🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤
C.J. Cooke is quickly becoming one of my must-read authors, and her latest novel is no exception. If you’re craving a spooky blend of witchcraft, horror, and mystery set against the atmospheric backdrop of Scotland, look no further!
One of the things I love about this book is the dual timeline. the historical narrative takes place shortly after the North Berwick witch trials, focusing on Alison Balfour, a real figure wrongly accused of witchcraft on an Orkney Island. Meanwhile, in the present day, we follow Clem, whose daughter Erin goes on a hiking trip to the same island with her boyfriend and best friend. What happened to Erin is the heart of the mystery, and it’s as chilling as you’d hope.
C.J. Cooke’s writing is fluid, and her ability to craft well-rounded, engaging characters shines throughout the novel. The transitions between the two timelines flow and twist effortlessly keeping you immersed. The contrast between the historical and contemporary settings adds depth, and the eventual convergence of the two narratives is both clever and satisfying.
Alison’s storyline is particularly haunting because it’s rooted in true events, which adds an extra layer of depth and emotion to the story. It’s devastating but utterly compelling.
The audiobook version, narrated by Paula Masterton, deserves special mention. I sometimes struggle with audiobooks but her narration was spot on, her voice adds so much atmosphere and tensions to the story. I couldn’t stop listening!
Overall this is a well-crafted, atmospheric read. So, grab a cosy blanket, dim the lights.
“Now open the book and scream!”