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3.77 AVERAGE
3.77 AVERAGE
Normally I love a duel timeline, but this is the second book in a row(Pike Island being the first) that I really did not care for the present story, yet loved the past. I think part of the reason it did not work for me here is that the past storyline was in first person and the present was in third person.
I wanted to love this, however it just fell short of my expectations.
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
dark
emotional
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
I have read three previous books by CJ Cooke and have enjoyed them all. This one kept me gripped and I enjoyed the duel timeline and the intrigue about the Book of Witching. I was hooked right from the start and the book didn't disappoint. I will be recommending this to my reading friends who enjoy witch lit and gothic fiction.
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Loveable characters:
Yes
medium-paced
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
adventurous
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
“The Book Of Witching” by C.J. Cooke- this was such an interesting story- that is based upon real events (well the historical timeline, that is) in Scotland. A historical gothic novel, that is written so well, I devoured it- and that says something as I am not usually a fan of historical novels.
This is a two timeline multiple POV book- part of it occurring in 1594 and follows mostly Alison, who while she is a healer, she is wrongly charged for witchcraft and her POV details her day to day and throughout her trial; the other timeline is in 2024, and follows mostly Clem, who is a single mom that works two jobs and she gets a call that her daughter Erin that was on a hiking trip with her friends is now in the ICU with bad burns, and when she comes to- she insists she isn’t Erin, but Instead Nyx- and it gets worse, her boyfriend is dead and best friend missing. While Clem tries to understand what happened, truths will come out. Suspiciously, the one thing that appears in both timelines, is a book! 👀
I would definitely recommend this book- historical gothic, witchy, book about a book- however you frame it, is well written and I do encourage you to pick it up, I have already put it on a stack to give to my bestie so she can read it too.
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
N/A
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
C.J. Cooke’s The Book of Witching is an ambitious and immersive tale that connects two women living 400 years apart, their lives bound by a mysterious and seemingly malevolent book. Equal parts historical fiction and modern mystery, it offers a haunting exploration of the witch trials and the cultural forces that shaped them.
What stands out most is Cooke’s meticulous research, which shines particularly in the older sections of the story. The use of old language, religious worldviews, and the justice systems of the time creates a vivid and unsettling portrait of history.
Readers with a curiosity for the witch trials or the true history of the period will find this aspect deeply rewarding, and I highly recommend the author’s note for its insights into the research underpinning the narrative. It felt like a journey into the heart of a community grappling with fear, power, and persecution.
Readers with a curiosity for the witch trials or the true history of the period will find this aspect deeply rewarding, and I highly recommend the author’s note for its insights into the research underpinning the narrative. It felt like a journey into the heart of a community grappling with fear, power, and persecution.
The book’s pacing, however, might challenge some readers. The first half unfolds slowly, lingering on atmosphere and historical detail, before the plot gains momentum in the latter sections. While the modern timeline provides a welcome contrast to the older language and settings, it sometimes feels like it exists primarily to keep the story moving rather than to contribute meaningfully to the larger themes.
Despite this, The Book of Witching is a compelling read for those who appreciate stories that blur the lines between past and present. It’s a book steeped in atmosphere, rich with historical detail, and unafraid to delve into the darker corners of justice and belief. For writers, it’s a fascinating example of how to weave historical research into fiction, using language and worldview to transport readers to another time.
While the pacing might not be for everyone, the depth of historical authenticity and the chilling mystery at the book’s heart make The Book of Witching worth the journey—especially for those who love stories that unearth hidden histories and offer a glimpse into the fears and faiths that shaped our past.