Book Tropes + Genre Graphic
Genre:
• Historical Witcherature
Tropes:
• Multiple Timelines
• Natural Rooted Magic
• Resilient Women
Book Blurb
"Weyward, they called us, when we would not submit, would no bend to their will. But we learned to wear the name with pride."
~ Weyward
Rock's Review
Book: Weyward
Author: Emilia Hart
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5 stars)
In this book, we see how the Old English word wyrd - meaning weird - is transformed into a family name Weyward - originally used in the first folio edition of Macbeth. Later editions, Weyward was replaced by weird.
Traveling through the years of: 1619, 1942, and 2019, we meet three women, all going through laborious life scenarios, but all of them share one thing in common - the cursed family name Weyward. Surprisingly, this story did not take the directions that I thought it would. Especially, initially thinking this was going to be a horror, (it's more magical realism) the only horror I found within this book was the continuous animosity towards men and the subjugation women. And don't get me wrong, I love when authors are bold with their writing, and I give Emilia kudos for doing so. I did learn about societal views throughout history, then vs. now, which I found fascinating.
At times, I was quite bored and tuned out of the story, while other moments I was hit with captivating conflict, itching to turn the next page to see what would happen next. So, to say the least, it was a very back and forth read for me. There are a handful of triggering topics that aren't mentioned in a proper trigger warning list, which isn't the end of the world, but to some readers it makes all the difference. Especially when topics such as r*pe, pregnancy loss, domestic violence, etc. are being mentioned in detail/off-page. So I hope Emilia learns from that and follows through in her future writing and provides the audience with a proper warning list.
On to happier notes, the intricate and bold connections between the three main characters is woven together not only beautifully, but cleverly - it's the main piece of magic holding this book together. I personally fell in love with Violet and her love for the outside and it's habitants. Her innocent views on life are refreshing to read and I love how curiosity roams her mind. The other two main women of the book, Altha and Kate, are equally resilient humans as well. The hassle of having to overcome obstacles and common societal opinions during each time frame is something unique to read. Each having to make crucial decisions and acts in hopes of beating such calamitous events - like everyone thinking you are a witch out to get them, or escaping an abusive partner.
A timeless story about discovery, witchcraft, and the natural essence that flows between Earth and women. And a message that female resilience will power over all in the end.
Rock's Recommendation
Who should read this book?
For anyone interested in reading three historical tales of witchcraft (not Halloween witches), earthly elements, and resilient women, I say give this book a go. It is a bold and captivating debut, and Emilia Hart captured the magic that Earth itself possesses. Plus, writing a triple narrative and weaving each one together into the next takes some serious time and talent.
Get a copy from Amazon
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