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The Book of Witching
Goodreads Choice Award
Nominee for Readers' Favorite Horror (2024)A mother must fight for her daughter’s life in this fierce and haunting tale of witchcraft and revenge from the author of A Haunting in the Arctic.
Clem gets a call that is every mother’s worst nightmare. Her nineteen-year-old daughter Erin is unconscious in the hospital after a hiking trip with her friends on the remote Orkney Islands that met a horrifying end, leaving her boyfriend dead and her best friend missing. When Erin wakes, she doesn’t recognize her mother. And she doesn’t answer to her name, but insists she is someone named Nyx.
Clem travels the site of her daughter’s accident, determined to find out what happened to her. The answer may lie in a dark secret in the history of the Orkneys: a woman wrongly accused of witchcraft and murder four centuries ago. Clem begins to wonder if Erin’s strange behavior is a symptom of a broken mind, or the effects of an ancient curse?
Clem gets a call that is every mother’s worst nightmare. Her nineteen-year-old daughter Erin is unconscious in the hospital after a hiking trip with her friends on the remote Orkney Islands that met a horrifying end, leaving her boyfriend dead and her best friend missing. When Erin wakes, she doesn’t recognize her mother. And she doesn’t answer to her name, but insists she is someone named Nyx.
Clem travels the site of her daughter’s accident, determined to find out what happened to her. The answer may lie in a dark secret in the history of the Orkneys: a woman wrongly accused of witchcraft and murder four centuries ago. Clem begins to wonder if Erin’s strange behavior is a symptom of a broken mind, or the effects of an ancient curse?
365 pages, Paperback
First published October 8, 2024
1119 people are currently reading
47523 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Cooke
11 books2,250 followersC.J. (Carolyn) Cooke is an acclaimed, award-winning poet, novelist and academic with numerous publications as Carolyn Jess-Cooke and Caro Carver. Her work has been published in twenty-three languages to date. Born in Belfast, C.J. has a PhD in Literature from Queen’s University, Belfast, and is currently Reader in Creative Writing at the University of Glasgow, where she also researches the impact of motherhood on women’s writing and creative writing interventions for mental health. Her books have been reviewed in The New York Times, The Guardian, Good Housekeeping, and the Daily Mail. She has been nominated for an Edgar Award and an ITW Thriller Award, selected as Waterstones’ Paperback Book of the Year and a BBC 2 Pick, and has had two Book of the Month Club selections in the last year. She lives in Scotland with her husband and four children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,483 reviews
November 22, 2025
The history repeats itself! Another fantasy thriller blending folklore and feminism from C. J. Cooke that connects different timelines and challenges our grey cells with its mind-bending execution and fast-paced storyline filled with twisty revelations. This book has earned my five blazing stars for its perfect blend of horror, mystery, and historical fantasy!
I recently read "A Haunting in the Arctic" by this author, which blew my mind nearly a year ago. In my opinion, "The Book of Witching" is even more compelling. Based on true events that occurred in 16th century Orkney, Scotland, it tells the story of seventy-two women who were executed during the North Berwick witch trials. The tale begins with Alyson (or Alison) Balfour, who was accused of assisting a man in a plot to kill his brother. Despite the man being acquitted, she was executed in 1594 at Gallow Ha’ in Kirkwall, Orkney.
The book opens in the present day at Fynhallow, Isle of Gunn, Orkney, where a park ranger finds a teenage girl covered in blood with a burned body, still alive, lying on the ground.
Clem, a fifty-year-old divorced mother, works two jobs to care for her teenage daughter Erin, who recently went on a hiking trip with friends and her baby granddaughter Freya.
When Clem gets a horrifying phone call informing her that Erin is hospitalized and in a medically induced coma in Orkney, she rushes to find out what’s going on. She discovers that Erin is unconscious, with several fingers amputated and suffering from serious burn marks. Erin's boyfriend Arlo, who was on the trip with her, is found dead with his body burned and hands bound. Her best friend Senna is missing. The police start an investigation and, based on text messages, suspect Erin might be responsible for Arlo's death and possibly harmed Senna, who has not contacted her parents.
Strangely, when Erin wakes from the coma, she doesn’t recognize her parents and denies her name, insisting on being called “Nyx.” What happened to her on the Orkney Islands? What was the black book with ugly pages that Clem saw in the restroom, which disappeared before her eyes? Who was the woman burning at the stake that appeared and vanished?
We also get to read Alison Balfour's POV, where she is asked to make a charm for an earl’s bastard brother who wants to replace him using powerful magic. Even though she refused, she was still put on trial, tortured for a crime she didn’t commit, and declared a witch.
What connects Erin and Alison? A charm, a powerful curse, or the "Book of Witches"? Continue reading to find out!
Overall, this book is pure addiction! I couldn’t put it down. Absolutely devoured, thrilled, and enjoyed it! Orkney folklore, the bridge between two timelines, smart twists, historical facts, and the pulsing pace make this book a reader's dream come true! C.J. Cooke is one of my auto-approved, brilliant authors who can blend history and folklore into perfect horror fantasy plotlines!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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I recently read "A Haunting in the Arctic" by this author, which blew my mind nearly a year ago. In my opinion, "The Book of Witching" is even more compelling. Based on true events that occurred in 16th century Orkney, Scotland, it tells the story of seventy-two women who were executed during the North Berwick witch trials. The tale begins with Alyson (or Alison) Balfour, who was accused of assisting a man in a plot to kill his brother. Despite the man being acquitted, she was executed in 1594 at Gallow Ha’ in Kirkwall, Orkney.
The book opens in the present day at Fynhallow, Isle of Gunn, Orkney, where a park ranger finds a teenage girl covered in blood with a burned body, still alive, lying on the ground.
Clem, a fifty-year-old divorced mother, works two jobs to care for her teenage daughter Erin, who recently went on a hiking trip with friends and her baby granddaughter Freya.
When Clem gets a horrifying phone call informing her that Erin is hospitalized and in a medically induced coma in Orkney, she rushes to find out what’s going on. She discovers that Erin is unconscious, with several fingers amputated and suffering from serious burn marks. Erin's boyfriend Arlo, who was on the trip with her, is found dead with his body burned and hands bound. Her best friend Senna is missing. The police start an investigation and, based on text messages, suspect Erin might be responsible for Arlo's death and possibly harmed Senna, who has not contacted her parents.
Strangely, when Erin wakes from the coma, she doesn’t recognize her parents and denies her name, insisting on being called “Nyx.” What happened to her on the Orkney Islands? What was the black book with ugly pages that Clem saw in the restroom, which disappeared before her eyes? Who was the woman burning at the stake that appeared and vanished?
We also get to read Alison Balfour's POV, where she is asked to make a charm for an earl’s bastard brother who wants to replace him using powerful magic. Even though she refused, she was still put on trial, tortured for a crime she didn’t commit, and declared a witch.
What connects Erin and Alison? A charm, a powerful curse, or the "Book of Witches"? Continue reading to find out!
