I knew I was going to enjoy this book as soon as I spotted it! The Familiars focuses on Fleetwood Shuttleworth, a young woman living in extraordinary times. It’s a time of witches and suspicion. Fleetwood navigates a scary world where men hold the upper hand, and she has limited power to control her destiny. The author Stacey Halls has created an amazing complex central character here. Although the book is set in 1612, Fleetwood is a totally relatable character. She’s strong willed, and very courageous. As a reader I felt huge empathy for her, and willed her to win her battles in this story. As the story ended I was reluctant to read on, because I didn’t want this story to finish! I thoroughly recommend this book, I expected a story about witches, and witch trials, but it’s much more than that. It’s a story about Fleetwood’s relationships with her Mother and her Husband, and about friendships between women. This is a stunning debut novel, and I cannot wait to read more titles by this author. I’ve found a new favourite writer!