This completely enthralling, literal page-turner of a book, complete with its wholly naturalistic writing spins a tale that is both highly enjoyable and yet at the same time deeply gripping. With a tale that brings forth the story of the central character Bea and her adoptive mother, Denise, soon thereafter (and on the eve of her twelfth birthday, nonetheless), Bea runs away, only to encounter the deep, dark maleficence known as The Witch. In truth, this dexterous blending of historical fantasy along with contemporary fiction, complete with a mysterious wishing well and the aforementioned Witch, has not just the one story to tell within its vividly drawn pages. For it also addresses the adoption process - seen through the eyes of a twelve-year-old - and thus allows the reader (of any age) to instantly become at one with the character and begin to understand her, her motives, her misjudgments and such, in what turns out to be a very enjoyable read. Add to that some spooky, magical moments along the way, complete with personal trauma, reimagined forethoughts, and some highly impactful, and skilled prose (that pertains to the core of this rather heartwarming coming-of-age story), and author Ingram-Brown’s Bea’s Witch is a touching tale that you will find oh-so-very hard to put down. FULL REVIEW: https://annecarlini.com/ex_books.php?id=242 ~ Exclusive Magazine, Review

‘Don’t Be Scared If It Hurts, Healing Always Hurts’ Bea’s Witch By Daniel Ingram-Brown I have said before that a good book is a good book whether it is written for children or adults and this latest novel, by Daniel Ingram-Brown, and described as young adult fiction, is a good book! Beatrice Crosse is in yet another foster home, a situation she knows only too well. She was ‘removed’ from her mother when she was three and has spent the intervening years cared for in more than one ‘home’. This time it is Denise who is doing her best to reach out to a somewhat unreceptive child who harbours resentment for the adults trying to control her life. She finds it difficult to bond with people, always wondering when they will find an excuse to leave her. She’s in a tough place. Bea feels ‘broken…fractured’, her life ‘scattered across different times and places’. Ingram-Brown doesn't sugarcoat the issues she experiences and the way that she sees the world. He uses his own experience as an adoptive dad to write with sensitive understanding. On her twelfth birthday, pushed just too far and oblivious to the storm, Bea runs away. She wants space, to be on her own and to burn her past, literally – what little she has left to burn – and she returns to the scene of the opening chapter of the book, Mother Shipton’s Cave. The author brings the mystery and sense of foreboding to the page with some highly atmospheric gothic description of the riverside cave and the woods surrounding it. The wind and woodland creatures can create a strangely frightening and eerie atmosphere which puts the reader on edge as much as it does Bea. The appearance of three of Cardinal Wolsey’s noble henchmen, tasked with bringing an end to the hag who is trying to undermine that most important of men, is sinister, and the conflagration Bea witnesses is never in doubt. Nor is the efficacy of the potion Ma Shipton gives Bea: ‘the potion of life is strangely empowering’. This bildungsroman of a journey captures the vulnerability of a child in care and considers the emotional effect of adoption and bullying. It also blends a contemporary character with an historical tale, adding a splash of fantasy and a sprinkle of magic. The reader is privy to Bea’s thoughts as we share her stream of consciousness in the conversations she has with her trusty turtle, and with the characters who enter her life, real or otherwise. There are plenty of lessons to be learned from this novel. The gold coin, so precious to Bea, looks remarkably like £1 and is only valuable because of ‘the trust people put in it’. ‘Stories are magic…And magic is power’, and perhaps the one which applies to us all is the most poignant - ‘we’re all finding our way’. ~ Artis-Ann, Features Writer – Yorkshire Times

