top of page

The Witty Book Review: The Manningtree Witches

Oscar Wilde



Somewhere in a drawer in my house lies the first draft of a historical fiction novel about the childhood and adolescent years of Matthew Hopkins, famously known as The Witchfinder General. I aimed to craft an origin story for a man both abhorrent and historically mysterious. During my research phase, I delved into every available resource on the subject and the time period. When I came across "The Manningtree Witches," I felt compelled to read it.


A.K Blakemore, hailing from a poetry background, showcases her literary prowess in this stunningly written piece. It reads like poetry dressed up as prose, a remarkable achievement. Blakemore's command of the English language arouses instant envy for her ability to create striking similes and metaphors. Her descriptive skills are awe-inspiring, leaving me yearning to achieve such mastery.


Blakemore's infusion of historical research seamlessly complements the backdrop of a country engulfed in civil war. The narrative feels authentic, transporting me into the village rather than a historical documentary, a pitfall many books of this genre succumb to. When tackling the first draft of my Witchfinder novel, I grappled with the choice of POV. Should I opt for first person, third person omniscient, or dare to venture into the second person? Blakemore effortlessly navigates between first person POV and third person omniscient, a choice I found engaging. We remain invested in Rebecca West's character development, witnessing her transformation from a young girl in love to an independent decision-maker.


The story is equally compelling. Blakemore intertwines a fictional narrative with factual events, creating characters around the actual victims and Hopkins' accomplices. We follow Rebecca West, the daughter of an accused witch, facing accusations herself. Offered salvation from the noose if she testifies against her mother and other accused women, she grapples with choosing sides—whether aligned with God, the war, or her own moral compass. The book presents a challenging read given the harrowing truth of what happened to these women, reportedly up to 300, all murdered at the hands of one man.


The depravity of the subject matter finds balance in the flowing, rhythmic prose that effortlessly rolls off the tongue. Clunky, hard dialogue could have marred the reading experience. Whether a strategic effort or Blakemore's natural writing style (this being her first novel), the fusion of these elements creates a beautiful equilibrium between light and dark.


This book brilliantly resurrects the persecuted, giving them a voice they so desperately needed almost 400 years ago. Blakemore provides insight into the impossible situations these women faced at the hands of a malevolent man, deemed by Rebecca West as the devil himself. As you delve into this narrative, may you also glean some tips on how to write with a poet's eye.


Front cover of The Manningtree Witches


Kommentare


bottom of page