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Accidental Demons
Conjuring demons seems like something you should totally not be able to do by accident, right? Well, normally it isn’t. But Bernadette Crowley is the perfect storm of magical accidents.
For the youngest in a long line of witches, demons used to be no big deal. A spell and a quick prick of the finger, and a witch like Ber could summon a demon to do anything she needed—clean a mess, send a message, you name it.
But that was before Ber was diagnosed with diabetes. Now each time she tests her blood sugar, accidental demons are slipping into the human dimension…and causing absolute chaos.
Good thing Ber and her older sister, Maeve, know that every magical problem has a magical solution. They’ll just conjure a low-order demon to monitor her blood sugar! Bonus: they only have to bend one or two teeny, tiny rules. But before they know it, they’ve stumbled into deeper, more mysterious magic than they ever could have predicted. And soon it’s not just Ber’s magic but her entire coven that’s in danger.
For the youngest in a long line of witches, demons used to be no big deal. A spell and a quick prick of the finger, and a witch like Ber could summon a demon to do anything she needed—clean a mess, send a message, you name it.
But that was before Ber was diagnosed with diabetes. Now each time she tests her blood sugar, accidental demons are slipping into the human dimension…and causing absolute chaos.
Good thing Ber and her older sister, Maeve, know that every magical problem has a magical solution. They’ll just conjure a low-order demon to monitor her blood sugar! Bonus: they only have to bend one or two teeny, tiny rules. But before they know it, they’ve stumbled into deeper, more mysterious magic than they ever could have predicted. And soon it’s not just Ber’s magic but her entire coven that’s in danger.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published September 17, 2024
About the author
Clare Edge
1 book83 followersClare Edge is an author (and witch) who was raised in the Rocky Mountains. Their middle grade series ACCIDENTAL DEMONS follows a diabetic witch who can't stop conjuring demons when she tests her blood sugar. They have too many degrees, too few cats, and often too much or too little blood sugar. They hold masters degrees from University of Limerick (MA) and University of Montana (MFA). Clare can be found on most socials as @clarewonders and online at clareedge.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
November 18, 2024
I LOVEEEDDDDD THIS BOOK!!!
I haven't been this excited for a series in a while. Clare Edge has crafted a middle grade book that has a little bit of everything for every reader.
What Worked: Everything. Accidental Demons is thoughtful, intentional, well-paced, engaging, and fun! The world building was refreshing and fascinating and Edge was able to beautifully incorporate some real life social issues. There was a moment where the main character, Ber, recognized that not only has her family been prejudiced towards other types of magical creatures, but that she also has a gap in her education. In her moments of learning what it means to be a blood witch, she never took into consideration the indigenous magicks that existed prior to the arrival of her Irish immigrant family. This was a great way to incorporate information regarding indigenous peoples as well as immigration that felt both natural and necessary for the context of the story. There was also great character development. Ber is a type 1 diabetic and struggles with managing her blood sugar. Edge took this experience and closely aligned it with being blood witch and conjuring demons by accident. It was ingenious and was a great way to see how Ber grew as character while adjusting to being a diabetic. There were queer and fun side characters that served as such a great support system for Ber! Honestly, I couldn't get enough of them and I'm so excited for the next book in the series.
To be honest, this book drew a level of excitement out of me that I haven't experienced in a while. It's brilliant, different, and fun and illustrates the experience of disability we don't see recognized very often in middle grade books. I'm excited for Clare Edge's future in writing. The raw creativity and emotion needed to craft this book doesn't come around very often. If you haven't had the chance to check this out, please do so! You will not be disappointed!
I haven't been this excited for a series in a while. Clare Edge has crafted a middle grade book that has a little bit of everything for every reader.
What Worked: Everything. Accidental Demons is thoughtful, intentional, well-paced, engaging, and fun! The world building was refreshing and fascinating and Edge was able to beautifully incorporate some real life social issues. There was a moment where the main character, Ber, recognized that not only has her family been prejudiced towards other types of magical creatures, but that she also has a gap in her education. In her moments of learning what it means to be a blood witch, she never took into consideration the indigenous magicks that existed prior to the arrival of her Irish immigrant family. This was a great way to incorporate information regarding indigenous peoples as well as immigration that felt both natural and necessary for the context of the story. There was also great character development. Ber is a type 1 diabetic and struggles with managing her blood sugar. Edge took this experience and closely aligned it with being blood witch and conjuring demons by accident. It was ingenious and was a great way to see how Ber grew as character while adjusting to being a diabetic. There were queer and fun side characters that served as such a great support system for Ber! Honestly, I couldn't get enough of them and I'm so excited for the next book in the series.
To be honest, this book drew a level of excitement out of me that I haven't experienced in a while. It's brilliant, different, and fun and illustrates the experience of disability we don't see recognized very often in middle grade books. I'm excited for Clare Edge's future in writing. The raw creativity and emotion needed to craft this book doesn't come around very often. If you haven't had the chance to check this out, please do so! You will not be disappointed!