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Must read! A coming of age story featuring ghosts, witches, childhood trauma, and adoption. A true must-read for middle readers! I received an Advance Reader Copy of Bea's Witch: A Ghostly Coming-of-Age Story by Daniel Ingram-Brown. What attracted me to Bea's Witch was the story of a young girl who'd recently been adopted facing her past traumas by meeting the ghost of a notorious English witch - how perfect, right? Without a doubt, this is one of my favourite reads of the year, for so many reasons. First, a nod to the author. Ingram-Brown is an adoptive parent working to bring light to adoption through creative writing. Thank you for this work! As someone who was adopted at birth, the fact that you're creating works of fiction with adopted characters and children who have gone through the foster system is so important and vitally necessary. Bea's story is about a young girl, adopted after a rough start to her life. Her mother seemingly abandoned her, allusions of something bad happening at her first foster house, and now she's safe with her adoptive mother, Denise. But she doesn't feel safe and she is defiantly not happy. The story begins with Denise bringing Bea to Mother Shipton's grotto where she has a rather strange encounter with the wishing well. What happens from here is a compelling ghost story that had me glued to the pages (I finished within just a couple of hours!) needing to know what would happen next. This isn't your campfire ghost story, but one that follows a young girl addressing the traumas of her short life. Her connection with Ma Shipton builds from the first chapter, with strange happenings occurring whenever Bea needs a boost in confidence or reassurance. I also loved that Mother Shipton is a real English historic figure, so not only does Ingram-Brown deliver a story of finding your way back from trauma, he weaves in historical fiction as well. Bravo! I would recommend Bea's Witch to Middle Readers and some YA Readers (and of course, adults interested in these reading groups, as well). There are spooky moments in it, so parents take note if you have more sensitive children. This book is a beautiful story on its own but would be especially impactful, I think, to adopted and foster children. Thank you, Daniel Ingram-Brown, for this masterpiece. I can see it being a staple on bookshelves. ~ Amanda Sloan (Reviewer), Reedsy Discovery

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Bea is a pleasant and likeable young girl who runs away before her 12th birthday. She meets the ghost of a witch who helps Bea seek answers about her past. This historical fantasy is well written and confronts the issues of loss, difficulty and living in foster care. This is an emotional read but one that finds resolve, Bea uncovers her truths. ~ Leslie Harris (Reviewer) , NetGalley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This was a very well written book. The plot was very enticing and intriguing. I couldn't put the book down. This was a new to me author and I will definitely try another book by this author. ~ Marie Rynders (Reviewer), NetGalley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I absolutely love coming of age stories. If you love anything fantasy related with a twist of history built in you will adore this read. I found the authors writing especially magical, really easy to follow and it flowed from chapter to chapter. It was really easy for me to fall in love with the character of Beatrice mainly because I have a daughter who is almost 12 years old. I found it difficult to read when there was some troubling times along the way. Mainly because I constantly imagined it if it was my daughter. The book touches on adoption and the past of Beatrice. The pictures throughout this book bought out the emotion every few chapters or so. The photos suck you in so you can completely vision yourself in the pages. I found this to be incredibly unique. This book is so powerful, thoughtful, and deep. If you love witches and magic you will want to read this. If you love books that make your heart ache you’ll adore this. ~ Nicola Hancock (Reviewer), Instagram @twilight_reader

