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The River Witch
A good measure of gentle craziness and well-meaning magic are called for when Roslyn Byrne’s career as a professional ballet dancer is ended by a car wreck and a miscarriage, leaving her lost and grieving. She needs a new path, but she doesn’t have the least idea how or where to start. With some shoving from her very Southern mama, she immures herself for the summer on Manny’s Island, Georgia, one of the Sea Isles, to recover.
There Roslyn finds a ten-year-old girl, Damascus, who brings alligators, pumpkins and hoodoo into her sorry life.
Roslyn rents a house from Damascus’s family, the Trezevants, a strange bunch. One of the cousins,
Nonnie, who works in the family’s market, sees things Roslyn is pretty sure she shouldn’t, and knows things regular people don’t. Between the Trezevant secrets and Damascus’s blatant snooping and meddling, Roslyn finds herself caught in a mysterious stew of the past and present, the music of the river, and the dead and the dying who haunt the riverbank as she reckons with her fraught history to discover what she wants in life.
There Roslyn finds a ten-year-old girl, Damascus, who brings alligators, pumpkins and hoodoo into her sorry life.
Roslyn rents a house from Damascus’s family, the Trezevants, a strange bunch. One of the cousins,
Nonnie, who works in the family’s market, sees things Roslyn is pretty sure she shouldn’t, and knows things regular people don’t. Between the Trezevant secrets and Damascus’s blatant snooping and meddling, Roslyn finds herself caught in a mysterious stew of the past and present, the music of the river, and the dead and the dying who haunt the riverbank as she reckons with her fraught history to discover what she wants in life.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 6, 2012
89 people are currently reading
1947 people want to read
About the author
Kimberly Brock
7 books604 followersKimberly Brock is the award winning author of The Fabled Earth, featured as a Must Read in Fall of 2024 by Town & Country Magazine, and The Lost Book of Eleanor Dare, which spent three weeks on the Southern Independent Booksellers Best Seller List. Both novel have been shortlisted for the prestigious Townsend Prize for Fiction.
Her debut novel, The River Witch, was an Amazon bestseller, featured by both national and international book clubs and included in multiple reading lists. Praised by RT Reviews and Huffington Post as a “solemn journey of redemption, enlightenment and love,” and evocative of “the stories of Flannery O’Connor and Carson McCullers,” Her first novel was honored with the Georgia Author of the Year Award in 2013, by the Georgia Writer’s Association.
A former actor and special needs educator, Kimberly received her bachelor’s degree from the University of West Georgia in 1996. In 2014, Kimberly founded Tinderbox Writer’s Workshop, a transformative creative experience for women in the arts. Kimberly speaks widely on the creative life and southern and historical fiction and has served as a guest lecturer for many regional and national groups, including The Women's Fiction Writer's annual conference and The Pat Conroy Literary Center, and in 2023, was featured on the History Channel's 'History's Greatest Mysteries.' A native of North Georgia, she now lives near Atlanta where she is at work on her fourth novel.
To learn more, visit her website at
https://kimberlybrockbooks.com
Be sure to follow Kimberly on BookBub for the latest on sales https://www.bookbub.com/authors/kimbe...
Her debut novel, The River Witch, was an Amazon bestseller, featured by both national and international book clubs and included in multiple reading lists. Praised by RT Reviews and Huffington Post as a “solemn journey of redemption, enlightenment and love,” and evocative of “the stories of Flannery O’Connor and Carson McCullers,” Her first novel was honored with the Georgia Author of the Year Award in 2013, by the Georgia Writer’s Association.
A former actor and special needs educator, Kimberly received her bachelor’s degree from the University of West Georgia in 1996. In 2014, Kimberly founded Tinderbox Writer’s Workshop, a transformative creative experience for women in the arts. Kimberly speaks widely on the creative life and southern and historical fiction and has served as a guest lecturer for many regional and national groups, including The Women's Fiction Writer's annual conference and The Pat Conroy Literary Center, and in 2023, was featured on the History Channel's 'History's Greatest Mysteries.' A native of North Georgia, she now lives near Atlanta where she is at work on her fourth novel.
To learn more, visit her website at
https://kimberlybrockbooks.com
Be sure to follow Kimberly on BookBub for the latest on sales https://www.bookbub.com/authors/kimbe...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 184 reviews
April 27, 2012
Just like the riverbanks' magical tales and songs, Kimberly Brock weaves prose into a mesmerizing tale of healing for Roslyn Byrne, whose future is shattered after a devastating accident and miscarriage. When Roslyn seeks respite and recovery on Manny's Island, Georgia--where "time seemed to slip around"--and she meets young Damascus, with her pumpkins and hoodoo, the two share a bond of loss and hope. Then through the magic and people of Manny's Island, Roslyn finds strength and a renewed passion for life. This is a complex and beautiful story, beautifully told.
July 9, 2012
The River Witch is phenomenal – one of the best books I’ve ever read; the kind of book that resonates deep inside and you know will linger there always. It is unfathomable to me that this is Kimberly Brock’s debut novel…and there is no way I’m going to do the book justice in this review, but I’ll try.
Roslyn Byrne has experienced multiple tragedies in quick succession that have left her completely lost and broken. As a professional ballerina, Roslyn worked hard to be the best dancer so her mother and grandmother would be proud of her. Faced with a tragic accident that leaves her unable to dance, and the subsequent loss of her unborn child and the death of her grandmother, Roslyn seeks refuge for the summer on Manny’s Island in Georgia.
The recluse house she rented for the summer seems like the perfect place to find herself, but Roslyn discovers seclusion may not be what she needs after all. Just maybe a family, also in desperate need of healing themselves, is the key to forgiveness and moving on.
