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The Women of Wild Hill
A witty, spectacular, and timely tale of modern-day witches waging war on the patriarchy, from fan favorite Kirsten Miller, the author of
The Change
and
Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books.
There are places on earth where nature’s powers gather. Girls raised there are bequeathed strange gifts. A few have powers so dark that they fear to use them. Such a place is Wild Hill, on the tip of Long Island. For centuries, the ghost of a witch murdered by colonists claimed the beautiful and fertile Wild Hill…until a young Scottish woman with strange gifts arrived. Sadie Duncan was allowed to stay.
Five generations of Sadie’s descendants called Wild Hill home, each generation more powerful than the last. Then, in the aftermath of a terrible tragedy, the last of the Duncans, once prophesized to be the most powerful of their kind, abandoned their ancestral home.
One of them, Brigid Laguerre moved to California and turned her dark gift into fame and fortune. Her sister, Phoebe, settled on a ranch in Texas, where women visit in secret for her tonics and cures. Phoebe’s daughter, Sybil, has become a famous chef. Seemingly powerless, Sibyl has never been told of the Duncan bloodline.
Now Brigid, Phoebe, and Sibyl have been brought to Wild Hill to discover their family legacy. The Old One, furious at the path mankind has taken, has chosen three powerful witches to turn the tide. The Duncans will fulfill their destinies—but only if they can set aside their grievances and come together as a family.
There are places on earth where nature’s powers gather. Girls raised there are bequeathed strange gifts. A few have powers so dark that they fear to use them. Such a place is Wild Hill, on the tip of Long Island. For centuries, the ghost of a witch murdered by colonists claimed the beautiful and fertile Wild Hill…until a young Scottish woman with strange gifts arrived. Sadie Duncan was allowed to stay.
Five generations of Sadie’s descendants called Wild Hill home, each generation more powerful than the last. Then, in the aftermath of a terrible tragedy, the last of the Duncans, once prophesized to be the most powerful of their kind, abandoned their ancestral home.
One of them, Brigid Laguerre moved to California and turned her dark gift into fame and fortune. Her sister, Phoebe, settled on a ranch in Texas, where women visit in secret for her tonics and cures. Phoebe’s daughter, Sybil, has become a famous chef. Seemingly powerless, Sibyl has never been told of the Duncan bloodline.
Now Brigid, Phoebe, and Sibyl have been brought to Wild Hill to discover their family legacy. The Old One, furious at the path mankind has taken, has chosen three powerful witches to turn the tide. The Duncans will fulfill their destinies—but only if they can set aside their grievances and come together as a family.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published October 7, 2025
569 people are currently reading
35805 people want to read
About the author
Kirsten Miller
33 books3,531 followersKirsten Miller grew up in a small town in the mountains of North Carolina. At seventeen, she left for college in New York City, where she lives to this day. Kirsten's latest novel, Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books, is a side-splitting satire that takes on some of the most controversial issues of our day. Her first adult novel, The Change, was a Good Morning America Book Club pick for May 2022. Kirsten is also the author of over a dozen middle grade and YA novels, including the acclaimed Kiki Strike books, (which tell the tale of the delinquent girl geniuses who keep Manhattan safe), and How to Lead a Life of Crime. She is not the Kirsten Miller who wrote All That Is Left, but she assumes that Kirsten is lovely and talented. Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,453 reviews
May 29, 2025
Elon Musk is totally going to send his mom to yell at Kirsten Miller over this one. It doesn't actually mention Elon – all of the billionaires in this book are strictly fictional – but it's pretty obvious that Miller doesn't look favorably on the oligarchy. In fact, her family of witches in The Women of Wild Hill kind of want all of the billionaires and slimy politicians, you know … dead. This novel is set in the very near future when climate change is ramping up its destruction, and the Old One has had enough of mankind's shit. She's decided that the men responsible for destroying the planet need to shuffle off this mortal coil, and she's calling on the Duncan family to help her enact her vengeance.
First off, this is a very “woke” (gah, I hate that word) book. If you're a climate change denier or anti-feminist (or Elon Musk), there's a pretty good chance you're not going to like this one. I mean, you can read it if you'd like, of course, but I imagine that an uber-conservative reading this would kind of be the fictional book equivalent of Bernie Sanders listening to The Rush Limbaugh Show - someone's going to be making a lot of horrified faces.
Anyway, I absolutely adored the first 90% of this book. It takes a long time for the present-day story to really get started, as a lot of chapters are spent on the history of the Duncan family and the witches who came before Brigid and Phoebe. This is absolutely not a bad thing, mind you – the backstory is fascinating. There have been poisoners and Nazi-killers and witches burned at the stake and lots of lots of ghosts in the family history, and we get to learn each of their stories. In the present day, Phoebe and (especially) Brigid are likeable, intelligent, and multifaceted characters. There's death and reconciliation and witchy powers and romance and sibling rivalry and feminism and fighting the patriarchy, and it's all quite wonderful. This is a beautifully written book and I think I currently have a bit of an author crush on Kirsten Miller.
As wonderful as this book is, however, I have to confess that it did lose me a bit in the end. It all felt a bit rushed and anticlimactic after the big build up, and I'm still not sure why for all of it to happen. There are also a bunch of new characters introduced at the very end, but we never actually learn anything about them. And while the final scene is rather satisfying, I have no idea how such a thing wouldn't bring down some unwanted attention on at least one of the Duncans. Don't get me wrong, I've read much, much worse endings, but I was just really hoping for something more.
But don't read this book for the ending. It's not the present-day timeline that makes this book, but the stories of the witches who came before. Turns out that you can burn the witch, but she's probably going to become a pissed-off ghost who helps her descendants murder all of your descendants. Oopsie.
4.4 stars, rounded down.
Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is October 7, 2025.
First off, this is a very “woke” (gah, I hate that word) book. If you're a climate change denier or anti-feminist (or Elon Musk), there's a pretty good chance you're not going to like this one. I mean, you can read it if you'd like, of course, but I imagine that an uber-conservative reading this would kind of be the fictional book equivalent of Bernie Sanders listening to The Rush Limbaugh Show - someone's going to be making a lot of horrified faces.