Read
November 11, 2024Oh, hey hello. I'm Clare, the author of this witchy little book. I haven't quite summoned the right demon to help me claim my Goodreads author profile yet, so this will have to do for now:
Accidental Demons will be popping into the mortal dimension with Inkyard Press in summer 2024! More to come soon! 😈😈😈
UPDATE:
I have successfully conjured a goodreads librarian demon and claimed my goodreads author profile since my first missive. However, Accidental Demons and I are no longer making our chaotic, cozy home at Inkyard Press, and we can now be found, mid-conjuring at HarperChildrens. Cover and official description and release date and other mysterious goodies are coming up in early 2024.
UPDATE Part 2:
Well, the cover is out there! And what a beauty! The eARCs are also making their way into the world, so this means I'll be making myself scarce around here. I hope you love Ber, but it's okay if you don't. She's not for everyone. But I hope she finds the ones who need her most. And remember, it's just a drop of blood! 😈
UPDATE Part 3:
Well, this diabetic witch is out there in the world! And I've been truly blown away by the incredible response from readers. Thank you so much to everyone who has given Ber and all her demons your time and attention. Her story will continue in Fall 2025 with a sequel, title and cover to come in early 2025!
Accidental Demons will be popping into the mortal dimension with Inkyard Press in summer 2024! More to come soon! 😈😈😈
UPDATE:
I have successfully conjured a goodreads librarian demon and claimed my goodreads author profile since my first missive. However, Accidental Demons and I are no longer making our chaotic, cozy home at Inkyard Press, and we can now be found, mid-conjuring at HarperChildrens. Cover and official description and release date and other mysterious goodies are coming up in early 2024.
UPDATE Part 2:
Well, the cover is out there! And what a beauty! The eARCs are also making their way into the world, so this means I'll be making myself scarce around here. I hope you love Ber, but it's okay if you don't. She's not for everyone. But I hope she finds the ones who need her most. And remember, it's just a drop of blood! 😈
UPDATE Part 3:
Well, this diabetic witch is out there in the world! And I've been truly blown away by the incredible response from readers. Thank you so much to everyone who has given Ber and all her demons your time and attention. Her story will continue in Fall 2025 with a sequel, title and cover to come in early 2025!
October 5, 2024
Can't wait to read this.
*
FINISHED. This was ADORABLE! I started with high expectations and it DELIVERED. Just as good as I expected it to be. I inhaled it in a day! Literally perfect from start to finish. So so so well written.
*
FINISHED. This was ADORABLE! I started with high expectations and it DELIVERED. Just as good as I expected it to be. I inhaled it in a day! Literally perfect from start to finish. So so so well written.
July 26, 2024
i don't read nearly as much middle grade novels as i would like to but !!!! this is an auto-buy author if i've ever seen one because clare edge is a creative genius imo
June 27, 2023
I’ve been obsessed with this book since I read the pitch: a 13-year-old blood witch who’s recently been diagnosed with diabetes accidentally summons demons whenever she tests her blood sugar. Now that I’ve read an early copy of the book (yay!) I’m ecstatic to report that it doesn’t disappoint.
I loved this book. The disability rep is so well done, the protagonist is earnest and fun, there’s a whole cast of endearing side characters, and some of them are cats. Best of all, there’s a snarky nonbinary demon with a complicated, protective dynamic with the MC. That’s guaranteed to win my heart regardless of age category.
If there’s a kid in your life who loves reading MG adventures full of magic and heart, buy a copy of this book for them and another copy for yourself. There’s plenty to love here for adult readers as well, with nuanced discussions of prejudice, disability, consent, and sacrifice.
I truly can’t wait to reunite with Fin and Bernadette in the next book in the series!
I loved this book. The disability rep is so well done, the protagonist is earnest and fun, there’s a whole cast of endearing side characters, and some of them are cats. Best of all, there’s a snarky nonbinary demon with a complicated, protective dynamic with the MC. That’s guaranteed to win my heart regardless of age category.
If there’s a kid in your life who loves reading MG adventures full of magic and heart, buy a copy of this book for them and another copy for yourself. There’s plenty to love here for adult readers as well, with nuanced discussions of prejudice, disability, consent, and sacrifice.
I truly can’t wait to reunite with Fin and Bernadette in the next book in the series!
Want to read
July 20, 2023I'm SO excited for this diabetic witch story!!! she's threatened with every drop of blood she needs to test!? and accidentally pulls a demon through the veil? that sounds SO STINKIN FUN
November 12, 2024
I liked the family magic, especially when we turn to see how blood mages are viewed from the perspective of other magical groups. The diabetes stuff was great, especially since I don’t know much about it.
Weaknesses were that the friends showed up mainly to be sudden support for the big final battle, and the problems with demon summoning weren’t really explored enough.
