Dickens & Rumi
Cover of TRUTHWITCH

book

TRUTHWITCH

Susan Dennard

Two witches on the run, a hothead and her introspective friend, summon their abilities in a bid for independence. (Ages 13 and up)

Ages 13+Source checked

Why this age? Best suited to teens because of sustained fantasy combat, threats, death-related stakes, political violence, and emotionally complex themes. Romance is present but sexual content is limited. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Show Wikipedia summary

Open to load a short Wikipedia summary.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age13+

Strongest cautions

  • Death of a character3/5
  • Frightening scenes3/5
  • Romance3/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Creativity & curiosity4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Death of a character3/5
Why this rating?

Some secondary character deaths occur throughout the conflict.

Graphic injury2/5
Why this rating?

Some descriptions of combat wounds and injuries, but not gratuitous.

Strong language2/5
Why this rating?

Occasional mild swearing consistent with the genre.

LGBTQIA characters1/5
Why this rating?

Subtle hints of non-heteronormative attraction, but not a primary focus.

Religious themes1/5
Why this rating?

Fantasy belief systems exist but do not mirror real-world religion.

Romance3/5
Why this rating?

Romantic tension and minor flirtation are present but secondary to the plot.

Frightening scenes3/5
Why this rating?

Dangerous magic, pursuit, captivity, warlike threats, and frightening enemies create recurring tension.

Sexual content & nudity1/5
Why this rating?

Mild romantic longing; no explicit sexual content.

Alcohol or drugs1/5
Why this rating?

Minor social drinking occurs in tavern settings.

Violence3/5
Why this rating?

Frequent fantasy combat with swords and magical abilities.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

Facing danger, political oppression, betrayal, and uncertainty with loyalty and persistence is central to the protagonists' journey.

Creativity & curiosity4/5
Why this rating?

Distinct magical abilities, invented cultures, political systems, and imaginative world-building strongly support creative engagement.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

Characters have diverse cultural backgrounds and distinct magical abilities.

Educational value1/5
Why this rating?

Explores themes of political power and social hierarchy.

Kindness & empathy3/5
Why this rating?

Friendship, loyalty, sacrifice, and protecting vulnerable people are important, though the setting often rewards toughness and secrecy.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong themes support loyalty, resisting unjust power, protecting others, personal responsibility, and questioning inherited authority.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

Protagonists show resilience, independence, and strong dedication to one another.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. How did the story approach death or loss? What helped the characters cope?
  3. Which choice in TRUTHWITCH would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in TRUTHWITCH, and what caused that change?
Discuss this title with other parents

Community reactions

What families noticed

Add your perspective

Sign in from the homepage to rate this title.

Where to get it

As an Amazon Associate and Bookshop.org affiliate, Dickens & Rumi may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you.

If you liked this

Try something nearby

Related by age fit, format, and catalogue context.

These content notes are a starting point, not a guarantee. Review the evidence and use your own judgment before choosing a title.

Report an incorrect rating