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River Witch: Compelling historical fantasy with more than a touch of romance

Cheryl Burman
Published: 1 September 2022
Publisher: Holborn House Ltd
£3.99

Alone, in hiding, a desperate Hester battles for her life and her dream. Will the river be her friend?

‘You and I are not ordinary folk, little mistress. We are wise. We call the river by her goddess name, Sabrina.’

In late 19th century England, Hester yearns for more than the simple routine of her father’s farm. She listens to the river's whispers and envies the freedom of the nymphs who ride the white horses of the tides, calling to her to join them.

When Hester succumbs to Sabrina’s song, she is snatched from the rising waters by wise man Aaron – a stranger powerful in herbal lore – and more.

Aaron becomes her reluctant, and secret, mentor. But when Hester suggests to her widowed mother that healing is a way to help feed the family, she is met with scorn and accusations of witchery.

Mother decrees Hester must marry to settle her down. Any husband will do. The rough-handed, lustful fisherman, all manners with Mother, cannot wait to bed the fey and beautiful girl.

But when Hester flees to Aaron, she finds him gone.

Abandoned, alone, Hester must fight for her dream, or lose all she has gained.

A story of fantasy, love, faith, forgiveness, and strength, Hester’s plight will keep you turning the pages late into the evening.

Inspired by the true story of Ellen Hayward, tried for witchcraft in the Forest of Dean in 1906.

What readers say -

'This book goes right into the top 5 of the best witchy vibe books with feminist themes such as self reliance and empowerment that I have ever read.'

‘A beautifully written tale of magic and lore. This story flowed from the first page to the last.'

'I was left thinking about Hester long after I had closed the book.'

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