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The book is full of excitement, pathos and magic. The descriptive and colourful writing vividly evokes each scene in the reader’s mind. The reader is carried alongside Bea feeling her emotions, fears, anger and sadness and hoping and praying that she will be able to work through and come to terms with her young problematic life. I love the idea that everything and everyone, good or bad, past and present are connected, influential and important. Themes very poignant in these present times. I have had a lot of experience with both adopters and adoptees and so I am more aware than most of the difficulties that these young people have been through previous to their adoption, most of which would seem impossible to many people. Therefore, this novel plays a very important part in literature in the fact that it brings attention to the struggles that these young people go through. The novel is a stunning read which beautifully weaves reality with story, myth and magic. Fully transportive, it sensitively approaches themes such as identity through the eyes of an adopted child. It provides a valued, reflective and positive nudge towards recognising inner resolve, power and strength, while painting a vivid landscape surrounded in empathy. It is an immersive and powerful book which highlights struggles with identity, time and place, and is an important read for young people today. As well as adults! I would therefore recommend this book to young people and adults alike. A fantastic story with a vital message. ~ Kirsty Lock (Reviewer), NetGalley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Bea is 11 going on well 12 and is struggling with big changes in her life. She has gained a new mother and a new school but feels she has to leave all her old life behind because Bea has just been adopted after several years in care. On a trip to see Mother Shipton’s Caves with Denise, her new mother, Bea has a strange experience and thinks she can hear a voice talking to her. Unthinkingly she takes a coin from the wishing well and feels a strong connection to it. But is Bea being haunted by Mother Shipton or her own demons? I didn’t want to put this down. I felt so much of Bea’s pain, her unwillingness to trust because she has been let down so many times and her own certainty that because of things she has done in the past, that she is unlovable. I really liked the glimpses of the past that have brought Bea to this point: Nelson, the poster and the warm day on the dock. And ultimately I liked Bea and like Denise, just wanted to give her a hug. Although this is clearly a standalone novel I would now like a story about Bea and her new and old circle of friends, where she just is adopted, not that that is the centre of the story. I want to know more of what happens to Bea next. Nicely done, Daniel! ~ Jane Teather, Care Experience and Culture Archive

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars. This 168 page book was gripping and I read it in one sitting. I really enjoyed coming along with the journey of 12 year old Bea. The poor girl has been through a horrible childhood since then. After she runs away and meets a witch, she goes on a journey to uncover her memories. ~ Mirelle Is reading (Reviewer) , NetGalley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Bea's Witch was a pretty quick book to devour. In it, you will meet Beatrice and she is adopted. Her mother seems nice but the small town she now lives in has other plans. She is finding it hard to make friends in her new school and is constantly fighting/dodging the school bullies. On top of it all, she finds a strange coin and has to deal with magic. I really liked getting to know Beatrice. Her journey wasn't easy but it was pretty cool to see her overcome all the obstacles thrown her way. Each twist and turn definitely kept me on my toes and I just wanted to see what was going to come next. In the end, I definitely enjoyed the heck out of this quick book. If I could change one thing it would be to make this even longer so I could enjoy more of it. Definitely a good book to jump into for October. I'm ready for all things spooky. ~ Alaina Meserole (Reviewer), NetGalley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This is an enjoyable mixture of history and fantasy for young readers. I enjoyed this book. The story revolves around Beatrice and her journey to find her way home. I loved seeing how Bea's character developed throughout the story. Even though this book is short, it's very powerful and found the author handled sensitive issues well. I enjoyed the simplicity of the writing style and found it easy to follow the storyline. ~ Jana Jenkinns [BookishWiccan] (Reviewer), NetGalley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A coming of age story. A fantasy related tale with a twist of history. Very interesting and really easy to follow. The pictures throughout this book bought out the emotion every few chapters or so and was very unique. This book is so powerful, thoughtful, and deep. If you love witches and magic you will want to read this. If you love books that make your heart ache you’ll adore this. ~ Laura Twist (Reviewer), NetGalley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I really enjoyed this book. It’s a quick, enjoyable read with excellent writing. I feel like the story was an absolutely perfect length. I loved that it was about an adoptee, and that it mentioned my hometown! Knocking off the one star just because I feel it is better suited to a younger audience, possibly between 11-17. Other than that, I’d really recommend it! ~ Distopian Pages (Reviewer), Instagram

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This is an enjoyable mixture of history and fantasy for young readers. I enjoyed this book. The story revolves around Beatrice and her journey to find her way home. I loved seeing how Bea's character developed throughout the story. Even though this book is short, it's very powerful and found the author handled sensitive issues well. I enjoyed the simplicity of the writing style and found it easy to follow the storyline. My daughter loves fantasy books and she will absolutely love this book. Definitely recommend. ~ Nimalee Ravi (Reviewer), Instagram @FantasyBookCraz_Mum