Anyway, I absolutely adored the first 90% of this book. It takes a long time for the present-day story to really get started, as a lot of chapters are spent on the history of the Duncan family and the witches who came before Brigid and Phoebe. This is absolutely not a bad thing, mind you – the backstory is fascinating. There have been poisoners and Nazi-killers and witches burned at the stake and lots of lots of ghosts in the family history, and we get to learn each of their stories. In the present day, Phoebe and (especially) Brigid are likeable, intelligent, and multifaceted characters. There's death and reconciliation and witchy powers and romance and sibling rivalry and feminism and fighting the patriarchy, and it's all quite wonderful. This is a beautifully written book and I think I currently have a bit of an author crush on Kirsten Miller.
As wonderful as this book is, however, I have to confess that it did lose me a bit in the end. It all felt a bit rushed and anticlimactic after the big build up, and I'm still not sure why for all of it to happen. There are also a bunch of new characters introduced at the very end, but we never actually learn anything about them. And while the final scene is rather satisfying, I have no idea how such a thing wouldn't bring down some unwanted attention on at least one of the Duncans. Don't get me wrong, I've read much, much worse endings, but I was just really hoping for something more.
But don't read this book for the ending. It's not the present-day timeline that makes this book, but the stories of the witches who came before. Turns out that you can burn the witch, but she's probably going to become a pissed-off ghost who helps her descendants murder all of your descendants. Oopsie.
4.4 stars, rounded down.
Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for providing me with an advance copy of this book to review. Its expected publication date is October 7, 2025.
August 28, 2025
Kirsten Miller has cast a spell on me with The Women of Wild Hill. I must admit that at first, I was not sure about this book. I love, love, love, gothic witch tales and this is a very modern take on witches - a very feminist take on witches. But as Kirsten Miller began to work her magic, I found myself bewitched and engaged in this tale about a family of witches, their legacy and their fight against powerful men behaving badly.
I enjoyed her writing, her character and plot building, her unique take on witches, the Duncan sister's individual 'gifts', and how generations of her characters have called Wild Hill home. Each Duncan sisters was unique and fully fleshed out. This book did start a little on the slow side for me, but it did keep building and kept me engaged. There were a few times she had me nervous and worried about the fate of several characters. I enjoyed the twists, the tension, and the witchy vibe.
This book, as I mentioned, is set in the modern day with glimpses into the past. As it is set in the present day, it does have some present-day themes. I enjoyed seeing all the women being strong in their own ways, the sisters are independent, strong, smart and savvy. They must get over some issues and work as a team and that is where the magic happened for me!
Wonderfully written, unique and thought provoking, this was a wonderful witches words buddy read with Brenda and Mary Beth. Please read their reviews as well to get their thoughts on The Women of Wild Hill!
Thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
I enjoyed her writing, her character and plot building, her unique take on witches, the Duncan sister's individual 'gifts', and how generations of her characters have called Wild Hill home. Each Duncan sisters was unique and fully fleshed out. This book did start a little on the slow side for me, but it did keep building and kept me engaged. There were a few times she had me nervous and worried about the fate of several characters. I enjoyed the twists, the tension, and the witchy vibe.
This book, as I mentioned, is set in the modern day with glimpses into the past. As it is set in the present day, it does have some present-day themes. I enjoyed seeing all the women being strong in their own ways, the sisters are independent, strong, smart and savvy. They must get over some issues and work as a team and that is where the magic happened for me!
Wonderfully written, unique and thought provoking, this was a wonderful witches words buddy read with Brenda and Mary Beth. Please read their reviews as well to get their thoughts on The Women of Wild Hill!
Thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
October 30, 2025
Packed to the brim with scathing social commentary and revenge-dishing modern-day witches, The Women of Wild Hill was a timely story that acted as a balm to my soul. Coming at just the right moment in our current mixed up world, it was a war on the patriarchy in the best possible way. That being said, the raw elements of the book itself were just as brilliant. A character-driven plot that sizzled with tension, it was also an ingenious new take on a generational family saga. You see, the various members of the Duncan clan were each wily, smart, and savvy, but also all inherently different from one another. To be frank, they were some of the best female main characters that I’ve ever read. After all, they evoked Alice Hoffman’s best witches, all while taking them just a tad bit further as well.
The storyline was just as much of a home run, however. A slow boil of plot-charging drama, wealthy men behaving badly, and long-buried family secrets, it was a well-written symphony that kept me from guessing what was coming around the next bend. With a supernatural plot tempering the serious reality-based themes, I was rooting this group on all while I cackled away at the laugh-out-loud sarcasm and delicious dark humor. Satirical but also reverently poignant, I honestly can’t think of another book even remotely like this one. You see, from the riveting start to the somewhat open-ended conclusion, it shocked me at every turn. And when I reached that fist-pumping climax? Well, let’s just say that my reading speed found another gear while the Cheshire Cat-like smile just grew bigger and bigger.
All said and done, this book was the exact kind of story I needed right now. A rallying cry to women, it explored strength, courage, and the power of working together all while exposing the flaws in society with a deft pen. Interwoven into it was a plot that dazzled and entertained via multiple distinct POVs, immersive storytelling, and a haunting—and haunted—setting. Don’t get me wrong, the strongest piece was the juxtaposition of the somewhat cozy vibe with the hell-hath-no-fury-like-a-woman-scorned feel. Full of righteous anger and feminine power, I felt like listening to Katy Perry’s Roar the entire time I was reading. So if you’re looking for a book to help you temper the news or one that will have help you laugh instead of cry, grab this one now. It’s a winner for sure. Rating of 5 stars.
P.S. By the way, Ms. Miller, is there any way that we could get a sequel?!
SYNOPSIS:
There are places on earth where nature’s powers gather. Girls raised there are bequeathed strange gifts. A few have powers so dark that they fear to use them. Such a place is Wild Hill, on the tip of Long Island. For centuries, the ghost of a witch murdered by colonists claimed the beautiful and fertile Wild Hill…until a young Scottish woman with strange gifts arrived. Sadie Duncan was allowed to stay.
Five generations of Sadie’s descendants called Wild Hill home, each generation more powerful than the last. Then, in the aftermath of a terrible tragedy, the last of the Duncans, once prophesized to be the most powerful of their kind, abandoned their ancestral home.
