5.0 out of 5 stars Magical, emotional and powerful story. Loved it

J. · 14 May 2023

(function() { P.when('cr-A', 'ready').execute(function(A) { if(typeof A.toggleExpanderAriaLabel === 'function') { A.toggleExpanderAriaLabel('review_text_read_more', 'Read more of this review', 'Read less of this review'); } }); })(); .review-text-read-more-expander:focus-visible { outline: 2px solid #2162a1; outline-offset: 2px; border-radius: 5px; } It's not often I venture away from the world of crime, but when I do it's usually for a very good reason. Weyward by Emilia Hart is most definitely a very good reason. I'll admit, I was first attracted by the cover, and the glowing reviews I'd read certainly encouraged me more. Then there is the subject matter, the links to witchcraft, always a go to subject for me when reading as a child. I used to be fascinated by tales of the unexplained, be they supernatural or otherwise. But to try to pigeon hole Weyward into any specific category like the occult, or fantasy or crime, just wouldn't really work. I'm not sure that there is a really suitable category for the book as there are certain elements of all the above in the book. But above all else, it is a story of three women, three generations of the same bloodline, and how, despite the broad span of the years, they need to find the strength to survive, and even blossom, in very male dominated worlds.This is the story of Altha, Violet and Kate, separated by the centuries but connected in ways that certainly the latter generations do not understand. Altha, of all of them, is perhaps the one with the greater understanding of the Weyward women's gift - the ability to harness the power of nature for good. Altha was brought up by a mother who fully understood the way in which the tides were turning against people with their talents - when you think of witches, think of your Pendle style witch rather than the kind with strange green skin last seen melting in a puddle in Oz (oops - spolier alert). If you were to try to categorise them it would be a bit like Dr Doolittle turned herbalism. They provide alternative treatments to those made and rather macabre methods prescribed by Doctors of their era, and yet hold an uncanny ability to commune with nature. But when we first meet Altha, she is already on trial accused of witchcraft, after the death of a neighbour, the husband of a woman she knew a long time before. Her position is stark, her treatment shocking, and yet it embodies the suspicion and contempt held towards certain women in the early seventeenth century, when superstition was far more prevalent than common sense.Violet is a young girl who leads a very sheltered life. brought up by her father following her mothers death, Violet has been home schooled, her natural tendencies towards the outside world and nature curbed by her father's tight control. Everything she loves goes against her father's wishes, and whilst a voracious reader, there is a certain naivety born of her seclusion that gives the sense that she is heading towards a very start ending. The warning signs are there, and I could feel my anger building as the author led us towards the inevitable conclusion. But as dark as her story becomes, there is a kind of peace that comes with it too, as an undeniable tragedy also becomes her salvation. As for Kate, a far more modern woman, she knows nothing of her ancestral past and has none of the natural affinity towards the outside world. There are reasons for that which become apparent as the story progresses, but caught up in an abusive relationship, all Kate seeks is peace and sanctuary, something she finally finds in the Weyward family home.In fact, it is an expression of male dominance, misogyny and abuse which unites the three women. Men seek to be the cause of their downfall and yet it is in standing against them that all three find their true power. There are moments in the book that will undoubtedly outrage you, others which will make you smile. All three women are strong, independent and capable, although it takes Kate much longer to realise this in herself. The intertwining of their stories, their distinct and yet recognisable voices, makes this a very easy, and surprisingly quick, book to read. It is not told in linear fashion - the story regularly moves between the three different time periods - and yet it was very easy to follow, and each story completely drew me in. There is a tension which flows through each thread, building to a crescendo at different moments in their story, but keeping the pace of the book just right, so much so I polished it off in two sittings.I'm not entirely sure what I expected when I started reading this book. I approached it with no small amount of trepidation, it being outside of my comfort zone, but Emilia Hart is such a talented writer that I was completely absorbed from the very first chapter. If you want to read a book about triumph of spirit over adversity, about the strength of women in a world besieged by misogyny, and about harnessing the power of the natural world, then definitely give this one a try. Beautifully emotive and exquisite writing.. I'll be keeping these ladies spirits with me for some time I think.

4.0 out of 5 stars A chilling, mysterious and atmospheric book that you would not regret adding to your list.

M.R. · 3 August 2023

“Perhaps one day (...) there will be a safer time, when women could walk the Earth, shining bright with power, and yet live.”Separated by centuries but connected by family and sharing similar misfortunes at the hands of misogynistic men. 'Weyward' is the story of three women, their tumultuous lives, and their determination to survive against the odds. This is Kate’s story who has escaped an abusive relationship, is pregnant but determined to rebuild a life with her child away from a bullying and violent husband. The most recent story set in 2019.Going back to 1942 is Violet’s story who has been disowned and banished to a small cottage by her detestable father at a time when women's reputation was virtually all she had. Finally, we have Altha who is on trial for witchcraft which in the 1600s means sure death. A healer which became the focal point of a man's accusing finger when it suited, or when something could not be easily explained. Thereby feeding the hysteria of witchcraft during this period of history."Witch. The word slithers from the mouth like a serpent..... a word invented by men, a word that brings power to those that speak it, not those that it describes. A word that builds gallows and pyres, turns breathing women into corpses.”What unites them all is Weyward cottage, the book takes its title from. A perfect backdrop steeped in history with its own story to tell as we transcend generations of this family.Review and Comments - For an accomplished writer this would be considered a great book but as a debut novel, I can’t give this enough praise.Storyline and Plot ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Weaving three time periods, plots and people was superbly done. Loved all three. If I had one request, then I would like to have spent more time in Altha’s story that involved witchcraft because I am intrigued with an older timeframe and all this period had to offer.Main Characters ⭐⭐⭐⭐ The character development was wonderful and the strongest element of the book. I felt fully invested in the three female characters which is sometimes difficult to achieve in a novel of this nature.Writing Style ⭐⭐⭐⭐ simple, easy to read, captivating, atmospheric, haunting, suspenseful, and theatrical. What more could you ask for.

