihilating everything in his path in his quest for power.
I enjoyed this book so much! The writing is rich in detail and the author has crafted a very immersive magic system. The cast of characters each has a unique backstory that made me root for them. Echo’s journey toward understanding and mastering her powers with Vanna and Kirby was very satisfying to read. So much fun! The world-building was on point. The complex relationship between Echo and Doyle was wonderfully written. And Ebba has to get an honorable mention.
From the witty banter to the nail-biting fight scenes, this book made me stay up way too late to find out what happens next. And those plot twists! Just when I think I know what’s going to happen, the author throws a major twist that leaves me gasping.
I can’t wait to read what Yasmine writes next. Recommend this book 100%.
“There’s evil and good in all of us. Every day, we get to choose who to be through our actions.”
When literal beasts from another dimension wreck her sister’s wedding, law student Echo learns the truth about the secret magic in her veins. She is the last Blackwood witch, prophesied to destroy the immortal Jivar who plans to unleash his beastly forces on Earth, annihilating everything in his path in his quest for power.
I enjoyed this book so much! The writing is rich in detail and the author has crafted a very immersive magic system. The cast of characters each has a unique backstory that made me root for them. Echo’s journey toward understanding and mastering her powers with Vanna and Kirby was very satisfying to read. So much fun! The world-building was on point. The complex relationship between Echo and Doyle was wonderfully written. And Ebba has to get an honorable mention.
From the witty banter to the nail-biting fight scenes, this book made me stay up way too late to find out what happens next. And those plot twists! Just when I think I know what’s going to happen, the author throws a major twist that leaves me gasping.
I can’t wait to read what Yasmine writes next. Recommend this book 100%.
October 17, 2022
🔥 If Dark Magic Is The Only Way To Save The World, Will Echo Risk Losing Her Soul? Master Forbidden Magic, Destroy An Immortal Enemy, And Prevent The Apocalypse - All Before College Finals In This Riveting And Unforgettable Read Full Of Thrilling Action And Marvellous Magic. Out Now From Fables And Facts Publishing! 🌊
When I First Heard That I Was Luckily Chosen To Be On This Tour As My First MTMC Tour. I Love Books Featuring Witches Especially If The Magic System Features The Elements Like This One!! 😍
Echo Is The Kind Of Main Character I Adore. I Love Characters Who Discover They Possess Magic Or There Is A Hidden World So We Get To Learn The Magic System And It’s World Through The Characters Eyes With A Natural Flow. The Author Executes This Flawlessly & Made It So Easy To Understand & Tangible For Us As The Reader. Is Echo A Flawed Character? Yes! Does Echo Always Make The Best Choices? No! That Is Why I Loved Her So Much As Despite The Fact She Can Now Wield Magic She Is Still A Young Adult Human Who Has Strong Emotions & Will Defend The One She Loves With Both A Passion And A Fury 💜
The Pacing Of This Book Could Definitely Be Described As A Rollercoaster. It Had Peaks & Valleys With The Twists & Turns But Giving Us Moments To Breath Before The Next Shocking Twist Arose! 🎢
If You Are Someone Who Loves Strong Female Characters, Urban Fantasy, Witchy Vibes, Morally Grey Characters Or Enemies To Lovers I Would Highly Recommend Getting Yourself A Copy Of This Book ASAP! 💜
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
When I First Heard That I Was Luckily Chosen To Be On This Tour As My First MTMC Tour. I Love Books Featuring Witches Especially If The Magic System Features The Elements Like This One!! 😍
Echo Is The Kind Of Main Character I Adore. I Love Characters Who Discover They Possess Magic Or There Is A Hidden World So We Get To Learn The Magic System And It’s World Through The Characters Eyes With A Natural Flow. The Author Executes This Flawlessly & Made It So Easy To Understand & Tangible For Us As The Reader. Is Echo A Flawed Character? Yes! Does Echo Always Make The Best Choices? No! That Is Why I Loved Her So Much As Despite The Fact She Can Now Wield Magic She Is Still A Young Adult Human Who Has Strong Emotions & Will Defend The One She Loves With Both A Passion And A Fury 💜
The Pacing Of This Book Could Definitely Be Described As A Rollercoaster. It Had Peaks & Valleys With The Twists & Turns But Giving Us Moments To Breath Before The Next Shocking Twist Arose! 🎢
If You Are Someone Who Loves Strong Female Characters, Urban Fantasy, Witchy Vibes, Morally Grey Characters Or Enemies To Lovers I Would Highly Recommend Getting Yourself A Copy Of This Book ASAP! 💜
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 4, 2024
Riveting read!
Following the wedding of her sister, Echo was aproached and warned by a fortune teller. She was very sceptical but an incident in Oracle Park started a plethora of events that would take her on a journey into the unknown and one that would bring so many revaluations.
An entertaining read with a unique storyline that has everything in a fantasy world you could imagine. Villains, spells, magic, monsters and war with distant dark lands all contribute to this gripping tale that keeps you enthralled throughout. Great, easy read, thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend if witches and the supernatural is your thing!
Following the wedding of her sister, Echo was aproached and warned by a fortune teller. She was very sceptical but an incident in Oracle Park started a plethora of events that would take her on a journey into the unknown and one that would bring so many revaluations.
An entertaining read with a unique storyline that has everything in a fantasy world you could imagine. Villains, spells, magic, monsters and war with distant dark lands all contribute to this gripping tale that keeps you enthralled throughout. Great, easy read, thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend if witches and the supernatural is your thing!
August 17, 2022
Rating: 4/5
I received this book for my honest opinion
One the day of Echos sister’s wedding, she thought she had the perfect life. She was engaged to a handsome doctor, she was going to school to become a lawyer, she had her close family and friends. However, the night of her sister’s wedding she is thrown into a world she thought never existed. She was raised to not believe in magic, witches or anything supernatural, but she can’t hide from the fact that she is a witch and on top of everything she finds out she is either the chosen one to end Jivar or she will become his biggest supporter to unleash his fury and destroy the world.
