Weyward by Emilia Hart 

In Emilia Hart’s Weyward, the stories of three extraordinary women are woven together, spanning five centuries. The novel tells the story of Kate, who in 2019 flees from London to Weyward Cottage, a ramshackle house she inherited from a great aunt she barely remembers. We also follow a girl named Altha who is awaiting trial for the murder of a local farmer who was stampeded to death by his herd. Finally, as World War II rages, Violet is trapped in her family’s grand, crumbling estate. She is straitjacketed by societal convention and longs for the same robust education that her brother receives.

Book review of Weyward

Weyward is a complex and thought-provoking novel that offers a unique perspective on the power of women and the impact of misogyny throughout history. The book explores the lives of three women from different time periods who are connected by their identity as Weyward women, witches who possess a deep connection with nature and the ability to command the loyalty of animals.

While the writing in Weyward is undoubtedly impressive, it can also be challenging to read at times. The intense emotions and abusive situations faced by the three main characters are described in vivid detail, and the book doesn’t shy away from the more violent manifestations of misogyny. This can make for a difficult and uncomfortable reading experience, but it is also a testament to the author’s skill in evoking the raw emotions of her characters.

The three different stories in Weyward are woven together in a way that is both compelling and satisfying. Altha’s story, set in the early 17th century, is the most dramatic and gripping, as she faces trial for witchcraft and the possibility of a brutal execution. While the stories of Violet and Kate may not be as exciting, they offer a valuable insight into the struggles faced by women in the mid-20th and early 21st centuries.

One of the most interesting aspects of Weyward is the way that it blends elements of historical fiction with fantasy. The concept of Weyward women as witches who can control animals and use natural remedies is both fascinating and empowering, and it adds a unique layer to the story. However, the book is not purely a fantasy novel, and the magical elements are only a small part of the overall narrative.

Specifications
	Publisher ‏ : ‎ St. Martin’s Press (March 7, 2023) Language ‏ : ‎ English Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 336 pages ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 125028080X ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1250280800 Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 1.15 pounds Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 6.55 x 1.05 x 9.5 inches

About Article Author

Jenna Carter

Jenna Carter spends most of her time immersed in the imaginary worlds that authors construct. Her favorite place in the world is a library full of old books where she hopes to one day find a hidden door to the world of Narnia.