by Emilia Hart

• Fiction
• Witchcraft
• Feminism
• Fantasy

Weyward follows three women from the same family—Altha in 1619, Violet in 1942, and Kate in 2019 and tells their stories, tying them together not just by blood, but by the same place: Weyward Cottage. Each woman possesses a mysterious power and faces the suspicion of witchcraft, with struggles that are interwoven across generations, highlighting the enduring connections between them.

I was recommended this book after struggling with another historical fiction novel about witchcraft. At my book club, I had been saying how I wanted more detail about the trials women faced—not just generationally, but specifically in the context of witchcraft—and Weyward delivers on that. It explores whether, in some ways, times really have changed that much.

The novel is particularly engaging once you adjust to the format: each chapter focuses on one of the three women, in a running order. Chapters are short, around 10–15 minutes each, making the story easy to read in bite-sized chunks. While it took a few chapters for the plot to fully draw me in, I found Weyward fascinating and thoroughly entertaining. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I genuinely enjoyed it.

Hart explores themes of female empowerment and independence, as each woman struggles against the constraints of patriarchal society. The book celebrates their intelligence, independence, and defiance of societal norms and male dominance.

Witchcraft, female knowledge, and a deep connection to nature are also important themes, but at its heart, the novel is about identity and self-discovery. Each protagonist goes through a journey of rediscovering herself, with their powers symbolising heritage, self-acceptance, and the meaning behind the name “Weyward.”

It’s hard to choose a favourite character, as each Weyward woman is compelling in her own right. Altha is fearless and independent, Violet is resilient and resourceful, and Kate is curious and self-aware.

Hart’s writing is multi-generational, almost poetic, and rhythmic. The novel shifts between timelines, overlapping in places, yet consistently emphasises women’s empowerment. Her prose often plays on the mystical aspects of witchcraft, tying it beautifully to nature and heritage.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. While it may not be my absolute favourite, it’s one I would happily read again. I would recommend Weyward to anyone who enjoys a feminist, witchy story with strong, independent women challenging patriarchal norms. I’m also excited to discover more works by Emilia Hart.