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ It's a short beautiful story of an adopted child and her struggles. The best thing I felt about this book is that it's not completely based on magical realism. Although the story highlights the encounter of Bea with the witch, there's still a mystery as to if that's real or if it's made up in her mind. The struggling child, left by her birth mother who she barely remembers now, can try to find comfort in a made-up magical world. Being an adult, we do not believe in mystic entities (Ok I am not saying Hogwarts isn't real just because I didn't receive the letter.! It is real. It has to be). But a child has a very different thought process and creating a magical encounter can be a defense mechanism. That's the beauty of this book where we debate if the encounter was real or not. But nevertheless, it helped Bea to change her perspective towards life. As a foster care child, she has been a part of more than 1 home. To find her hopes being shattered every time, it's difficult for her to call any place home. She can't bond with people wondering when will they find an excuse to leave her. So she bonds with her toy turtle (who she is a bit rough with :D). Apart from the psychological aspect of Bea's mind, the story itself is interesting and well-written. I like reading fast-paced books as they keep you hooked. So was the case for Bea's witch. The element of adding witchcraft in historic periods was another hit point. The inclusion of real-life English figures such as Mother Shipton and the facts surrounding the treatment of those who practiced witchcraft (or even suspected of doing so) gave the story a perfect blend. To summarise, Bea's witch is a historic fantasy fiction blending with the pain & struggles of an adopted child. ~ A Readers Alley, Book Review Blog

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Quick, yet it hit the spot!! I love the story and the main character and her adventure through this awesome book. ~ Blind Bat Books Bakunzi (Reviewer), NetGalley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I had a great Sunday reading this. It’s such a quick, short read but really packed full of emotions. I loved the characters and the writing was easy to get into. Would highly recommend. ~ Jess Miller (Reviewer), NetGalley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This was a cute little book. It was geared more towards younger adults than I was expecting. The story went by very quickly, and left me wishing for a little bit more. Overall though, it was really nice. ~ Cari-Leigh Williams (Bookseller) , NetGalley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Heartwarming middle grade or young adult mix of fantasy and the struggles of foster children/adopted children. I love Bea’s internal dialogue. Bea struggles with finding herself in a new home and the cruelty of her middle school classmates. She visits a wishing well and strange things begin unfolding around her until she meets a witch that wants to make a bargain, a story for a story. Will Bea choose to give up her own story or will she use her own struggles to become strong and overcome her fears? ~ Brittany York (Reviewer) , NetGalley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Realistic writing. This story deals with Bea and her adoptive mother, Denise. Add a wishing well and a witch. Love the way it addresses the adoption process. An enjoyable read! ~ Renee Winter (Reviewer), NetGalley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I LOVED this book. Bea's character was just perfect - super realistic and very likeable, and I loved the way that the author doesn't sugar coat the issues she experiences and the way that she sees the world, but also deals with it informatively and sensitively. The book in general was super entertaining and also unputdownable., and as a devoted lover of fantasy I loved the themes of ghosts and magic included in this book. I would recommend this book to both adults and children as a must-read. ~ Jemima Yap (Reviewer), NetGalley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Very well written. Characters are engaging and lifelike. Bea is so realistic. I love the way the story is told and how it does such a great job showcasing some of the difficulties and the wonders of adoption. I'm definitely going to be reading it again. Also the witch is just scary enough without being terrifying. ~ Rebecca Friers (Reviewer), NetGalley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ On a trip with Denise, her adoptive mother, Bea has a strange encounter with a famous witch in a wishing well. The book deals with the complexity of Bea’s feelings when she feels abandoned, insecure, unworthy of affection and in school she doesn’t do much better either; however these topics are treated with a lot of sensitivity. A compelling ghost story perfect for pre-teens as well as adults. ~ Concha Alvarez (Reviewer), NetGalley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Bea's Witch is a stunningly-crafted read which beautifully weaves reality with story, myth and magic. This is such a gripping story that draws you in. This was an excellent book! ~ Rubie Clark (Reviewer) , NetGalley