Overall, this book is pure addiction! I couldn’t put it down. Absolutely devoured, thrilled, and enjoyed it! Orkney folklore, the bridge between two timelines, smart twists, historical facts, and the pulsing pace make this book a reader's dream come true! C.J. Cooke is one of my auto-approved, brilliant authors who can blend history and folklore into perfect horror fantasy plotlines!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for sharing this digital reviewer copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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October 9, 2024
Another compelling, gripping, and thought-provoking book by C.J. Cooke. Be sure to read the author's note as well. I found it to be informative and detailed the research that went into the writing of this book.
I enjoyed the two timelines which were both captivating and pulled on the emotions. I did find that the timeline in Scotland in the 1500’s which featured Alison Balfour, who had been accused of witchcraft. That timeline was the most gripping to me as I felt for Alison and the way she was treated. The timeline in the present featured Clem, a mother whose daughter, Erin, has been hospitalized. Erin’s best friend is missing, and Erin’s boyfriend is dead. What is more troubling is that when Erin wakes up, she claims to be someone else.
I enjoyed how well thought out this book was. Everything came together nicely and for several moments had me on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next. This book had me thinking back to the past and how women (and men) were accused of being witches and what befell them.
I enjoyed the tension and feeling of dread which flowed throughout this book. I especially enjoy C.J. Cooke’s writing and how each book is completely different from her previous books. Each book feels fresh, original and riveting.
Knowing that this book was based on a real person made this book even better for me. I admire the amount of research that went into the writing of this book.
Wonderfully written, well thought out, terrifically paced, and hard to put down. I can't wait to read what C.J. Cooke writes next!
*A witches words buddy read with Norma, Brenda, and Mary Beth. Please read their reviews as well to gather their thoughts on this book.
Thank you to HarperCollins UK and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
I enjoyed the two timelines which were both captivating and pulled on the emotions. I did find that the timeline in Scotland in the 1500’s which featured Alison Balfour, who had been accused of witchcraft. That timeline was the most gripping to me as I felt for Alison and the way she was treated. The timeline in the present featured Clem, a mother whose daughter, Erin, has been hospitalized. Erin’s best friend is missing, and Erin’s boyfriend is dead. What is more troubling is that when Erin wakes up, she claims to be someone else.
I enjoyed how well thought out this book was. Everything came together nicely and for several moments had me on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next. This book had me thinking back to the past and how women (and men) were accused of being witches and what befell them.
I enjoyed the tension and feeling of dread which flowed throughout this book. I especially enjoy C.J. Cooke’s writing and how each book is completely different from her previous books. Each book feels fresh, original and riveting.
Knowing that this book was based on a real person made this book even better for me. I admire the amount of research that went into the writing of this book.
Wonderfully written, well thought out, terrifically paced, and hard to put down. I can't wait to read what C.J. Cooke writes next!
*A witches words buddy read with Norma, Brenda, and Mary Beth. Please read their reviews as well to gather their thoughts on this book.
Thank you to HarperCollins UK and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
October 23, 2024
This one didn’t hit for me the way I thought it would 🔥 a good read for spooky season, but I don’t think I’ll be rushing to recommend it
October 18, 2024
This book was not good.
At its core, the story is supposed to be about how this book connects Alison from 1524 and Erin in 2024 because you learn they are from the same witchy bloodline and are destined (maybe?? I guess??) to be “carriers” for this book.
But there is absolutely ZERO origin story about the book and how/why it is magic, how this bloodline became carriers for it, or the Triskele in general. Why did the real Triskele want it back so bad?
There are all these strings between Alison and Erin, but what ultimately connects them is Erin just happens to join a cult that is completely unrelated but coincidentally takes on the name of Triskele … and they somehow had acquired the book and just … give it to her? And now she can’t “get rid of it”? She was in the carrier bloodline she should have been destined to acquire it — why the culty sex thing?
Because the carrier thing ultimately doesn’t matter to the story. This book can just show up for anyone at any time and you don’t have to be any sort of special to experience its magic? So why even make Alison and Erin related?
Erin being “possessed” by Nyx was so fucking random. Was it because the book is possessed by Nyx so the carrier of the book becomes possessed? If yes … then who or what TF is Nyx? Or was Alison’s son somehow possessing Erin from 500 years ago? (Also, ummm bye? What happened to those two kids??)
Clem should never have been the main character. She’s not related to the book in any way and too distracting with her random ass heart issue and her divorce from Quinn, both a constant focus but neither has any bearing on the story. It should have been all about Alison and Erin and tying it all together more.
Other random things that pissed me off:
- Having single, 2-3 page chapters from a random, inconsequential characters POV is a lazy way to move the story along.
- Too many random ass characters at the hospital. Literally every time one is mentioned I’m like, “who the fuck is this?”
- If Senna was still in the cult and Erin left they absolutely would still not be friends. A real cult would never allow that.
At its core, the story is supposed to be about how this book connects Alison from 1524 and Erin in 2024 because you learn they are from the same witchy bloodline and are destined (maybe?? I guess??) to be “carriers” for this book.
But there is absolutely ZERO origin story about the book and how/why it is magic, how this bloodline became carriers for it, or the Triskele in general. Why did the real Triskele want it back so bad?
There are all these strings between Alison and Erin, but what ultimately connects them is Erin just happens to join a cult that is completely unrelated but coincidentally takes on the name of Triskele … and they somehow had acquired the book and just … give it to her? And now she can’t “get rid of it”? She was in the carrier bloodline she should have been destined to acquire it — why the culty sex thing?
Because the carrier thing ultimately doesn’t matter to the story. This book can just show up for anyone at any time and you don’t have to be any sort of special to experience its magic? So why even make Alison and Erin related?
Erin being “possessed” by Nyx was so fucking random. Was it because the book is possessed by Nyx so the carrier of the book becomes possessed? If yes … then who or what TF is Nyx? Or was Alison’s son somehow possessing Erin from 500 years ago? (Also, ummm bye? What happened to those two kids??)
Clem should never have been the main character. She’s not related to the book in any way and too distracting with her random ass heart issue and her divorce from Quinn, both a constant focus but neither has any bearing on the story. It should have been all about Alison and Erin and tying it all together more.
Other random things that pissed me off:
- Having single, 2-3 page chapters from a random, inconsequential characters POV is a lazy way to move the story along.
- Too many random ass characters at the hospital. Literally every time one is mentioned I’m like, “who the fuck is this?”
- If Senna was still in the cult and Erin left they absolutely would still not be friends. A real cult would never allow that.
May 7, 2025
After Clem gets a call that her daughter Erin is in hospital, she rushes to get to her side. What happened, and how?
The last Clem knew, Erin had just gone hiking with her boyfriend, Arlo, and best friend, Senna, in the remote area of the Orkney Islands, but there was nothing particularly dangerous about the trip; nothing out of the ordinary.
