The Book of Witching – C. J. Cooke

The Book of Witching weaves a haunting tale across two timelines, blending historical intrigue with modern-day suspense. In 2024 Glasgow, Clem races to uncover the truth behind her daughter Erin’s mysterious burns and fragmented memories after a tragic incident on a remote Orkney island. Clues lead her to a centuries-old book tied to witchcraft, pulling her into a labyrinth of secrets. Meanwhile, in 1594 Orkney, Alison Balfour faces accusations of witchcraft amid a brutal political struggle, her fate intertwined with the same enigmatic text.

C.J. Cooke masterfully connects past and present, exploring themes of motherhood, legacy, and the weight of history. The novel delves into the horrors of Scotland’s witch trials, where paranoia and power collide, while Clem’s modern investigation reveals that some shadows refuse to fade. Rich in atmospheric detail, the story balances spine-chilling suspense with emotional depth, asking how far we’ll go to protect those we love.

The dual narratives build tension as Clem and Alison confront forces beyond their control—both supernatural and human. Cooke’s research shines, grounding the tale in real historical events while weaving a spellbinding mystery. Readers will find themselves immersed in eerie landscapes, from windswept Orkney shores to sterile hospital rooms, where the past bleeds into the present.

A gripping exploration of guilt, resilience, and the stories we inherit, The Book of Witching lingers long after the final page. Perfect for fans of dark academia and feminist retellings, this novel reminds us that some truths are buried for a reason—and unearthing them could cost everything.