This is one of those books written so well you actually hear and smell and feel everything as though you’re actually there. The southern culture is portrayed absolutely perfect; it’s not overdone or forced. You can tell Brock is from Georgia – she knows the South. There was not a single negative in this book for me. The characters, the plot, the setting, the writing style – it’s all brilliant.
The narrative switches back and forth between 10 year old Damascus (a native of the island) and Roslyn; Damascus in third person and Roslyn in first, which lends the reader even more distinction between the characters. Although, their personalities are both well-defined, even if this weren’t the case. I adore Damascus. I wanted to reach in and bring her home with me. And Roslyn – she’s a flawed character, but I loved her to death. You really can’t help but fall in love with both of them and all the secondary characters, Manny’s Island, the river, the ENTIRE book.
Poignant, timeless, and breathtaking - those are the three words that come to mind for The River Witch. It reminded me of an old classic, like To Kill a Mockingbird. It’s completely different, but it just has that kind of feel. When it ended I was completely choked up…for a while. The ending is completely satisfying; it’s just that it was over. I usually devour a book in a couple of days or less if I really love it, but I spread this one out over a couple weeks to hang on to it a little longer. I’m definitely buying the print copy, so I can pull it off my shelf and lose myself in Manny’s Island every year.
I realize I didn’t describe very much of the book in this review, but I don’t want to spoil anything. The story is very complex and emotional, sometimes humorous, and it is every bit as much about Damascus healing as it is Roslyn. Trust me; this is one you want to read immediately.
**I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. No incentive was offered or accepted for a favorable rating or review.
Roslyn Byrne has experienced multiple tragedies in quick succession that have left her completely lost and broken. As a professional ballerina, Roslyn worked hard to be the best dancer so her mother and grandmother would be proud of her. Faced with a tragic accident that leaves her unable to dance, and the subsequent loss of her unborn child and the death of her grandmother, Roslyn seeks refuge for the summer on Manny’s Island in Georgia.
The recluse house she rented for the summer seems like the perfect place to find herself, but Roslyn discovers seclusion may not be what she needs after all. Just maybe a family, also in desperate need of healing themselves, is the key to forgiveness and moving on.
This is one of those books written so well you actually hear and smell and feel everything as though you’re actually there. The southern culture is portrayed absolutely perfect; it’s not overdone or forced. You can tell Brock is from Georgia – she knows the South. There was not a single negative in this book for me. The characters, the plot, the setting, the writing style – it’s all brilliant.
The narrative switches back and forth between 10 year old Damascus (a native of the island) and Roslyn; Damascus in third person and Roslyn in first, which lends the reader even more distinction between the characters. Although, their personalities are both well-defined, even if this weren’t the case. I adore Damascus. I wanted to reach in and bring her home with me. And Roslyn – she’s a flawed character, but I loved her to death. You really can’t help but fall in love with both of them and all the secondary characters, Manny’s Island, the river, the ENTIRE book.
Poignant, timeless, and breathtaking - those are the three words that come to mind for The River Witch. It reminded me of an old classic, like To Kill a Mockingbird. It’s completely different, but it just has that kind of feel. When it ended I was completely choked up…for a while. The ending is completely satisfying; it’s just that it was over. I usually devour a book in a couple of days or less if I really love it, but I spread this one out over a couple weeks to hang on to it a little longer. I’m definitely buying the print copy, so I can pull it off my shelf and lose myself in Manny’s Island every year.
I realize I didn’t describe very much of the book in this review, but I don’t want to spoil anything. The story is very complex and emotional, sometimes humorous, and it is every bit as much about Damascus healing as it is Roslyn. Trust me; this is one you want to read immediately.
**I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. No incentive was offered or accepted for a favorable rating or review.
July 31, 2013
After going through a tragic accident that ended with the miscarriage of her child and injured her in a way that she will not be able to go back to work as a ballerina, Roslyn Byrne rents a house on Manny’s Island, Georgia for the summer. There she comes to know some of the locals and becomes involved in their lives and the dramas that surround them all the while trying to give her dead child a name and to find out what she will do with the rest of her life.
I really wanted to love and adore this novel. I mean it takes place in the South with characters that are as unique and complex as people you might meet in real life. It was just the way the story was written, was presented that bothered me. Then the ending just didn’t set well with me and left me wondering why I took the time to find out how it all came out. This isn’t an easy read at all and even though it is not a long story it was something I had a hard time finishing.
I really wanted to love and adore this novel. I mean it takes place in the South with characters that are as unique and complex as people you might meet in real life. It was just the way the story was written, was presented that bothered me. Then the ending just didn’t set well with me and left me wondering why I took the time to find out how it all came out. This isn’t an easy read at all and even though it is not a long story it was something I had a hard time finishing.
January 18, 2020
4.5 A little light on the romance aspect, all promise but no real follow through, and it may be that organically it did not fit with the relationships and stories that were most important. The women are the story here, especially Roslyn and Damascus, with the island and the shape singing being almost supporting characters. People may want to compare this to Where the Crawdads Sing, which I read early on before word-of-mouth turned into the darling of the book groups, and I loved many aspects of it. But I found this book’s voice early on, and I found it a more cohesive story. Perhaps because the author was more connected with various plot points (the loss of a vocation being one and who one becomes afterwards, especially when one is young when the loss leaves us bereft with many active years ahead) the struggles of our protagonist feel rich in authentic emotion. Her voice comes through clearly, her characters feel as if they could walk off the pages and say “how do you do”.
Having spent an overly lengthy amount of time recovering from a serious injury to my knee and leg which left me unable to walk for the better part of a year, and twisted my body into painful knots, I identified with Roslyn’s struggle to recover both physically and emotionally from the trauma she suffered.
I loved sinking into this book in between two books that were emotionally harrowing, the characters and the culture made me feel warm and welcome. Very highly recommended.