But somehow, Erin's boyfriend is now dead, and Senna is nowhere to be found. Erin, in a medically-induced coma, has been severely burned and nothing but questions surround the circumstances that got her to that point.
Clem, at her wit's end, reaches out to her ex, Erin's father, Quinn, relaying to him what has happened. Even though his relationship with Erin is estranged, it's the right thing to do. He rushes to the hospital as well.
As she awakens, Erin seems completely out of sorts. She doesn't recognize her parents and insists that her name is Nyx. This is when the creepiness sets in...
In addition to this modern narrative, we also get the perspective of Alyson, who was tried as a witch in the 1590s in Kirkwall, Orkney. We learn of her life and the events leading up to her trial.
This historical perspective is based upon true events, which the author goes into further detail on in the Author's Note.
Be sure to read that at the end. I feel like it brought wonderful context to this story and it impressed me the lengths Cooke went to with her research. An important moment in history to recognize and remember.
It has taken me way too long to pick up The Book of Witching, which released in October 2024. I am such a fan of Cooke's writing, and I loved the blend of Historical Horror with more modern-Thriller elements in this one.
While I did feel some bits in the modern perspective got a little convoluted towards the end, that really didn't have much of an impact on my feelings on the story as a whole.
I felt like Clem was such a believable character. She was so devoted to Erin, and finding out what had happened to her, as well as to helping her heal in any way she could.
She wasn't giving up on her daughter, no matter how challenging things got. I also enjoyed Clem and Quinn working together, putting aside past issues in order to help Erin. I felt their relationship was really well done.
I feel like the pace at which Cooke revealed what was going on with Erin, what she chose to reveal and when, gave this a healthy dose of creepy atmosphere, and I'm always down for that. Some of the scenes in the hospital, with Erin acting out of character, gave me chills.
Overall, I feel like this was a very well executed story. I think the author definitely succeeded in doing what she set out to do. I found it gripping, compelling and well balanced.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys Historical Horror, Atmospheric Thrillers, or Gothic feels. I don't think you'll be disappointed.
Thank you to the publisher, Berkley, for providing me with a copy to read and review. C.J. Cooke is an auto-read author for me, and this is a perfect example of why.
I'm sorry I waited so long to pick it up!
The last Clem knew, Erin had just gone hiking with her boyfriend, Arlo, and best friend, Senna, in the remote area of the Orkney Islands, but there was nothing particularly dangerous about the trip; nothing out of the ordinary.
But somehow, Erin's boyfriend is now dead, and Senna is nowhere to be found. Erin, in a medically-induced coma, has been severely burned and nothing but questions surround the circumstances that got her to that point.
Clem, at her wit's end, reaches out to her ex, Erin's father, Quinn, relaying to him what has happened. Even though his relationship with Erin is estranged, it's the right thing to do. He rushes to the hospital as well.
As she awakens, Erin seems completely out of sorts. She doesn't recognize her parents and insists that her name is Nyx. This is when the creepiness sets in...
In addition to this modern narrative, we also get the perspective of Alyson, who was tried as a witch in the 1590s in Kirkwall, Orkney. We learn of her life and the events leading up to her trial.
This historical perspective is based upon true events, which the author goes into further detail on in the Author's Note.
Be sure to read that at the end. I feel like it brought wonderful context to this story and it impressed me the lengths Cooke went to with her research. An important moment in history to recognize and remember.
It has taken me way too long to pick up The Book of Witching, which released in October 2024. I am such a fan of Cooke's writing, and I loved the blend of Historical Horror with more modern-Thriller elements in this one.
While I did feel some bits in the modern perspective got a little convoluted towards the end, that really didn't have much of an impact on my feelings on the story as a whole.
I felt like Clem was such a believable character. She was so devoted to Erin, and finding out what had happened to her, as well as to helping her heal in any way she could.
She wasn't giving up on her daughter, no matter how challenging things got. I also enjoyed Clem and Quinn working together, putting aside past issues in order to help Erin. I felt their relationship was really well done.
I feel like the pace at which Cooke revealed what was going on with Erin, what she chose to reveal and when, gave this a healthy dose of creepy atmosphere, and I'm always down for that. Some of the scenes in the hospital, with Erin acting out of character, gave me chills.
Overall, I feel like this was a very well executed story. I think the author definitely succeeded in doing what she set out to do. I found it gripping, compelling and well balanced.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys Historical Horror, Atmospheric Thrillers, or Gothic feels. I don't think you'll be disappointed.
Thank you to the publisher, Berkley, for providing me with a copy to read and review. C.J. Cooke is an auto-read author for me, and this is a perfect example of why.
I'm sorry I waited so long to pick it up!
October 22, 2024
I ate this book up and didn't want to put it down.
The way C.J. Cooke masters mixing up historical fictional, folklore, and horror in alternating timelines. Sometimes, I can get frustrated with stories who alternate timelines because it's hard to keep up. C.J. Cooke's chapters are just right for it.
The story starts out with Alison Balfour's story (who was a real person) in 1594, Orkney Scotland, who is ultimately accused of witchcraft and hung and present day with Clem's story and her daughter Erin. Clem gets a call that no mother wants to get when her daughter is on vacation camping/backpacking across the country. Erin has been burned on most of her body and was barely hanging on to life when brought in. Her boyfriend Arlo is dead, and her friend is missing. The police start questioning her when she realizes that they think Erin is a suspect for Arlo's murder and her missing friend Sienna. Arlo's hands were bound behind his back. Erin is placed in a medically induced coma so she can heal, and when she wakes up, she wants to be called nyx. Clem and Erin's father, her ex, start to investigate and find answers to clear Erin's name and solve why she suddenly wakes up demanding to be called Nyx. Clem sets out to find out if it was an accident or something more sinister. It turns out the answers she's looking for just might be intertwined with events that happened centuries ago in 1594.
The way C.J. Cooke masters mixing up historical fictional, folklore, and horror in alternating timelines. Sometimes, I can get frustrated with stories who alternate timelines because it's hard to keep up. C.J. Cooke's chapters are just right for it.
The story starts out with Alison Balfour's story (who was a real person) in 1594, Orkney Scotland, who is ultimately accused of witchcraft and hung and present day with Clem's story and her daughter Erin. Clem gets a call that no mother wants to get when her daughter is on vacation camping/backpacking across the country. Erin has been burned on most of her body and was barely hanging on to life when brought in. Her boyfriend Arlo is dead, and her friend is missing. The police start questioning her when she realizes that they think Erin is a suspect for Arlo's murder and her missing friend Sienna. Arlo's hands were bound behind his back. Erin is placed in a medically induced coma so she can heal, and when she wakes up, she wants to be called nyx. Clem and Erin's father, her ex, start to investigate and find answers to clear Erin's name and solve why she suddenly wakes up demanding to be called Nyx. Clem sets out to find out if it was an accident or something more sinister. It turns out the answers she's looking for just might be intertwined with events that happened centuries ago in 1594.
