The Witches of Vardo: THE INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER: ‘Powerful, deeply moving’ – Sunday Times

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Introduction to The Witches of Vardo

The Witches of Vardo is an international bestseller that has been described as ‘powerful, deeply moving’ by the Sunday Times. This novel tells the story of three women’s fight for survival in a time of madness, set in Norway in 1662, a dangerous time to be a woman.

Storyline

In 1662 Norway, a time when even dancing could lead to accusations of witchcraft, recently widowed Zigri is sent to the fortress at Vardø to be tried as a witch after her affair with the local merchant is discovered. Her daughter, Ingeborg, sets off into the wilderness to try to bring her mother back home, accompanied by Maren, the daughter of a witch, whose wild nature and unconquerable spirit gives Ingeborg the courage to venture into the unknown. Also captive in the fortress is Anna Rhodius, once the King of Denmark’s mistress, who has been sent in disgrace to the island of Vardø and will stop at nothing to return to her privileged life at court.

Features

• Set in 17th century Norway, offering a historical perspective on witch trials and the societal norms of the time.
• Follows the stories of three strong female characters as they navigate a patriarchal society weighted against them.
• Explores themes of prejudice, misogyny, freedom, and the power and strength found within women.
• Written with breathtaking detail and immediacy, summoning a historic witch trial to life.

Pros

• Powerful and Moving Narrative: The novel has been praised for its powerful and deeply moving storytelling.
• Strong Female Characters: The story is centered around the lives of three women, each with their own unique strengths and struggles, making for compelling characters.
• Historical Insight: Offers a glimpse into the lives of women during the 17th century, particularly those accused of witchcraft, providing historical insight and context.
• Atmospheric Writing: The author’s writing style has been described as haunting and beautifully written, creating a hugely atmospheric read.

Cons

• Potentially Distressing Content: The novel deals with themes of witch trials, misogyny, and prejudice, which may be distressing for some readers.
• Complex Characters and Plot: While the complexity of the characters and plot can be a strength, it may also be challenging for readers who prefer simpler narratives.

Conclusion

The Witches of Vardo is a timeless novel about the resilience of women in the face of adversity, offering a passionate indictment of the patriarchy and a vibrant exaltation of women’s strength. With its intricately woven storyline, well-developed characters, and historical context, it is a must-read for those interested in historical fiction, particularly stories about women’s struggles and triumphs throughout history.