In this book you follow Echo and her journey to understand her heritage, not only is she a witch but she is a Blackwood witch. Her ancestor is the one that created the immortal monster known as Jivar, and she is chosen to be the witch that will end his life. You will see Echo's transformation from a normal human life to now a witch. You will be taken on a journey to find out if she is “a good witch”or if she is like her ancestors and will follow in the black magic. I really enjoyed the friendships that Echo develops throughout the book, and I like that she does what feels right to her even though everyone else is telling her not to. I did like that in the book you get a little back story of the other characters in the book, it really helps tie together the loose ends to the questions you start building up. This book is fast-paced, with great characters, great fighting scenes and epic adventures, love interest, betrayal and so much more. This book is one that I would recommend to someone who is wanting to test the waters of a fantasy read.
I want to thank NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the opportunity to read this eARC
I received this book for my honest opinion
One the day of Echos sister’s wedding, she thought she had the perfect life. She was engaged to a handsome doctor, she was going to school to become a lawyer, she had her close family and friends. However, the night of her sister’s wedding she is thrown into a world she thought never existed. She was raised to not believe in magic, witches or anything supernatural, but she can’t hide from the fact that she is a witch and on top of everything she finds out she is either the chosen one to end Jivar or she will become his biggest supporter to unleash his fury and destroy the world.
In this book you follow Echo and her journey to understand her heritage, not only is she a witch but she is a Blackwood witch. Her ancestor is the one that created the immortal monster known as Jivar, and she is chosen to be the witch that will end his life. You will see Echo's transformation from a normal human life to now a witch. You will be taken on a journey to find out if she is “a good witch”or if she is like her ancestors and will follow in the black magic. I really enjoyed the friendships that Echo develops throughout the book, and I like that she does what feels right to her even though everyone else is telling her not to. I did like that in the book you get a little back story of the other characters in the book, it really helps tie together the loose ends to the questions you start building up. This book is fast-paced, with great characters, great fighting scenes and epic adventures, love interest, betrayal and so much more. This book is one that I would recommend to someone who is wanting to test the waters of a fantasy read.
I want to thank NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for the opportunity to read this eARC
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September 30, 2022I received a free ARC of ECHO: THE CURSE OF THE BLACKWOOD WITCHES. This has not affected my opinions or rating.
Echo: The Curse of the Blackwood Witches is one of those books I picked up – or more like, asked to ARC read – because I’d met the author (on Twitter). Urban Fantasy isn’t usually my genre, and some of what’s in the blurb – well, I’m a different kind of reader than most, and I tend to avoid ‘Can she use the powers of evil to save the world?’ kind of blurbs unless I already know a bit. There’s just so many ways the trope can be done wrong! But I’d talked to Yasmine, and chatted about her book, so I was pretty interested in how she was going to handle things.
Echo did not disappoint. I really, really love how that was handled, but I’m pretty sure it’s what’s usually considered a major spoiler, so I will share it in the “Continued Review!” I will say that I genuinely think Echo’s forbidden magic grimoire and how she discovers herself, how her magic develops, is one of the best things in the book and sets it apart.
As for being urban fantasy … it’s urban fantasy. Not that I read the genre a lot, so it might be really different from most urban fantasy and I wouldn’t know, but the urban fantasy elements did distract me from the story at times. One of several reasons I avoid urban fantasy is that there are a number of elements of the modern world that I find disturbing and would rather avoid, something that can be hard in a contemporary setting. I have something of a love-hate relationship with the concept of urban/contemporary fantasy, and that extended to the setting in Echo. Some of those elements that make me avoid the genre were definitely present. At the same time, I really enjoy the basic premise to a lot of urban fantasy – that there’s magic to the world, and it’s hidden so most people are blinded to its existence.
And that was definitely present in Echo. Once it’s over, even direct witnesses of magic forget it ever happened, and come up with all sorts of other explanations to explain the effects of the magic, complete with fake memories. They think people they saw die never showed up to the wedding reception and all sorts of other things. It’s a provocative setting. And Echo’s own relationship with her grandfather gets complicated. Because being a chosen witch in a war with the stakes of the world in the balance, and that training consuming all one’s focus, looks like being crazy to other people who don’t see that ….
Here’s a passage I’d like to quote:
Echo is a multiple timeline novel, with the story told outside of chronological order. I haven’t read many of these, and it didn’t affect me – I’m used to reading novels outside of chronological order – but I figured it was worthy of a mention. We get perspective from many people, at many different times, whose actions are involved in creating the situation Echo faces, though only Echo’s sections are written in first person. Each life has themes and depth woven into it – self-discovery, repentance and redemption, loyalty, guilt, pride, forgiveness. Following the perspectives feels like watching the weaving of a tapestry. Or perhaps the unrolling of a canvas painting.
The villain shows a depth of its own. This isn’t a simple “someone chose to become an evil psychopath” situation. Instead, Jivar – and some other people – made choices they really should not have, and Jivar lost his soul trying to gain something else. Without his soul, without real feelings, Jivar’s world is a hell – but one he doesn’t even experience as a hell, since he doesn’t feel. Yet that deep ache urges him on, looking for what he’ll never find. At least not the way he’s trying to go about it. In a sense, that defines that story. None of them are evil because they want to be. Abused, violated, and broken, sometimes from before they’re old enough to make choices or know what’s happening to them, before they’re able to choose who to trust, that’s what lets the darkness in. What lets them let – or cause – those around them to be even more abused and violated.
And always, always, it’s complicated. Like there’s Doyle, one of Jivar’s servants, who loves the beasts Jivar throws away in war and does his best to teach them so they can survive. So they can kill. So they can live.