Weaknesses were that the friends showed up mainly to be sudden support for the big final battle, and the problems with demon summoning weren’t really explored enough.
July 3, 2024
What an absolute blast of a book!! I’ve been obsessed with this concept since I first heard of it, and the book certainly didn’t disappoint—ACCIDENTAL DEMONS is fun, unique, and has so much heart. I fell in love with this cast of characters and can’t wait to have a shelf dedicated to Clare Edge’s books one day!!
October 9, 2024
What I thought I was getting - a cozy fantasy with diabetes rep
What I got - a life changing heartwarming story of a 13 year old, her lgbtq+ sister, her demon that transcends gender and uses they/them pronouns, her empathic friend and his tiny plant witch friend, SO MANY CUTE CATS!! diabetes and asthma rep, AND MOREEEEEEEE
highly recommend to anyone with a disability or chronic illness or for those that want to learn more about what that’s like. unlike a lot of other books it is something that effects the entire story throughout and is not forgotten after one chapter! I also thought the witchy/blood witch element was done in such a clever way with the diabetes rep in this!! One of my top five reads of this year
What I got - a life changing heartwarming story of a 13 year old, her lgbtq+ sister, her demon that transcends gender and uses they/them pronouns, her empathic friend and his tiny plant witch friend, SO MANY CUTE CATS!! diabetes and asthma rep, AND MOREEEEEEEE
highly recommend to anyone with a disability or chronic illness or for those that want to learn more about what that’s like. unlike a lot of other books it is something that effects the entire story throughout and is not forgotten after one chapter! I also thought the witchy/blood witch element was done in such a clever way with the diabetes rep in this!! One of my top five reads of this year
July 15, 2023
I am simply so excited for diabetic kids to hold this witty, whimsical, adventurous hug of a book (also cannot wait for everyone to meet Fin, your favorite demon-who's-not-a-dude)
April 17, 2024
Content warnings: Diabetes (central plot point), blood sacrifices (pinpricks of blood, central plot point), references to animal sacrifices, saliva used for magic, magic based prejudices.
Rep: Ber (MC) is cis, white, chubby, and has diabetes. Side sapphic characters. Side POC characters. Nonbinary demon.
This book was so much fun!
We follow Bernadette, our main character, who is a blood witch, and also has recently been diagnosed with diabetes. So she has to test her blood sugar a lot - the downside? She keeps accidentally summoning demons every time she tests.
This entire book was fantastic from start to finish - Ber is, understandably, frustrated with the fact that she keeps summoning demons every time she tests her blood sugar. She's also frustrated that her entire life has dramatically changed since being diagnosed with diabetes.
Her desire to summon a demon that will let her know her blood sugar without testing for it outweighs any potential consequences.
However, there isn't just the Mystery demon she accidentally binds to herself that is going on - there is something afoot with other covens in the area.
This book was a whirlwind of magic, new friends, and demons that had me absolutely needing to know what happened next.
I can see so many younger readers loving this, but especially ones that have diabetes themselves.
This was an easy 4 stars from me.
Rep: Ber (MC) is cis, white, chubby, and has diabetes. Side sapphic characters. Side POC characters. Nonbinary demon.
This book was so much fun!
We follow Bernadette, our main character, who is a blood witch, and also has recently been diagnosed with diabetes. So she has to test her blood sugar a lot - the downside? She keeps accidentally summoning demons every time she tests.
This entire book was fantastic from start to finish - Ber is, understandably, frustrated with the fact that she keeps summoning demons every time she tests her blood sugar. She's also frustrated that her entire life has dramatically changed since being diagnosed with diabetes.
Her desire to summon a demon that will let her know her blood sugar without testing for it outweighs any potential consequences.
However, there isn't just the Mystery demon she accidentally binds to herself that is going on - there is something afoot with other covens in the area.
This book was a whirlwind of magic, new friends, and demons that had me absolutely needing to know what happened next.
I can see so many younger readers loving this, but especially ones that have diabetes themselves.
This was an easy 4 stars from me.
September 16, 2024
This is the book I needed as a kid and did not have. I am so glad it exists now. I was crying by chapter two at how relatable this story is. The FMC Ber was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes and needs to check her blood sugar to know how well controlled things are and if she needs to eat or give more insulin. However, she is a blood witch and by lancing her finger she is accidentally summoning demons. One solution proposed is getting her a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), a device that can continuously check blood sugar without the need to repeatedly lance the finger for blood. However, they cannot get her access to one due to insurance coverage. And if that isn’t the realest thing ever. This book will hopefully bring awareness of Type 1 Diabetes and some of the struggles related to it to a wider population of readers. There is also some rep for clotting disorders and asthma that I think is very well done too.
