Minnie's Fiction Addiction

👀 First impressions:
Weyward by Emilia Hart is a multi-generational tale spanning centuries, weaving together the lives of three women bound by blood, magic, and defiance against patriarchal control. Set in 2019, 1942, and 1619, the narrative alternates between present-day Kate escaping an abusive relationship, wartime Violet yearning for freedom, and 17th-century Altha accused of witchcraft. The premise promises lush atmosphere, feminist themes, and a thread of magical realism connecting the women’s fates.

✅ What I Liked:
The settings are richly imagined, from the tense confines of a witch trial to the oppressive formality of wartime England, to the overgrown, almost sentient countryside of the family estate. Hart handles themes of female resilience and the inheritance of both trauma and strength with sensitivity. The natural world is almost a character in itself, grounding the story in earth and instinct.

❎ What I didn’t Like:
The pace feels uneven, with certain sections dragging while others rush past moments that could have deepened the emotional impact. The magical realism is light-touch to the point where it sometimes feels underdeveloped, especially compared to how heavily it’s implied early on. While each woman’s story is compelling, the connections between them felt more thematic than plot-driven, leaving me wanting a stronger narrative payoff.

📚 Why You Should Read This Book:
If you enjoy quiet, character-driven historical fiction with a feminist lens and a hint of witchy atmosphere, Weyward offers a thoughtful, lyrical read. It’s well-suited to readers who appreciate mood and character over high-stakes action.

💭 Final Thoughts:
Weyward is beautifully written and thematically rich but left me craving more narrative momentum and magical depth. A good read for those who prefer a slow-burn, reflective novel over a tightly woven, plot-heavy story.

🛍️ Where to buy
To buy your own copy click HERE

Final Rating ★★★ -Witches, Women, and a Web of Generations