Reviews

First third an enthusiastic four stars. Second third, three stars — still good, but slower moving and unclear in which direction, and not in an intentional-seeming way. Last third I zoned out a lot. It began with a lot of promise, so many interesting possibilities for storytelling. I adored the blooming friendship between Fleetwood and Alice. I fretted about both Fleetwood's and the baby's health. The specter of witch trials loomed in the near distance, closing in. Richard was enjoyably obnoxious. Commentary on the sexism and overall brutality of the time are delivered with a light touch.

I can't explain what happened, but I lost heart sometime after the arrests. The book lost its way. I couldn't figure out what it was about anymore. There was nice character growth with, actually, several of the main characters but still that wasn't enough. And it's not like the revelation about Fleetwood's first husband was any surprise to readers, nor was it relevant to anything anyway.

Everything dramatic and important in this book, at least after Part II, is rushed over and not shown. Very disappointing. I knew by 2/3 that I was tired of the story, but I wanted to finish because I liked the author's writing style and the narrator's reading style. But by the end even those couldn't save this. I was going to say I'll be seeking out more of this author's work, but right now I don't think I will.

sandysmith's review against another edition

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adventurous dark emotional mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.25

I'm gradually adding books I've read in 2021 to give a true reflection of the books I've read since keeping records. This was the first book I read in 2021, and is what kick-started my reading journey having put reading on the back burner whilst bringing up the children, previously being an avid reader. Set in 1612' it's an historical read. Fleetwood Shuttleworth is 17' who learns to be a midwife and is accused of being a witch. Pendle witch trials used as basis for the story. She starts off strongly but seems to weaken over tge course of the story. I was cross that she forgave her husband for his affair. I was disappointed in the ending.

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