Review of The Heretic's Daughter by Kathleen Kent

9:36 PM

The Heretic's Daughter: A Novel
by Kathleen Kent

Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: Back Bay Books; Reprint edition (October 12, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 031602449X
ISBN-13: 978-0316024495

Description (From Publisher Website)

Martha Carrier was one of the first women to be accused, tried and hanged as a witch in Salem, Massachusetts. Like her mother, young Sarah Carrier is bright and willful, openly challenging the small, brutal world in which they live. Often at odds with one another, mother and daughter are forced to stand together against the escalating hysteria of the trials and the superstitious tyranny that led to the torture and imprisonment of more than 200 people accused of witchcraft. This is the story of Martha's courageous defiance and ultimate death, as told by the daughter who survived.
Kathleen Kent is a tenth generation descendent of Martha Carrier. She paints a haunting portrait, not just of Puritan New England, but also of one family's deep and abiding love in the face of fear and persecution.

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Review
I have always been fascinated by the Salem Witch Trials and their place in history. I was really excited to read this book about Martha Carrier. While it's a work of fiction, the author weaves so much family history into the book, as well as actual events, that it really brings to life what happened. I have to admit that once I started the book I had a hard time putting it down. Kent weaves a tale of family, truth and courage in this wonderful novel. A book that shouldn't be missed, it's an excellent look into history through the eyes of a young girl. Kent is a marvelous author and I can't wait to read her next book.

Thank you to Hachette Books for providing me with a copy of this book to read and review.