I enjoyed the story – I may even have read it far too quickly – and was invested in Echo’s life, even though I was never able to relate to her goals and ambitions, and her personality beneath it all. Plus the fact the novel is a little heaver on “action, adventure, plot, things are H-A-P-P-E-N-I-N-G” than is my usual preference. It’s not that Echo is an unrelatable character in herself, as that she’s just one of those characters that, well, it feels like she has personality, but for some reason I wasn’t able to relate to her. And I don’t think it’s the writing, because I was very invested in the story for a character I related to so (for me) exceptionally poorly.
Plus, I was happy with who she ended up with by the end of the story!
I would write more about the characters, like Ebba and Lù who is Echo’s ancestor and partially responsible for the mess, and Doyle, who is one of Jivar’s servants, and Zaros and Viessa, a brother and sister who are also Jivar’s servants. All of them have interesting stories with the potential to be very thought-provoking – about love, sanity, forgiveness, loyalty, and repentance/redemption. Where they are, how they got there, the choices their own and others that took them there, have a great deal of potential to be explored. However, the nonlinear timeline of their stories (and my own tendency to read nonlinearly) leave me very confused as to what might be spoilers. It also leaves me unable to assess how much the order in which one discovers their lives is important to perceiving the story, so what might be a spoiler that might be better not to share. Besides, I have a feeling this review would get way too long if I went into them.
My feelings about the light spirits are somewhat unsettled/confused. There’s this rule that if they don’t find their names by the time they’re a certain age, then they have to go to the dark side, where it appears that they become dark spirits. But there are some workarounds for that, at least sometimes, and some exceptions to the rule. And I enjoyed what becomes of the light spirits who are Echo’s guides – that’ll be in the “continued review” too.
This is a book about healing, not conquering. About repentance, not slaughter (though there is plenty of that). About redemption, not destruction (though that happens, too, and it’s not as if “endings” are all we hoped for – then again, I have high hopes that “endings” are only apparent).
It feels like a kaleidoscope of color, dark and bright, of artfully woven threads.
This review appeared first and in full on Enthralled By Love (Paths of Fantasy).
Echo: The Curse of the Blackwood Witches is one of those books I picked up – or more like, asked to ARC read – because I’d met the author (on Twitter). Urban Fantasy isn’t usually my genre, and some of what’s in the blurb – well, I’m a different kind of reader than most, and I tend to avoid ‘Can she use the powers of evil to save the world?’ kind of blurbs unless I already know a bit. There’s just so many ways the trope can be done wrong! But I’d talked to Yasmine, and chatted about her book, so I was pretty interested in how she was going to handle things.
Echo did not disappoint. I really, really love how that was handled, but I’m pretty sure it’s what’s usually considered a major spoiler, so I will share it in the “Continued Review!” I will say that I genuinely think Echo’s forbidden magic grimoire and how she discovers herself, how her magic develops, is one of the best things in the book and sets it apart.
As for being urban fantasy … it’s urban fantasy. Not that I read the genre a lot, so it might be really different from most urban fantasy and I wouldn’t know, but the urban fantasy elements did distract me from the story at times. One of several reasons I avoid urban fantasy is that there are a number of elements of the modern world that I find disturbing and would rather avoid, something that can be hard in a contemporary setting. I have something of a love-hate relationship with the concept of urban/contemporary fantasy, and that extended to the setting in Echo. Some of those elements that make me avoid the genre were definitely present. At the same time, I really enjoy the basic premise to a lot of urban fantasy – that there’s magic to the world, and it’s hidden so most people are blinded to its existence.
And that was definitely present in Echo. Once it’s over, even direct witnesses of magic forget it ever happened, and come up with all sorts of other explanations to explain the effects of the magic, complete with fake memories. They think people they saw die never showed up to the wedding reception and all sorts of other things. It’s a provocative setting. And Echo’s own relationship with her grandfather gets complicated. Because being a chosen witch in a war with the stakes of the world in the balance, and that training consuming all one’s focus, looks like being crazy to other people who don’t see that ….
Here’s a passage I’d like to quote:
“I’m your grandfather, Echo,” he cut in. “Your parents entrusted you and your sister to me, and I did my best with you two… Where did I go wrong? Why did you have to be this person? To fight monsters and live in constant danger?”
“This is who I am, Grandpa,” I said.
“Well, I don’t want to accept that.” He came to stand. “I’d rather you be a college dropout who does drugs. At least then, I can get you help.”
Echo is a multiple timeline novel, with the story told outside of chronological order. I haven’t read many of these, and it didn’t affect me – I’m used to reading novels outside of chronological order – but I figured it was worthy of a mention. We get perspective from many people, at many different times, whose actions are involved in creating the situation Echo faces, though only Echo’s sections are written in first person. Each life has themes and depth woven into it – self-discovery, repentance and redemption, loyalty, guilt, pride, forgiveness. Following the perspectives feels like watching the weaving of a tapestry. Or perhaps the unrolling of a canvas painting.
The villain shows a depth of its own. This isn’t a simple “someone chose to become an evil psychopath” situation. Instead, Jivar – and some other people – made choices they really should not have, and Jivar lost his soul trying to gain something else. Without his soul, without real feelings, Jivar’s world is a hell – but one he doesn’t even experience as a hell, since he doesn’t feel. Yet that deep ache urges him on, looking for what he’ll never find. At least not the way he’s trying to go about it. In a sense, that defines that story. None of them are evil because they want to be. Abused, violated, and broken, sometimes from before they’re old enough to make choices or know what’s happening to them, before they’re able to choose who to trust, that’s what lets the darkness in. What lets them let – or cause – those around them to be even more abused and violated.
And always, always, it’s complicated. Like there’s Doyle, one of Jivar’s servants, who loves the beasts Jivar throws away in war and does his best to teach them so they can survive. So they can kill. So they can live.
