The Familiars

Stacey Halls

Physical

Available

The most spellbinding debut novel of 2019. To save her child, she will trust a stranger. To protect a secret, she must risk her life. . . Fleetwood shuttle worth is 17 years old, married, and pregnant for the fourth time. But as the mistress at gaw Thorpe hall, she still has no living child, and her husband Richard is anxious for an heir. When Fleetwood finds a letter she isn't supposed to read from the doctor Who delivered her third stillbirth, she is dealt the crushing blow that she will not survive another pregnancy. Then she crosses paths by chance with Alice grab, a young midwife.

Alice promises to help her give birth to a healthy baby, and to prove the physician wrong. As Alice is draw N into the witchcraft accusations that are sweeping the north-west, Fleetwood risks everything by trying to help her. But is there more to Alice than meets the eye? Soon the two women's lives will become inextricably bound together as the legendary trial at Lancaster approaches, and fleetwood's stomach continues to grow. Time is running out, and both their lives are at stake. Only they know the truth. Only they can save each other. '.

What will you learn from this book

  1. Historical Context:

    • The novel is set in the early 17th century during a time of superstition and fear of witchcraft. The story explores the historical events of the Pendle Witch Trials in England.
  2. Female Empowerment:

    • The protagonist, Fleetwood Shuttleworth, discovers her own strength and resilience throughout the novel. The story highlights the challenges faced by women during this period and Fleetwood's journey towards empowerment.
  3. Friendship and Trust:

    • The relationship between Fleetwood and her midwife, Alice Grey, is central to the plot. The theme of trust and friendship is explored as they navigate the dangerous accusations of witchcraft.
  4. Social Injustice:

    • The book delves into the social injustices of the time, particularly the vulnerability of women accused of witchcraft. It reflects on how societal norms and prejudices can lead to persecution.
  5. Medicine and Midwifery:

    • The novel explores the practices of medicine and midwifery in the 17th century. It delves into the challenges faced by midwives and the limited medical knowledge of the time.
  6. Maternal Love:

    • Fleetwood's desperation to have a healthy pregnancy and the love for her unborn child are poignant themes. The story explores the lengths a mother is willing to go to protect her child.
  7. Fear and Suspicion:

    • The pervasive atmosphere of fear and suspicion during the witch trials is palpable in the narrative. The book explores how communities can turn on each other when fear takes hold.
  8. Legal and Judicial Systems:

    • The novel portrays the flaws in the legal and judicial systems during the witch trials. It reflects on how arbitrary accusations and biased trials could lead to unjust outcomes.
  9. Nature and Folklore:

    • The story incorporates elements of nature and folklore, drawing on the beliefs and superstitions of the time. The natural world plays a symbolic role in the narrative.
  10. Human Resilience:

    • Ultimately, the novel portrays the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Characters confront challenges and injustices, highlighting the strength of the human will.
Language English
ISBN-10 1785769367
ISBN-13 9781785769368
No of pages 432
Font Size Medium
Book Publisher zaffre
Published Date 28 Feb 2019

About Author

Author : Stacey Halls

NA

Related Books