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I had heard some buzz about this book, but I hesitated to pick up a copy because I am lately wary of books that focus on witchcraft, and I am so pleased to admit that I was very, very wrong to think that this wouldn't work for me.

Before I detail my thoughts on various aspects of this book, let me state that this is a highly speculative book that hints at fantastical elements, with three protagonists who belong to a matriarchal line of witches who have an affinity for, and call upon nature, set in our own world. There are three threads that run throughout the book from each of their perspectives. The first protagonist is Altha, who is accused of, and is tried for the practice of witchcraft. The second is Violet, whose life we get to follow from the time she is a child, and the third is Kate, who is expecting a child and is on the run from her abusive boyfriend.

When I received this book in the mail,I thought I would sample the first few pages and then get back to it closer to publication date. Before I knew it, I was about a hundred pages into it. This is because it is written in a way that is easy to read, but at the same time, is extremely engaging. The chapters are short and crisp, but the way the three different perspectives are put together make it a very fast paced, compelling read. 

This is not a book where the author relies on any kind of plot twist or shock value to keep the reader engaged. There is no attempt to shock the reader with a revelation. It is very easy to understand how the three protagonists are linked to each other, and nowhere does the author withhold information about it. Everything is stated simply, but it is the manner in which their perspectives are arranged through the chapters, as well as the way defining events in their life are put with those of the others, is what makes it such a memorable read. Though the three protagonists are separated by decades, and even centuries, and are in very different stages of life, they are all given equally interesting perspectives, as well as extremely distinct voices. In fact, their voices are so distinct that I am very confident that I would have zero trouble knowing which protagonist the chapter follows even if it wasn't clearly stated. With one character in particular, the writing was so splendid that it accurately reflected her age in every chapter of the book written from her perspective.

This is a very feminist book. The author does a great job with the exploration of the treatment of non-conforming members of the society. This is particularly seen in the historical parts, where Altha is tried for witchcraft, as well as various instances where Violet is expected to conduct herself a certain way, and how she is treated when she attempts to speak up for herself, or enquire about certain things that are ladylike. More importantly, it focuses on the importance of a community of women who trust and look out for each other, and are much stronger for it. My favourite part of the story is the part that emphasised on maintaining relationships that offer support, healing, and moving on.

CONCLUSION: This is a truly remarkable book that is worth a read for readers who love a hint of the fantastical woven into a story that has multiple threads that come together to form an extremely satisfying conclusion. I will personally follow Emilia Hart's future writing projects and will look to read any of them that are speculative in any form.