I enjoyed the story – I may even have read it far too quickly – and was invested in Echo’s life, even though I was never able to relate to her goals and ambitions, and her personality beneath it all. Plus the fact the novel is a little heaver on “action, adventure, plot, things are H-A-P-P-E-N-I-N-G” than is my usual preference. It’s not that Echo is an unrelatable character in herself, as that she’s just one of those characters that, well, it feels like she has personality, but for some reason I wasn’t able to relate to her. And I don’t think it’s the writing, because I was very invested in the story for a character I related to so (for me) exceptionally poorly.
Plus, I was happy with who she ended up with by the end of the story!
I would write more about the characters, like Ebba and Lù who is Echo’s ancestor and partially responsible for the mess, and Doyle, who is one of Jivar’s servants, and Zaros and Viessa, a brother and sister who are also Jivar’s servants. All of them have interesting stories with the potential to be very thought-provoking – about love, sanity, forgiveness, loyalty, and repentance/redemption. Where they are, how they got there, the choices their own and others that took them there, have a great deal of potential to be explored. However, the nonlinear timeline of their stories (and my own tendency to read nonlinearly) leave me very confused as to what might be spoilers. It also leaves me unable to assess how much the order in which one discovers their lives is important to perceiving the story, so what might be a spoiler that might be better not to share. Besides, I have a feeling this review would get way too long if I went into them.
My feelings about the light spirits are somewhat unsettled/confused. There’s this rule that if they don’t find their names by the time they’re a certain age, then they have to go to the dark side, where it appears that they become dark spirits. But there are some workarounds for that, at least sometimes, and some exceptions to the rule. And I enjoyed what becomes of the light spirits who are Echo’s guides – that’ll be in the “continued review” too.
This is a book about healing, not conquering. About repentance, not slaughter (though there is plenty of that). About redemption, not destruction (though that happens, too, and it’s not as if “endings” are all we hoped for – then again, I have high hopes that “endings” are only apparent).
It feels like a kaleidoscope of color, dark and bright, of artfully woven threads.
This review appeared first and in full on Enthralled By Love (Paths of Fantasy).
August 11, 2022
The Review
The author did such an incredible job of crafting a memorable and captivating fantasy and paranormal read. The book immediately grabs the reader’s attention, balancing great character development and hinting at a challenging backstory with the horrors and thrills of the supernatural threat facing the protagonist and her new allies. The backstory and history of the cast of characters were so intricately detailed and did an amazing job of keeping the reader invested in the narrative.
Yet it was the wealth of mythology and world-building the author did that kept me invested in this story overall. The way the author built up the family drama in Echo’s life and childhood and made it feel just as impactful as the apocalyptic nature of the threat they all faced was a great sign of the author’s creativity and focus on character-driven narrative. The journey that led Echo to discover her dark powers, her connection to the villainous Jivar, and the struggle to balance her hope to save the world with the destructive aspect of her gifts made this such an intriguing plot.
The Verdict
Thought-provoking, entertaining, and action-packed, author Yasmine Maher’s “Echo: The Curse of the Blackwood Witches” is a must-read urban fantasy novel of 2022. The drama, adrenaline-fueled narrative, and shocking twists and turns in the story will have readers hanging off of the author’s every word.
The author did such an incredible job of crafting a memorable and captivating fantasy and paranormal read. The book immediately grabs the reader’s attention, balancing great character development and hinting at a challenging backstory with the horrors and thrills of the supernatural threat facing the protagonist and her new allies. The backstory and history of the cast of characters were so intricately detailed and did an amazing job of keeping the reader invested in the narrative.
Yet it was the wealth of mythology and world-building the author did that kept me invested in this story overall. The way the author built up the family drama in Echo’s life and childhood and made it feel just as impactful as the apocalyptic nature of the threat they all faced was a great sign of the author’s creativity and focus on character-driven narrative. The journey that led Echo to discover her dark powers, her connection to the villainous Jivar, and the struggle to balance her hope to save the world with the destructive aspect of her gifts made this such an intriguing plot.
The Verdict
Thought-provoking, entertaining, and action-packed, author Yasmine Maher’s “Echo: The Curse of the Blackwood Witches” is a must-read urban fantasy novel of 2022. The drama, adrenaline-fueled narrative, and shocking twists and turns in the story will have readers hanging off of the author’s every word.
September 23, 2022
The book opens with Echo's sister marriage taking place. It's on that special day that Echo realises she is not a normal girl but is blessed with special powers.
Are these powers curse to her life or blessing?? How shall Echo deal with them and make use of the power? These questions keep us hooked on to the novel.
As Echo embraces her true self, we also get to realise how she has to deal with her relations. Especially the grandfather and her sisters. I loved her relationship with grandpa and how he helps her to be a kind, better and productive person always. The relationship with her sisters is overwhelming at times but I am sure most of the siblings can relate to it.
As Echo has a purpose to fulfill and save the disaster which is to take place, she uses her black magic too. Check out the novel to know where it leads her.
This book is magnificently penned and the grammar too is amazingly perfect. Kudos to the author for penning down such amazing book.
Are these powers curse to her life or blessing?? How shall Echo deal with them and make use of the power? These questions keep us hooked on to the novel.
As Echo embraces her true self, we also get to realise how she has to deal with her relations. Especially the grandfather and her sisters. I loved her relationship with grandpa and how he helps her to be a kind, better and productive person always. The relationship with her sisters is overwhelming at times but I am sure most of the siblings can relate to it.
As Echo has a purpose to fulfill and save the disaster which is to take place, she uses her black magic too. Check out the novel to know where it leads her.
This book is magnificently penned and the grammar too is amazingly perfect. Kudos to the author for penning down such amazing book.
July 27, 2022
This is the story of a previously-unknown magical world with family secrets, other dimensions, special powers and a race to save our world. The imagery is so unique and rich that you are fighting alongside Echo. The story will draw you in, and you will feel Echo's inner struggle and her determination to win the war. I loved the flashbacks that helped to clarify her family's past. And Echo's blending of light and dark magic kept the outcome in a state of flux until the end. A truly original story that I greatly enjoyed in one sitting!