Having spent an overly lengthy amount of time recovering from a serious injury to my knee and leg which left me unable to walk for the better part of a year, and twisted my body into painful knots, I identified with Roslyn’s struggle to recover both physically and emotionally from the trauma she suffered.
I loved sinking into this book in between two books that were emotionally harrowing, the characters and the culture made me feel warm and welcome. Very highly recommended.
July 4, 2012
High quality writing! As I read this book, I was wishing I could hear the music that is described throughout it and streams through the main character's mind when she needs to feel close to home. Then I put two and two together and wondered if the music the congregation was singing in the movie Cold Mountain is the same. It is, and native to Appalachia. I think I like that most about the book, though my heart ached for both the lost "little girls" whose lives the story surrounds. It is memorable from the start and gut-wrenching to the end.
September 11, 2012
I just couldn't get into this book. I kept waiting for something to happen, which annoys me. But mostly it was the characters. I just couldn't identify with any of them. The 24 year old ballerina who lost everything but had all this deep insight into the behaviours of people she'd never met before, who clung to a grandmother she barely knew and a religion & people she didn't know at all, who inexplicably decided she was like or at least understood the "conjure woman" into whose house she moved... the 10 year old neglected child who behaved and talked like a 30 year old most times... the lady who walked away from her family to go "find herself" working at a Kroger pharmacy? And questionable editing... the wrong word was used in at least two places (rung out instead of wrung out, can't remember the other one). Yes, the writing was good, very descriptive, etc... but I couldn't bring myself to like this book. Maybe I just didn't get it.
May 2, 2012
This will make a delightful summer read. The prose is magical as are the characters. The river setting on the Georgia sea islands is beautiful, the alligators and the river music, a hoodoo house and a delightful little girl named Damascus. I so loved reading her pithy sayings and her own special blend of common sense. These are characters looking to heal and find a way forward, full of remembrances and yearnings. Enchanting!
July 5, 2012
*I was given a free copy of this book for review purposes. The review is based solely on my opinion and was not influenced by author or publisher.*
Roslyn Byrne hit rock bottom, hard. Three back to back tragedies force Roslyn to seek solitude on Manny's Island, where she's hoping to search within herself for answers. It's not solitude that she finds once she lands on the island. For the summer she has rented a house that is shrouded in mystery and rumors. She reluctantly finds a friend in her landlord's sister Ivy, an admirer in Ivy's son and a ward in Damascus, who happens to be her landlord's troubled 10 year daughter. And then there is Urey, the landlord that is as esoteric as the house itself. Through her relationships with these people, and others on the island she finds that she isn't the only one with problems. Helping the islanders work through their issues may just help Roslyn find the answers that she seeks.
This book was nothing like I expected it to be, which isn't a bad thing. I had a hard time getting through the story at first as it seemed slow moving. I also felt a little confused by certain flashback scenes, I couldn't tell which direction the story was headed. Once I got used to the author's writing style and character dialogue the smoother everything flowed . I really liked the premise of the story and the fact that everything was not always sunshine and roses. Aside from the fact that some of the drama seemed a little overdone, I think the characters were realistically portrayed. I enjoyed the way the characters developed throughout the book, learning more about the kind of people they were by how they managed their situations. There is quite a bit of Southern charm that comes through in Kimberly Brock's writing as well as a Southern way of life. I think this is a debut novel that shows a lot of promise.
Roslyn Byrne hit rock bottom, hard. Three back to back tragedies force Roslyn to seek solitude on Manny's Island, where she's hoping to search within herself for answers. It's not solitude that she finds once she lands on the island. For the summer she has rented a house that is shrouded in mystery and rumors. She reluctantly finds a friend in her landlord's sister Ivy, an admirer in Ivy's son and a ward in Damascus, who happens to be her landlord's troubled 10 year daughter. And then there is Urey, the landlord that is as esoteric as the house itself. Through her relationships with these people, and others on the island she finds that she isn't the only one with problems. Helping the islanders work through their issues may just help Roslyn find the answers that she seeks.
This book was nothing like I expected it to be, which isn't a bad thing. I had a hard time getting through the story at first as it seemed slow moving. I also felt a little confused by certain flashback scenes, I couldn't tell which direction the story was headed. Once I got used to the author's writing style and character dialogue the smoother everything flowed . I really liked the premise of the story and the fact that everything was not always sunshine and roses. Aside from the fact that some of the drama seemed a little overdone, I think the characters were realistically portrayed. I enjoyed the way the characters developed throughout the book, learning more about the kind of people they were by how they managed their situations. There is quite a bit of Southern charm that comes through in Kimberly Brock's writing as well as a Southern way of life. I think this is a debut novel that shows a lot of promise.
May 21, 2012
When a car crash ends ballerina Roslyn Byrne’s career and causes a miscarriage of her baby, she is broken in body and in spirit. At the urging of her mother, she travels to the Sea Isles of Georgia for escape and healing. It is on Manny’s Island that Roslyn learns that sometimes healing hurts, but that suffering can bring about more beauty and blessing than we can ever anticipate.
A superstitious local woman, a precocious ten-year-old girl named Damascus, and her elusive and troubled father, Urey, are just a few of the island’s inhabitants with whom Roslyn becomes entangled. While the locals speculate on why so many alligators have arrived at the same time as this out of towner, Roslyn makes her home in the swamps, watching over a motherless girl who thinks a crop of pumpkins will bring her a special kind of magic.
While the families unravel around her, Roslyn finds herself getting more and more lost in her own past, hearing the sweet sounds of her grandmother’s Sacred Harp singers on the breeze and in her heart. The music comes again and again throughout the book, acting as a refrain in a song reminding Roslyn of the depths of the healing she must seek in order to begin her life again.