One of them, Brigid Laguerre moved to California and turned her dark gift into fame and fortune. Her sister, Phoebe, settled on a ranch in Texas, where women visit in secret for her tonics and cures. Phoebe’s daughter, Sybil, has become a famous chef. Seemingly powerless, Sibyl has never been told of the Duncan bloodline.
Now Brigid, Phoebe, and Sibyl have been brought to Wild Hill to discover their family legacy. The Old One, furious at the path mankind has taken, has chosen three powerful witches to turn the tide. The Duncans will fulfill their destinies—but only if they can set aside their grievances and come together as a family.
Thank you to Kirsten Miller and William Morrow Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: October 7, 2025
Content warning: ghosts, misogyny, abortion, politics, poisoning, drowning, mention of: domestic abuse
The storyline was just as much of a home run, however. A slow boil of plot-charging drama, wealthy men behaving badly, and long-buried family secrets, it was a well-written symphony that kept me from guessing what was coming around the next bend. With a supernatural plot tempering the serious reality-based themes, I was rooting this group on all while I cackled away at the laugh-out-loud sarcasm and delicious dark humor. Satirical but also reverently poignant, I honestly can’t think of another book even remotely like this one. You see, from the riveting start to the somewhat open-ended conclusion, it shocked me at every turn. And when I reached that fist-pumping climax? Well, let’s just say that my reading speed found another gear while the Cheshire Cat-like smile just grew bigger and bigger.
All said and done, this book was the exact kind of story I needed right now. A rallying cry to women, it explored strength, courage, and the power of working together all while exposing the flaws in society with a deft pen. Interwoven into it was a plot that dazzled and entertained via multiple distinct POVs, immersive storytelling, and a haunting—and haunted—setting. Don’t get me wrong, the strongest piece was the juxtaposition of the somewhat cozy vibe with the hell-hath-no-fury-like-a-woman-scorned feel. Full of righteous anger and feminine power, I felt like listening to Katy Perry’s Roar the entire time I was reading. So if you’re looking for a book to help you temper the news or one that will have help you laugh instead of cry, grab this one now. It’s a winner for sure. Rating of 5 stars.
P.S. By the way, Ms. Miller, is there any way that we could get a sequel?!
SYNOPSIS:
There are places on earth where nature’s powers gather. Girls raised there are bequeathed strange gifts. A few have powers so dark that they fear to use them. Such a place is Wild Hill, on the tip of Long Island. For centuries, the ghost of a witch murdered by colonists claimed the beautiful and fertile Wild Hill…until a young Scottish woman with strange gifts arrived. Sadie Duncan was allowed to stay.
Five generations of Sadie’s descendants called Wild Hill home, each generation more powerful than the last. Then, in the aftermath of a terrible tragedy, the last of the Duncans, once prophesized to be the most powerful of their kind, abandoned their ancestral home.
One of them, Brigid Laguerre moved to California and turned her dark gift into fame and fortune. Her sister, Phoebe, settled on a ranch in Texas, where women visit in secret for her tonics and cures. Phoebe’s daughter, Sybil, has become a famous chef. Seemingly powerless, Sibyl has never been told of the Duncan bloodline.
Now Brigid, Phoebe, and Sibyl have been brought to Wild Hill to discover their family legacy. The Old One, furious at the path mankind has taken, has chosen three powerful witches to turn the tide. The Duncans will fulfill their destinies—but only if they can set aside their grievances and come together as a family.
Thank you to Kirsten Miller and William Morrow Books for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
PUB DATE: October 7, 2025
Content warning: ghosts, misogyny, abortion, politics, poisoning, drowning, mention of: domestic abuse
April 29, 2026
In a Nutshell: A multi-timeline fantasy featuring powerful witches with a modern-day agenda. Many intriguing (female) characters, many interesting subplots. First 75% excellent, final 25% a bit too wild! A creative combination of themes not often seen together. Recommended.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
No Yays and Nays this time, as each point I thought of seemed to have a counterpoint. The overall tilt is still towards the positive side.
✔️ The juxtaposition of witches (often seen as historical or fantastical) and our real-life modern-day world with its myriad dystopian and climatic issues.
❌ Took my brain a while to accept this pairing, though it's definitely clever and well-handled.
✔️ Expected a witchy feminist fantasy. Found the same but with some extra garnishing.
❌ The 'garnishing' left me with mixed feelings. Two of the key themes specifically caught me unawares because I didn’t expect contemporary social commentary to pop up in a witchy fantasy.
✔️ Several fascinating characters, especially the Duncan women and Bessie the ghost. Brigid, Phoebe, and Sybil are the most interesting, especially in how distinct they and their powers are from each other.
❌ The men are mostly decorative. Only a couple of men have a strong role to play in the plot. This is to be expected in a feminist witchy story, I suppose, but it still feels lopsided.
✔️ All generations of the Duncan women and their powers are wow!
❌ A bit tricky to remember their family tree with all the interconnections and backstories.
✔️ The audiobook version has an accompanying enhancement PDF for the Duncan family tree.
❌ I felt too lazy to open it again and again, so after a point, I just went with the flow. 😏
✔️ The multi-generational story spans several decades, giving us a good look at the treatment of women (and witches) over time.
❌ The year isn't always mentioned, so it's tricky to keep track of the passage of time.
✔️ The magical content, coming from the gifts each Duncan woman has. The diversity and darkness of the gifts make the proceedings interesting.
❌ Despite the presence of a ghost and a somewhat-divine entity, the dominant vibe of the story is more like magical realism than fantasy. I wish the dark content had actually felt more tense.
✔️ The concept of "The Old One" – fascinating! I wish she had a greater active role in the book. It felt like we missed out on knowing a powerful being.
❌ Anything inexplicable/tragic is conveniently attributed to the Old One's divine plan, much like many believers do in real life. Annoying in reality; annoying in fiction as well.
✔️ The extended backstories of each generation of the Duncan women – excellently written, giving us a clear idea of their strength and magic. It is not a typical generational-trauma story. I love that each witch is more powerful than her mother.
❌ I wish these stories had been more scattered throughout the book instead of coming in a single extended sequence of one chapter per woman. After all those stories were done, I didn’t even remember the last event in the main contemporary timeline. Also, a certain decision taken by one character in the backstory didn’t make sense to me at all.