This story is just full of so much heart. Ber is the kind of MC to bring hope into a story by her actions and her ability to never give up even when life throws everything at her. She finds ways to fight and break the stigma surrounding her disease. One scene in particular was a particular fear of mine as a kid - I didn’t want people to know about my diabetes because of a fear of what they might think about it. There was also the fear that everything that went into managing diabetes put a strain on my family and Ber feels this too:
Ber and her sister, Maeve, end up conjuring a mystery demon that helps Ber detect her sugars without checking via the glucometer, but they seem to have an agenda of their own that is not so easily revealed. This demon, Fin, seems to understand diabetes better than anyone else around her:
The two of them develop a pretty tight bond because of this. This is probably the best type one diabetes rep I have ever seen in a book and then Edge manages to also do such an amazing job with breaking down prejudices amongst the different witch communities in such a fantastic manner.
Just perfect messages and perfect representation.
One of the final lines really stuck with me and though it was in reference to being a witch it felt like it was also for Ber and managing her diabetes: “You are not alone in this.” - a message that I feel all kids with diabetes deserve to hear, with the hope that it makes every day managing this lifelong disease a little bit easier.
Thank you to @harpercollins and @netgalley for the eARC. All thoughts are my own.
“This doesn’t mean you can’t have a normal life.
I think that’s exactly what it means.”
This story is just full of so much heart. Ber is the kind of MC to bring hope into a story by her actions and her ability to never give up even when life throws everything at her. She finds ways to fight and break the stigma surrounding her disease. One scene in particular was a particular fear of mine as a kid - I didn’t want people to know about my diabetes because of a fear of what they might think about it. There was also the fear that everything that went into managing diabetes put a strain on my family and Ber feels this too:
“I’m tired of being a burden to everyone.”
Ber and her sister, Maeve, end up conjuring a mystery demon that helps Ber detect her sugars without checking via the glucometer, but they seem to have an agenda of their own that is not so easily revealed. This demon, Fin, seems to understand diabetes better than anyone else around her:
“I know each diabetic is different.”
The two of them develop a pretty tight bond because of this. This is probably the best type one diabetes rep I have ever seen in a book and then Edge manages to also do such an amazing job with breaking down prejudices amongst the different witch communities in such a fantastic manner.
“Having an illness or a disability doesn’t make you any less magical”
Just perfect messages and perfect representation.
One of the final lines really stuck with me and though it was in reference to being a witch it felt like it was also for Ber and managing her diabetes: “You are not alone in this.” - a message that I feel all kids with diabetes deserve to hear, with the hope that it makes every day managing this lifelong disease a little bit easier.
Thank you to @harpercollins and @netgalley for the eARC. All thoughts are my own.
October 15, 2024
I absolutely LOVED this paranormal fantasy middle grade debut featuring Bernadette 'Ber,' a fat blood witch with diabetes who accidentally summons demons every time she tests her blood. When she casts a spell with her sister that summons a nonbinary mystery demon, Finn, things seem to be going up because they can help Ber monitor her glucose without shedding any blood.
However darker things are going on than even Ber is aware of and she has to work with her sister and other magical friends to rescue her parents and grandmother from a group of evil witches. Fast paced and great on audio narrated by Karissa Vacker. This had excellent disability and queer rep and I can't wait for the next book in the story!!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
However darker things are going on than even Ber is aware of and she has to work with her sister and other magical friends to rescue her parents and grandmother from a group of evil witches. Fast paced and great on audio narrated by Karissa Vacker. This had excellent disability and queer rep and I can't wait for the next book in the story!!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review!
October 6, 2024
I listened to this audiobook with my children, 9 and 7, and we all loved it!
This is the story of Ber, a blood witch recently diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes (so clever). Every time she has to finger poke, she runs the risk of accidentally summoning demons because her blood is so powerful.
This was adorable. We loved the characters, and my 7 year old felt SO SEEN to have a character she could relate to. The descriptions of her symptoms, as well as some of her self-talk around her condition, were so genuinely depicted.
Aside from the representation, we enjoyed the magic system that was built, as well as the plot. We can't wait to see more of Ber, Kai, Maeve, and especially Finn!
This is the story of Ber, a blood witch recently diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes (so clever). Every time she has to finger poke, she runs the risk of accidentally summoning demons because her blood is so powerful.
This was adorable. We loved the characters, and my 7 year old felt SO SEEN to have a character she could relate to. The descriptions of her symptoms, as well as some of her self-talk around her condition, were so genuinely depicted.
Aside from the representation, we enjoyed the magic system that was built, as well as the plot. We can't wait to see more of Ber, Kai, Maeve, and especially Finn!
September 23, 2024
I loved this so much!! The premise is fantastic, and the execution is just as good. I loved the worldbuilding and magic - the different kinds of witches and mages and demons. I loved Ber and the T1D rep. The side characters are so loveable, especially Cai and Maeve. And the cats!!!! I adored the part the cats played in the story. But Fin absolutely stole the show. They are probably one of my favorite characters ever! This was funny and adventurous and magical and heartwarming. I can't wait for book 2!!!
