Welcome to Wis' Apothecary

by Andrew Freeman

Magic exists to help people, or at least that’s what young Isabel believes. As a witch’s apprentice helping her renowned teacher run an apothecary, there’s no shortage of people in need—from vampires to princesses to Hybrids. And though her desire to do good often lands her in trouble, can Isabel learn enough through her misadventures to not just grow as a witch, but as a person? Fantasy/Adventure.

273 pages, Paperback

Published November 2, 2021

About the author

Andrew Freeman is a journalist and author living in Rochester, N.Y. A Texas native, he studied Broadcast Journalism at the University of North Texas before going on to report in the Texoma region, and Upstate New York. When he’s not writing stories, he enjoys spending time outdoors, practicing martial arts, and doting on his cat. You can follow his future endeavors @WisApothecary on Twitter and Facebook.

Reviews

[Chris]

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It’s geared more towards a young adult audience but as a grown man approaching my 30’s, Welcome to Wis’ Apothecary still kept me entertained from start to finish. Isabel Pirige and her master, Wisteria Amberfinch, along with with Isabel’s cat companion, Cloud, are just some of the endearing cast of characters that show up in this lighthearted take on the classic coming of age story- with a little added fantasy elements to keep you turning the pages.
The author has taken a more laid back approach to the writing style of this novel as well. Each chapter consists of a short story mainly consisting of the adventures our protagonist gets into while working at the apothecary. There are also even smaller bonus chapters scattered through the book, an almost “day in the life” approach, that really resonates with the reader and helps you relate to young Isabel and her struggle as an apprentice. I find this style of writing to be very easy to read and especially easy to pick up and set down. This isn’t like committing yourself to an extremely long, arduous high fantasy in the likes of Tolkien or Piers Anthony- you can take this as you like in nice, bite sized pieces.
All in all, Welcome to Wis’ Apothecary is a charming, fun read for anyone. I implore you to check it out and share it with anyone who has an interest in the magic of storytelling.

[Chantal C]

(Review written by my daughter) I enjoyed this book so much! As an 11 year old, and as my first "chapter book", this was the best choice, I think, now that I'm reading some more chapter books. I am totally dressing up for Halloween as Isabel!!! I loved the different adventures, not just running the apothicary and I found it very interesting. I had a hard time stopping to go to sleep! I am hoping so badly for the next book, and I think my little sister will like it a lot too, and I'm suggesting it to all my friends!!!

[Robert Pierson]

To be honest it felt like I was reading it in anime from the early 1990s I think the author needs to work more on show don’t tell it wasn’t all bad but for the most part I just found the style of writing to be very boring I think some people might like this but I’m definitely not one of them.

[Paul Freeman]

Great read for all ages.

[J.N. Courtney]

Unique, thoughtful and creative characters facing unusual dilemmas. A fun read. Enjoy!

[Rager Wyatt]

Phenomenal sequel!

The author definitely did not disappoint. The read flowed and flew by!
I love the way that you're able to immerse yourself into the story and feel like your stumbling,earning and growing with Isabel. I especially love learning about Wisteria's origins and how she has come to be my favorite character.