THE RIVER WITCH is a delight from beginning to end. I could almost hear Brock’s southern accent reading the story in my ear, and her distinct style brought much color to the book. The elements of setting, magic, alligators, and pumpkins were unique, and the plot twists kept me turning pages.
As I told Kimberly, THE RIVER WITCH is a book you press to your heart and sigh when you finish because of its tender beauty and power. If you enjoy heartwarming southern stories of healing and renewal, you’ll love THE RIVER WITCH.
A superstitious local woman, a precocious ten-year-old girl named Damascus, and her elusive and troubled father, Urey, are just a few of the island’s inhabitants with whom Roslyn becomes entangled. While the locals speculate on why so many alligators have arrived at the same time as this out of towner, Roslyn makes her home in the swamps, watching over a motherless girl who thinks a crop of pumpkins will bring her a special kind of magic.
While the families unravel around her, Roslyn finds herself getting more and more lost in her own past, hearing the sweet sounds of her grandmother’s Sacred Harp singers on the breeze and in her heart. The music comes again and again throughout the book, acting as a refrain in a song reminding Roslyn of the depths of the healing she must seek in order to begin her life again.
THE RIVER WITCH is a delight from beginning to end. I could almost hear Brock’s southern accent reading the story in my ear, and her distinct style brought much color to the book. The elements of setting, magic, alligators, and pumpkins were unique, and the plot twists kept me turning pages.
As I told Kimberly, THE RIVER WITCH is a book you press to your heart and sigh when you finish because of its tender beauty and power. If you enjoy heartwarming southern stories of healing and renewal, you’ll love THE RIVER WITCH.
January 16, 2013
I think this is a really beautifully written book. I absolutely loved that about it, but at the same time I also agree with one of the other goodreads reviews that pointed out some problems with the writing. Sometimes I'd have to read a passage a couple of times because it didn't seem to completely make sense (though somehow managed to still be really beautiful.) It was like the author was suddenly talking about about something totally different, mid sentence or paragraph.
My only other complaint is that I think I would have enjoyed the book more if I could relate to the characters more or if they just seemed more real. I liked the characters, I thought they were interesting and dynamic, but for the most part, they just didn't seem like real people, especially Damascus, the little girl who was written more like a 30 or 40 year old. I guess this was probably intentional and I think forgivable because you almost read this book as a sort of fantasy, anyway.
But over all, I really loved it. The story is full of southern imagery, witchy/halloweeny imagery, and magical imagery, all expressed wonderfully through the writing. The story itself is thought-provoking and satisfying at times. I haven't read a book that I enjoyed like this for quite a while.
My only other complaint is that I think I would have enjoyed the book more if I could relate to the characters more or if they just seemed more real. I liked the characters, I thought they were interesting and dynamic, but for the most part, they just didn't seem like real people, especially Damascus, the little girl who was written more like a 30 or 40 year old. I guess this was probably intentional and I think forgivable because you almost read this book as a sort of fantasy, anyway.
But over all, I really loved it. The story is full of southern imagery, witchy/halloweeny imagery, and magical imagery, all expressed wonderfully through the writing. The story itself is thought-provoking and satisfying at times. I haven't read a book that I enjoyed like this for quite a while.
May 27, 2012
Brock’ debut novel is a tale of forgiveness and growth, ripe with originality: a story filled with alligators, hoodoo, pumpkins, and haunting choral music of the south, known as Sacred Harp. The characters– Roslyn, Damascus, Ivy, Urey – find fear and redemption in the waters that swirl in the Damascus River outside their doorsteps on Manny Island in the Sea Isles of Georgia. Ballerina Roslyn, after a series of poor decisions, a career-ending accident and a miscarriage, must forgive herself before she can truly move forward. A temporary move to the island and an enchanting little girl named Damascus are the catalysts for such self-reflection.
Brock’s novel has whetted my appetite to learn more about the Saltwater Geechee culture of Georgia mentioned in the novel, as well as the traditions of the Sacred Harp. The River Witch is a lovely introduction to the south, its mystery and its superstitions.
Brock’s novel has whetted my appetite to learn more about the Saltwater Geechee culture of Georgia mentioned in the novel, as well as the traditions of the Sacred Harp. The River Witch is a lovely introduction to the south, its mystery and its superstitions.
May 1, 2012
This is a strong debut by a fellow Bell Bridge Books author. Kim's writing is lyrical and captivating, and kept me turning page after page to learn its secrets. My only complaint is that I wanted more. The story she weaves is so complex and multilayered, the book could have been twice the length and would have held my interest.
September 22, 2024
Sometimes I hold on to what I know is going to be a spectacular book for a special time. With her new book to be released in less than two weeks, I knew it was now time to read this debut novel.
This book was even more amazing than I could have ever predicted. Beautiful novel about family, life, love, loss and finding oneself. Oh my, this touched my heart so deeply...loved it so much.
This book was even more amazing than I could have ever predicted. Beautiful novel about family, life, love, loss and finding oneself. Oh my, this touched my heart so deeply...loved it so much.
June 7, 2012
A tender intriguing book. The setting is a character. Roslyn is so well written I felt like I'd known her my whole life. I did not want this book to end. One of the best books I've read in 2012.
October 29, 2017
The River Witch by Kimberly Brock is an exceptional southern gothic novel! This was actually my first southern gothic read and I must say Kimberly has helped me to fall in love with this genre. It was also the first Audible book I have listened to in a long time, and Alison Edwards’ narration was divine! Her southern charm whisked me away into the lives of Roslyn and Damascus, one adult and one child, each searching for meaning and hope in their circumstances. Kimberly’s rich descriptions allow the reader to see, smell, and taste the setting of an island off of Georgia. This was one of those reads that you never want to end, as you feel that you are a part of the story, along with the characters.
July 8, 2012
I received this book in a GoodReads first-read giveaway.
