Weyward - Emilia Hart

Weyward" by Emilia Hart is a spellbinding historical fiction novel that intertwines the lives of three women across different periods in time, all connected by a shared lineage and a mysterious legacy. The novel combines elements of magical realism, mystery, and a deep exploration of women's strength, independence, and survival.

The story is divided into three timelines:

1. In 1619, we meet Altha, a young woman living in rural England. She is accused of witchcraft after a tragic event in her village, and her life is marked by the oppressive societal norms of the time. As Altha grapples with the danger of being persecuted as a witch, she draws upon a hidden, mystical connection to the land and the natural world. Her narrative serves as the root of the family's legacy, one that is intertwined with a deep connection to nature and intuition.

2. In 1942, we follow Violet, Altha's descendant, who is a young woman dealing with the turbulent times of World War II. Violet is struggling to make a life for herself after fleeing her oppressive family and seeking refuge in the countryside. She becomes involved with a mysterious man and discovers more about her family’s past, particularly the stories of Altha and the legacy of their women.

3. In the present day, we meet Kate, a troubled woman who has left behind her life in London and retreated to a remote house in the countryside. Kate is drawn to the history of the Weyward women and begins to uncover the secrets of her ancestors as she seeks to find herself and escape the emotional trauma she has been carrying.