✔️ The first 70-75% or so (not sure of the exact %age as I had the audio) is very strong, with deft storytelling, proper character development, and an intriguing plot. Until this point, I was sure my rating would easily cross 4 stars.
❌ The remaining chapters. The only word I can think of to describe them is ‘unhinged’. The whole finale felt extreme (in a bonkers way) compared to the rest of the book. I am not too comfortable with what happened as it’s morally ambiguous.
✔️ Then again, a part of me acknowledges the necessity for the intense ending. I enjoyed indulging in some wishful thinking and even compiled my own list. (You’ll know what the list comprises if you read the book.)
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at 10 hrs 38 min, is narrated by January LaVoy. She is as exceptional as always, narrating each character perfectly. However, given the complicated timeline and the sheer number of characters, I would recommend the audio only to experienced audiobook listeners. Newbies, better stick to actual reading.
Overall, I am pretty sure this book would have crossed the 4-star mark easily had the final 20-odd% delivered as well as the rest. The ending was somewhat a letdown for me. Despite this, I think this book ought to be read because whatever was good… was really good.
Prior to reading this novel, I have read only one other book by this author: “Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books”, which I loved. Reading this new novel showed me how diverse her writing skill is. Conceptually, this book doesn’t have much in common with Lula Dean, the latter being a socio-political satire. But if compared in writing approach, both contain socio-political commentary, both demonstrate the author’s keen observations and sharp sense of humour, and both are highly relevant to current happenings. While I am bit tired of so many books inserting social commentary unexpectedly, I acknowledge the relevance of the topics raised by the author. In a world filled with crazy despots, every voice of protest matters, even if it comes from a fictional fantasy novel.
Recommended to those who enjoy feminist fantasies relevant to the real world.
3.75 stars.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I follow the Goodreads rating policy:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Lifelong favourite!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I loved the book.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book.
⭐⭐ - I found the book average.
⭐ - I hated the book.
The decimals indicate the degree of the in-between feelings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
Wild Hill, an isolated place at the tip of Long Island, has long been haunted by a ghost. For centuries, she didn’t allow anyone to settle there, until a young Scottish girl with strange powers, Sadie Duncan, was permitted to stay. Five generations of Sadie’s descendants have now known this magical place as their home, each generation more “gifted” than its predecessor. But after a terrible incident, the latest generation of Duncan women left their ancestral residence. Brigid moved to California and used her dark talent to carve a successful acting career. Her sister Phoebe settled at a remote ranch in Texas working as a healer. Now, about three decades after they left Wild Hill, they have been summoned back by The Old One. It is time for the powerful Duncan witches to fulfil their destiny, whether they want it or not.
The story comes to us in the third-person perspectives of multiple generations of Duncan women, thus covering varied timelines as well.
No Yays and Nays this time, as each point I thought of seemed to have a counterpoint. The overall tilt is still towards the positive side.
✔️ The juxtaposition of witches (often seen as historical or fantastical) and our real-life modern-day world with its myriad dystopian and climatic issues.
❌ Took my brain a while to accept this pairing, though it's definitely clever and well-handled.
✔️ Expected a witchy feminist fantasy. Found the same but with some extra garnishing.
❌ The 'garnishing' left me with mixed feelings. Two of the key themes specifically caught me unawares because I didn’t expect contemporary social commentary to pop up in a witchy fantasy.
✔️ Several fascinating characters, especially the Duncan women and Bessie the ghost. Brigid, Phoebe, and Sybil are the most interesting, especially in how distinct they and their powers are from each other.
❌ The men are mostly decorative. Only a couple of men have a strong role to play in the plot. This is to be expected in a feminist witchy story, I suppose, but it still feels lopsided.
✔️ All generations of the Duncan women and their powers are wow!
❌ A bit tricky to remember their family tree with all the interconnections and backstories.
✔️ The audiobook version has an accompanying enhancement PDF for the Duncan family tree.
❌ I felt too lazy to open it again and again, so after a point, I just went with the flow. 😏
✔️ The multi-generational story spans several decades, giving us a good look at the treatment of women (and witches) over time.
❌ The year isn't always mentioned, so it's tricky to keep track of the passage of time.
✔️ The magical content, coming from the gifts each Duncan woman has. The diversity and darkness of the gifts make the proceedings interesting.
❌ Despite the presence of a ghost and a somewhat-divine entity, the dominant vibe of the story is more like magical realism than fantasy. I wish the dark content had actually felt more tense.
✔️ The concept of "The Old One" – fascinating! I wish she had a greater active role in the book. It felt like we missed out on knowing a powerful being.
❌ Anything inexplicable/tragic is conveniently attributed to the Old One's divine plan, much like many believers do in real life. Annoying in reality; annoying in fiction as well.
✔️ The extended backstories of each generation of the Duncan women – excellently written, giving us a clear idea of their strength and magic. It is not a typical generational-trauma story. I love that each witch is more powerful than her mother.
❌ I wish these stories had been more scattered throughout the book instead of coming in a single extended sequence of one chapter per woman. After all those stories were done, I didn’t even remember the last event in the main contemporary timeline. Also, a certain decision taken by one character in the backstory didn’t make sense to me at all.
✔️ The first 70-75% or so (not sure of the exact %age as I had the audio) is very strong, with deft storytelling, proper character development, and an intriguing plot. Until this point, I was sure my rating would easily cross 4 stars.
❌ The remaining chapters. The only word I can think of to describe them is ‘unhinged’. The whole finale felt extreme (in a bonkers way) compared to the rest of the book. I am not too comfortable with what happened as it’s morally ambiguous.
✔️ Then again, a part of me acknowledges the necessity for the intense ending. I enjoyed indulging in some wishful thinking and even compiled my own list. (You’ll know what the list comprises if you read the book.)
🎧 The Audiobook Experience:
The audiobook, clocking at 10 hrs 38 min, is narrated by January LaVoy. She is as exceptional as always, narrating each character perfectly. However, given the complicated timeline and the sheer number of characters, I would recommend the audio only to experienced audiobook listeners. Newbies, better stick to actual reading.
