The Year of the Witching
Jul 2020 · Sold by Penguin
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36 reviews
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About this ebook
A young woman living in a rigid, puritanical society discovers dark powers within herself in this stunning, feminist fantasy debut.
In the lands of Bethel, where the Prophet's word is law, Immanuelle Moore's very existence is blasphemy. Her mother’s union with an outsider of a different race cast her once-proud family into disgrace, so Immanuelle does her best to worship the Father, follow Holy Protocol, and lead a life of submission, devotion, and absolute conformity, like all the other women in the settlement.
But a mishap lures her into the forbidden Darkwood surrounding Bethel, where the first prophet once chased and killed four powerful witches. Their spirits are still lurking there, and they bestow a gift on Immanuelle: the journal of her dead mother, who Immanuelle is shocked to learn once sought sanctuary in the wood.
Fascinated by the secrets in the diary, Immanuelle finds herself struggling to understand how her mother could have consorted with the witches. But when she begins to learn grim truths about the Church and its history, she realizes the true threat to Bethel is its own darkness. And she starts to understand that if Bethel is to change, it must begin with her.
In the lands of Bethel, where the Prophet's word is law, Immanuelle Moore's very existence is blasphemy. Her mother’s union with an outsider of a different race cast her once-proud family into disgrace, so Immanuelle does her best to worship the Father, follow Holy Protocol, and lead a life of submission, devotion, and absolute conformity, like all the other women in the settlement.
But a mishap lures her into the forbidden Darkwood surrounding Bethel, where the first prophet once chased and killed four powerful witches. Their spirits are still lurking there, and they bestow a gift on Immanuelle: the journal of her dead mother, who Immanuelle is shocked to learn once sought sanctuary in the wood.
Fascinated by the secrets in the diary, Immanuelle finds herself struggling to understand how her mother could have consorted with the witches. But when she begins to learn grim truths about the Church and its history, she realizes the true threat to Bethel is its own darkness. And she starts to understand that if Bethel is to change, it must begin with her.
A young woman living in a rigid, puritanical society discovers dark powers within herself in this stunning, feminist fantasy debut.
In the lands of Bethel, where the Prophet's word is law, Immanuelle Moore's very existence is blasphemy. Her mother’s union with an outsider of a different race ca...
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Ratings and reviews
36 reviews
Ashley Hawley
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August 5, 2025
As someone who is fascinated by the Salem Witch Trials and America's puritanical history, I really enjoyed this book! The only thing I wasn't a huge fan of was the pacing, as the ending felt a bit rushed, especially after so much build-up. But I would still recommend this book to anyone looking for an intriguing, witchy story!
Lala Jackson
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July 29, 2020
Wonderfully witchy, moody, and dark, this incredibly well written book keeps you interested and scared for what's about to happen, while also getting you incredibly attached to the characters, every step of the way.
20 people found this review helpful
FLOOD Kevin
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September 5, 2026
enjoyable. bit too tame and YA for me but I had fun regardless. needed more witchy lore, but great as a debut
About the author
Alexis Henderson is the author of Goodreads Choice Awards finalists The Year of the Witching and House of Hunger. When she's not writing, you'll find her hanging out with her cats or nursing a hot cup of tea.
Alexis Henderson is the author of Goodreads Choice Awards finalists The Year of the Witching and House of Hunger. When she's not writing, you'll find her hanging out with her cats or nursing a hot cup of tea.
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