Perhaps the most critical aspect of the novel is the mentorship dynamic between Mika and the girls. Mandanna tackles the concept of "cycle breaking." Mika and the girls are all victims of abandonment or systemic neglect. Mika has the opportunity to perpetuate the cycle—teaching the girls to hide, to fear, and to isolate—but she chooses a different path.
The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches concludes with a victory that is emotional rather than martial. The threat of the Society and the specter of the girls' grandfather are resolved not through a battle of spells, but through the collective strength of the relationships Mika has built. Perhaps the most critical aspect of the novel
A quirky, protective group of adults who have created a sanctuary for the girls. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches concludes
Published in 2022, Sangu Mandanna’s The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches is a cozy fantasy novel that subverts traditional tropes of witchcraft narratives. Rather than focusing on dark magic or epic battles, the novel centers on Mika Moon, a solitary young witch who has been raised to hide her magic, avoid human connections, and follow rigid rules to ensure her safety. The story follows her journey to Nowhere House, a crumbling estate on the English coast, where she is hired to tutor three young witches. This paper argues that Mandanna uses the framework of a lighthearted romance and magical realism to explore profound themes: the human need for belonging, the redefinition of family beyond biological ties, and the courage required to live authentically. Published in 2022, Sangu Mandanna’s The Very Secret
Upon arriving at the remote, mysterious estate, Mika is tasked with teaching three young, unseasoned witches how to control their magic before the Government Council of Witches discovers them.
If you’ve ever felt like an outsider looking for a place to belong, The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches is the literary equivalent of a warm blanket and a hot cup of tea. Released to critical acclaim, this cozy fantasy novel has quickly become a staple for readers who crave magic, found family, and a touch of romance. The Heart of the Story
Sangu Mandanna’s novel is more than a charming romance about witches. It is a quiet manifesto on the courage it takes to belong. By breaking the three rules—showing her magic, connecting with other witches, and forming attachments—Mika does not endanger herself; she saves herself. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches reminds readers that the most magical act is not casting a spell, but choosing to let yourself be loved. In a world that often demands we hide our quirks and perform normalcy, Mandanna’s book argues fiercely: your irregular self is exactly who deserves a home.