Overall, I am pretty sure this book would have crossed the 4-star mark easily had the final 20-odd% delivered as well as the rest. The ending was somewhat a letdown for me. Despite this, I think this book ought to be read because whatever was good… was really good.
Prior to reading this novel, I have read only one other book by this author: “Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books”, which I loved. Reading this new novel showed me how diverse her writing skill is. Conceptually, this book doesn’t have much in common with Lula Dean, the latter being a socio-political satire. But if compared in writing approach, both contain socio-political commentary, both demonstrate the author’s keen observations and sharp sense of humour, and both are highly relevant to current happenings. While I am bit tired of so many books inserting social commentary unexpectedly, I acknowledge the relevance of the topics raised by the author. In a world filled with crazy despots, every voice of protest matters, even if it comes from a fictional fantasy novel.
Recommended to those who enjoy feminist fantasies relevant to the real world.
3.75 stars.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I follow the Goodreads rating policy:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Lifelong favourite!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I loved the book.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book.
⭐⭐ - I found the book average.
⭐ - I hated the book.
The decimals indicate the degree of the in-between feelings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
October 24, 2025
Title/Author: The Women of Wild Hill by Kirsten Miller
Format Read: Audiobook (Libro.FM)
Pub date: October 7th, 2025
Publisher: William Morrow
Page Count: 368
Affiliate Link: https://bookshop.org/a/7576/978006328...
Recommended for readers who enjoy:
- Modern-day witches/witchcraft/paranormal gifts
- Multi-generational family saga/folklore
- Male oppression and persecution/patriarchy
- Sisters/Strong FMCs
- Ancestral home "Wild Hill"
- Romance/relationships/Family tree
- Revenge, justice
__
Minor complaints:
- No complaints-
Final recommendation: This is the story of a family of witches who come into their own, unique power at different stages of life. Each witch as their own POV chapters that expand upon their backstory. I loved this audiobook. The narrator's voice is pleasant and animated but not overly so. the characters have distantly different personalities and reasons for the reader to love them. The authors does a great job developing the family history and folklore while keeping the present-day storyline at the center of the main conflict.
Brigid Laguerre is my favorite witch. She is an actress with an infectious "take no shit but do no harm" life mantra. She's witty, sexy, and nothing gets past her. I loved the way the property of Wild Hill remained the source of power for these women as they navigated their lives apart, yet felt drawn together by this "place"--especially when they needed it and each other and their ancestral roots.
Such a powerful tale of resiliency, matriarchy, and femininity
Comps: Weyward by Emilia Hart, A Secret History of Witches/The Great Witch of Brittany by Louisa Morgan, The Bane Witch by Ava Morgan
Format Read: Audiobook (Libro.FM)
Pub date: October 7th, 2025
Publisher: William Morrow
Page Count: 368
Affiliate Link: https://bookshop.org/a/7576/978006328...
Recommended for readers who enjoy:
- Modern-day witches/witchcraft/paranormal gifts
- Multi-generational family saga/folklore
- Male oppression and persecution/patriarchy
- Sisters/Strong FMCs
- Ancestral home "Wild Hill"
- Romance/relationships/Family tree
- Revenge, justice
__
Minor complaints:
- No complaints-
Final recommendation: This is the story of a family of witches who come into their own, unique power at different stages of life. Each witch as their own POV chapters that expand upon their backstory. I loved this audiobook. The narrator's voice is pleasant and animated but not overly so. the characters have distantly different personalities and reasons for the reader to love them. The authors does a great job developing the family history and folklore while keeping the present-day storyline at the center of the main conflict.
Brigid Laguerre is my favorite witch. She is an actress with an infectious "take no shit but do no harm" life mantra. She's witty, sexy, and nothing gets past her. I loved the way the property of Wild Hill remained the source of power for these women as they navigated their lives apart, yet felt drawn together by this "place"--especially when they needed it and each other and their ancestral roots.
Such a powerful tale of resiliency, matriarchy, and femininity
Comps: Weyward by Emilia Hart, A Secret History of Witches/The Great Witch of Brittany by Louisa Morgan, The Bane Witch by Ava Morgan
November 3, 2025
With a great cast of witchy characters, these women come together to fulfill a prophecy decades old. I felt Practical Magic vibes. There is some slow bits but the story is beautiful, but I would have liked a little more hocus pocus. But in all a great story that captured my attention till the end.
July 5, 2025
I hate how timely and important each of Kirsten Miller’s books are but am so thankful for the balm they provide. Best book of the year, right here!
October 12, 2025
4.5 stars, rounded down. I really liked Miller's "The Change" a couple years ago & this new one is equally good. I just loved the story of the "witchy" Duncan women through the generations to the current day of Phoebe, Brigid & Sybil and how they "evene the scales" for the "Old One" and our planet. Yes, there is a strong feminist & progressive lean to this - so it's not for those who enjoy the current US admin., but for those who feel righteous outrage & anger it's quite cathartic to see billionaire tycoons & politicians get there comeuppance ! Highly recommend
Read
September 4, 2025
The Best New Witchy Books to Read This Fall:
From the author of The Change and Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books comes a new story about a group of women, descendants of a famous witch from Wild Hill on Long Island, who return to their ancestral land to wage witchy war on the patriarchy. Can the women set aside their squabbling long enough to fulfill their destinies?—Liberty Hardy
From the author of The Change and Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books comes a new story about a group of women, descendants of a famous witch from Wild Hill on Long Island, who return to their ancestral land to wage witchy war on the patriarchy. Can the women set aside their squabbling long enough to fulfill their destinies?—Liberty Hardy
October 23, 2025
The Women of Wild Hill is a masterful blend of magical realism, women's fiction, and historical fiction, with elements of mild horror.
Kristen always creates these strong and fierce female characters who are unapologetically themselves, and The Women of Wild Hill is the perfect example of this. With themes of sisterhood, the power of the natural world, mixed with the supernatural, make for a very compelling read. The book also speaks on current issues such as women's rights and the climate crisis, which make for an unforgettable story.
Just like her prior works, The Change, and Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books, The Women of Wild Hill was a solid 5-star read for me and I highly recommend it!
I listened to the audiobook version which is narrated by the fantastic January LaVoy so you know it's good! If you decide to pick this one up, I highly recommend this format.