June 7, 2024
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
August 22, 2024
An absolute stellar debut! I am so happy that I was able to get an eARC from the Publisher via NetGalley. I truly hope this will become a series as I want to know more about Ber and her adventures. I will be recommending this to anyone who will listen to me.
September 23, 2024
This was a wholly unique read. I loved the commentary on chronic illness and the magic system as well. It was a fun read and yet a read with heart as well. I loved the little touches of teenage romance and first crushes. A great read all around.
September 28, 2024
This book is such a fun read. I enjoyed reading Ber's story and the friends that she made along the way. I hope to see Grandma Orla and Fin again.
Anyway, this is a great pick for fans of light-hearted fantasy. So thank you to Edelweiss for giving me the chance to read the arc and to the author, Clare Edge for such a wonderful book. Highly recommended!
Anyway, this is a great pick for fans of light-hearted fantasy. So thank you to Edelweiss for giving me the chance to read the arc and to the author, Clare Edge for such a wonderful book. Highly recommended!
March 21, 2023
I absolutely adored this book! Middle grade voice is notoriously hard to nail, but this one did it flawlessly. From page one I fell in love with Ber and her story. She's such a quirky, relatable character. The entire cast of characters is just so darn likable (including the demons!). I loved that while the characters were flawed, you totally *got* them and all their motivations. Can I please become a witch and hang out with this crew?
Also... the rep??? Such a diverse cast with characters that totally feel real, authentic and relatable.
And best of all-it somehow manages to be both a page-turner with a gripping plot, but also totally character driven. The perfect combination.
10/10 loved this novel and can't wait to read it again when it comes out in hardback.
P.S. I was a little scared by the title because... uh... demons?? But after reading I'm now wishing I had a cute little one to follow me around constantly.
Also... the rep??? Such a diverse cast with characters that totally feel real, authentic and relatable.
And best of all-it somehow manages to be both a page-turner with a gripping plot, but also totally character driven. The perfect combination.
10/10 loved this novel and can't wait to read it again when it comes out in hardback.
P.S. I was a little scared by the title because... uh... demons?? But after reading I'm now wishing I had a cute little one to follow me around constantly.
August 23, 2024
This is an impressive debut. Accidental Demons has great energy and covers a lot of ground with good pacing and a lot of wonderful magic and relationship dynamics. I really dig the fat rep and the disability rep (diabetic blood witch, anyone?! so clever).
Highly recommend this for fans of the craft, the Irish, body positivity, positive sibling rep, and light grade school romance.
I'm hoping for a book 2.
with gratitude to the publisher and Edelweiss+
Highly recommend this for fans of the craft, the Irish, body positivity, positive sibling rep, and light grade school romance.
I'm hoping for a book 2.
with gratitude to the publisher and Edelweiss+
August 27, 2024
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Accidental Demons by Clare Edge is first person-POV upper Middle Grade diverse contemporary fantasy. Ber is a diabetic comes from a long line of blood witches and accidentally summons demons every time she tests her blood sugar. Ber and her sister, Maeve, decide to summon a demon to monitor Ber’s blood sugar so Ber can stay in school, but the demon has plans of their own.
I used the term ‘diverse’ here because we have a blood witch with diabetes, a weather witch with asthma, a mind mage who is half-Japanese, a Hmong plant mage, a demon who uses they/them pronouns, and two Sapphic relationships as well as the diversity of the teachers at Ber and Cai’s school. There are conversations around prejudice in witch communities, Indigenous magics and implications of appropriation of Indigenous American practices, Ber recognizing that she doesn’t have a strong connection to her grandmother’s Irish culture but still uses Irish in spells, and Ber’s life as a diabetic is explored in detail. The novel does a lot and opens up a lot of conversations for pre-teen readers to have with educators, parents, and guardians and to start building empathy for experiences outside of themselves. The main focus is indeed on disabilities, but it was nice to see Ber recognize her ignorance, accept that she is ignorant and prejudices exist in her community, and open herself up to being educated.
I really liked how much we got to see of Ber’s daily life and how being diabetic impacts her not only as a witch but as a human with responsibilities. Clare Edge doesn’t shy away from showing a blood sugar crash and how dangerous they really are and tying it directly to the demon, Fin, whose power is weakened during those crashes. Ber has to keep track of what she eats and her carbs, keep food in her room in case of an emergency, and has to deal with her classmates not being understanding of her need to use needles to make sure she’s in the normal levels.
Ber has a strong support system in her friend Cai, her sister, and Fin as well as her parents, grandmother, and teachers. It helps to show that a community is really necessary and we can’t completely go it alone, a lesson that Ber does have to learn as she struggles to accept other people’s help when she’s in need in the beginning of the book. Her relationship with Fin really helps show her that she can lean on other people when she really needs it and that is strengthened throughout the narrative.
