What a STUNNING debut novel. It has atmosphere, it’s hauntingly beautiful and full of sorrow all at the same time. It’s based up on the witch trials of Norway and tells a story of one of the biggest witch trials in Scandinavia through the time period 1662 – 1663.
Anya Bergman’s research is second to none – it’s clear that a lot of time, energy and effort has gone into giving this moment in history adequate space in the pages of a book. I loved the folklore scattered throughout the book – the culture and beliefs shared and the issues faced by the indigenous tribes.
The second person narration for one of the main characters generally was a little difficult to adapt to. It’s always hard to tell a story through someone else’s speech whilst making sure that the reader gets enough to understand but also that it makes sense. I mention it because it makes for a clunky start and after a while settles in – it’s very much worth sticking with the book!
If you’re looking for historic fiction steeped in facts without an over-dramatised retelling of a witch trial then this is definitely the book for you!
NB; The glossary and the Fact and Fiction section at the end are really useful – don’t wait to turn the last page to get to them, as the glossary in particular helps.
About the Book
They will have justice. They will show their power. They will not burn.
Set inside the Arctic Circle in Norway during the witch trials of the seventeenth century and based on true events. The story of a group of women, mothers and daughters, accused of witchcraft and brutalised by the men in power, and the Sami people who live alongside them.
About The Author
Anya Bergman became interested in the Witch Trials of Vardø and the vivid folk tales of the North while living in Norway. She became fascinated by the trials and the women murdered there on a visit to the Steilneset memorial, in which Louise Bourgeois and Peter Zumthor commemorated the persecution of women accused of witchcraft.
Now resident in Edinburgh, Anya graduated with distinction from the Creative Writing programme at Edinburgh Napier University.
Purchase the Book
This book can be purchased in our store either on its own or in a cosy Book Box – hardback copies are signed by Anya Bergman!
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