Book Review: An Amateur Witch’s Guide to Murder by J. R. E. Diedrich
I must say, sometimes a book finds you when you need it the most, and An Amateur Witch’s Guide to Murder by J. R. E. Diedrich did just that for me. I was scrolling through NetGalley, yearning for something fresh, chaotic, and perhaps a smidge dark, and boy, did this book deliver! A witch, a possessed demon, and a sprinkle of queer horror? I was instantly captivated. Now, let’s dive into this enchanting and gruesome tale.
At first glance, one might think the adorable mauve cover suggests a lighthearted romp, but boy, was I ever mistaken! This book expertly balances charm with the macabre, offering a wild blend of humor, gore, and an unexpectedly deep exploration of familial ties and found family. Our protagonist, Mateo, boasts not only a gift for the mystical but also a pesky demon clinging to him like an unwanted health insurance policy. Throw in his best friend Ophelia, a Traveller with a talent for astral projection, and the stage is set for chaos. Their lives take a turn when Topher, a rich but cursed boy, enters the scene, asking for help—and trust me when I say that aiding him brings on a whirlwind of calamity.
Diedrich’s writing style is lush, painting vivid images that kept me both enchanted and horrified. The pacing was sharp, each chapter ratcheting up the tension while allowing moments for humor and heartfelt connection. The dynamic between the trio—Mateo, Ophelia, and Topher—gripped my heart in ways I didn’t expect. They are not only chaotic but also deeply relatable in their insecurities and moral ambiguity. I found myself laughing and cringing at their ridiculous decisions, reminiscent of a toddler caught with chocolate smeared all over their face, steadfastly denying involvement. That blend of dark humor and relatable follies made these “chaos children” an absolute delight to follow.
Highlighting Mateo’s inner conflicts—between his identity and the demon consuming him—was a strong narrative choice. It echoed throughout the story, adding layers to his character that really resonated with me. The black humor peppered within Mateo’s internal dialogue and his banter with Ophelia kept me giggling even when the storyline turned bloody. I especially loved how Diedrich explored themes of parental neglect and survival, allowing the reader to connect with the characters on a deeper level.
I also need to give honorary mention to Quincy, the adult figure awkwardly managing these wild teenagers amidst the chaos. His legendary poker face and dry humor added an additional layer that complemented the otherwise youthful energy of the story. If there were a prize for the most indulgent parental figure, Quincy would absolutely be in the running; it’s moments like these that made the novel feel like a colorful tapestry woven with love, humor, and an undertone of chaos.
In conclusion, An Amateur Witch’s Guide to Murder was one enchanting and unpredictable ride! The blend of humor, horror, and beloved character dynamics crafted a reading experience that I thoroughly enjoyed. If you’re a fan of queer horror, complex friendships, and don’t mind a bit of gore alongside your fun, then this is definitely the book for you! I personally can’t wait to see if Diedrich will continue to expand on this chaotic universe. Five stars and a hopeful wish for a sequel! Seriously, I want more chaos from these witchy youths!
So, have you read anything that surprised you with its darkness beneath an inviting surface? Let’s chat in the comments! 🌙
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