October, 1650

Traumatised Parliamentarian spy James Archer returns north seeking his sister Meg, missing in the aftermath of Newcastle’s recent witch trials.

Aloof, enigmatic Elizabeth Thompson draws him to investigate the ongoing killing of women who had worked to free the accused.

But when Elizabeth herself becomes hunted, the only chance of escape lies in Archer setting himself as bait.

As a long-time fan of witch trial fiction, I’ve read many books set in Salem and Pendle, but The Wicked of the Earth offers something refreshingly different. Set in the less commonly explored world of 17th-century Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK, this novel takes you far from the familiar locales of witch hunts. In fact, until earlier this year, I was unaware that these brutal trials had even taken place in this northern city until I watched a TV show featuring comedian Susan Calman in which she visited Newcastle and talked about the trials.

The Wicked of the Earth is set in 1650 and begins with a young woman fleeing for her life. This sets the stage for what becomes a gripping and perilous read. We then meet her brother, Parliamentarian spy James Archer, who has been sent from London to monitor the growing tension in Newcastle. It is here that he crosses paths with the fierce and fiery Elizabeth Thompson, who is investigating a series of brutal witch killings. Their journey together is a perilous one that sees them both in great danger.

The story is quite slow going and you need to stick with it for a good few chapters until it eventually pulls you in, and it will, with its atmospheric tension and sense of foreboding that is present on each page. The novel’s slow burn is well worth the wait though for those who appreciate historical fiction with a touch of the old world’s dark charm. The language, steeped in period authenticity, brings the 17th century vividly to life, while the suspense builds quietly but powerfully and at times sends chilling shivers down your spine.

Overall, The Wicked of the Earth is a thrilling read. It is a book that will demand your patience, but then reward you richly. It is a tale of bravery and survival. What sets this book apart is the author’s meticulous research and dedication to bringing these lesser-known witch trials to light for our enjoyment and to educate us.