July 24, 2022
Echo is unaware that she is a witch, something supernatural occurs and her powers come into play at her sister’s wedding. She finds out that she a witch and she has to stop Jivar. Jivar is an immortal who is hell bent on destroying the world. Echo and her newfound allies must do what it takes to stop him. A secret of her magic might destroy her before she can save the world. A fast paced fantasy story with action. The author has great world building skills and wonderfully written characters.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 24, 2022
Reading the opening pages I thought this is going to be a good story, reading on I found a story that was well written, complex and captivating, with a cast of well developed characters. Well worth a read. What’s going to happen next, I can’t wait to find out. Thank you to Fables and Facts publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. The views expressed are all mine freely given.
June 26, 2022
Loved this book and am hoping to read more from this author.
The chapters were believable, the setting was perfect and the plot was easy to follow.
I read this book in one sitting.
Recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The chapters were believable, the setting was perfect and the plot was easy to follow.
I read this book in one sitting.
Recommend.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 7, 2022
Everything about this book is beautiful; the cover, the writing, the story, the titular character, even the formatting! How often do you find yourself saying that about a novel? I even dig the ‘Echo’ logo on the cover. Yes, you can tell that a lot of thought, care, effort and love has gone into creating this work. Author Yasmine Maher is clearly someone who loves books, and she’s passing that love on in the form of her own.
Enter Echo!
Our improbably yet gloriously named hero is at law school, has a fiancé called Joe and a sister called Tara who’s getting married. Yes, she’s an apparently normal young woman with a secure yet unremarkable future ahead of her. Ah, but Echo is a Blackwood which means that she comes from a long line of witches and is the subject of a prophecy. Basically, she is the only person in the world capable of defeating the severely damaged magical being known as Jivar, but this is not a journey she can take on her her own.
After her sister’s wedding gets rudely gatecrashed by grotesque creatures not of this Earth, Echo is befriended by Vanna and Kirby, who mentor her in the ways of magic. As she negotiates the labyrinth of her new life, she falls in love with a captured baddie called Doyle and travels to other realms in her mission to save the world, all while being pursued and threatened by a supremely evil witch called Viessa.
As Echo grows and develops as a character, secrets are revealed, allegiances are switched and a cataclysmic showdown between good and evil looms. It’s all very exciting, and, as I earlier stated earlier, very beautiful.
This is a book for people who love books, for people who love fantasy and escapism, who love strong characters, who love twists and turns and rich world building. It’s a joyous labour of love from the author and an assured debut and I can’t wait to see what Yasmine has up her sleeve next. Whatever it is, I prophesise that we’re in for a treat.
Enter Echo!
Our improbably yet gloriously named hero is at law school, has a fiancé called Joe and a sister called Tara who’s getting married. Yes, she’s an apparently normal young woman with a secure yet unremarkable future ahead of her. Ah, but Echo is a Blackwood which means that she comes from a long line of witches and is the subject of a prophecy. Basically, she is the only person in the world capable of defeating the severely damaged magical being known as Jivar, but this is not a journey she can take on her her own.
After her sister’s wedding gets rudely gatecrashed by grotesque creatures not of this Earth, Echo is befriended by Vanna and Kirby, who mentor her in the ways of magic. As she negotiates the labyrinth of her new life, she falls in love with a captured baddie called Doyle and travels to other realms in her mission to save the world, all while being pursued and threatened by a supremely evil witch called Viessa.
As Echo grows and develops as a character, secrets are revealed, allegiances are switched and a cataclysmic showdown between good and evil looms. It’s all very exciting, and, as I earlier stated earlier, very beautiful.
This is a book for people who love books, for people who love fantasy and escapism, who love strong characters, who love twists and turns and rich world building. It’s a joyous labour of love from the author and an assured debut and I can’t wait to see what Yasmine has up her sleeve next. Whatever it is, I prophesise that we’re in for a treat.
September 17, 2022
"I grew up a skeptic." - Echo
Trying to pave her way in life Echo's focused on her career and being engaged. Until a very eventful day at her sister's wedding restarts her world! No longer is she just plain Echo the college student, she's now discovering she posses magic!
Is that even a real? Not fully understanding things she's thrown into a world that had only existed in fairytales. Now facing monsters, different types of magic, and finals! The icing on the cake is she is possibly the key to everything. But how? And why her?
This is a book about finding one's self in the midst of everything. Unlocking a part of yourself that was hidden and facing truths of the past that may hurt. Echo went through quite a whirlwind of events throughout the book! But with her intelligence and strength she proved to be a wonderful FMC.
I enjoyed the adventure but for me personally, I felt like the book could have been split into two parts instead of one long read. The pacing was quick but there was just so much going on. A lot of information and epic adventures that seemed like the author was wanting to put it all into one read. Now you may read the book and see nothing wrong with it and the right amount of epic scenes.
I did really love Doyle. Another one of my favorites would have to be Kirby, just a big cinnamon roll. The banter between Kirby and Echo was hilarious, reminded me of siblings fighting honestly. There were several other characters who were great and helped to add crazy twists to the story!
This book does contain some violence and slight gore. The author didn't go into great detail about things or draw it out. One of the character's has a dark past with some abusive, domestic violence. I did enjoy the multiple POVs throughout the book.
Enjoy the adventure with magic and two sides to every story! Don't forget to give the author some stars!
Trying to pave her way in life Echo's focused on her career and being engaged. Until a very eventful day at her sister's wedding restarts her world! No longer is she just plain Echo the college student, she's now discovering she posses magic!
Is that even a real? Not fully understanding things she's thrown into a world that had only existed in fairytales. Now facing monsters, different types of magic, and finals! The icing on the cake is she is possibly the key to everything. But how? And why her?