About halfway through The River Witch, my husband asked me if it was a book about witches that live around a river ... I had to think about it for a moment, but my answer at that point was "well no, not really ... it's really about alligators…. and pumpkins"
this was NOT a sarcastic answer.
well, maybe it was .. sort of.
but actually, not really - because there ARE alligators and pumpkins and they really DO play a fairly significant (symbolic) part in this story.
Roslyn is(was) a ballerina whose lifetime career has been derailed due to a horrific car accident - we don't really get told what happened (or why), just that it resulted in the near mangling of Roslyn’s legs, the miscarriage of a child she didn't realize she wanted until it was too late and the near complete unraveling of her life as she knew it.
Unable to dance now, she rents an old house on a secluded island off Georgia's coast to hide from the world and be by herself. As it turns out, between the close-knit, rumor gossiping locals, the amorous alligators and various ghosts from her past, Roslyn is anything but by herself on Manny Island.
Damascus is a 10 year old girl whose family owns the rental house. In fact, her family actually lived in the house until she was around five – when her mother died of cancer. Damascus’ father has little to do with his daughter who is now being raised mostly by her aunt, home schooled, in the beginning stages of pubescence and truly missing her mothers presence.
While Roslyn is busy running from her past, she discovers her spiritual roots hold the secret to her future. Meanwhile Damascus is so focused on resurrecting her mothers ghost and mending her broken family that she nearly misses out on her own future.
Together, Roslyn and Damascus help each other find the answers they’re searching for.
The main characters are beautifully written, easy to love and care about. The story is nicely layered and the writing rich in Southern flavor. I would have loved to hear the Sacred Harp music on Roslyns iPod playlist that is talked about throughout the book.
The one thing that annoyed me about this book *pout*
I would recommend this book to my friends looking for a fantastic summer read at the beach or a cozy weekend curled up on the couch.
Full of Southern superstition and hospitality, The River Witch is good, old-fashioned, alligator soup for the soul ... served with a slice of pumpkin pie on the side.
About halfway through The River Witch, my husband asked me if it was a book about witches that live around a river ... I had to think about it for a moment, but my answer at that point was "well no, not really ... it's really about alligators…. and pumpkins"
this was NOT a sarcastic answer.
well, maybe it was .. sort of.
but actually, not really - because there ARE alligators and pumpkins and they really DO play a fairly significant (symbolic) part in this story.
Roslyn is(was) a ballerina whose lifetime career has been derailed due to a horrific car accident - we don't really get told what happened (or why), just that it resulted in the near mangling of Roslyn’s legs, the miscarriage of a child she didn't realize she wanted until it was too late and the near complete unraveling of her life as she knew it.
Unable to dance now, she rents an old house on a secluded island off Georgia's coast to hide from the world and be by herself. As it turns out, between the close-knit, rumor gossiping locals, the amorous alligators and various ghosts from her past, Roslyn is anything but by herself on Manny Island.
Damascus is a 10 year old girl whose family owns the rental house. In fact, her family actually lived in the house until she was around five – when her mother died of cancer. Damascus’ father has little to do with his daughter who is now being raised mostly by her aunt, home schooled, in the beginning stages of pubescence and truly missing her mothers presence.
While Roslyn is busy running from her past, she discovers her spiritual roots hold the secret to her future. Meanwhile Damascus is so focused on resurrecting her mothers ghost and mending her broken family that she nearly misses out on her own future.
Together, Roslyn and Damascus help each other find the answers they’re searching for.
The main characters are beautifully written, easy to love and care about. The story is nicely layered and the writing rich in Southern flavor. I would have loved to hear the Sacred Harp music on Roslyns iPod playlist that is talked about throughout the book.
The one thing that annoyed me about this book *pout*
I would recommend this book to my friends looking for a fantastic summer read at the beach or a cozy weekend curled up on the couch.
Full of Southern superstition and hospitality, The River Witch is good, old-fashioned, alligator soup for the soul ... served with a slice of pumpkin pie on the side.
June 25, 2012
Received from Bell Bridge Books through NetGalley
“The only thing that really ever haunts a person is a regret.”
Roslyn Byrne is twenty-four years old and feels her life is over.
Formerly a professional ballet dancer she lost her career in a car wreck. When she loses the baby she wasn’t sure she wanted during a premature and lone birth she also loses a bit of her mind and most of herself.
With the future seemingly without any prospects, Roslyn yearns for the past and the Appalachian foothills where her grandmother lived until her recent death and was part of a gospel singing group.
Warned against travelling back to what used to be her home by her mother, Roslyn instead travels to Manny’s Island, Georgia for the summer bringing her granny’s music with her.
On the island the broken dancer meets ten-year-old Damascus Trezevant, a girl with her own broken heart, looking for a way to mend her life with the aid of pumpkin seeds.
When Roslyn reluctantly gets involved with Damascus and her family she finds herself stumbling into a world where superstition and hoodoo magic are part of everyday life and where blind alligators will find their way into your home.
Over the course of the summer Roslyn has to find a new purpose for her life and the Trezevant family has to bury the ghosts from the past in order to move forwards. It will be a time of pain and dashed hopes as well as insights that lead to new opportunities.
This is a beautiful and very well written story. Roslyn’s pain and despair are palatable for the reader as are Damascus’ childish yet very recognisable hopes.
The setting of Manny’s Island is equally haunting and beautiful. The descriptions of the place make it easy to believe that magic could and would happen there, without turning the island into a Fantasy Island style paradise. In fact, paradise is far removed from Manny’s Island and those who live there, except that it is a place where some may find hope and redemption.
There are no easy, happy endings in this book. This is real life where hard-knocks come to people and they have to deal with them best they can regardless of their age, history or past mistakes.
I admire the author for not taking what early on in the book seemed to be the easy and predictable way out. It made this story more real, if a lot sadder.
