Debra's Reviews > Slewfoot: A Tale of Bewitchery

This book bewitched me! From the very beginning, I was enchanted. I found this book to be addictive, shocking, original, and so well done. Another plus was the beautiful illustrations in the book which helped me envision the characters and enhanced my reading experience. This book was a nice mix of horror, fantasy, historical fiction and the supernatural. This was my first time reading a book by Brom and it will not be my last. I look forward to reading more of his books.

Abitha's father put her on a ship and sent her off to a Puritan colony to be married. It's not an easy transition for the outspoken Abitha who now must follow strict rules on dressing, behavior, and speaking. When her husband dies, she does her best to advocate for herself.

A powerful entity has woken in the depths of a deep dark cave. It doesn't know its own identity or purpose. Soon Abitha and Samson, as Abitha calls him, will both need to decide who they are in this world.

This book was dark, atmospheric, imaginative, brooding, and wonderful. I was transported to colonial New England in the 1600's through Brom's vivid descriptions. It is a time when women had no voice and must be obedient. But even then, if you anger the wrong person, your fate is sealed.

This book had me feeling all kinds of emotions. I am happy I did not live back then. It was a male dominated world with women having no rights. With misogyny kicked into overdrive and harsh punishments dealt out, it was a dark and unforgiving time. I felt for Abitha having to change/tone down who she was to fit into the new community she did not choose. She is a strong outspoken person, and I admired her spunk and determination. I also felt for Slewfoot at times, not knowing who or what he was. Both are on a journey, and I enjoyed reading as they chose their paths. I was also angry for the injustice that was dealt. I thought Brom did a great job showing Abitha's frustrations as well as the group mentality of the colony.

This book was a nice surprise. I had no idea what I was getting into when I selected this book to read. I wanted to read a book about a witch or witches but what I got was so much more. I enjoyed how the story was told and the pacing of this highly imaginative and descriptive book. As I mentioned, the illustrations are amazing, and I suggest reading the book so that you can enjoy them.

Dark, gripping, horrific and atmospheric.

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