The Witch of Wall Street by M.J. Etkind: A Magical Romp with Heart

From the very first page, The Witch of Wall Street sweeps readers into a whirlwind adventure that is equal parts high-stakes magic, romantic comedy, and social commentary. M.J. Etkind delivers a fast-paced, spellbinding romp through New York City, brimming with supernatural charm and delightful chaos.

At its center are Miriam Blum, a fiercely independent finance witch who has worked very hard to keep her chaos magic in control, and Nelson Copperfield, her high school rival whose magic is a bit more on the altruistic side. When a chance encounter and one reckless night of passion lead to an unexpected magical mishap, the two are thrown into a supernatural scavenger hunt filled with enchanting oddities. From an enchanted dumpling house to a Jinn-run CPA firm and a venomous leather shop in Little Italy, their journey is as unpredictable as it is thrilling.

While Nelson performs small miracles with a flick of his wrist, Miriam’s chaotic energy keeps them on their toes. Their growing connection complicates everything, making for an electric dynamic full of sharp banter, long-held rivalries, and undeniable chemistry. Watching them evolve as individuals while struggling with their feelings adds an emotional weight that balances the book’s fast-paced, magical mischief.

What sets this novel apart is the depth beneath the humor. At its heart, The Witch of Wall Street is a story about learning when to accept help. Miriam has spent her entire life proving she can handle everything on her own, but as she navigates this wild quest, she’s forced to recognize that leaning on others doesn’t make her weak. Likewise, Nelson—ever the golden-hearted do-gooder—must learn that not everyone wants to be saved on his terms.

Another standout element of the novel is its thoughtful exploration of social justice. Nelson’s nonprofit, Housing Magic, provides housing for New York’s homeless with no strings attached—a model that acknowledges the complex realities of addiction and recovery. Unlike many traditional programs, Housing Magic doesn’t require sobriety as a prerequisite for housing, instead offering resources to help residents get clean when they’re ready.

The Witch of Wall Street takes a compassionate, realistic look at the struggles of homelessness and addiction, highlighting the importance of harm reduction. A particularly striking moment comes when a resident who had been clean for months relapses and overdoses. Nelson, carrying Narcan as a precaution, saves her life and gently encourages her to enter rehab. When she refuses, he at least convinces her to use a nearby safe injection site, ensuring that she’ll have someone there if she overdoses again. This pragmatic approach to helping vulnerable populations feels refreshingly honest and is woven seamlessly into the story, adding depth without slowing down the plot.

Ultimately, the novel is more than just a fun, magical adventure—it’s a story about self-acceptance, the messy realities of human connection, and the power of choosing to help (or be helped). Miriam’s journey toward embracing her chaotic magic and her unconventional upbringing is just as compelling as the book’s whirlwind plot.

With witty dialogue, immersive worldbuilding, and a romance that sparkles with tension and warmth, M.J. Etkind has crafted an urban fantasy that is both wildly entertaining and deeply meaningful.

Have you read The Witch of Wall Street? What did you think of Miriam and Nelson’s dynamic? Let’s discuss in the comments!

Related Content

• Author interview with romantasy writer M.J. Etkind (Write On the World)
• Romantasy Books (Leah’s Little Pleasures Book Blog)
• Romantasy, science fiction, and the publishing gender gap (Fantasy Author’s Handbook)
• Romantasy (A Little Book Problem)
• Romantasy all along! (Uncanny Magazine)

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