I picked up this book in the first instance because I loved the hardback artwork. I then decided I was desperate to read it when the synopsis told me it was about the history of the Pendle witch trials. I love historical novels, especially those inspired by or based on true events. I also really enjoy the supernatural/fantasy genre (I loved Witch Child, and Practical Magic) so my hopes really were set high with this one.
Unfortunately however, it didn't quite hit that sweet note for more. I certainly enjoyed the book, and was at no point bored or remotely inclined to set it aside. There was just a feeling of something being missing. I think I wanted an all access pass view in to witchcraft (or at least the accusations of it) and the trials and executions in this era, whereas what I got felt like more of a glimpse, with Fleetwood's story skirting around the issue. Plus, just a personal opinion but at times I felt the writing style was slightly disjointed and didn't completely flow.
What I absolutely did love about this story was the strong feminist message that was fed throughout. I appreciated Fleetwood's strongmindedness and her lack of inclination to 'do as she was told'. Complete respect to the author for shining a light on one of societies oldest forms of mistreatment of women, and for creating a strong female protagonist.
Unfortunately however, it didn't quite hit that sweet note for more. I certainly enjoyed the book, and was at no point bored or remotely inclined to set it aside. There was just a feeling of something being missing. I think I wanted an all access pass view in to witchcraft (or at least the accusations of it) and the trials and executions in this era, whereas what I got felt like more of a glimpse, with Fleetwood's story skirting around the issue. Plus, just a personal opinion but at times I felt the writing style was slightly disjointed and didn't completely flow.
What I absolutely did love about this story was the strong feminist message that was fed throughout. I appreciated Fleetwood's strongmindedness and her lack of inclination to 'do as she was told'. Complete respect to the author for shining a light on one of societies oldest forms of mistreatment of women, and for creating a strong female protagonist.