A review by bookedbymadeline
The Witch of Tin Mountain by Paulette Kennedy

adventurous dark hopeful mysterious medium-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? It's complicated

5.0

Set in the Ozarks in Arkansas, the book focuses on three generations of women. I really enjoyed the switching timelines between Deirdre in 1881 and Gracelynn in 1931. 

I was happy to see that the author included trigger warnings in the beginning of the book. Kennedy said she was inspired by the Bell Witch haunting in Tennessee, which is one of my favorite legends! She also included stories from her own family and their history in the region. Her writing clearly shows this as she puts her heart into the setting and folklore descriptions!

I was pulled into the story right away! I loved the characters and plot twists-Each character is strong and has their own voice, I loved all 3 women equally. I also loved the main antagonist! He showed how charming and clever evil can be and how it can be used to manipulate others.

Although this is a historical horror novel, there’s a little romance (mainly sapphic!) as well, but it’s not a main focus. The story builds up to the climax and resolution but without making it too slow leading up to the big events, and also not rushing the ending. The pacing was really well done!

I loved the folklore and forest witch vibes which added to the haunting atmosphere of the novel! The nature and weather descriptions added to the spooky vibes of this book, creating tension in the plot. To the point where I couldn’t have my YouTube “haunted woods” ASMR video playing in the background because I ended up scaring myself 😂 

Finally I liked the happy ending, and closure. It’s rare to have a “happily ever after” in a horror novel but I liked that bit of hope in the end!

Just wow- I loved this book so much and the cover!! 😍 I just have so many feelings and indescribable words for how much I adored this book! This is definitely my top read of the month💗 I just hope I don’t end up with a book hangover after this and I’ll definitely be picking up a physical copy to add to my shelves!  Plus I can’t wait to go back and read Kennedy’s debut.
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