This is a book about finding one's self in the midst of everything. Unlocking a part of yourself that was hidden and facing truths of the past that may hurt. Echo went through quite a whirlwind of events throughout the book! But with her intelligence and strength she proved to be a wonderful FMC.
I enjoyed the adventure but for me personally, I felt like the book could have been split into two parts instead of one long read. The pacing was quick but there was just so much going on. A lot of information and epic adventures that seemed like the author was wanting to put it all into one read. Now you may read the book and see nothing wrong with it and the right amount of epic scenes.
I did really love Doyle. Another one of my favorites would have to be Kirby, just a big cinnamon roll. The banter between Kirby and Echo was hilarious, reminded me of siblings fighting honestly. There were several other characters who were great and helped to add crazy twists to the story!
This book does contain some violence and slight gore. The author didn't go into great detail about things or draw it out. One of the character's has a dark past with some abusive, domestic violence. I did enjoy the multiple POVs throughout the book.
Enjoy the adventure with magic and two sides to every story! Don't forget to give the author some stars!
September 11, 2022
Echo: The Curse of The Blackwood Witches was a fun and addicting debut novel. I was hooked from the moment I read it, finishing it in 2 sittings. I liked the different magic used and it even twisted typical sci fi elements making them magical. All the secondary characters were complex in their own right and every flashback scene had me clinging to my ebook in anticipation. Ebba, Viessa and Doyle being some of my favourites but honestly they were all great.
There were a few things that stopped it from being a 5 star for me. I think the pacing could be a bit odd at times. Time would span for months sometimes causing the story to feel longer. In a few cases we were told things instead of shown and I feel like scenes that should have been delved into longer were breezed over. Also out of all the characters I failed to connect with Echo. Her humor didn't always hit the mark for me and at times she felt like a outside character who was just there so we could see the stories of the others. And she's the MC. It wasn't until her character split for a bit that I was invested. If you know you know.
There was a little bit of romance, which was utterly sweet but for the most part this was a book about moving past trauma and grief and how your friends can become the family that supports you. And the craziness of magic of course. I had a lot of fun reading Echo and am curious to see what Maher publishes next.
There were a few things that stopped it from being a 5 star for me. I think the pacing could be a bit odd at times. Time would span for months sometimes causing the story to feel longer. In a few cases we were told things instead of shown and I feel like scenes that should have been delved into longer were breezed over. Also out of all the characters I failed to connect with Echo. Her humor didn't always hit the mark for me and at times she felt like a outside character who was just there so we could see the stories of the others. And she's the MC. It wasn't until her character split for a bit that I was invested. If you know you know.
There was a little bit of romance, which was utterly sweet but for the most part this was a book about moving past trauma and grief and how your friends can become the family that supports you. And the craziness of magic of course. I had a lot of fun reading Echo and am curious to see what Maher publishes next.
September 6, 2024
"Echo" by Yasmine Maher
Title: The curse of the blackwood witches.
Rating: 5/5 stars
I just finished reading "Echo" by Yasmine Maher, and I'm still reeling from the experience. This book was a poignant and powerful exploration of love, loss, and self-discovery that left me breathless and yearning for more.
The writing was exquisite, with a lyrical quality that drew me in and refused to let go. Maher's prose was evocative and emotive, conjuring up vivid images and emotions that lingered long after I finished reading.
The characters were multidimensional and relatable, with flaws and strengths that made them feel achingly real. I found myself invested in their stories, rooting for them as they navigated the complexities of their lives.
What resonated most with me was the way Maher tackled themes of identity, grief, and healing. The narrative was both deeply personal and universally relatable, making it feel like a warm embrace on a cold day.
Overall, "Echo" is a masterpiece that will haunt me for a long time. It's a testament to the power of love, forgiveness, and the human spirit.
Recommendation: If you enjoy literary fiction, poignant storytelling, and characters that will capture your heart, "Echo" is a must-read. Be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you changed forever.
Title: The curse of the blackwood witches.
Rating: 5/5 stars
I just finished reading "Echo" by Yasmine Maher, and I'm still reeling from the experience. This book was a poignant and powerful exploration of love, loss, and self-discovery that left me breathless and yearning for more.
The writing was exquisite, with a lyrical quality that drew me in and refused to let go. Maher's prose was evocative and emotive, conjuring up vivid images and emotions that lingered long after I finished reading.
The characters were multidimensional and relatable, with flaws and strengths that made them feel achingly real. I found myself invested in their stories, rooting for them as they navigated the complexities of their lives.
What resonated most with me was the way Maher tackled themes of identity, grief, and healing. The narrative was both deeply personal and universally relatable, making it feel like a warm embrace on a cold day.
Overall, "Echo" is a masterpiece that will haunt me for a long time. It's a testament to the power of love, forgiveness, and the human spirit.
Recommendation: If you enjoy literary fiction, poignant storytelling, and characters that will capture your heart, "Echo" is a must-read. Be prepared for an emotional rollercoaster that will leave you changed forever.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2022
An urban fantasy with the chosen one trope. While it was a fairly easy read and it comes with the “feel good” ending I was looking for, it took a few strange mind bender trips toward the end that didn’t quite work for me. This was not helped by the tendency to use flashbacks as info dumps (a lot of which could have gone into a prologue). Then stir in a healthy dose of time travel hijynx and it seems like we get a bit of "try everything and hope somethings works" approach to the story. Add this to a general feel of a simple writing style typical of YA fantasy, and the narrative comes across as pretty mechanical. The magic system of connecting with souls to "grimoires" was actually kind of interesting, as was the elemental divisions of magic (into 8). All that said … I did still enjoy it as something I didn’t have to think much about (so a solid beach read or airport/travel pastime) and it kept me engaged enough to rock through it fairly quickly and the author avoided any big mistakes that would have been hard to ignore … so I might pick up the next one if I am in the right mood.
