The Book of Witching set on Orkney

Submitted: 23rd September 2024

The Book of Witching – C.J. Cooke

Inspired by a true story!

This story is straight from the history books. In 16th century Orkney, Scotland, seventy-two women were executed during the North Berwick witch trials.

There was one woman – Alison Balfour, who was accused of assisting a man who wanted to kill his brother. In a horrible turn of events, the man being acquitted, but she was executed in 1594 at Gallow Ha’ in Kirkwall, Orkney.

The Book of Witching set on Orkney

Map of locations in The Book of Witching

BOARDING PASS INFORMATION

Destination : Orkney

Author guide: C J Cooke

Genre: historical fiction

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A novel to transport you to Orkney

Map of locations in The Book of Witching

I have a very definite love for this author. She writes some of the most atmospheric and folkloric fiction out there. This time, she takes a true story of a woman suspected of witchcraft, mixes it with the witch trials at large and weaves it all into a compelling tale of murder, intrigue and women’s rights.

This , if you excuse the pun, is one explosive mix. It’s as if she takes you back in time and gets you right in the heart of the action. I couldn’t believe this was a real story – or at least based on one. The horror, fear and heart-breaking events in this tale are just unbelievable. I can’t even imagine 72 women being executed for suspected witchcraft. 72! Who accused them? Men of course. I was angry even just after reading page one and imagining what was coming.

Map of locations in The Book of Witching

The opening scene is shocking and visceral – but how powerful! Then the folklore and the dark magic kick in as there are strange happenings and you don’t know what to make of it at first. There’s a tragedy, and someone has visions of a woman burning at the stake.

When I came to the part where I discovered what the book of witches was all about, and what the charms, curses and strange goings on might mean, I was enchanted. This is a dark novel but one which weaves its power over you so you come out of it differently to how you went in.

Gorgeous cover too. Perfect for those dark nights.

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Location

There are a few fictional places in the book such as Fynhallow and the Isle of Gunn but the real place of execution was Gallow Ha’ in Kirkwall where there is still a memorial to the women they killed.

Orkney folklore is loud and clear.