5.0 out of 5 stars Brilliant debut!

M.S.F. · 15 November 2024

This is a truly wonderful debut novel that beautifully weaves together themes of resilience, empowerment, and the deep connections between women and the natural world. It has an intricately layered narrative over different timelines and is both an emotional journey and a celebration of feminine strength across generations.The novel follows the lives of three extraordinary women—Altha, Violet, and Kate. Spanning many centuries these women are unknowingly bound together by their shared heritage and a mysterious connection to nature. The transitions between timelines is seamless and allows each character's story to unfold in a way that feels deeply immersive.The author’s vivid descriptions of the natural world really bring the landscapes alive, and the way each of the women draws strength from nature is both poignant and empowering.The book tackles weighty topics like oppression, abuse, and the stifling constraints placed on women throughout history, but it does so with grace and hope. Altha, Violet, and Kate are all beautifully fleshed-out characters, each grappling with challenges that feel authentic and relatable, yet each finds a way to reclaim her power.Ultimately this is a tale of survival, self-discovery, and the unbreakable bonds of female solidarity. Fans of historical fiction, magical realism, and stories with strong feminist themes will find this novel utterly captivating.I absolutely loved it and can’t wait read more from this author!

Witchy vibes- excellent read

V.S. · 15 March 2025

(function() { P.when('cr-A', 'ready').execute(function(A) { if(typeof A.toggleExpanderAriaLabel === 'function') { A.toggleExpanderAriaLabel('review_text_read_more', 'Read more of this review', 'Read less of this review'); } }); })(); .review-text-read-more-expander:focus-visible { outline: 2px solid #2162a1; outline-offset: 2px; border-radius: 5px; } A Favorite Quote: “Perhaps one day, she said, there would be a safer time. When women could walk the earth, shining bright with power, and yet live.”Self-written Blurb: Weyward. Weird sisters. Witches. They are all linked together, much like Altha, Violet, and Kate. The Weyward daughters. We are taken on a journey through 3 different time periods, following three different women, whose life experiences are different and yet… very similar. One who was only trying to help a long lost friend. One who dared to dream of more than society thought she deserved. And one who had to run to save her own life. Will the Weyward name and the women who bare it stand the test of time? Or will they all perish under the cruel and oppressive patriarchal society?What I enjoyed: This novel is expertly written. Emilia Hart weaves in several genres into one, whimsical and cohesive read. With a little bit of historical fiction, a touch of fantasy, and a pinch of women’s fiction, this novel does an excellent job highlighting the faults of the patriarch and then hand delivering retribution on a silver platter. Though there are heavier and darker tones, the author manages to distract you with the uplifting message of hope, justice, and perseverance.Any struggles?: The audiobook was a slight struggle for me, only because I have a harder time with accents and have to use a lower speed. But otherwise this was a fantastic experience.Will I recommend and to who: Every woman should read this book. Period.

women's fights, women's rights and women's pride

J.V. · 25 July 2023

"The connections between and among women are the most feared, the most problematic, and the most potentially transforming force on the planet."I am crying writing this review because of how powerful, poetic, haunting and empowering this story was. This is a story of women's fights, of women's rights and women's pride. I recommend this to every single woman on this planet.

A rare enjoyment

J. · 30 April 2025

Eager to read more books by this Author

Un placer de lectura otoñal

L. · 4 December 2024

Una historia ligera de mujeres fuertes y su legado, con un toque mágico. Si te gustó "Prácticamente magia", lee Weyward.

Absorbed this book cover to cover

J.C. · 2 April 2024

I was initially hesitant about reading this book. So many novels set in multiple periods are just not compelling. However, reviews for Weyward were consistently positive and the Kirkus Review had me at “Thoughtful and at times harrowing, this novel is a successful blend of historical fiction and modern feminism.”Ultimately, I absorbed ‘Weyward’ from cover to cover. The three storylines could each be a stand-alone book. They were well written, the main and supporting characters interesting, and flawlessly developed.Kate (2019), Altha (1619) and Violet (1942) are socially isolated by suspicion, bad decisions and insecure men. Gradually, though, each will come into their power as a woman and healer while continuing to endure the mistrust of those around them.History has long revealed both men and women whose relationship with nature and the healing arts was unusual. Their skills were often branded as witchcraft, giving them a tinge of evil. The one certainty, unchanged over the centuries, is that possessing certain powers puts that person in a vulnerable position. Altha, Violet and Kate were forced to base their actions and decisions on that very vulnerability.Emilia Hart interweaves the three stories into an intelligent and heartfelt piece of fiction. The endings were devoid of the usual saccharine happy ever after but are more than satisfactory and real. This is a book to be both analysed and enjoyed.