Francis Heaney writes AVCX's difficulty ratings and they are always a hoot. I think this one might be a reference to my witch puzzle in the WSJ? Or maybe they were just in a Wicked mood! Anyway, this is my third puzzle for the wonderful people at AVCX, including Nate Cardin, who is a dream to work with. A classic 15 x 15, straight up, no gimmicks, free to subscribers and just $1 to buy.
Here's a taste: Phony writing, right to the end (5)