I would recommend this to fans of Middle Grade fantasy looking for a book exploring disabilities, readers of contemporary fantasy who want a book with blood witches and demons, and those who prefer a lot of grounding in their fantasy novels
Accidental Demons by Clare Edge is first person-POV upper Middle Grade diverse contemporary fantasy. Ber is a diabetic comes from a long line of blood witches and accidentally summons demons every time she tests her blood sugar. Ber and her sister, Maeve, decide to summon a demon to monitor Ber’s blood sugar so Ber can stay in school, but the demon has plans of their own.
I used the term ‘diverse’ here because we have a blood witch with diabetes, a weather witch with asthma, a mind mage who is half-Japanese, a Hmong plant mage, a demon who uses they/them pronouns, and two Sapphic relationships as well as the diversity of the teachers at Ber and Cai’s school. There are conversations around prejudice in witch communities, Indigenous magics and implications of appropriation of Indigenous American practices, Ber recognizing that she doesn’t have a strong connection to her grandmother’s Irish culture but still uses Irish in spells, and Ber’s life as a diabetic is explored in detail. The novel does a lot and opens up a lot of conversations for pre-teen readers to have with educators, parents, and guardians and to start building empathy for experiences outside of themselves. The main focus is indeed on disabilities, but it was nice to see Ber recognize her ignorance, accept that she is ignorant and prejudices exist in her community, and open herself up to being educated.
I really liked how much we got to see of Ber’s daily life and how being diabetic impacts her not only as a witch but as a human with responsibilities. Clare Edge doesn’t shy away from showing a blood sugar crash and how dangerous they really are and tying it directly to the demon, Fin, whose power is weakened during those crashes. Ber has to keep track of what she eats and her carbs, keep food in her room in case of an emergency, and has to deal with her classmates not being understanding of her need to use needles to make sure she’s in the normal levels.
Ber has a strong support system in her friend Cai, her sister, and Fin as well as her parents, grandmother, and teachers. It helps to show that a community is really necessary and we can’t completely go it alone, a lesson that Ber does have to learn as she struggles to accept other people’s help when she’s in need in the beginning of the book. Her relationship with Fin really helps show her that she can lean on other people when she really needs it and that is strengthened throughout the narrative.
I would recommend this to fans of Middle Grade fantasy looking for a book exploring disabilities, readers of contemporary fantasy who want a book with blood witches and demons, and those who prefer a lot of grounding in their fantasy novels
September 15, 2024
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Harper Collins for sending me an early copy of this book! All opinions are my own!
Anyone else ever find the book that your younger self never knew they needed? Well when it comes to disability/chronic illness representation, this is it for me. (Not to mention the fantasy adventure that I've always loved).
Edge expertly weaves the wide range of emotions that chronic illness forces upon our lives. And she does it all while intertwining such a rich fantasy world and the kind of mystery and adventure that most could never dream of crafting. Ber navigating her relatively new diagnosis felt like I was being cracked open (again, hehe) and my heart was on display. She has every emotion imaginable, from fear and confusion to pride in who she is and how she fits in the world. And all of these things are so confusing that they never seem to quite fit with one another, even when they can occur at the same time. It's all so real and raw that it truly feels like Edge has reflected the chronically ill heart and soul on the page.
And then there's the depth of breaking down prejudices and traditions while also learning about family and friendship and how these things fit into your life. And muddle that all up with the chaos of chronic illness and you get to look back in the mirror at your coming-of-age self and relive the confusion of all those emotions and the pride of knowing that you've come out on the other side.
Edge takes a loveable and lovingly-flawed chronically ill main character and takes her on an adventure full of joy and failure alike and weaves her into a magical journey you won't be able to get enough of.
I cannot wait to see where this story goes, and I would be remiss if I didn't scream at absolutely everyone to read it right this second!
Anyone else ever find the book that your younger self never knew they needed? Well when it comes to disability/chronic illness representation, this is it for me. (Not to mention the fantasy adventure that I've always loved).
Edge expertly weaves the wide range of emotions that chronic illness forces upon our lives. And she does it all while intertwining such a rich fantasy world and the kind of mystery and adventure that most could never dream of crafting. Ber navigating her relatively new diagnosis felt like I was being cracked open (again, hehe) and my heart was on display. She has every emotion imaginable, from fear and confusion to pride in who she is and how she fits in the world. And all of these things are so confusing that they never seem to quite fit with one another, even when they can occur at the same time. It's all so real and raw that it truly feels like Edge has reflected the chronically ill heart and soul on the page.
And then there's the depth of breaking down prejudices and traditions while also learning about family and friendship and how these things fit into your life. And muddle that all up with the chaos of chronic illness and you get to look back in the mirror at your coming-of-age self and relive the confusion of all those emotions and the pride of knowing that you've come out on the other side.
