If Kiki the Witch and Harry Potter combined, you’d probably get the graphic novel, Queen’s Favorite Witch V01 The Wheel of Fortune. It has an old school feeling, but also modern sensibilities. There is obviously a European flare to the tone (as it is set in Elizabethan era) but accessible for all readers. It is not for those who are more sensitive, as there is an evil cult, a possible assassination attempt, death, and bullies. However, it is also seriously sweet and funny. Talking rats, quirky friendships, and historical people come to life in this new series by Benjamin Dickson.
The story of Daisy is one we know and can relate to, even if we are not a 12-year-old witch who is trying to come into her own. Of course, her mother, who loves her and only wants the best for her, knows of the troubles and dangers out in the 
world. Especially the dangers a witch could face. But when Daisy learns of the death of Queen Elizabeth’s I court witch, she flies off to addition for the position. But she will have to
overcome more than her inability to light a fire when someone is watching her. She will need to overcome the biases against her station (not coming from a well-to-do family), jealousy, sabotage, and ghosts. With her new friends, Daisy learns that the only person you need to be better than, to impress and to measure yourself against, is yourself. But having a talking rat or handful of spiders able to help you out, is pretty awesome, too.
Rachel Smith’s illustrations are reminiscent of anime, manga, and classic comic. They are quirky, cute and have simple, but important details. The colors are not overwhelming but do pop on the page. They compliment the text and help add a “little something” to everything overall.
Due late October 2021 (and who knows when sequels will come, but if the author/illustrator/publisher sees this and would be so kind as to let me have sneak peeks, I would be forever grateful!)