The Ultimate Witch

by Byron Preiss
The Ultimate Witch cover
Good Books rating 3.5
Anthologies (Multi-author)
Technical
  • ID: 2119
  • Added: 2025-10-12
  • Updated: 2025-10-12
  • ISBN: 9781596876781
  • Publisher: ibooks
  • Published: 2018-08-22
  • Reviews: 3

The Ultimate Witch is a haunting and provocative anthology that brings together some of the best-known authors of the fantastic and the mysterious. This collection delves into the legends and lore of witches and witchcraft, offering a variety of stories that transcend time and place. From Dean Koontz’s tale of a witch’s revenge on a purse-snatcher to Jane Yolen’s story of sorcery in old Scotland, each narrative is a unique exploration of the supernatural. The anthology also includes contributions from S.P. Somtow and Tanith Lee, providing a diverse range of perspectives on the mystical and the macabre. The book is introduced by Philip José Farmer and features cover art by Bruce Jensen, with illustrations by Lars Hokanson, adding to its atmospheric appeal. Whether you're a fan of horror, fantasy, or simply enjoy a good tale of the supernatural, this collection promises to captivate and intrigue.

Reviews
Goodreads · 1993-01-01
mixed 3.50

Readers appreciate the diverse range of stories but find some to be less engaging. The collection is praised for its variety and the inclusion of prominent authors.

This anthology offers a wide array of witch stories from well-known authors in the science fiction and horror genres. While some readers find certain stories less compelling, the overall collection is celebrated for its diversity and the unique perspectives each author brings. The best stories are noted for their contemporary take on witchcraft, making them thought-provoking and haunting. However, a few tales are considered tedious, which slightly balances the overall enjoyment.

Quick quotes

    A collection of witch stories by prominent names in science fiction and horror.

    The best stories deal with contemporary witchcraft and are thought-provoking.

    This collection runs the gamut from tedious to haunting.

AbeBooks · 1993-01-01
mixed 3.00

The book is noted for its range of quality, with some stories being more engaging than others. It is praised for its haunting and thought-provoking elements.

Readers have mixed feelings about this collection, as it includes stories that vary significantly in quality. Some tales are found to be tedious, while others are haunting and thought-provoking. The contemporary witchcraft stories are particularly highlighted for their depth and originality. Overall, the collection is seen as a mixed bag, but the standout stories make it worth exploring.

Quick quotes

    This collection of witch stories runs the gamut from tedious to thought-provoking to haunting.

    The best stories deal with contemporary witchcraft and are thought-provoking.

    The collection is seen as a mixed bag, but the standout stories make it worth exploring.

BookClubs.com · 1993-01-01
positive 4.00

The anthology is valued for its variety and the inclusion of renowned authors. It is considered a good read for fans of witchcraft stories.

This collection is appreciated for bringing together stories from some of the most prominent names in science fiction and horror. The variety of stories ensures that there is something for every reader, although some tales may not resonate as strongly as others. Fans of witchcraft stories will find this anthology particularly enjoyable, as it offers a range of perspectives and styles. The overall reception is positive, with readers appreciating the effort to compile such a diverse set of tales.

Quick quotes

    Gathers stories about witches by Tanith Lee, Ray Bradbury, Jane Yolen, and Karl Edward Wagner.

    A collection of witch stories by prominent names in science fiction and horror.

    The variety of stories ensures that there is something for every reader.

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