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A review by stellenelcielo
The Year of the Witching by Alexis Henderson
challenging
dark
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
Nowadays, I don't often give five stars to books, not out of a sense of superiority, but usually because there had been an element in the book that irked me enough that I couldn't.
This is not a case of that. I loved this book.
Immanuelle, while frustratingly forgiving and self-sacrificing, especially around the end, is still a very realistic take on a character whose had piousness drilled into her since she was born. Her empathy for her town (which I may add, do not deserve it in the slightest) was infuriating at times, but understandable. I loved the dark nature of this book, and how although there's the idea that the witches might be misunderstood throughout the story, it very soon becomes clear that they are not, but that they aren't necessarily in the wrong either.
Maybe the only gripe I would have with this book would be that Vera Ward was introduced so late into the story, but then again, it does say that this is book 1 of a series, so I am very hopeful to read more about Bethel, and it's characters. Would especially be interested in knowing more about the Outskirts, and their take on faith, which was described much differently than what Immanuel was accustomed to; as well as the story of Lilith and the other witches.
Since watching the 2015 film, The Witch (with Anya Taylor-Joy) I've been interested in puritanical-criticism/witchcraft theme, and it's always fun finding works that incorporate it. Anyhow, The Year of the Witching was a great book, great plot, characters, and just the right amount of fanatical horror.
Can't wait to get my hands on the next book.
This is not a case of that. I loved this book.
Immanuelle, while frustratingly forgiving and self-sacrificing, especially around the end, is still a very realistic take on a character whose had piousness drilled into her since she was born. Her empathy for her town (which I may add, do not deserve it in the slightest) was infuriating at times, but understandable. I loved the dark nature of this book, and how although there's the idea that the witches might be misunderstood throughout the story, it very soon becomes clear that they are not, but that they aren't necessarily in the wrong either.
Maybe the only gripe I would have with this book would be that Vera Ward was introduced so late into the story, but then again, it does say that this is book 1 of a series, so I am very hopeful to read more about Bethel, and it's characters. Would especially be interested in knowing more about the Outskirts, and their take on faith, which was described much differently than what Immanuel was accustomed to; as well as the story of Lilith and the other witches.
Since watching the 2015 film, The Witch (with Anya Taylor-Joy) I've been interested in puritanical-criticism/witchcraft theme, and it's always fun finding works that incorporate it. Anyhow, The Year of the Witching was a great book, great plot, characters, and just the right amount of fanatical horror.
Can't wait to get my hands on the next book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racial slurs, Misogyny, Sexism, Religious bigotry, Racism, and Pregnancy
Moderate: Child abuse, Blood, Violence, Adult/minor relationship, Death, Animal death, Body horror, and Sexual assault
There is brief reveal of past child sexual abuse of one of the characters.