October 10, 2025
Books about witches especially those with a historical twist and a dash of the supernatural are some of my favorites, and The Book of Witching had me spellbound.
The historical timeline, inspired by a real-life figure, adds a captivating layer of intrigue, and the mystery kept me hooked right up to the thrilling end. That said, while the conclusion was exciting, a few threads felt unresolved, leaving me wishing for just a touch more closure. Still, it’s a fantastic read that I highly recommend!
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
The historical timeline, inspired by a real-life figure, adds a captivating layer of intrigue, and the mystery kept me hooked right up to the thrilling end. That said, while the conclusion was exciting, a few threads felt unresolved, leaving me wishing for just a touch more closure. Still, it’s a fantastic read that I highly recommend!
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
October 31, 2025
Dual timeline 🧐 Witch trial 🧙Haunting 👻
September 29, 2024
4.8 ✩✩✩✩ - Thank you to NetGalley and Tor Nightfire for this title.
This story ebbs between the present time of 2024 and 1594 to uncover the past, what happened in our time, and its relation to Erin and her family.
🔮 2024: Erin has been found by the water and near death with first-degree burns on most of her body. Her mother is notified, and after she sees her daughter, she is heartbroken. Erin, 19, is also a young mother to daughter Freya.
Erin’s mother (Clem) then begins the journey to find out what happened. Was there an argument that went totally wrong on Erin’s camping trip with her friends? Did they delve into the unknown? All will be revealed as this story begins to unravel.
We go back to past events in 1594 where Alison Belford (mother of Beatrix and Edward, wife to William) has been accused of witchcraft and consorting with the devil. Alison is known as a healer in her small community, using herbs and natural elements to heal the sick and afflicted.
The parallels to both times would be intertwined when Erin awakens from her medically induced coma as someone else.
🔥 I’M HEATED 🔥
- I'm already sour about Alison’s treatment and examination in jail, all done by men poking and prodding and looking for any natural nuance to be a mark of the devil 🤬😡Why are men stupid.
- This is just a means of probing a woman’s body (in what they call) in the name of Christianity.
- It’s always men in power who are threatened by what they don’t understand and use any excuse to accuse (mainly women) of devil worship.
🤪All Kinds of Weird but Good🤪
- The Book of Shadows, usually a guide to the craft and a written account of coven activity, differs in this story.
- This book of shadows is made from wood or twigs (from what I gather), but the pages are black with no writing.
- Each member (upon induction) screams their name into the book to seal their placement and determine whether they will be a traveler.
- Travelers have the ability to move through time and change their shape.
🧹Overall🧹
I enjoyed this book because it shows witchcraft as a generational aspect of this family history and explains why this book was initially attached to Erin but appears to the mother (Clem) and will continue to appear (possibly) to all the women in the family.
It reads well, and there is a mystery, a crime committed, family drama, and historical fiction. It is NOT scary, but that's my opinion. I still recommend this title.
This story ebbs between the present time of 2024 and 1594 to uncover the past, what happened in our time, and its relation to Erin and her family.
🔮 2024: Erin has been found by the water and near death with first-degree burns on most of her body. Her mother is notified, and after she sees her daughter, she is heartbroken. Erin, 19, is also a young mother to daughter Freya.
Erin’s mother (Clem) then begins the journey to find out what happened. Was there an argument that went totally wrong on Erin’s camping trip with her friends? Did they delve into the unknown? All will be revealed as this story begins to unravel.
We go back to past events in 1594 where Alison Belford (mother of Beatrix and Edward, wife to William) has been accused of witchcraft and consorting with the devil. Alison is known as a healer in her small community, using herbs and natural elements to heal the sick and afflicted.
The parallels to both times would be intertwined when Erin awakens from her medically induced coma as someone else.
🔥 I’M HEATED 🔥
- I'm already sour about Alison’s treatment and examination in jail, all done by men poking and prodding and looking for any natural nuance to be a mark of the devil 🤬😡Why are men stupid.
- This is just a means of probing a woman’s body (in what they call) in the name of Christianity.
- It’s always men in power who are threatened by what they don’t understand and use any excuse to accuse (mainly women) of devil worship.
🤪All Kinds of Weird but Good🤪
- The Book of Shadows, usually a guide to the craft and a written account of coven activity, differs in this story.
- This book of shadows is made from wood or twigs (from what I gather), but the pages are black with no writing.
- Each member (upon induction) screams their name into the book to seal their placement and determine whether they will be a traveler.
- Travelers have the ability to move through time and change their shape.
🧹Overall🧹
I enjoyed this book because it shows witchcraft as a generational aspect of this family history and explains why this book was initially attached to Erin but appears to the mother (Clem) and will continue to appear (possibly) to all the women in the family.
It reads well, and there is a mystery, a crime committed, family drama, and historical fiction. It is NOT scary, but that's my opinion. I still recommend this title.
October 1, 2024
C.J. Cooke is a new author for me although I have been hearing about her books in the horror genre. I was excited to sample one for myself.
Description:
Clem gets a call that is every mother’s worst nightmare. Her nineteen-year-old daughter Erin is unconscious in the hospital after a hiking trip with her friends on the remote Orkney Islands that met a horrifying end, leaving her boyfriend dead and her best friend missing. When Erin wakes, she doesn’t recognize her mother. And she doesn’t answer to her name, but insists she is someone named Nyx.
Clem travels the site of her daughter’s accident, determined to find out what happened to her. The answer may lie in a dark secret in the history of the a woman wrongly accused of witchcraft and murder four centuries ago. Clem begins to wonder if Erin’s strange behavior is a symptom of a broken mind, or the effects of an ancient curse?
My Thoughts:
C.J. Cooke lived up to her reputation as a really good story weaver with this book. I enjoyed the read and would recommend to anyone who likes thorror, fantasy or mystery. This one has a mysterious fantasy twist with historic ritual brought forward into the present. I liked the setting of the remote Orkney Islands in Scotland - it fit the story well as the author tells us afterwards this was inspired by historic events. The persecution of women for witchcraft is front and center in the chain of devastating events. The plot moved well and the characters were well-drawn. It kept me captivated.
Thanks to Berkley Publishing Group through Netgalley for an advance copy.
Description:
Clem gets a call that is every mother’s worst nightmare. Her nineteen-year-old daughter Erin is unconscious in the hospital after a hiking trip with her friends on the remote Orkney Islands that met a horrifying end, leaving her boyfriend dead and her best friend missing. When Erin wakes, she doesn’t recognize her mother. And she doesn’t answer to her name, but insists she is someone named Nyx.
Clem travels the site of her daughter’s accident, determined to find out what happened to her. The answer may lie in a dark secret in the history of the a woman wrongly accused of witchcraft and murder four centuries ago. Clem begins to wonder if Erin’s strange behavior is a symptom of a broken mind, or the effects of an ancient curse?
