The Bewitching takes us back to 16th century Cambridgeshire, exploring the true story of the Witches of Warboys. Largely told from the perspective of one of the servants in the home of the local squire, Martha – deaf in one ear, yet more observant than anyone around her – watches on with increasing confusion, sympathy and fear, as a playful accusation of witchcraft from a nine-year-old girl sets off events which will change the lives of two families. In this age of ‘cancel culture’ and conspiracy theories, the novel uses the tragic history of witch trials to explore how easily and quickly reputations can be shredded by mere gossip, and how those with power can use it to manipulate victims into believing their own complicity. Dawson’s deft style means the questions are always implied, never explicit, although it is impossible to miss the parallels to our own times.
8/10
Costa Blanca News
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