I was given this free advance review copy (ARC) ebook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#Echo #BookSirens.
I was given this free advance review copy (ARC) ebook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
#Echo #BookSirens.
April 2, 2025
enjoyed reading this story. It features well-developed characters, numerous plot twists, and an engaging magic system. The story is suitable for all ages but may be challenging for readers under sixteen years old. It is well-written and well-edited, save for a few challenges that disrupted my immersion in the narrative, for which I removed a star.
First, this story extensively employs flashbacks to recount the characters' backstories. Typically, this wouldn’t be an issue, but the lack of descriptive transitions makes it challenging to determine whether a scene change, a perspective change, or a flashback has occurred or if a combination of these has happened. I found myself backtracking through the story to reread parts simply because I had the wrong perspective.
Second, the English usage, while proper and correct, has the non-native feel of someone—a highly educated someone—for whom English is a second or third language. Several conversations felt… translated—if that is the right word—with awkward structure and syntax, which rarely occurs in real life.
That said, this is a wonderful story, and I would recommend reading it
First, this story extensively employs flashbacks to recount the characters' backstories. Typically, this wouldn’t be an issue, but the lack of descriptive transitions makes it challenging to determine whether a scene change, a perspective change, or a flashback has occurred or if a combination of these has happened. I found myself backtracking through the story to reread parts simply because I had the wrong perspective.
Second, the English usage, while proper and correct, has the non-native feel of someone—a highly educated someone—for whom English is a second or third language. Several conversations felt… translated—if that is the right word—with awkward structure and syntax, which rarely occurs in real life.
That said, this is a wonderful story, and I would recommend reading it
July 25, 2022
This is an ARC review I am leaving an honest review for free.
Echo Blackwood appears to be your average college student, studying law with a cute boyfriend who is a doctor. The adventure begins at her sisters Tara's wedding when the guest is attacked by monsters. From that moment, Echo's life changes she learns that she is a witch. Not just any witch, a Blackwood witch, a name synonymous with using black magic to create an immortal monster. Now Echo needs to learn magic because she is the Chosen Witch to destroy the monster her ancestor created. This story follows Echo through learning magick, seeking her grimoire, and fighting many battles. She does this with Kirby and Vanna, who help with the fighting and the teaching. Echo's relationship hits a snag, she drops out of college as she focuses more and more on learning and perfecting her magic for the final battle that will determine the survival of humanity. It is a faced paced read once you understand the author's style, it is a truly riveting book.
Echo Blackwood appears to be your average college student, studying law with a cute boyfriend who is a doctor. The adventure begins at her sisters Tara's wedding when the guest is attacked by monsters. From that moment, Echo's life changes she learns that she is a witch. Not just any witch, a Blackwood witch, a name synonymous with using black magic to create an immortal monster. Now Echo needs to learn magic because she is the Chosen Witch to destroy the monster her ancestor created. This story follows Echo through learning magick, seeking her grimoire, and fighting many battles. She does this with Kirby and Vanna, who help with the fighting and the teaching. Echo's relationship hits a snag, she drops out of college as she focuses more and more on learning and perfecting her magic for the final battle that will determine the survival of humanity. It is a faced paced read once you understand the author's style, it is a truly riveting book.
July 15, 2022
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Echo is living her life as normal as possible when she is suddenly thrown for a loop of learning she is a witch and having to prevent an apocalypse for destroying everything.
I really wanted to love this book. The story line is great, I love the characters and how their world was flipped upside down with the new knowledge of them being witches and having to save the world. It truly is a great book but there was too much dialogue for me and not enough world building. When the author did describe scenes happening, for example the first chapter, it was breathtaking. The way she described what was happening made me feel like I was there in the book, and I think having more of that would have elevated the depth of the world Echo not only lives in but her new world and training as well.
Echo is living her life as normal as possible when she is suddenly thrown for a loop of learning she is a witch and having to prevent an apocalypse for destroying everything.
I really wanted to love this book. The story line is great, I love the characters and how their world was flipped upside down with the new knowledge of them being witches and having to save the world. It truly is a great book but there was too much dialogue for me and not enough world building. When the author did describe scenes happening, for example the first chapter, it was breathtaking. The way she described what was happening made me feel like I was there in the book, and I think having more of that would have elevated the depth of the world Echo not only lives in but her new world and training as well.
January 17, 2025
First of all, I need to say how PROUD I am of Yasmine for writing a whole ass book—I can't believe my friend is an actual author.😭
I really enjoyed the premise and loved the characters. The story starts with action right away and it's quite fast-paced.
I did feel like the story could have used a bit more development in places, with scenes flowing a little too quickly at times, which made it hard to keep up. But that’s totally normal for a debut novel, and what’s here already shows so much promise!
I can’t wait to see how her writing evolves in the future (spoiler alert: I'm already reading an arc of her next book and so far it is *chef's kiss*) 😍 If you’re looking for a spooky, magical read with a fresh voice, Echo is definitely worth picking up.
Amazing job, Yasmine—you should be so proud of yourself! ♥️
I really enjoyed the premise and loved the characters. The story starts with action right away and it's quite fast-paced.
I did feel like the story could have used a bit more development in places, with scenes flowing a little too quickly at times, which made it hard to keep up. But that’s totally normal for a debut novel, and what’s here already shows so much promise!
I can’t wait to see how her writing evolves in the future (spoiler alert: I'm already reading an arc of her next book and so far it is *chef's kiss*) 😍 If you’re looking for a spooky, magical read with a fresh voice, Echo is definitely worth picking up.
Amazing job, Yasmine—you should be so proud of yourself! ♥️
December 16, 2025
Pacing wise, the story was very fast which for the action scenes worked well, but for some of the character building was a detriment.
The plot itself is fine, though there is a lot of lore that has to get dropped throughout the book and some lore-by-flashback scenes are tough to read through.
