Seana Kelly's Wicching Hour is a captivating addition to the urban fantasy genre, weaving together elements of mystery, romance, and supernatural intrigue. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Monterey, this novel offers readers a rich tapestry of magic, danger, and personal growth. At its core, the story revolves around Arwyn Cassandra Corey, the Sea Wicche, whose life is a whirlwind of responsibilities and challenges.

One of the most compelling aspects of Wicching Hour is its strong thematic exploration of identity and power. Arwyn, as the Sea Wicche, is constantly navigating the complexities of her magical abilities and the responsibilities that come with them. Her journey is not just about solving the mysteries that unfold but also about understanding her place in a world where the supernatural and the mundane intersect. This theme is further enriched by her relationship with Declan, the new Alpha of the Big Sur pack, which adds layers of romantic tension and political intrigue.

The character development in Wicching Hour is noteworthy. Arwyn is a well-rounded protagonist whose strengths and vulnerabilities are portrayed with depth and nuance. Her determination to protect her loved ones and her community is admirable, yet her struggles with trust and betrayal make her relatable. Declan, as her romantic interest and ally, complements her character well. His role as Alpha brings its own set of challenges, and his interactions with Arwyn are both tender and fraught with the tension of their respective duties.

Kelly's supporting characters also add richness to the narrative. The detectives, Hernández and Osso, provide a human perspective on the supernatural events, grounding the story in reality. Meanwhile, the antagonist, Calliope, and her demon serve as formidable foes, driving the plot forward with their menacing presence. The inclusion of a sorcerer cousin and a mysterious podcast host adds layers of intrigue and suspense, keeping readers engaged as the story unfolds.

The novel's pacing is well-executed, with a balance between action-packed sequences and quieter, introspective moments. The tension builds steadily as Arwyn and Declan race against time to uncover the truth behind the gruesome murders and Calliope's whereabouts. The stakes are high, and Kelly masterfully maintains a sense of urgency throughout the narrative.

In terms of world-building, Kelly excels at creating a vivid and immersive setting. Monterey, with its coastal beauty and hidden magical undercurrents, serves as the perfect backdrop for the story. The supernatural elements are seamlessly integrated into the real world, making the existence of wicches, werewolves, and demons feel both plausible and enchanting. Kelly's attention to detail in describing the magical rituals and the dynamics of the supernatural community adds depth to the world she has crafted.

Comparatively, Wicching Hour shares similarities with other urban fantasy series, such as Patricia Briggs' Mercy Thompson series and Ilona Andrews' Kate Daniels series. Like these works, Kelly's novel features a strong female protagonist navigating a world where magic and reality collide. However, Kelly's unique focus on the sea and its mystical properties sets her story apart, offering a fresh perspective within the genre.

Overall, Wicching Hour is a compelling read that will appeal to fans of urban fantasy and supernatural mysteries. Seana Kelly has crafted a story that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, with characters that linger in the mind long after the last page is turned. The novel's blend of magic, mystery, and romance ensures that it will resonate with a wide audience, making it a standout addition to any reader's bookshelf.

For those seeking a story that combines the allure of the supernatural with the complexities of human emotion, Wicching Hour is a must-read. Its engaging plot, well-developed characters, and richly imagined world make it a novel that is sure to captivate and delight.