I’m not at all surprised that this book comes with a host of very positive editorial reviews; it deserves every single one of them. I will therefore leave the final word on this book with Sharyn McCrumb because I couldn’t put it better myself:
"There is magic and wonder in "The River Witch," but the real enchantment here is the strength of the characters Roslyn and Damascus. Their voices are the current that carries the reader along in this compelling tale of healing and discovery."
“The only thing that really ever haunts a person is a regret.”
Roslyn Byrne is twenty-four years old and feels her life is over.
Formerly a professional ballet dancer she lost her career in a car wreck. When she loses the baby she wasn’t sure she wanted during a premature and lone birth she also loses a bit of her mind and most of herself.
With the future seemingly without any prospects, Roslyn yearns for the past and the Appalachian foothills where her grandmother lived until her recent death and was part of a gospel singing group.
Warned against travelling back to what used to be her home by her mother, Roslyn instead travels to Manny’s Island, Georgia for the summer bringing her granny’s music with her.
On the island the broken dancer meets ten-year-old Damascus Trezevant, a girl with her own broken heart, looking for a way to mend her life with the aid of pumpkin seeds.
When Roslyn reluctantly gets involved with Damascus and her family she finds herself stumbling into a world where superstition and hoodoo magic are part of everyday life and where blind alligators will find their way into your home.
Over the course of the summer Roslyn has to find a new purpose for her life and the Trezevant family has to bury the ghosts from the past in order to move forwards. It will be a time of pain and dashed hopes as well as insights that lead to new opportunities.
This is a beautiful and very well written story. Roslyn’s pain and despair are palatable for the reader as are Damascus’ childish yet very recognisable hopes.
The setting of Manny’s Island is equally haunting and beautiful. The descriptions of the place make it easy to believe that magic could and would happen there, without turning the island into a Fantasy Island style paradise. In fact, paradise is far removed from Manny’s Island and those who live there, except that it is a place where some may find hope and redemption.
There are no easy, happy endings in this book. This is real life where hard-knocks come to people and they have to deal with them best they can regardless of their age, history or past mistakes.
I admire the author for not taking what early on in the book seemed to be the easy and predictable way out. It made this story more real, if a lot sadder.
I’m not at all surprised that this book comes with a host of very positive editorial reviews; it deserves every single one of them. I will therefore leave the final word on this book with Sharyn McCrumb because I couldn’t put it better myself:
"There is magic and wonder in "The River Witch," but the real enchantment here is the strength of the characters Roslyn and Damascus. Their voices are the current that carries the reader along in this compelling tale of healing and discovery."
June 28, 2012
This and other reviews can be found on Reading Between Classes
Cover Impressions: The cover is pretty but were I to see it on a bookshelf I am not sure that it would stand out enough to entice me to buy it.
The Gist: Former ballerina Rosyln Byrne lost everything that defined her in one fell swoop. She has retreated to a remote Georgia island in the hopes that solitude and serenity will allow her to patch up her broken life. Instead she finds herself in the middle of another shattered family and in the path of a little girl desperately seeking something magical.
Review: Every summer I tend to feel the urge to dive into the world of magical realism. The River Witch falls into that category, but also offers up something unexpected. The setting of this novel makes for a fantastic summer read. It left me longing for a big old house with lots of history and a river with more than a little danger. As the days start to stretch, the thought of retreated to an island and escaping the stress of everyday life is more than a little tempting.
This is not a novel with a fast paced plot and the story clearly falls on the character's very capable shoulders. Rosyln has an impressive voice and her pain is almost palpable as she reflects on losing her child and the life she left behind in her mountain home. The music from her homeland weaves in and out of the narrative, binding it beautifully together. Ten year old Damascus is outspoken, precocious and utterly charming. She is especially broken by the loss of her mother and her father's inability to fulfill his role as caregiver. While searching for answers inside a pumpkin seed, she and Rosyln slowly allow themselves to open up to the idea of being cared for.
This is not a novel for the thrill seeking or action obsessed. The plot unwinds slowly, like a lazy afternoon, and wraps itself around your heart. The writing is beautiful and gentle, occasionally erupting with witty moments (usually through Damascus). Brock weaves a story of regret and eschews the easy, romantic route that sometimes defines this genre. There are no storybook endings here, but what the reader does get is a much more realistic portrayal of human nature and the strength of history and family.
A stunning debut novel and a wonderful addition to anyone's summer reading.
July 24, 2012
I received this book through Goodreads First Reads.
Needing a break from a more than stressful life, Rosalyn Byrne rents a house for the summer on Manny's Island, Georgia. Forced to walk away from a career as a ballerina from a car accident & a miscarriage, this little island is the perfect place to just disappear for a while. But that old house holds secrets of its own. The Trezevants own that building, & not all of them are willing to let go so easily. There's Damascus, a little girl named for the river who has a mission to grow pumpkins, her father, Urey, who's not always around, old Nonnie who claims that Rosalyn is the one calling all the alligators to the island with her hoo-doo. Together, all of them will learn, change, grow, but will Rosalyn ever come to terms with her past?
First of all, this cover is beautiful. To be honest, I judged this book by its cover, & I am very glad I did so.
Now, for what's on the inside of the pretty wrapping. I was stunned to find out that this is a debut novel. This is a very striking start, & I hope Ms. Brock produces more in the future.
This book is a beautiful work of Southern fiction. I'm not usually a fan of the genre, admittedly, but if all of them were written like this, my shelves would be stocked with them.
Her words effectively paint a picture to the extent that I felt I was watching Damascus & Rosalyn's stories unfold, not just reading some text. Each of the characters was detailed & relatable, & by the time the book was over I thought I truly knew them.
