I got this ex-library softcover from Better World Books during a recent book-binge. (I first encountered Vernon's work via her marvelous funny/dark/thought-provoking webcomic-turned-graphic-novel Digger.)

This book's a very funny and charming tale of a young girl who decides to try and move in to a ramshackle castle as its resident Master - in part to get away from her twin sister, who's the "good" one, all sparkles and pink. The castle's residents - prospective minions for the new Master - have doubts as to a 12-year-old's ability to take charge, but Molly soon proves her mettle, and they unite to fend off a very dangerous and nasty sorceress who has eyes on the property herself.

While ostensibly a Wicked Witch, Molly's a very good person, kind-hearted and fair-minded - though she does have a temper when roused! The story dances around the "what's good, what's wicked, and what's really, really appalling" questions, and brings in elements of friendship, loyalty, and a willingness to put in the work to achieve a goal.

Its "wicked but not really" characters reminded me of the delightful Which Witch? by Eva Ibbotsen, which has a somewhat similar plot - and I was tickled to see a dedication to Ibbotsen by Vernon at the end of this book.

[There's a TV Tropes page on the book, with some entertaining tidbits.]

I left this book in the Little Free Library on this snowy day; hope someone enjoys it!

[See other recent releases in NH here.]

*** Released for the 2019 Heads Shoulders Knees Toes release challenge. ***

*** Released for the 2019 Great Backyard Bird Count release challenge, for the puffin-logo on the cover; GBBC info here. ***