Dancing on the border between reality and fantasy, this tale draws in and leaves food for thought. After making a trip through foster homes, Beatrice finds herself adopted by a loving mother in a small town, but that doesn't mean everything is suddenly perfect. Not only does she have trouble finding friends and fighting off bullying at school, but she just can't cozy up to her new mother...not when she hasn't yet found peace with her own past. When a trip to a local historic site leaves Beatrice with a strange coin in her hand, she doesn't realize how much it's calling to her. Nor can she suspect that a creepy yet magical journey is about to begin. The writing in this one is very well done. The author pulls us into Beatrice's head, lures into her world, and brings every aspect to life. Beatrice has a difficult past to overcome, and the road to dealing with it is full of unexpected twists and turns. The toss in of magic, ghosts, and a touch of history create a rich setting, and the entire thing harbors a delicious touch of darkness, too. It is an intriguing and grabbing mix, which makes it hard not to fever for Beatrice the entire way through. And at only 160 or so pages, it packs more than a little punch… The plot is unique and very well done. Beatrice faces problems on several fronts and finds herself in a situation, which is impossible to see coming. And it's this situation, which is masterly woven and adds a wonderful touch to the tale. For the right reader, it is a treat. ~ Bookworm for Kids (Reviewer), http://www.bookwormforkids.com/

Rating: 4.5 ~ Rhiannon Amanda Pimlett (Reviewer), RhiReads

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Although the book is incredibly short there is a lot packed into it. I would say it’s aimed at young adults or older children and I have given this book to my young daughter who I think will love it. My heart broke for Bea and what she has went though, I really wanted to know more about her life and early life. She is very endearing and what she goes through at school is awful and just made her all the more likeable. Based on the synopsis of the book I did feel it took a long time to get to that point, I was left just wanting to know more about Ma Shipton and how Bea was able to see her ghost. I would recommend this to any younger reader, it’s a great coming of age story with a loveable main character. ~ Booksta.Gem, Instagram

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ I was granted complimentary audiobook access to Bea’s Witch as part of my participation in a blog tour for this title with Lola’s Blog Tours. Thank you to all involved in affording me this opportunity! My thoughts are my own and my review is honest. Beatrice has been in the foster system for a few years now ever since she was removed from her young mother’s care, and now that she’s been adopted at the age of 12 she’s having a lot of trouble adjusting. Armed with her steadfast friend, the plush turtle in her pocket, Bea attempts to run away and encounters the ghost of an old witch whose remembered life parallels Bea’s own. This story is short and sweet but packed with emotion, and I loved it! I was also just plain fascinated by the inclusion of Mother Shipton’s Cave, a location I only recently heard about and would love to visit. This book provides an interesting perspective on the kid’s point of view and struggles in late adoption situations like this, and although it can be enjoyed by anyone, I hope it’ll also be helpful to adoptive parents and their new children. ~ Westveil Publishing (Reviewer), https://www.westveilpublishing.com/?p=9545

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Bea’s Witch is a detailed fast paced story that has an emotional impact on the reader the writing style is very simplistic and character driven… I like how Brown has added images to create a realistic edge. The plot is eye opening and gives the reader an insight into the world of adoption and care… The character development of Bea’s Witch is good. Throughout the story the reader sees a range of Beatrice’s feelings, enabling a connection with Beatrice the more you read…. I would recommend reading Bea’s Witch to lovers of Young Adult Fantasy, as it is a engaging read addressing the impact drama has on a teenage mind with powerful emotions…. ~ Quirky Book Reads (Reviewer), Wordpress

