A review by bookswithleigh
The Factory Witches of Lowell by C.S. Malerich

3.0

I truly love a good novella. I think there's something incredibly artful about being able to compile a story that feels larger than its page count while still making the best use of the page and leaving filler at the door. The Factory Witches of Lowell did an admirable job sticking to those principals, yet I still felt there was something just...lacking about it? I was invested in Judith and Hannah (and oh, the way Malerich played with truth and honesty between them once the spell was cast in the beginning, and the way it was brought back at the end, *chef's kiss*), yet I felt I wanted more from the witchcraft aspect of the novel. I understand the author usually has little control over what goes into the summary of their book, but I suppose it just led me to believe it would be more present than it was.

That being said, I really enjoyed the bit of magic we did get. Using spells through weaving, kitchen-work, and spit was a wonderful way to build the world and show how women claimed duties that were sometimes forced upon them and made them their own, and even turned them against their oppressors.

If you're looking for a short, interesting read about sapphics fighting for equal wage in a time where such things were unprecedented, this novella is for you!

Star Rating: ★★★☆☆ (i.e. "A Good Book")