My Thoughts:
C.J. Cooke lived up to her reputation as a really good story weaver with this book. I enjoyed the read and would recommend to anyone who likes thorror, fantasy or mystery. This one has a mysterious fantasy twist with historic ritual brought forward into the present. I liked the setting of the remote Orkney Islands in Scotland - it fit the story well as the author tells us afterwards this was inspired by historic events. The persecution of women for witchcraft is front and center in the chain of devastating events. The plot moved well and the characters were well-drawn. It kept me captivated.
Thanks to Berkley Publishing Group through Netgalley for an advance copy.
November 13, 2024
spoiler-filled vlog going on my youtube channel soon, but this book did the cult trope so well.
slewfoot meets weyward, but way better than weyward lol
slewfoot meets weyward, but way better than weyward lol
May 4, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up
Absolutely loved the Orkney setting and enjoyed the present day timeline. I struggled a bit with the late 16th century one. Terrific ending - now that was well played!
Absolutely loved the Orkney setting and enjoyed the present day timeline. I struggled a bit with the late 16th century one. Terrific ending - now that was well played!
March 14, 2025
C.J. Cooke has written an atmospheric novel that neatly pulls the past and present together. A witch trial in 1594 that occurs in Kirkwall, Orkney and a pagan group, the Teskele, start this tale.
Fast forward to the present when Erin, Sienna and Arlo join a cult called the Treskele. What no one knows is that the cult is not the true Treskele and does not follow the old ways correctly. Also, no one is aware that the cult leader has stolen The Book of Shadows from the true Treskele.
If the book is not in the hands of a true Treskele Carrier bad things happen. That is what Erin learns when she becomes in possession of the book.
Cooke easily shifts from 1594 to 2024 in her storyline. Sometimes in a duel time-line story the shift of time-lines is awkward but in The Book of Witching the shift is smooth and seamless.
I wish there had been more detail about the Treskele, who they were, what their beliefs were and where they originated. My beliefs are that the Treskele is an old Norse symbol. Although this group is a creation of the authors imagination I want to know more about them.
I also wanted more background story about Allison Balfour, true or fictional. I think her background being more fleshed out; why she married a person outside the Treskele, why she really left the Treskele, her training as a Carrier, midwife, healer would have given the book the extra push toward a five star review.
Fast forward to the present when Erin, Sienna and Arlo join a cult called the Treskele. What no one knows is that the cult is not the true Treskele and does not follow the old ways correctly. Also, no one is aware that the cult leader has stolen The Book of Shadows from the true Treskele.
If the book is not in the hands of a true Treskele Carrier bad things happen. That is what Erin learns when she becomes in possession of the book.
Cooke easily shifts from 1594 to 2024 in her storyline. Sometimes in a duel time-line story the shift of time-lines is awkward but in The Book of Witching the shift is smooth and seamless.
I wish there had been more detail about the Treskele, who they were, what their beliefs were and where they originated. My beliefs are that the Treskele is an old Norse symbol. Although this group is a creation of the authors imagination I want to know more about them.
I also wanted more background story about Allison Balfour, true or fictional. I think her background being more fleshed out; why she married a person outside the Treskele, why she really left the Treskele, her training as a Carrier, midwife, healer would have given the book the extra push toward a five star review.
December 13, 2024
4.5 Stars!
Haunting, engaging, & thought-provoking!
THE BOOK OF WITCHES by C. J. Cooke is a compelling, easy to follow and understand, perfectly paced Gothic novel that was absolutely unputdownable. It’s a storyline that always fascinates me. I love magical realism and witchy books. Once I started reading it I was hooked and fully invested in the dual storylines.
I absolutely love it when an author includes an author’s note. It always makes me feel that much more connected to the story knowing how much research went into it. I love a little bit of background and knowing that this was based on a real person fascinated and intrigued me.
The horror and heart-breaking events that take place in this tale is unbelievable and made me angry.
A Witches Word read that I had the pleasure of buddy reading with Brenda, Debra and Mary Beth.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the opportunity to read an advanced digital copy of this book.
Haunting, engaging, & thought-provoking!
THE BOOK OF WITCHES by C. J. Cooke is a compelling, easy to follow and understand, perfectly paced Gothic novel that was absolutely unputdownable. It’s a storyline that always fascinates me. I love magical realism and witchy books. Once I started reading it I was hooked and fully invested in the dual storylines.
I absolutely love it when an author includes an author’s note. It always makes me feel that much more connected to the story knowing how much research went into it. I love a little bit of background and knowing that this was based on a real person fascinated and intrigued me.
The horror and heart-breaking events that take place in this tale is unbelievable and made me angry.
A Witches Word read that I had the pleasure of buddy reading with Brenda, Debra and Mary Beth.
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the opportunity to read an advanced digital copy of this book.
October 15, 2024
An exceptional book of historical fiction.
This is from a genre which I generally don't read but this one has turned out to be the exception.
The story is set between two timelines, one in the modern day and the other in the 1500's. This method of storytelling was delivered with perfection by Cooke. The storytelling was exceptional and kept making me want to read on and on.
Witch fiction made to perfection!
This is from a genre which I generally don't read but this one has turned out to be the exception.
The story is set between two timelines, one in the modern day and the other in the 1500's. This method of storytelling was delivered with perfection by Cooke. The storytelling was exceptional and kept making me want to read on and on.
Witch fiction made to perfection!
November 4, 2025
Sorry, my brain is somewhat dislodged today. This is a bit disorganised.
In this novel, the writing soars. The pages are filled with words joined together with a magical, loving thread to form fantastical lyrics that tell us a heartfelt story. This is something that only C.J. Cooke could create. Impeccable. An atmosphere cold, gothic and full of witchery pervades this novel. There is a lovely, lilting prose, passionate, exquisite descriptive passages. A glorious compilation of images. The writing is like a warm robe, enclosing you and guiding you gently through its intriguing story. A fascinating, earthy tale. Her characters come to life quickly, stirring our hearts for some, turning them to stone for others. There are strong, determined female characters, which Cooke excels at, and which I admire so much in fiction. Alison, Clem, and Erin, the ladies we follow, are quick to leap into our hearts. This is a thrilling tale of mystery, the supernatural, politics and family. There are cliffhanger chapter endings, suspense, a book that simply cannot be put down! The multiple timelines flow together seamlessly. Ms. Cooke has done it again.
In this novel, the writing soars. The pages are filled with words joined together with a magical, loving thread to form fantastical lyrics that tell us a heartfelt story. This is something that only C.J. Cooke could create. Impeccable. An atmosphere cold, gothic and full of witchery pervades this novel. There is a lovely, lilting prose, passionate, exquisite descriptive passages. A glorious compilation of images. The writing is like a warm robe, enclosing you and guiding you gently through its intriguing story. A fascinating, earthy tale. Her characters come to life quickly, stirring our hearts for some, turning them to stone for others. There are strong, determined female characters, which Cooke excels at, and which I admire so much in fiction. Alison, Clem, and Erin, the ladies we follow, are quick to leap into our hearts. This is a thrilling tale of mystery, the supernatural, politics and family. There are cliffhanger chapter endings, suspense, a book that simply cannot be put down! The multiple timelines flow together seamlessly. Ms. Cooke has done it again.