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This book is about Beatrice Crosse who is struggling with life in her new adoptive home and runs away the night before her 12th birthday where she meets the ghost of England's most famous prophetess. Its only 150 pages but gosh there is so much packed into it! It took me on a journey and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it! I can also imagine that as I reread this you would pick up other details that I missed and I can't wait! If your like me and not sure if fantasy is your thing, I would highly recommend this book as a starting point. ~ Ceri Welsh Mum of 3 Reads (Reviewer), Instagram

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This is a great tween book following Bea and her story of being adopted. The story is easy to read, and addresses the topic of adoption and the process. The supernatural elements are slowly introduced at the start of the book and is subtle in the use of magic into the story. A beautifully written story with a candid first person narrative of young Bea and her hard short life. Bea is going through a pretty rough time and new school. I also enjoyed the images included in the story which added some charm and some depth to the storytelling. I thoroughly enjoy this wee book and look forward to more from this author. ~ SJ's Bookshelf (Reviewer), Instagram

Bea’s Witch by Daniel Ingram-Brown was a unique and ghostly read. I would categorize this as a ghost or adventure book that both girls and boys would enjoy. The book is about a 12-year-old girl who is in foster care. On her 12th birthday, she runs away from home and has odd visions. While the author never lets the reader know if the visions are real or not, this leaves us think about the book days after we finish it. Unlike most books, Bea’s Witch is printed to be similar to a scrapbook and even includes pictures. This is a great read for any middle school kids that are interested in fantasy books or ghosts. ~ Real Reviews (Reviewer), Instagram

An enchanting story, beautifully written. ~ P.J. Whiteley, Author, Journalist and Ghostwriter

A deft blending of historical, fantastical, contemporary and adoption fiction. I was genuinely transported. ~ Dr Rachel Connor, Novelist, Dramatist, and Prize-Winning Short Story Writer

I love, love, love Bea's Witch so much... The last two chapter had me crying and sobbing... I would recommend that future prospective adopters read this... ~ Paula Winterbottom, Adoption Team Manager

I loved it! The story sucked me in right from the start. Bea is a great character – so hurt but brave and strong, and I loved the deep attachment to Turtle that showed her vulnerability and need for love. Her struggles at school were so realistic, and the way the book slid seamlessly from gritty reality into magic was beautifully done. Mother Shipton walked right off the page and I was completely enthralled once they met at the cave. I could see it all in my mind’s eye and feel the wind, rain and growing menace. ~ Deborah Thornton, Outreach Librarian, North Yorkshire Libraries

Brilliant… A very powerful story. Spooky and haunting, but factual. ~ Morag Caunt, Author of Young Adult Fiction and Adoptive Parent

I liked the strange merging of history and contemporary times. This is a story about transition and finding a sense of place in the world. ~ Austin Bradshaw , English teacher & former support worker for parents with learning disabilities & difficulties whose children have been taken into care

Moving and Captivating. With the touch of a master craftsman, Daniel Ingram-Brown deftly interweaves a realistic portrayal of adoption with a story of magical encounter. ~ Dr Tom Dobson, Course Director for School of Education Masters degrees at Leeds Beckett University

An atmospheric story, full of witchcraft and magic. The protagonist, Bea, is a strong character dealing with the problems of everyday life, set against a background of sorcery and illusion. I would recommend Bea's Witch to all our library users. ~ Dianne Blashill, School Librarian

A heart-warming coming-of-age story that captures the stormy and vulnerable relationships of an adopted girl, with an added sprinkling of magic. ~ Hannah Seat, Early Years Lecturer and Adoptee

I really liked it… Being able to be inside Bea’s head in response to Denise’s actions was interesting. It made me think about what life will be like for our little girl and was a reminder to look beyond behaviour to the feelings underneath… ~ Adoptive Parent

“I really enjoyed it… I felt so many emotions while reading it, from Bea’s confusion and anger, to Denise’s effort to make Bea feel at home and loved… As someone who doesn’t know much about adoption or the process, it really enlightened me to the emotions that come with it, especially from the child’s point of view, and the parent’s, as well.” ~ Emily Ann, Book Blogger