The Year of the Witching

Alexis Henderson

53 pages 1-hour read

Alexis Henderson

The Year of the Witching

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

Alexis Henderson

The Year of the Witching

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Horror & Suspense

Historical Fiction
Setting

Bethel • Puritan-inspired dystopian world

Topic
Gender & Feminism
Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

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

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

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.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Year of the Witching?

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.

Character List

A dynamic and curious young woman with mixed heritage living in Bethel society, whose journey of self-discovery and compassion drives the story. Her mother's legacy and forbidden lineage burden her as she navigates the restrictive world around her.

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.

Book Details
Pages

368

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Fantasy

Horror & Suspense

Historical Fiction
Setting

Bethel • Puritan-inspired dystopian world

Topic
Gender & Feminism
Publication Year

2020

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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