Weyward
by Emilia Hart
- First published 2019
- 329 pages
- English
In 2019, Kate flees an abusive relationship, seeking refuge in Weyward Cottage, a ramshackle inheritance from a great aunt she barely remembers. The cottage, with its overgrown garden, offers a sanctuary, but also holds secrets of a hidden legacy stretching back centuries. In 1942, Violet is confined to her family's grand estate, longing for a life beyond societal expectations and seeking answers about her deceased mother. Her only clues are a locket and the word "weyward" etched into her bedroom. Further back, in 1619, Altha awaits trial for witchcraft, accused of a local farmer's death. Her mother taught her a unique connection to the natural world, a power now deemed dangerous.
Across these timelines, these three women, bound by blood and the mysterious Weyward Cottage in Cumbria, navigate worlds that seek to control and suppress them. Each faces distinct challenges, from accusations of witchcraft to the constraints of patriarchy and domestic abuse, yet they share an inherent strength and a deep, often untamed, connection to nature. Discover how their individual struggles and a shared, subtle magic intertwine, revealing a lineage of resilience and self-discovery that defies the limitations imposed upon them.
Across these timelines, these three women, bound by blood and the mysterious Weyward Cottage in Cumbria, navigate worlds that seek to control and suppress them. Each faces distinct challenges, from accusations of witchcraft to the constraints of patriarchy and domestic abuse, yet they share an inherent strength and a deep, often untamed, connection to nature. Discover how their individual struggles and a shared, subtle magic intertwine, revealing a lineage of resilience and self-discovery that defies the limitations imposed upon them.
What readers say
4.05
463K ratings across the web 8 in 10 readers loved it
The book "Weyward" is widely praised for its beautiful writing, vivid imagery, and atmospheric setting, drawing readers into a world of nature and hidden power. Many reviewers found the exploration of three women across different centuries to be sublime, highlighting their deep connection to the natural world and their individual journeys of discovering strength against patriarchal forces. The narrative is often described as well-crafted, with intricate characters and seamless interweaving of three equally compelling storylines. Readers appreciated the subtle integration of magical realism, which enhances the themes of healing, resilience, and female empowerment without resorting to traditional "witchy" tropes. The novel is celebrated as an impressive debut, showcasing a confident hand in storytelling and creating a captivating experience about family, legacy, and courage.
Despite its strengths, "Weyward" also garnered significant criticism, particularly regarding its intense and often graphic content. Many reviewers found the book's pervasive themes of misogyny, abuse, and violence against women to be confronting and, for some, overly repetitive and gratuitous, leading to discomfort or even boredom. Concerns were raised that the book's portrayal of female resilience felt undermined by the constant brutalization of its characters, with some feeling there was insufficient catharsis or meaningful commentary to justify the discomfort. The focus on pregnancy and motherhood as central to womanhood also alienated some readers, who found it to be an exclusive and potentially objectifying theme. Additionally, some critics felt the plot was cliched, the writing bland, and the characters lacked depth, arguing that the magical elements sometimes detracted from, rather than enhanced, the message of internal female strength.
Overall, "Weyward" emerges as a polarizing but often highly-rated debut that blends historical fiction, women's fiction, and magical realism. It is recommended for readers who appreciate atmospheric storytelling, multi-generational narratives, and themes of female empowerment and resilience. Those who enjoy a subtle touch of magic intertwined with grounded historical struggles, and who are prepared for emotionally challenging content, may find it a compelling and immersive read. However, potential readers should be aware of the extensive depictions of abuse and violence, and may want to check content warnings if sensitive to such topics. The book aims to resonate with those who believe in the enduring strength of women and the power of ancestral connections, particularly in overcoming adversity.
Despite its strengths, "Weyward" also garnered significant criticism, particularly regarding its intense and often graphic content. Many reviewers found the book's pervasive themes of misogyny, abuse, and violence against women to be confronting and, for some, overly repetitive and gratuitous, leading to discomfort or even boredom. Concerns were raised that the book's portrayal of female resilience felt undermined by the constant brutalization of its characters, with some feeling there was insufficient catharsis or meaningful commentary to justify the discomfort. The focus on pregnancy and motherhood as central to womanhood also alienated some readers, who found it to be an exclusive and potentially objectifying theme. Additionally, some critics felt the plot was cliched, the writing bland, and the characters lacked depth, arguing that the magical elements sometimes detracted from, rather than enhanced, the message of internal female strength.
Overall, "Weyward" emerges as a polarizing but often highly-rated debut that blends historical fiction, women's fiction, and magical realism. It is recommended for readers who appreciate atmospheric storytelling, multi-generational narratives, and themes of female empowerment and resilience. Those who enjoy a subtle touch of magic intertwined with grounded historical struggles, and who are prepared for emotionally challenging content, may find it a compelling and immersive read. However, potential readers should be aware of the extensive depictions of abuse and violence, and may want to check content warnings if sensitive to such topics. The book aims to resonate with those who believe in the enduring strength of women and the power of ancestral connections, particularly in overcoming adversity.
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Details & editions
- This edition
- St. Martin's Press, 2023
- ISBN
- 9781250280800
- Language
- English
Original edition Непокорные Originally published in 2019 · Russian · Inspiria