The Women of Wild Hill by Kristen Miller was published on October 7 so it's available now. Many thanks to Libro FM and William Morrow for the gifted audiobook!
Kristen always creates these strong and fierce female characters who are unapologetically themselves, and The Women of Wild Hill is the perfect example of this. With themes of sisterhood, the power of the natural world, mixed with the supernatural, make for a very compelling read. The book also speaks on current issues such as women's rights and the climate crisis, which make for an unforgettable story.
Just like her prior works, The Change, and Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books, The Women of Wild Hill was a solid 5-star read for me and I highly recommend it!
I listened to the audiobook version which is narrated by the fantastic January LaVoy so you know it's good! If you decide to pick this one up, I highly recommend this format.
The Women of Wild Hill by Kristen Miller was published on October 7 so it's available now. Many thanks to Libro FM and William Morrow for the gifted audiobook!
June 18, 2025
I am absolutely taken by this book. Is it magic? Is it witchcraft? It is the true masterful talent of Kirsten Miller on full display.
I first read Miller when The Change came out and loved the storytelling and blend of genres she gave us with a true breath of fresh air in the “witchy” genre. The Women of Wild Hill is her finely tuning that craft into perfection. It is such a beautiful experience to witness an authour take true flight in what they do and excel in every way.
Writing witches akin to Alice Hoffman, Miller is able to take our age old witches and gives them something new…rage. Female rage is on full display and brings me utter joy. From the sisterly bonding, communing with the dead, honing natural talents, to taking out men decimating the earth. This book is for ALL the women. All the women who have been torn down. All the women who have been called hysterical. All the women hurt and killed. For all the women who are right.
Gone Girl meets a Paris Paloma song, Miller gives us the witch stories we truly deserve while cackling with delight along the way; she brings us all home. Get your alter ready my lovelies, we are making a curse tonight.
I first read Miller when The Change came out and loved the storytelling and blend of genres she gave us with a true breath of fresh air in the “witchy” genre. The Women of Wild Hill is her finely tuning that craft into perfection. It is such a beautiful experience to witness an authour take true flight in what they do and excel in every way.
Writing witches akin to Alice Hoffman, Miller is able to take our age old witches and gives them something new…rage. Female rage is on full display and brings me utter joy. From the sisterly bonding, communing with the dead, honing natural talents, to taking out men decimating the earth. This book is for ALL the women. All the women who have been torn down. All the women who have been called hysterical. All the women hurt and killed. For all the women who are right.
Gone Girl meets a Paris Paloma song, Miller gives us the witch stories we truly deserve while cackling with delight along the way; she brings us all home. Get your alter ready my lovelies, we are making a curse tonight.
November 9, 2025
I was mildly bored through most of the this, mainly because there was very little suspense or tension. The character development was decent considering there were so many of them over such a large span of time, but it did cause me to feel like I didn’t particularly care about any of them. The writing itself was good.
I find myself growing weary of political messaging, regardless of the side the author is championing. Politics are just.plain.boring. It doesn’t help that most authors don’t know how to navigate topics sensibly, and the end result is that I walk away feeling drained and vaguely annoyed.
I find myself growing weary of political messaging, regardless of the side the author is championing. Politics are just.plain.boring. It doesn’t help that most authors don’t know how to navigate topics sensibly, and the end result is that I walk away feeling drained and vaguely annoyed.
October 12, 2025
Such a satisfying read! Kirsten Miller dishes out revenge on behalf of women everywhere and from all time periods. From witches burned at the stake to women robbed of their rights and dignity, she conjured characters to strike back at the megalomaniac billionaires who believe they will always be pulling the strings. I loved the multiple POVS, the family tree that ties all the women together, and the wonderfully remote, romantic, and pleasingly haunted setting of Wild Hill. From the first page to the last, I was cheering for every single woman in this book!
I listened to the audiobook courtesy of @librofm and January LaVoy's performance was excellent.
I listened to the audiobook courtesy of @librofm and January LaVoy's performance was excellent.
September 21, 2025
Really really good. I loved the book and thought it was 5 ⭐️ until we hit the 75% mark and the story started to take a turn where I lost interest. The past history chapters did feel like a lot but it was also necessary to the story development since it was generational story. I did think the audio was great and really engaging. If you like witch books with history, this will be one to add to your list.
September 29, 2025
"A witty, spectacular, and timely tale of modern-day witches waging war on the patriarchy."
The Duncan sisters Brigid and Phoebe had a falling out thirty years ago and left Wild Hill, a place where nature's powers gather, and women are bestowed with gifts by the Old One. Now, the Duncan sisters are called back to Wild Hill along with Sybil, Phoebe's daughter, who has never been told who she truly is. They are being called on to save the Earth from corrupt men who destroy it and are a danger to women. In order to do so, they need to reconcile their differences and come together as a family.
I absolutely adored the first seventy-five percent of this book. The generational history of the family was reminiscent of Alice Hoffmann and had plenty of cozy, witchy vibes. The last quarter was a little extreme and over the top for me, but Miller is a genius on social commentary, and much of it is satire. I'm a big fan of her writing. If you love witchy books and want to read about extreme feminine rage at the patriarchy, then this is a must-read and perfect for spooky season.
Many thanks to NetGalley, William Morrow, and Kirsten Miller for an advance reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.
The Duncan sisters Brigid and Phoebe had a falling out thirty years ago and left Wild Hill, a place where nature's powers gather, and women are bestowed with gifts by the Old One. Now, the Duncan sisters are called back to Wild Hill along with Sybil, Phoebe's daughter, who has never been told who she truly is. They are being called on to save the Earth from corrupt men who destroy it and are a danger to women. In order to do so, they need to reconcile their differences and come together as a family.
I absolutely adored the first seventy-five percent of this book. The generational history of the family was reminiscent of Alice Hoffmann and had plenty of cozy, witchy vibes. The last quarter was a little extreme and over the top for me, but Miller is a genius on social commentary, and much of it is satire. I'm a big fan of her writing. If you love witchy books and want to read about extreme feminine rage at the patriarchy, then this is a must-read and perfect for spooky season.