Edge takes a loveable and lovingly-flawed chronically ill main character and takes her on an adventure full of joy and failure alike and weaves her into a magical journey you won't be able to get enough of.
I cannot wait to see where this story goes, and I would be remiss if I didn't scream at absolutely everyone to read it right this second!
November 6, 2024
Features:
- Main character managing a chronic illness
- Fun, adventurous tale that explores serious themes
- Witches, covens, and summoning-based magic magic system
Summary:
With a small drop of blood, a witch can conjure any demon they require. Coming from a long, distinguished line of blood witches, Bernadette Crowley has always been able to summon with ease. However, ever since her diabetes diagnosis, that power has turned into a nightmare. Every time she checks her blood sugar, accidental demons find their way through the veil and cause chaos. So far, Ber has been able to handle the ‘accidentals’ on her own. But as she grows more powerful, the risk of summoning something far more disastrous grows as well. When her older sister Maeve comes up with a plan to summon a low-order demon to monitor her blood sugar, Ber is hopeful that this might be the solution. But will this attempt to avoid catastrophe end up causing it instead?
Thoughts:
This book was incredibly charming! I loved Ber from the very beginning and she manages to be a strong, capable character that also has moments of uncertainty and vulnerability. Though this book is creative and often lighthearted in how it represents Ber’s diabetes, it also shows her emotional and physical journey in a way that feels very real. Even more impressive is how this book manages to educate and tell such a rich story in a way that is both accessible to middle grade readers and engaging for more adult readers. This review is shorter than most of my others, but sometimes a book is fantastic and that’s really all there is to it. I will definitely be getting a copy of this one for my class library!
Special thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
- Main character managing a chronic illness
- Fun, adventurous tale that explores serious themes
- Witches, covens, and summoning-based magic magic system
Summary:
With a small drop of blood, a witch can conjure any demon they require. Coming from a long, distinguished line of blood witches, Bernadette Crowley has always been able to summon with ease. However, ever since her diabetes diagnosis, that power has turned into a nightmare. Every time she checks her blood sugar, accidental demons find their way through the veil and cause chaos. So far, Ber has been able to handle the ‘accidentals’ on her own. But as she grows more powerful, the risk of summoning something far more disastrous grows as well. When her older sister Maeve comes up with a plan to summon a low-order demon to monitor her blood sugar, Ber is hopeful that this might be the solution. But will this attempt to avoid catastrophe end up causing it instead?
Thoughts:
This book was incredibly charming! I loved Ber from the very beginning and she manages to be a strong, capable character that also has moments of uncertainty and vulnerability. Though this book is creative and often lighthearted in how it represents Ber’s diabetes, it also shows her emotional and physical journey in a way that feels very real. Even more impressive is how this book manages to educate and tell such a rich story in a way that is both accessible to middle grade readers and engaging for more adult readers. This review is shorter than most of my others, but sometimes a book is fantastic and that’s really all there is to it. I will definitely be getting a copy of this one for my class library!
Special thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
October 21, 2024
Accidental Demons by Claire edge, I just want to say I didn’t know this was a middle grade novel but by the time I realized it I was already in love and into the story. Bear has diabetes and before school while her and sister Meeve are messing around bear prick her finger to check her sugar levels and they accidentally summon a demon but not just one demon many demons. This was an adorable book I knew when they multiplied the cat I was in for a treat and boy was I. I don’t have diabetes myself but thought the author not only letting the main character have diabetes but also showing what managing it looks like was so super awesome. Even the sub plot was interesting this is a book I would definitely give to my daughter as well as her friends I found the author had a good grasp on preteen girls and their attitudes as well as a great talent for writing interesting stories. #NetGalley, #InkYardPress, #ClaireEdge, #AccidentalDemons,
October 30, 2024
I'm not sure I will ever be able to find the words to describe how this book made me really feel. But I sure can try.
I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 12, well over a decade ago. Since that day, I have felt alone when it came to diabetes. It seemed no one knew what it was, and people would walk on eggshells around me. Nurses and doctors specialize in diabets, but I never met one that knew what it's really like to have diabetes. 'Accidental Demons' by Clare Edge is everything I needed and more. Finally, we have a book that truly shows the ups and downs (pun intended) of being diabetic. Reading this book made me feel for the first time in my post-diagnosis life that I am not alone. 'Accidental Demons' is the hug I needed when I was in the hospital. When my life was being turned around. Heck, it's the hug I needed today, in my mid-twenties. Ber, Clare, and 'Accidental Demons' have found a very special spot in my heart. Thank you, Clare ❤️
I was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of 12, well over a decade ago. Since that day, I have felt alone when it came to diabetes. It seemed no one knew what it was, and people would walk on eggshells around me. Nurses and doctors specialize in diabets, but I never met one that knew what it's really like to have diabetes. 'Accidental Demons' by Clare Edge is everything I needed and more. Finally, we have a book that truly shows the ups and downs (pun intended) of being diabetic. Reading this book made me feel for the first time in my post-diagnosis life that I am not alone. 'Accidental Demons' is the hug I needed when I was in the hospital. When my life was being turned around. Heck, it's the hug I needed today, in my mid-twenties. Ber, Clare, and 'Accidental Demons' have found a very special spot in my heart. Thank you, Clare ❤️
November 6, 2024
Accidental Demons was a story that interested me from the first time I heard the pitch, and it did not disappoint! This book has it all. The world-building and magic systems are rich and unique. The characters are diverse and well-written/fleshed out. (I am partial to Fin) The way the story is framed around Ber's diabetes, and how it affects her blood magic, feels authentic while fitting seamlessly with the story that Clare has written. It manages to be hopeful in the right ways without being unrealistic about the daily struggles a diabetic navigates. It makes my heart feel happy to imagine the validating feelings that a young diabetic will have reading this representative novel.
