Our Take

Rachel Harrison crafts a brilliant blend of contemporary women's fiction and supernatural elements that works as both a cozy autumn read and a sharp feminist commentary. While marketed as horror, Cackle is more accurately described as magical realism with gothic undertones—think Practical Magic meets Gilmore Girls with a modern edge. Harrison's greatest achievement is making the supernatural elements feel metaphorical for women's empowerment, using witchcraft as a lens to explore how society fears women who fully embrace their power. Annie's character development from people-pleaser to self-possessed woman is beautifully executed, though some readers may find her initial passivity frustrating. The book's humor shines through cultural references ranging from Beauty and the Beast to Britney Spears, keeping the tone light despite deeper themes. Even Ralph the spider becomes an unexpectedly endearing character that will change how readers view arachnids forever. Fans of The Witch's Heart by Genevieve Gornichec or The Year of the Witching by Alexis Henderson will appreciate Harrison's fresh take on witchy fiction. Perfect for readers seeking empowering stories about female friendship, self-discovery, and learning to stop apologizing for taking up space in the world.