A review by tiredgirlreads
The Witches of Vardø by Anya Bergman

challenging dark mysterious sad tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0

I *sobbed* at the end of this book. Tears rolling, snot running, chest hurting kind of sobbed. This is such a heartbreaking yet hauntingly beautiful book. Bergman’s prose is detailed and evocative, describing the Norwegian land and people in such vivid detail. The characters are complex and striking, especially the two main narrators Anna and Ingeborg. Initially I detested Anna but as her story developed, my empathy grew. While it made me cry, it isn’t entirely bleak - the ending contains a ray of hope.
I don’t want to say much more because I don’t want to spoil it but this story, based on real events and real women, is something that will stay with me for a long time to come.
Expand filter menu Content Warnings