The Witch of Wethersfield: A Cunning Woman

by Katherine Spada Basto

Accused as a witch...
Based on a true story...

In 1651 twenty-five-year-old Katherine Gilbert arrives to New England, her destination a small town called Wethersfield in Connecticut Colony. She seeks to leave the ravages of Civil War-torn England behind.
Bringing little with her except her trusted astrology book and a few other secret things, outspoken Katherine expects a warm welcome from her cousin Josiah. Instead she is sent to a wealthy captain's house in Hartford to serve two years as an indentured servant. For her reputation as a "cunning woman" and one who "followed the troops" precedes her.
Only after she meets the one "lone-man" of Wethersfield, John Harrison, does her luck and life change for the better. Together they are a powerful couple, a force to be reckoned with...

Until tragedy strikes the Harrison family in 1666...

"The Witch of Wethersfield", a story of betrayal, love, and passion for life is based on many of the historical records and features Katherine's trial and verdict. Evidence from envious neighbors, townspeople and collected depositions are woven into the story. Historical figures such as Governor John Winthrop, Jr., Major John Mason and Reverend Gershom Bulkeley, all play their role.

So what will Katherine's fate ultimately be...as one accused of witchcraft?

347 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 2, 2023

About the author

Award winning author, Katherine Spada Basto was a teacher and now writes full time. She enjoys mythology, folklore, traveling, painting and the study of ancient civilizations.
"Days to the Gallows" is Ms. Spada Basto's first novel and is the Winner of the Hollywood Book Festival, 2017 Wild Card, the 2017 Winner of IPNE's (Independent Publishers of New England) Young Adult Category.
Ms. Spada Basto's second book, "Vestal Virgin: Chosen for Rome" was released December 2019. Since then, "Vestal Virgin" has received numerous WINNER awards including, Winner of Genre Fiction and Young Adult Independent Publishers of New England 2020 Awards, WINNER in Next Generation Indie Book Awards for Religious/Spiritual and Young New Adult, as well as WINNER in the New York Book Festival for Best Book in Religious/Spiritual category!
Ms. Spada Basto is busy at home working on her third novel.

Reviews

[Carissa S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Buy this book..it's such a great read on every level. Entertaining, engaging, informative...it transports you to another time and place from the very beginning. I either loved or loved to hate all the characters in this book....you will too. You can savor this book or devour it...either way you will be glad you did!
Excellent storytelling, character development, writing....immersive from first to last page. So glad I grabbed this one!

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another enjoyable work of historical fiction set in Old Wethersfield during the 1600s and the era of the witch trials. It is clear that the author engaged in extensive research with painstaking attention to detail in creating this work that stays true to the time period in which it is set. With Katherine, a real historical figure, as the protagonist, Basto brings the story and all characters to life. This is a book club selection for an upcoming book club gathering, so I much appreciate the author's note relating to some of the historical references and the proposed discussion questions. I am sure there will be a lively conversation!

[Kelly Hudson · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Witch of Wethersfield is a thoroughly entertaining read that skillfully weaves historical fact with captivating fiction. The storyline is engaging, with just the right balance of intrigue, drama, and suspense to keep you turning the pages. I particularly appreciated the way the narrative is rooted in real historical events, adding depth and authenticity to the tale. This blend of history and imagination makes it a compelling read for anyone who loves historical fiction with a touch of mystery. Highly recommended!