I am pleasantly surprised that this book didn't end at all how I thought. On about page fifteen or so, I thought I had it figured out. I was off. Very off. And that is a great thing.
This book definitely isn't a light read. It's full of emotion & drama. I admit that I cried, which I also wasn't expecting. It's very powerful, & even in the happier parts there is an underlying tone of haunting & despair. In my opinion, that makes it even more beautiful.
The only negative for me was that I felt it ended too abruptly. It lazes along at a good pace, like a summer day in Georgia, but then all of a sudden everything unravels (or ravels, depending on the character) & then the story's over. It was a bit rushed for me.
But all that aside, this book was a solid 4/5 stars. I recommend it for women & fans of Southern fiction.
Needing a break from a more than stressful life, Rosalyn Byrne rents a house for the summer on Manny's Island, Georgia. Forced to walk away from a career as a ballerina from a car accident & a miscarriage, this little island is the perfect place to just disappear for a while. But that old house holds secrets of its own. The Trezevants own that building, & not all of them are willing to let go so easily. There's Damascus, a little girl named for the river who has a mission to grow pumpkins, her father, Urey, who's not always around, old Nonnie who claims that Rosalyn is the one calling all the alligators to the island with her hoo-doo. Together, all of them will learn, change, grow, but will Rosalyn ever come to terms with her past?
First of all, this cover is beautiful. To be honest, I judged this book by its cover, & I am very glad I did so.
Now, for what's on the inside of the pretty wrapping. I was stunned to find out that this is a debut novel. This is a very striking start, & I hope Ms. Brock produces more in the future.
This book is a beautiful work of Southern fiction. I'm not usually a fan of the genre, admittedly, but if all of them were written like this, my shelves would be stocked with them.
Her words effectively paint a picture to the extent that I felt I was watching Damascus & Rosalyn's stories unfold, not just reading some text. Each of the characters was detailed & relatable, & by the time the book was over I thought I truly knew them.
I am pleasantly surprised that this book didn't end at all how I thought. On about page fifteen or so, I thought I had it figured out. I was off. Very off. And that is a great thing.
This book definitely isn't a light read. It's full of emotion & drama. I admit that I cried, which I also wasn't expecting. It's very powerful, & even in the happier parts there is an underlying tone of haunting & despair. In my opinion, that makes it even more beautiful.
The only negative for me was that I felt it ended too abruptly. It lazes along at a good pace, like a summer day in Georgia, but then all of a sudden everything unravels (or ravels, depending on the character) & then the story's over. It was a bit rushed for me.
But all that aside, this book was a solid 4/5 stars. I recommend it for women & fans of Southern fiction.
May 18, 2012
This debut novel was magical in its complexity as the author weaved a variety of emotions into every storyline. The southern voice and setting were so perfect for this type of story; the foothills of the Appalachians and the sea islands off the coast of Georgia served as a wonderful backdrop.
Roslyn's soul-searching pain was so raw that I could feel her frustration as I read. She finds herself treading in unknown waters because of her past choices as well as things now out of her control.
Damascus reminded me of the little girl Opal in Because of Winn-Dixie as she carries her sorrow and yearning for her dead mother in every step she takes. She fights against the pain raging inside of her which is so heartbreaking to observe. Ms. Brock captures this so well that I wanted to step through the pages and hug Damascus forever.
Urey, Ivy, and Nonnie Trezevant all challenge Roslyn in ways that force her look inside herself, to discover what she is made of. These characters were unique yet meshed together so well in order to help Roslyn see what had been in front of her the whole time.
Ms. Brock lit this emotionally fired story with the its sparks of tormented love to the wicks of their haunted pasts. If you enjoyed such emotional stories such as Because of Winn-Dixie (yet much more adult), I highly recommend this book!
Roslyn's soul-searching pain was so raw that I could feel her frustration as I read. She finds herself treading in unknown waters because of her past choices as well as things now out of her control.
Damascus reminded me of the little girl Opal in Because of Winn-Dixie as she carries her sorrow and yearning for her dead mother in every step she takes. She fights against the pain raging inside of her which is so heartbreaking to observe. Ms. Brock captures this so well that I wanted to step through the pages and hug Damascus forever.
Urey, Ivy, and Nonnie Trezevant all challenge Roslyn in ways that force her look inside herself, to discover what she is made of. These characters were unique yet meshed together so well in order to help Roslyn see what had been in front of her the whole time.
Ms. Brock lit this emotionally fired story with the its sparks of tormented love to the wicks of their haunted pasts. If you enjoyed such emotional stories such as Because of Winn-Dixie (yet much more adult), I highly recommend this book!
April 26, 2012
I absolutely loved this book! The author did an amazing job of keeping me engaged in the story line of Rosalyn and Damascus, Donnie, Otis, Ivy, JB and Urey and well every character was lovely! There were many times when I felt all wrapped up in the "pumpkin of life" there on the Damascus River. I love stories about water, old homes with great history to tell, and a new life being woven into the tides of life. I loved the fact that this book was NOT repetitive in lines. I hate a book with the same old thing being said in different sentences over and over. (filler garbage) There was always a new turn and with each of the turns you stayed interested in every word. I won't give anything away but the ending of this story was NOT what I expected which was refreshing. An amazing love story, but light on intimate romance! (yay)
My only complaint... the title. Now that I've read the book I wonder if it could have been something more. I think the title draws you to picking the book, but now having read it, I think it could have been better.
I feel like new authors are pushed to hard to bring out new stories and I hope that doesn't happen with Ms. Brock's career. She has done a truly beautiful job of telling this story. I can't wait to read more of her work in the future. (Just don't rush a great talent)
My only complaint... the title. Now that I've read the book I wonder if it could have been something more. I think the title draws you to picking the book, but now having read it, I think it could have been better.