Many thanks to NetGalley, William Morrow, and Kirsten Miller for an advance reader's copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 27, 2025
I became a huge fan of Kirsten Miller's after reading THE CHANGE and was thrilled to return to that world with this book. I love everything about this book and the world Miller has created. It was such a joy to see a bunch of rich old white men get what they deserve. I laughed aloud and cheered. And was especially joyful to see my hero from THE CHANGE, Harriet have a fantastic cameo! I will read everything Kirsten Miller write. Ladies, wanta join my coven???
October 8, 2025
If you loved Kirsten Miller’s earlier work 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦, you will also enjoy her latest book 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘞𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘞𝘪𝘭𝘥 𝘏𝘪𝘭𝘭. Both are well-written, engrossing novels full of witchy vibes, female rage, and social commentary. This particular novel is a multigenerational saga centered around The Three—two estranged sisters and a daughter who are the most powerful of their kind and prophesied to come back together to turn the tide of mankind.
The narrative is primarily told from the points of view of actress-producer Brigid, healer Phoebe, and chef Sybil. Each POV is distinct and engaging due to the trio’s different skills, personalities, and journeys. But I especially liked reading from the perspectives of other witches in their family line. Seeing the life stories of their ancestors gave more depth and emotional resonance to the plot. Miller really excels in world-building and characterization.
I did find the book a bit heavy-handed and over-the-top at times and the ending somewhat rushed, but overall I think this is a compelling, entertaining story about family, fate, and fighting the patriarchy. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘞𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘞𝘪𝘭𝘥 𝘏𝘪𝘭𝘭 is definitely a novel for those who enjoy empowering feminist fiction that tackles timely topics.
4.5 stars rounded up. Thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
The narrative is primarily told from the points of view of actress-producer Brigid, healer Phoebe, and chef Sybil. Each POV is distinct and engaging due to the trio’s different skills, personalities, and journeys. But I especially liked reading from the perspectives of other witches in their family line. Seeing the life stories of their ancestors gave more depth and emotional resonance to the plot. Miller really excels in world-building and characterization.
I did find the book a bit heavy-handed and over-the-top at times and the ending somewhat rushed, but overall I think this is a compelling, entertaining story about family, fate, and fighting the patriarchy. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘞𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘞𝘪𝘭𝘥 𝘏𝘪𝘭𝘭 is definitely a novel for those who enjoy empowering feminist fiction that tackles timely topics.
4.5 stars rounded up. Thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 7, 2025
I remember the very first time I watched a Quentin Tarantino film--this would have been decades ago--thinking to myself, "this is brilliant" and simultaneously "this is bloody disgusting." I couldn't figure out if I loved it, hated it, admired it, or was just plain grossed out by it. Perhaps, all of the above? Several years later, Oliver Stone's Natural Born Killers looked at our cultural trends and correctly predicted that media would make superstars out of sociopathic men. And now, whattaya know, America even elects them.
The Women of Wild Hill definitely summons up a variety of complex emotions, particularly during the last 100 pages or so. Like my reactions to those groundbreaking films, I almost felt like I should be at odds with Miller's protagonists, and yet if I'm being perfectly honest, I cheered them on. These protagonists are three extremely powerful women who unapologetically, gleefully murder the world's worst men, billionaires responsible for destroying the planet...billionaires responsible for destroying humanity. The author may not have named real names, but calling this novel timely is an understatement, and readers can easily guess from where Miller derives her inspiration.
Cheering murderers does come with a cost. We have to examine ourselves and our culture. It's 30 some years past those early Tarantino films and Oliver Stone's Natural Born Killers, and both directors were absolutely correct--an element in our society has definitely come to worship violent men who act openly criminal simply because their money/fame makes them feel above the law. The female protagonists in TWOWH are making a course correction--it's still a violence--but one that is committed to correct injustice. I'm not remotely advocating this course of action in the real world, but I am fascinated by the discomfort readers experience throughout a plot which continually broaches the ethical dilemma. The most important take away: this novel suggests that currently the American justice system is failing the people and the planet because it has been bought and sold, judges stacked. Where do we go from here? I know where French history went in 1789.
Basic Plot:
Partially an extension of her novel The Change, TWOWH follows the lives of two sisters who had long been estranged. Their innate magic calls them to return to their ancestral island home and reconnect with their roots. The third female protagonist is the daughter of one of the sisters. She too is brought to the island via mystical circumstances. Once all three are together, ghosts of past generations explain that the time has come for them to use their witchy abilities to help change/save humanity from the men above the law currently threatening all future generations.
Summaries make this book sound like such a weighty/heavy read, and in many ways, it is quite thought provoking. But Miller's brilliant wit and humor is on full display in every conversation. Readers will find themselves laughing out loud. Miller's tone never takes itself too seriously. This novel tends to serve more as a catharsis than anything else.
This novel really is unlike any other magical, witchy book out there. For fans of Weyward by Emilia Hart and Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman this is a must read--you will devour it! The originality alone is worth experiencing, especially if you feel like you have been reading the same old, witch-genre fantasy over and over again. Beyond that, the prose is gorgeous and the snark is priceless.
The Women of Wild Hill definitely summons up a variety of complex emotions, particularly during the last 100 pages or so. Like my reactions to those groundbreaking films, I almost felt like I should be at odds with Miller's protagonists, and yet if I'm being perfectly honest, I cheered them on. These protagonists are three extremely powerful women who unapologetically, gleefully murder the world's worst men, billionaires responsible for destroying the planet...billionaires responsible for destroying humanity. The author may not have named real names, but calling this novel timely is an understatement, and readers can easily guess from where Miller derives her inspiration.
Cheering murderers does come with a cost. We have to examine ourselves and our culture. It's 30 some years past those early Tarantino films and Oliver Stone's Natural Born Killers, and both directors were absolutely correct--an element in our society has definitely come to worship violent men who act openly criminal simply because their money/fame makes them feel above the law. The female protagonists in TWOWH are making a course correction--it's still a violence--but one that is committed to correct injustice. I'm not remotely advocating this course of action in the real world, but I am fascinated by the discomfort readers experience throughout a plot which continually broaches the ethical dilemma. The most important take away: this novel suggests that currently the American justice system is failing the people and the planet because it has been bought and sold, judges stacked. Where do we go from here? I know where French history went in 1789.
