TLC Book Tours – The Witch of Willow Hall by Hester Fox

Starting off the month with some witches! Perfect way to get into the Halloween spirit.

Thanks to Graydon House and TLC Book Tours for the free copy in exchange for my honest review!

THE WITCH OF WILLOW HALL – Hester Fox ( out now!)

Book Description:

Two centuries after the Salem witch trials, there’s still one witch left in Massachusetts. But she doesn’t even know it.

Take this as a warning: if you are not able or willing to control yourself, it will not only be you who suffers the consequences, but those around you, as well.

New Oldbury, 1821

In the wake of a scandal, the Montrose family and their three daughters—Catherine, Lydia and Emeline—flee Boston for their new country home, Willow Hall.

The estate seems sleepy and idyllic. But a subtle menace creeps into the atmosphere, remnants of a dark history that call to Lydia, and to the youngest, Emeline.

All three daughters will be irrevocably changed by what follows, but none more than Lydia, who must draw on a power she never knew she possessed if she wants to protect those she loves. For Willow Hall’s secrets will rise, in the end…

My Thoughts: 4/5 stars!

Anything that has to do with the Salem Witch Trials immediately has my attention. THE WITCH OF WILLOW HALL is incredibly atmospheric and takes places two centuries after the trials have taken place. They thought they eradicated all of the witches, but they missed one. Taking place in the 1800’s in Massachusetts, Fox transports us to the tiny town and the era perfectly.

I don’t want to say too much else of the plot – the synopsis gives you just enough. I went into this one blind and really enjoyed it. There is definitely a spooky and eerie vibe to this book, but don’t expect a straight up horror novel. Fox does a fantastic job building a constant sense of foreboding as the story continues and adds in an element of mystery surrounding the Montrose family. What was their scandal? Why were they forced to flee their home in Boston? What did Lydia discover about her family and their new home, Willow Hall?

The pacing was great and it tugs you along with ease. This isn’t an action packed read with black magic all around, but the suspense and sense of dread kept me captivated. I will say that if you are expecting a novel all about witchcraft, then you may leave disappointed. Overall, if you’re looking for a beautifully atmospheric novel, then this needs to be on your fall TBR. A lighter spooky read to get you into the Halloween spirit with very well-developed characters. I was shocked when I found out this was a debut novel – I will definitely be keeping an eye out for more from Fox in the future.

About the Author:

Hester Fox has a background in the museum field as a collections maintenance technician. This job has taken her from historic houses to fine art museums, where she has cleaned and cared for collections that range from paintings by old masters to ancient artifacts to early American furniture. She is a keen painter and has a Master’s in historical archaeology, as well as a background in medieval studies and art history. Hester lives outside of Boston with her husband and their two cats.

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