I feel like new authors are pushed to hard to bring out new stories and I hope that doesn't happen with Ms. Brock's career. She has done a truly beautiful job of telling this story. I can't wait to read more of her work in the future. (Just don't rush a great talent)
July 30, 2012
I loved this book!
I just finished reading The River Witch. If I'd had the time, I might have read the book in one sitting. It was difficult to put down! I absolutely loved the telling of this story. I was captured within the first couple of pages. Her descriptions of the river and island made me feel like I was walking around seeing it for myself. It is very rare that I become so caught up in a book that I can feel what the characters are feeling. Without giving much of the story away, I felt like I KNEW Roslyn and I experienced with her what she was going through. Also, I came from a pretty sorry childhood myself and I recognized so many traits of Damascus. Her being afraid to trust people or let herself be open to love really touched a nerve and just broke my heart. It was both wonderful and awful at the same time to be so deeply involved with her in the story.
I cannot wait for Kimberly Brock to write another book! I love her writing style and how she lets just a touch of humor/sarcasm in at the right places. Despite the seriousness of the story, I still found several places to laugh during the ride.
I am definitely going to select this book for our upcoming book group in September. I know my reader friends are going to enjoy The River Witch just as much as I did.
I just finished reading The River Witch. If I'd had the time, I might have read the book in one sitting. It was difficult to put down! I absolutely loved the telling of this story. I was captured within the first couple of pages. Her descriptions of the river and island made me feel like I was walking around seeing it for myself. It is very rare that I become so caught up in a book that I can feel what the characters are feeling. Without giving much of the story away, I felt like I KNEW Roslyn and I experienced with her what she was going through. Also, I came from a pretty sorry childhood myself and I recognized so many traits of Damascus. Her being afraid to trust people or let herself be open to love really touched a nerve and just broke my heart. It was both wonderful and awful at the same time to be so deeply involved with her in the story.
I cannot wait for Kimberly Brock to write another book! I love her writing style and how she lets just a touch of humor/sarcasm in at the right places. Despite the seriousness of the story, I still found several places to laugh during the ride.
I am definitely going to select this book for our upcoming book group in September. I know my reader friends are going to enjoy The River Witch just as much as I did.
August 15, 2012
I would really give this book 3.5 stars. I enjoyed the story but had a bit of a problem relating to some of the characters and their motivations. After suffering both a devastating car accident and the loss of a baby, Roslyn, a professional prima ballerina has a life crisis/nervous breakdown. Her mother arranges for her to go stay on an isolated sea island off the coast of Georgia. She becomes reluctantly involved with the troubled family who own the property and keep secrets from one another. There are a few ghosts, Gullah haints and lots of mountain spiritual music thrown in for good measure. Roslyn eventually heals and figures out what to do with her life and there is some element of resolution for the family.
Note: the music was intriguing...I went to youtube to listen to some scared harp singing so I could better picture it...for that alone, this book is worth a read.
Note: the music was intriguing...I went to youtube to listen to some scared harp singing so I could better picture it...for that alone, this book is worth a read.
January 8, 2013
Remember when you first read Harper Lee, Flannery O’Connor or Terry Kay? Prepare to feel that way again when you experience Kimberly Brock’s “The River Witch.” In a recipe as perfect as Granny’s biscuits, “The River Witch” provides everything you love about Southern fiction with an edge of Southern Gothic. Family, faith and resentment mix with love and loss, broken bodies and souls, and a stranger in a strange place. Add to this mix some mythology, fable and folktale and you will find a story that stays with you long after the final page.
Check out my full review on my blog:
http://www.ivoryowlreviews.blogspot.c...
Check out my full review on my blog:
http://www.ivoryowlreviews.blogspot.c...
April 27, 2012
I have read this book several times and every time I see more and feel more. Beautifully written characters, gorgeous scenery and emotional redemption. I can not recommend this book enough! Mrs. Brock has a firm grasp on the voices of her characters and what drives southern women and communities. I felt at home in her words and the beautiful island she described. What a wonderful way to spend a spring or summer weekend on the porch.
July 5, 2012
Rich and layered. Not a happy story. It will raise your hopes and break your heart. Powerful and honest. I loved it. I hated it. I finished it three days ago, and I can't stop thinking about it.
There are some stories you read and you realize how woefully short of the mark you fall as a writer...and a person. This is one of those. Not for the faint of heart or feeble of mind.
Take a trip to the Conjure Woman's house, if you dare. You might be suprised who you find.
There are some stories you read and you realize how woefully short of the mark you fall as a writer...and a person. This is one of those. Not for the faint of heart or feeble of mind.
Take a trip to the Conjure Woman's house, if you dare. You might be suprised who you find.
October 8, 2012
Bravo Kimberly Brock! A very touching and heartwarming debut that had me wanting more, page after page. I was a bit hesitant in the beginning because this is not the typical type of women's fiction that I read. But I have to say I'm glad I picked it up and gave it a try. Looking forward to reading more from Ms. Brock and maybe taking a visit to the South.
September 5, 2012
I am disappointed in this book (nearly finished with it). Story should have worked but writing is disjointed with many discrepancies. There were parts that were well written and other parts that were redundant and/or poorly written. I'll put it down to poor editing and try to give the author some credit.
January 6, 2013
The River Witch is a rich, captivating story of loss and redemption, love and forgiveness. Set in the south, Kimberly Brock's descriptions are so vivid you can almost feel the river's tide and taste the warm pumpkin bread. If you loved Sue Monk Kidd's THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES, you'll fall in love Kimberly Brock's beautiful novel.
April 20, 2017
Overall, this is an impressive debut novel by Kimberly Brock, full of emotion and atmosphere. The writing is powerful and I enjoyed the treatment of grace. At times the plot is a bit slow-moving and some stretches of dialogue are unrealistic. Nonetheless, it's an entertaining story.
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