Admittedly, I don't read a lot of Middle-Grade Fiction. But I am so glad that I read Accidental Demons. In my opinion, it is on the list of those transcending Middle-Grade novels that have no age limits and will be enjoyable to people of all ages.
Admittedly, I don't read a lot of Middle-Grade Fiction. But I am so glad that I read Accidental Demons. In my opinion, it is on the list of those transcending Middle-Grade novels that have no age limits and will be enjoyable to people of all ages.
September 10, 2024
~ ARC provided by Edelweiss in exchange for my honest opinion ~\
What an adorable middle-grade novel! Let's discuss representation. I appreciate that the main character has diabetes. While I don't have it myself, there are definitely children who will appreciate seeing a reflection of themselves in a character. Ber and her family are blood witches, which for Ber means monitoring her blood sugar levels while trying to avoid accidentally summoning a demon.
Although her family withholds certain information from her and her sister, this secrecy places the entire family in jeopardy. The underlying message about interacting with those who may be different from you is relevant in many contexts today. Without the support of her "unique" friends, Ber and her family might not make it through this ordeal.
What an adorable middle-grade novel! Let's discuss representation. I appreciate that the main character has diabetes. While I don't have it myself, there are definitely children who will appreciate seeing a reflection of themselves in a character. Ber and her family are blood witches, which for Ber means monitoring her blood sugar levels while trying to avoid accidentally summoning a demon.
Although her family withholds certain information from her and her sister, this secrecy places the entire family in jeopardy. The underlying message about interacting with those who may be different from you is relevant in many contexts today. Without the support of her "unique" friends, Ber and her family might not make it through this ordeal.
July 20, 2024
I love demons and this book has great ones! Ber is a part of a blood witch family that creates a sacrifice or magical offering of their own blood while conjuring magic. She is still on her way to earning a full place in the coven when Ber learns that she has Type I diabetes, which involves having to check her blood sugar levels multiple times a day. Unfortunately the cosmos do not exactly separate blood letting for spells and finger pricks for diabetes management so everytime Ber does a finger prick, she summons an accidental demon. I of course felt terrible for her, but wow these demons of such fun little gremlins-if only they weren't risking her elevation to full witch! The story has physical comedy, tons of action, and very understandable explanations of diabetes, and a great way of showing how disease management is a time-consuming and at times scary responsibility that so many young people have to take on. Insurance won't pay for a solution like a continuous glucose monitor so Ber decides to summon one not-so-accidental demon to monitor her blood sugar. Enter Fin, a fascinating ancient monster who is sly, full of banter, and may or may not be trustworthy, but who certainly can help track Ber's levels. Soon a mysterious adventure unfolds involving high coven politics and the very nature of magic itself where humans take without consideration for their impacts on magical creatures. I love that not only the action and suspense build as we follow Ber's journey in assembling a rag tag group of witches to defeat the big bad, but even the demons themselves escalate until the thrilling climax. This book is very much a stand along story that I think will be a perfect MG spooky season read, but it also sets up the next book's story questions brilliantly. Let's go witches!!
ARC read. Gotta love a book that starts with "I didn't mean to conjure a demon." Full review to follow.
ARC read. Gotta love a book that starts with "I didn't mean to conjure a demon." Full review to follow.
July 24, 2024
I loved this book SO MUCH. It is so full of heart and instantly it’s an absolute favorite. As soon as I read the pitch, I knew I would love it and it did not disappoint! Ber is such a loveable main character. I am so in love with how Clare Edge wove diabetes into this story through magic. Truly incredible. It’s whimiscal, adventurous, and funny and I cannot say enough about how much I adored this book. I think so many kids are going to love it and I can’t wait for it to get into their hands. It has such a great cast of diverse characters, witchy cats, and quirky demons. I couldn’t put it down! I know I will be reading whatever Clare writes next!!
Thank you to the publisher and Edelweiss for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the publisher and Edelweiss for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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