February 7, 2025
C.J. Cooke, author of “The Lighthouse Witches”, “The Ghost Woods” and several more, has created a new witchy thriller, “The Book of Witching”. Set in both Orkney and Glasgow, Scotland, across two time periods, Cooke delivers a pulse-pounding, gripping story about a mother’s love, witchcraft and the dark power of secrets.
Glasgow, 2024: Clementine gets a call in the middle of the night, the terrifying nightmare that all parents dread- her daughter, Erin, is in critical condition at the hospital. Erin has been brought in after a horrific accident, burns on the majority of her body, her boyfriend dead and her best friend missing. When Erin regains consciousness, she insists that she is not Erin at all but someone by the name of “Nyx”. Clem is desperate to find out what happened to her daughter then and what is happening to her now.
Orkney, 1594: Alison Balfour is a healer, on trial for witchcraft after refusing to take part in a political ploy. Alison knows that she will be burned at the stake, leaving her young children behind if she admits to the crime that she did not commit but not admitting it may cost her even more.
This dual timeline novel has short, digestible chapters that make it an absorbing and immersive page-turner. Narrated primarily by Alison and Clem, there are a few chapters where we hear from other players, such as Clem’s daughter and Alison’s son, that help add a bit more background to the plot. Both Alison and Clem are desperate mothers who will do anything to protect their children even if they do not know the forces they need to protect their children from.
I had to stop reading this book in order to make it last longer, as this was easily a book I could’ve polished off in one day. Alternating between Clem and Alison, I was invested in both women’s storylines and curious as to how they connected and did not want to stop reading until I found out. Cooke’s endings for both women were well-developed and realistic, with paranormal elements that added that extra spooky component.
This seems to be a month where I’m reading witchy novels and I’m so happy “The Book of Witching” came my way. Witchcraft, cults, magical books and rituals all in one place? I could not ask for more. Cooke’s writing is creative and polished and “Witching” is an addictive page-turner in all the best ways. “Witching” was a nominee for Goodreads “Best Horror Fiction” in 2024 and it is easy to see why.
Glasgow, 2024: Clementine gets a call in the middle of the night, the terrifying nightmare that all parents dread- her daughter, Erin, is in critical condition at the hospital. Erin has been brought in after a horrific accident, burns on the majority of her body, her boyfriend dead and her best friend missing. When Erin regains consciousness, she insists that she is not Erin at all but someone by the name of “Nyx”. Clem is desperate to find out what happened to her daughter then and what is happening to her now.
Orkney, 1594: Alison Balfour is a healer, on trial for witchcraft after refusing to take part in a political ploy. Alison knows that she will be burned at the stake, leaving her young children behind if she admits to the crime that she did not commit but not admitting it may cost her even more.
This dual timeline novel has short, digestible chapters that make it an absorbing and immersive page-turner. Narrated primarily by Alison and Clem, there are a few chapters where we hear from other players, such as Clem’s daughter and Alison’s son, that help add a bit more background to the plot. Both Alison and Clem are desperate mothers who will do anything to protect their children even if they do not know the forces they need to protect their children from.
I had to stop reading this book in order to make it last longer, as this was easily a book I could’ve polished off in one day. Alternating between Clem and Alison, I was invested in both women’s storylines and curious as to how they connected and did not want to stop reading until I found out. Cooke’s endings for both women were well-developed and realistic, with paranormal elements that added that extra spooky component.
This seems to be a month where I’m reading witchy novels and I’m so happy “The Book of Witching” came my way. Witchcraft, cults, magical books and rituals all in one place? I could not ask for more. Cooke’s writing is creative and polished and “Witching” is an addictive page-turner in all the best ways. “Witching” was a nominee for Goodreads “Best Horror Fiction” in 2024 and it is easy to see why.
December 23, 2025
This is a two timelines book and, for me, the two timelines didn’t work out very well. There was a faint tendril connecting the two that felt like an afterthought and after the first half or so I started to lose the urge to keep going but I did. If i were able to go back in time I would’ve been better off dnf-ing because it was all a bit predictable. A three but it’s a low three.
April 20, 2025
This book was meh to me. Loved the concept but the two stories felt disconnected to me. Plus they spoiled something major to happen in the story and the ending wasn’t great. So quick read but just okay for me.
January 12, 2025
This is a very quick read. I started and finished in one day, and I think that's largely because the plot line is less complex than those of Cooke's other novels. It's still entertaining enough to sustain interest. I liked and cared about the characters. But it definitely has less substance than The Nesting or The Lighthouse Witches, for example.
Two parallel storylines take place in the same location, but separated by centuries. One story takes place during the notorious time of King James, who in the beginning of his reign was known for egging on witch hunters. It's the story of a mother whose ancestors are members of the Old Religion. But having grown fearful, she doesn't want her children, despite their innate connection with nature, to follow that path for their own safety. Unfortunately, members of King James court come to town and immediately begin to bait her to see if she is guilty of witchcraft. The other storyline takes place in our day and age, and follows mother & grandmother, Clem. She receives word that her daughter, Erin, has been in a horrible accident while out camping with two other friends. Clem had stayed home to take care of Erin's daughter Freya. Erin is in a coma in the hospital and cannot defend herself. One of her friends, her boyfriend, is dead and one is MIA. The police insinuate that some how Erin may be to blame simply because they uncover some provocative tiktok videos on Erin's account that show that she has been following the Old Religion. Very quickly on in this novel, readers can see how the two stories follow similar paths and how the women involved--despite 6 centuries of change and education--are still misjudged and discriminated against for similar reasons.
As I mentioned, The Book of Witching certainly held my interest, and it's worth reading from the library. I have a degree in British literature, so personally I enjoyed the references to the history surrounding the main topics, and I found the historical information accurate. So I appreciated that aspect as well.
I will say that I have seen this sort of story written multiple times before in more thematically layered novels. This isn't one that particularly moved me. But it's fun for a snowy Sunday afternoon.
Two parallel storylines take place in the same location, but separated by centuries. One story takes place during the notorious time of King James, who in the beginning of his reign was known for egging on witch hunters. It's the story of a mother whose ancestors are members of the Old Religion. But having grown fearful, she doesn't want her children, despite their innate connection with nature, to follow that path for their own safety. Unfortunately, members of King James court come to town and immediately begin to bait her to see if she is guilty of witchcraft. The other storyline takes place in our day and age, and follows mother & grandmother, Clem. She receives word that her daughter, Erin, has been in a horrible accident while out camping with two other friends. Clem had stayed home to take care of Erin's daughter Freya. Erin is in a coma in the hospital and cannot defend herself. One of her friends, her boyfriend, is dead and one is MIA. The police insinuate that some how Erin may be to blame simply because they uncover some provocative tiktok videos on Erin's account that show that she has been following the Old Religion. Very quickly on in this novel, readers can see how the two stories follow similar paths and how the women involved--despite 6 centuries of change and education--are still misjudged and discriminated against for similar reasons.