The characters are just a little more than one dimensional, but not much. there are moments where this story really flows because the characters do feel alive, but then there are whole scenes of characters following a simple script.
3.5/5, wouldn't go out of my way to recommend, but certainly a decent read to fill out your magical fantasy shelves.
I received an advance reader copy (awhile ago...) and am providing a fair an honest review.
The plot itself is fine, though there is a lot of lore that has to get dropped throughout the book and some lore-by-flashback scenes are tough to read through.
The characters are just a little more than one dimensional, but not much. there are moments where this story really flows because the characters do feel alive, but then there are whole scenes of characters following a simple script.
3.5/5, wouldn't go out of my way to recommend, but certainly a decent read to fill out your magical fantasy shelves.
I received an advance reader copy (awhile ago...) and am providing a fair an honest review.
September 12, 2022
Echo is quite a character. Strong, intelligent, witty, but even she isn't quite prepared for the revelation that she is a witch, a powerful one, who according to a prophesy is the only one who can save the world from a dastardly evil enemy. Don't you just hate it when that happens! What follows is totally awesome as we follow and watch Echo's journey as she grows, blooms and develops her powers to be ready for the inevitable showdown on the horizon. The weight and pressure of knowing how much she, and the rest of the world has to lose, knowing she is the only one... An enjoyable and exciting ride, I was hooked from the first page!
July 22, 2022
Thank you NetGalley for a chance to read Echo.
I feel like I just kinda fell into this story. We start off at a wedding and the story starts to rapidly progress from there. The MC learns she’s a witch, she finds out there’s a prophecy about her, and discovers there’s monsters in the world. Instead of feeling like an info dump, this was actually really attention grabbing and had me hooked from the first chapter. I liked how fast paced this story was, I liked the characters, and I liked how this book was written. I would definitely recommend this to others.
I feel like I just kinda fell into this story. We start off at a wedding and the story starts to rapidly progress from there. The MC learns she’s a witch, she finds out there’s a prophecy about her, and discovers there’s monsters in the world. Instead of feeling like an info dump, this was actually really attention grabbing and had me hooked from the first chapter. I liked how fast paced this story was, I liked the characters, and I liked how this book was written. I would definitely recommend this to others.
September 3, 2022
I received a copy of this book for a fair and honest review. Echo goes from a normal girl to a witch. It is a lot for her to struggle with. The struggle of being a good witch or will she be taken over by the dark magic. She makes connections along the way and she has to figure out if she going to follow in her ancestor's footsteps for the evil she now faces was created by that ancestor. I am trying to not give away too much. It is really worth the read. The world this takes place in is amazing, great fight scenes and the adventure is just even to add to the fast pace of this book.
October 14, 2022
What I love most about this book is the absolutely superior level of character development. The characters are truly diverse and are not monolith at all. The exploration of friendship and love is a theme heavily running though the plot, and it’s beautifully flashed out, showing just how complicated relationships are, of all types.
The story is enticing and keeps you wanting to know more, especially about Doyle.
And the way he likes his fish. You absolutely have to read the book to find out how he likes his fish served.
The story is enticing and keeps you wanting to know more, especially about Doyle.
And the way he likes his fish. You absolutely have to read the book to find out how he likes his fish served.
July 25, 2022
This book was a bit of a mixed bag for me to be honest. The writing style was quite simplistic, but on the plus side this made the story easy to get in to and a pretty quick read.
I liked Echo’s character development as she went from naive young person to the Blackwood Witch she was destined to be.
The story contained some twists and turns that keep you engaged and wanting to know what happens next.
Overall it’s an enjoyable read that I would recommend.
I liked Echo’s character development as she went from naive young person to the Blackwood Witch she was destined to be.
The story contained some twists and turns that keep you engaged and wanting to know what happens next.
Overall it’s an enjoyable read that I would recommend.
August 19, 2022
I have received this book in exchange of an honest review.
So this is quite an easy read, and a good start for anyone wanting to start reading fantasy.
The writing was easy to read and they were a lot of informations especially in the flashback (sometimes to much), you get diverse characters and personalities and I'm sure you could find someone to resonate with.
I would give it a 3/5 stars because it wasn't my favourite.
So this is quite an easy read, and a good start for anyone wanting to start reading fantasy.
The writing was easy to read and they were a lot of informations especially in the flashback (sometimes to much), you get diverse characters and personalities and I'm sure you could find someone to resonate with.
I would give it a 3/5 stars because it wasn't my favourite.
June 5, 2023
Highly recommended
If you like fantasy as well as strong characters you will love this novel. There is also a lot of drama, action to keep the reader attentive.
The fight scenes were really quite memorable and stuck in the mind. Ironic the main character is called Echo as she resonates and is so powerful throughout.
If you like fantasy as well as strong characters you will love this novel. There is also a lot of drama, action to keep the reader attentive.
The fight scenes were really quite memorable and stuck in the mind. Ironic the main character is called Echo as she resonates and is so powerful throughout.
June 9, 2023
This novel revolves around family of witches..where one of the witch named Echo doesn't know if she is witch or not. When she comes to know about her powers, she begins working on it and is determined to save the world from apocalypse. Will she be successful or not?? Read this nail biting novel which will keep you entertained throughout.
June 11, 2023
Well written
If you like your adventures to be carried out by strong, but unsuspecting women, involving bad guys trying to come through portals, then this is the novel for you.
The fight scenes were intense and sometimes I had to stop (coffee break) to draw breath.
Incredibly well written by an obviously skilled wordsmith. I loved it. Five stars.
If you like your adventures to be carried out by strong, but unsuspecting women, involving bad guys trying to come through portals, then this is the novel for you.
The fight scenes were intense and sometimes I had to stop (coffee break) to draw breath.
Incredibly well written by an obviously skilled wordsmith. I loved it. Five stars.
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