53 pages • 1-hour read
Alexis HendersonA modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
368
Novel • Fiction
•
Horror & Suspense•
Historical FictionBethel • Puritan-inspired dystopian world
2020
Adult
18+ years
The Year of the Witching by Alexis Henderson follows a young woman named Immanuelle who lives in the puritanical society of Bethel. She discovers forbidden dark powers in a mysterious forest that challenge the strict religious doctrines of her community. As secrets unravel, Immanuelle must confront terrifying truths to save Bethel from destructive forces.
Dark
Mysterious
Unnerving
Suspenseful
Fantastical
The Year of the Witching by Alexis Henderson has garnered praise for its dark and immersive atmosphere, compelling protagonist, and rich, feminist-inspired world-building. Some readers, however, feel the plot and character development falter in the latter half. Despite this, it stands out as a powerful debut in the horror-fantasy genre.
Readers who enjoy The Year of the Witching by Alexis Henderson are captivated by dark fantasy and feminist themes. Appreciators of The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood and The Crucible by Arthur Miller will find this tale of rebellion against a puritanical society enthralling. Perfect for those liking atmospheric and thought-provoking reads.
Heir to the Prophet and Immanuelle’s love interest, whose skeptical and principled nature leads him to question Bethel’s oppressive system. His character development is closely tied to his intellectual rebellion and growing relationship with Immanuelle.
The oppressive and hypocritical religious leader of Bethel who uses doctrine as a tool for control and power. His tyrannical rule and personal corruption are central antagonistic forces in the narrative.
Immanuelle’s grandmother, who embodies the strict piety of Bethel society, enforcing its laws out of fear and concern for Immanuelle’s safety. Her actions are rooted in a desire to protect her granddaughter from perceived hereditary curses.
Supernatural figures residing in the Darkwood who represent a challenge to Bethel’s theocracy and its denial of matriarchal power. They are catalysts in Immanuelle’s journey, associated with both danger and liberation.
Immanuelle’s childhood friend who represents the ideal woman in Bethel, embodying conformity and obedience. Her tragic fate underscores the patriarchal system's harsh realities.
A peer of Immanuelle and one of the Prophet's wives, who experiences a fall from grace within the patriarchal system. Her story illustrates the precarious nature of women’s status in Bethel.
Immanuelle’s paternal grandmother living outside Bethel’s control, demonstrating a life of personal and sexual freedom. Vera plays a crucial role as a mentor, providing Immanuelle with essential knowledge about her power.
368
Novel • Fiction
•
Horror & Suspense•
Historical FictionBethel • Puritan-inspired dystopian world
2020
Adult
18+ years
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