As I mentioned, The Book of Witching certainly held my interest, and it's worth reading from the library. I have a degree in British literature, so personally I enjoyed the references to the history surrounding the main topics, and I found the historical information accurate. So I appreciated that aspect as well.
I will say that I have seen this sort of story written multiple times before in more thematically layered novels. This isn't one that particularly moved me. But it's fun for a snowy Sunday afternoon.
October 11, 2025
Initially this book seemed to be two disconnected stories happening centuries apart, but throughout the course of the tale they begin to weave seamlessly together. It is an engaging read, especially for the spooky month of October.
October 8, 2024
This is my first book by CJ Cooke. I love witchy books so I had to check this out. The premise sounded so good. I'm not a huge fantasy person but magic and witchcraft are fun to read about. This one is loosely based on the witch trials in Scotland in the 1500’s. It's told through two timelines, the 1500’s, and current day. In the past timeline we follow Alison who's accused of witchcraft and imprisoned. Some parts of this story line angered me quite a bit. The way these women were treated back then were abhorrent.
In the current timeline we follow Clem and her nineteen yr old daughter who's unconscious and in the hospital after a tragedy while on a hiking trip on the remote Orkney Islands. When she wakes, she doesn't recognize her mother and insists she's someone named Nyx. Her mother is on a mission to find out the mystery of what is going on with her daughter. It could have something to do with a dark history…. possibly a curse.
I loved the feminist theme in this book. I can tell alot of research went into it and the writing was spectacular. and I thought it was a great read for fall, very atmospheric and had touches of horror. I was invested!! The ending brings the two timelines together in a clever way. Really, a great read!
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
In the current timeline we follow Clem and her nineteen yr old daughter who's unconscious and in the hospital after a tragedy while on a hiking trip on the remote Orkney Islands. When she wakes, she doesn't recognize her mother and insists she's someone named Nyx. Her mother is on a mission to find out the mystery of what is going on with her daughter. It could have something to do with a dark history…. possibly a curse.
I loved the feminist theme in this book. I can tell alot of research went into it and the writing was spectacular. and I thought it was a great read for fall, very atmospheric and had touches of horror. I was invested!! The ending brings the two timelines together in a clever way. Really, a great read!
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Read
September 30, 2024Why I Love It
By Emilia Hart
The nights are drawing in and the leaves are turning gold. There’s the bite of winter in the air. Fall is here, so light your favourite candle and curl up with the spookiest book of the year.
C. J. Cooke is already the queen of the Gothic chiller, but The Book of Witching is truly her finest novel yet. Drawing together the stories of two women separated by four centuries, the pages hum with mystery and magic. In the Orkney Islands in 1594, Alison Balfour, accused of witchcraft, faces almost certain death. In modern day Glasgow, Clem—a woman grappling with her own mortality—rushes to her daughter’s hospital bedside. Erin has suffered burns to twenty percent of her body after a fire during a hiking trip to the Orkney Islands. One of her companions is dead and the other is missing, but Erin shows no concern for the fate of her friends. In fact, she no longer answers to Erin at all: she is convinced that her name is Nyx…
Inspired by a real historical witch trial, The Book of Witching is a stunning novel by an author at the peak of her powers. Not only is it a haunting, compelling Gothic novel, it’s also a tender meditation on the power of maternal love. I loved it.
By Emilia Hart
The nights are drawing in and the leaves are turning gold. There’s the bite of winter in the air. Fall is here, so light your favourite candle and curl up with the spookiest book of the year.
C. J. Cooke is already the queen of the Gothic chiller, but The Book of Witching is truly her finest novel yet. Drawing together the stories of two women separated by four centuries, the pages hum with mystery and magic. In the Orkney Islands in 1594, Alison Balfour, accused of witchcraft, faces almost certain death. In modern day Glasgow, Clem—a woman grappling with her own mortality—rushes to her daughter’s hospital bedside. Erin has suffered burns to twenty percent of her body after a fire during a hiking trip to the Orkney Islands. One of her companions is dead and the other is missing, but Erin shows no concern for the fate of her friends. In fact, she no longer answers to Erin at all: she is convinced that her name is Nyx…
Inspired by a real historical witch trial, The Book of Witching is a stunning novel by an author at the peak of her powers. Not only is it a haunting, compelling Gothic novel, it’s also a tender meditation on the power of maternal love. I loved it.
November 5, 2024
3,5. Auf den Epilog hätte ich verzichten können.
August 23, 2025
**4,5/5**
Thank you so much HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction | HarperCollins for the arc!
„One's purest signature is the sound of one's fear.
And the Book of Witching holds them all for-ever.“
- Dual timeline (1594/2024)
- Witch trials
- Haunting book
- Pagan practices
- Ritual gone wrong
What I liked:
First things first. I will definitely buy a physical copy of this book for my bookshelf and I think that’s always the biggest compliment when you’ve already read the ebook.
The way the story slowly unravels the mystery by switching between two timelines is so intriguing!
Especially in the 16th century timeline, you're in a constant state of unsettling tension because, with the witch trials, you just know there won't be a happy outcome.
I also found it interesting to read about the small nuances that separated pagan practices and home remedies from what was considered witchcraft by the accusers, especially focused on one specific community on an archipelago.
What I didn’t like:
I wish the final task for the main character was resolved a bit more slowly once she knew what to do. In comparison to the pacing of the rest of the book, it happened very fast and felt a bit too easy.
Writing style: 4/5
Characters: 5/5
Story & Plot: 4,5/5
Vibes: 5/5
Thank you so much HarperCollins UK, HarperFiction | HarperCollins for the arc!
„One's purest signature is the sound of one's fear.
And the Book of Witching holds them all for-ever.“
- Dual timeline (1594/2024)
- Witch trials
- Haunting book
- Pagan practices
- Ritual gone wrong
What I liked:
First things first. I will definitely buy a physical copy of this book for my bookshelf and I think that’s always the biggest compliment when you’ve already read the ebook.
The way the story slowly unravels the mystery by switching between two timelines is so intriguing!
Especially in the 16th century timeline, you're in a constant state of unsettling tension because, with the witch trials, you just know there won't be a happy outcome.
I also found it interesting to read about the small nuances that separated pagan practices and home remedies from what was considered witchcraft by the accusers, especially focused on one specific community on an archipelago.
What I didn’t like:
I wish the final task for the main character was resolved a bit more slowly once she knew what to do. In comparison to the pacing of the rest of the book, it happened very fast and felt a bit too easy.
Writing style: 4/5
Characters: 5/5
Story & Plot: 4,5/5
Vibes: 5/5
May 10, 2025
A 3.5 ⭐️ read for me. Dual timelines worked at times and at other times got confusing. I did love the 1500s witchcraft trial chapters in this book. But the present day storyline seemed very YA much of the time. A good read and it’s left me wanting to try one of Cooke’s other books.
