Weyward

I have wanted to write something myself about the great witch trials in Scotland, now I don't have to. This is a beautiful tale that links past and present through family lineage. Maybe not a unique structure, but well done and evocative. I recommend it!

This is a debut novel by a young, Australian, Emilia Hart. I was attracted to the story because my novels are about witches and Weyward follows three generations of witches. Three stories follow the lives of three young women in 1619, 1942 and 2019. The stories emphasis the strength, resilience and power of these women, connected by their blood and unique gift, against the backdrop of the dangers abounding in each generation. Emelia writes beautifully, even poetically. Lots of bugs, nature and magic.

Although this book involves “witches”, it is really a female empowerment tale. Three women from three different time periods must overcome situations exasperated by a patriarchal society. It’s a timely book that examines women’s responsibilities surrounding pregnancy, including personal choices and the ills placed on women by misogynistic mindsets and actions.

Each of the women is isolated in their situation and only breaks free of male dominance through a magical connection with nature. I found the idea disturbing and intriguing at the same time. The women are not prone to violence themselves, but nature is called to set things straight.… show more.

Isn’t it wonderful when you pick up the right book at the right time? That’s exactly how I felt about this book.

I inhaled this novel, reading it in just a few sittings over two days. I loved how the three female protagonists were linked through time by their connection to Weyward Cottage and their exceptional connection to nature.

This novel moves effortlessly between points of view in 1619, 1942, and 2019. Hart ties the three women’s stories together beautifully at the end, making this read as satisfying as a perfect cup of tea on a cold winter’s day.

To be honest, I discovered Weyward by Emilia Hart through a book review subscription. I burned my lunch after reading the Amazon Sample. This is the first time this year.

I was immediately immersed in three richly detailed historical settings. Its connections to witchcraft and the natural world (which I was already immersed in due to my WIP and blog research) piqued my interest. Mesmerized by the heroines' strength in a world besieged by misogyny (three times over). This book stayed with me.

It's a must-read for anyone looking for an atmospheric, spellbinding journey through history and the supernatural from… show more.

Impossible to put down, this book follows the story of three extraordinary women related by blood and witchcraft across five centuries who lived their lives with bravery and spunk.

Each woman represents an inspiration grounded in female resistance, the absolute necessity to take risks and believe in their value in a world where they have been held down, discouraged, and devalued. The ways to find and use magic to survive are handed down from Altha (1619) to Violet (1942) to Kate, whose story is set in 2019. It is unusual to have a modern-day witch, and this is what sets… show more.