The Somewhat Wicked Witch of Brigandale

This tongue-in-cheek cozy fantasy from Waggoner (The Village Library Demon-Hunting Society) pokes gentle fun at fantasy archetypes, including prophetic woodland creatures and wicked witches. When sensible Gretsella, who bills herself as “the Witch of Brigandale with the Reasonable Prices,” discovers a baby on her doorstep, she adopts the child, despite knowing that he’s more than likely a lost prince. Gretsella’s crone friends bless the boy, dubbed Bradley, with beauty, politeness, and a strong right hook (if not a surfeit of intelligence), and he grows up to become a perfectly adequate young man. Upon turning 18, Bradley is called to reclaim his rightful throne, much to Gretsella’s dismay. When Bradley’s tenure as king gets off to a rocky start, Gretsella travels to the castle and takes charge with some witchy magic and a no-nonsense attitude. It soon becomes clear to her that Bradley isn’t cut out to be king, so she resolves to overthrow him for his own good. But her plan of introducing democracy to Brigandale proves difficult. The plot feels breezy and the characterization doesn’t go particularly deep, but Waggoner’s humorous and warmhearted approach charms. Readers seeking fun and clever comfort reading will find this hits the spot. (Mar.)