October 17, 2025
After a few 2,3 star reads, C.J. Cooke’s book is a great welcome to my reading slump.
I love historical fiction, add to that mystery, witchcraft and courtroom drama, I am sold!
The story kept my attention from the first chapter until the end. Clearly the author put in a lot of research into the historical context. The time line is between 1500’s to current times. Both parts of the story were full of mystery. I wanted to know what was behind the curtain…
The ending was very satisfying. Over all perfect book for the spooky season!
Happy Reading 🍷
I love historical fiction, add to that mystery, witchcraft and courtroom drama, I am sold!
The story kept my attention from the first chapter until the end. Clearly the author put in a lot of research into the historical context. The time line is between 1500’s to current times. Both parts of the story were full of mystery. I wanted to know what was behind the curtain…
The ending was very satisfying. Over all perfect book for the spooky season!
Happy Reading 🍷
June 22, 2024
ARC for review. To be published October 8, 2024.
On the basis of title and cover a lot of people will be interested in this one, and it’s well worth your time if you like this type of thing. Clem’s nineteen year old daughter, Erin (the best name EVAH!) is found unconscious and injured after a hiking trip with her boyfriend and her best friend in the Orkney Islands. Her boyfriend died and her friend is missing. When Erin wakes she doesn’t seem to recognize her mother and she claims her name is Nyx.
Also here, the story of a 16th century woman accused of witchcraft.
The stories, told in dual timelines, got right down to it. This is not one of those dreamy fantasy books that everyone is so enamored with nowadays (and that I’m completely uninterested in) but a gritty story with real stakes. I enjoyed it quite a bit and recommend it.
On the basis of title and cover a lot of people will be interested in this one, and it’s well worth your time if you like this type of thing. Clem’s nineteen year old daughter, Erin (the best name EVAH!) is found unconscious and injured after a hiking trip with her boyfriend and her best friend in the Orkney Islands. Her boyfriend died and her friend is missing. When Erin wakes she doesn’t seem to recognize her mother and she claims her name is Nyx.
Also here, the story of a 16th century woman accused of witchcraft.
The stories, told in dual timelines, got right down to it. This is not one of those dreamy fantasy books that everyone is so enamored with nowadays (and that I’m completely uninterested in) but a gritty story with real stakes. I enjoyed it quite a bit and recommend it.
October 8, 2025
Halloween Bingo 2025
I can't say that I'm wild about this novel. I was mildly interested in both timelines, present day and 16th century Orkney, but the two didn't intersect until halfway through the book, leaving me, as a reader, adrift. The chapters alternated timelines and they were very short, making the narrative feel very choppy to me. Add that to the brutality in each: the witch trial in Orkney and the fire/murder?/missing person in the present, and it made for harrowing reading.
I've read a bit about the witch trials and in my opinion the author represents Alison's treatment very realistically. The men who are trying her have their minds made up and her word is neither listened to nor believed. She is humiliated by being strip searched, tormented with needles and hot iron, and sleep deprivation, fed only the bare minimum, and confined in horrible conditions. As a result, she looks and smells awful and better fits the stereotype of the witch at her trial. It's men and the church using a poor woman cruelly to distract from their own bad behaviour. It makes me volcanically angry!
I had a difficult time motivating myself to finish the book. Alison's timeline was so hopeless, I just didn't want to see it. Erin has a somewhat softer landing, but she has also lost so much. And I absolutely fucking hated the ending. Your mileage may vary.
I read this book for the Spellbound square of my Halloween Bingo card.
I can't say that I'm wild about this novel. I was mildly interested in both timelines, present day and 16th century Orkney, but the two didn't intersect until halfway through the book, leaving me, as a reader, adrift. The chapters alternated timelines and they were very short, making the narrative feel very choppy to me. Add that to the brutality in each: the witch trial in Orkney and the fire/murder?/missing person in the present, and it made for harrowing reading.
I've read a bit about the witch trials and in my opinion the author represents Alison's treatment very realistically. The men who are trying her have their minds made up and her word is neither listened to nor believed. She is humiliated by being strip searched, tormented with needles and hot iron, and sleep deprivation, fed only the bare minimum, and confined in horrible conditions. As a result, she looks and smells awful and better fits the stereotype of the witch at her trial. It's men and the church using a poor woman cruelly to distract from their own bad behaviour. It makes me volcanically angry!
I had a difficult time motivating myself to finish the book. Alison's timeline was so hopeless, I just didn't want to see it. Erin has a somewhat softer landing, but she has also lost so much. And I absolutely fucking hated the ending. Your mileage may vary.
I read this book for the Spellbound square of my Halloween Bingo card.
August 19, 2024
I've read C.J. Cooke's The Lighthouse Witches and did enjoy it for the most part, so I was excited to see what else Cooke would come up with. The Book of Witching sounds absolutely amazing: Scotland's Orkney Islands as the primary setting, a hiking trip ending in a horrible event that leaves one girl severely burned, one boy dead and another girl missing and the history of a woman accused of being a witch - delicious.
I liked Cooke's writing, and it was obvious how much research went into this book. Which is also why I vastly preferred the chapters spending time with Alison, our poor woman accused of witchcraft during the time of witch persecutions. I felt completely emotionally connected to this part of the dual timeline story, as heartbreaking and rage-inducing as it was. I wasn't quite as engaged with the modern timeline, in which Clem gets a terrible phonecall about an incident that left her 19 year old daughter Erin on death's door. The mystery as to what happened on their hiking trip to the Orkney islands was intriguing, absolutely, but this part of the story was boggled down by too much side noise, especially the whole back and forth between Clem and her ex husband. I also wasn't a fan of the conclusion that connects both timelines.
I do think if the book was only focused on Alison's storyline I would have enjoyed it more, but it was still all in all an engaging read. I also really liked reading the author's note and learning about "real Alison". 3 stars.
Many thanks to HarperCollins and Netgalley for the arc!
I liked Cooke's writing, and it was obvious how much research went into this book. Which is also why I vastly preferred the chapters spending time with Alison, our poor woman accused of witchcraft during the time of witch persecutions. I felt completely emotionally connected to this part of the dual timeline story, as heartbreaking and rage-inducing as it was. I wasn't quite as engaged with the modern timeline, in which Clem gets a terrible phonecall about an incident that left her 19 year old daughter Erin on death's door. The mystery as to what happened on their hiking trip to the Orkney islands was intriguing, absolutely, but this part of the story was boggled down by too much side noise, especially the whole back and forth between Clem and her ex husband. I also wasn't a fan of the conclusion that connects both timelines.
I do think if the book was only focused on Alison's storyline I would have enjoyed it more, but it was still all in all an engaging read. I also really liked reading the author's note and learning about "real Alison". 3 stars.
Many thanks to HarperCollins and Netgalley for the arc!
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