Basic Plot:
Partially an extension of her novel The Change, TWOWH follows the lives of two sisters who had long been estranged. Their innate magic calls them to return to their ancestral island home and reconnect with their roots. The third female protagonist is the daughter of one of the sisters. She too is brought to the island via mystical circumstances. Once all three are together, ghosts of past generations explain that the time has come for them to use their witchy abilities to help change/save humanity from the men above the law currently threatening all future generations.
Summaries make this book sound like such a weighty/heavy read, and in many ways, it is quite thought provoking. But Miller's brilliant wit and humor is on full display in every conversation. Readers will find themselves laughing out loud. Miller's tone never takes itself too seriously. This novel tends to serve more as a catharsis than anything else.
This novel really is unlike any other magical, witchy book out there. For fans of Weyward by Emilia Hart and Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman this is a must read--you will devour it! The originality alone is worth experiencing, especially if you feel like you have been reading the same old, witch-genre fantasy over and over again. Beyond that, the prose is gorgeous and the snark is priceless.
October 3, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
The Women Of Wild Hill is the very definition of witchy, feminine rage. The rich men of the world need to put down. Sisters, Brigid and Phoebe, have been called back along with Sybil, Phoebe’s daughter to take the job. They are going to have to get over past differences work together as a family to defeat these evil men.
This did start on the slow side and the ending wasn’t exactly the greatest in my opinion, but I really enjoyed getting to know the Duncan sisters and their legacy. 3.5 stars rounded up.
The Women Of Wild Hill is the very definition of witchy, feminine rage. The rich men of the world need to put down. Sisters, Brigid and Phoebe, have been called back along with Sybil, Phoebe’s daughter to take the job. They are going to have to get over past differences work together as a family to defeat these evil men.
This did start on the slow side and the ending wasn’t exactly the greatest in my opinion, but I really enjoyed getting to know the Duncan sisters and their legacy. 3.5 stars rounded up.
September 28, 2025
Kristin Miller does not miss. Let me say it louder for those in the back. Kristin Miller DOES NOT MISS. She’s back again and boy, has she been sorely missed. The Women of Wild Hill is yet another incredible story of not just feminine rage, but feminine power. Not empowerment, not rah rah power, not woo-woo power. Just straight up power. The power of recognizing what was meant to make us small can make us undefeatable. (Those of you who read The Change might recognize a few familiar faces, as well.) This is the story we need. This is the righteous anger we need to rise up and take back what is owed to us, the power that was stolen from us. Don’t believe me? Read the quote below and tell me that doesn’t make you want more…
“We topple tyrants, right wrongs, and restore the earth. We are the oracles who tell the future. We are the temptresses who taste the apple. We are the women who balance the scales.”
The Women of Wild Hill is filled with feminine rage, feminine power, and unabashed courage to stand when others tell you to sit. This is the story that will replenish your soul. We will not be small to make others feel big. We are righteous fury. We are power. We are three.
The Women of Wild Hill hits shelves Oct 7, and if you’re like me, you’ll want to pre-order this one. I have a feeling it will be one I will go back and read often.
Thank you to William Morrow for providing this ARC for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own. (Note: quote is from an uncorrected proof and is subject to change in the final printing. But I sincerely hope it doesn’t because it is absolute perfection.)
“We topple tyrants, right wrongs, and restore the earth. We are the oracles who tell the future. We are the temptresses who taste the apple. We are the women who balance the scales.”
The Women of Wild Hill is filled with feminine rage, feminine power, and unabashed courage to stand when others tell you to sit. This is the story that will replenish your soul. We will not be small to make others feel big. We are righteous fury. We are power. We are three.
The Women of Wild Hill hits shelves Oct 7, and if you’re like me, you’ll want to pre-order this one. I have a feeling it will be one I will go back and read often.
Thank you to William Morrow for providing this ARC for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own. (Note: quote is from an uncorrected proof and is subject to change in the final printing. But I sincerely hope it doesn’t because it is absolute perfection.)
October 5, 2025
Unfortunately, this one didn't live up to my expectations... I have adored the authors last two books (The Change, Lula Dean ) and I absolutely love stories centered around female rage and the men who pay for it, but this one didn't work. It felt like those parts were just shoved into the story... There were also a lot of characters, all with different timelines, to keep track of and it got convoluted and confusing.
While I did enjoy the ending, it only raised my rating up to a 3.5.
While I did enjoy the ending, it only raised my rating up to a 3.5.
October 13, 2025
(4.75 stars)
Why is it sometimes so hard to write a review for a book you loved? That’s the case for me with The Women of Wild Hill by Kirsten Miller. I found this engrossing and was torn between flying through it and taking my time with it, to savor it bit by bit. Life got in the way and I wound up taking my time with this wonderful book.
The story centers around a family of women from the eastern tip of Long Island (New York). But this is not any ordinary family. The Duncan women are witches. Each of them has a different “gift.’ Eventually we get the stories of a number of generations of the Duncan women, starting with Sadie in the late 1800s and through the present day. Each of the women fight the patriarchy in their own way and I found them all to be fascinating characters. In the present day, we have sisters Brigid and Phoebe, plus Phoebe’s adult daughter Sibyl. Brigid was my favorite character, a movie star who can foresee exactly how someone will die in the very near future, a gift that has shaped her life. Brigid and Phoebe haven’t spoken to each other for 30 years but circumstances have them both returning to Wild Hill on Long Island, along with Sybil. They’re not sure exactly why - and you’ll have to read the book to find out.
I loved the ghost of Bessie, the colonial woman who was killed for being a witch. And the enduring power behind it all: The Old One. Be aware that there are VERY few “nice” men in this story - that’s the point: take down the patriarchy, save the earth from their depredations, and more. This is a fiercely feminist story, from start to finish.
The descriptions of the land and of the overgrown mansion that somehow has stayed pristine, were wonderful. I have not read The Change (yet!!), but for those that have, you’ll enjoy an appearance by one of the major characters in that book.
A huge thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book, including a beautiful hardcover edition. All opinions are my own.
Why is it sometimes so hard to write a review for a book you loved? That’s the case for me with The Women of Wild Hill by Kirsten Miller. I found this engrossing and was torn between flying through it and taking my time with it, to savor it bit by bit. Life got in the way and I wound up taking my time with this wonderful book.
The story centers around a family of women from the eastern tip of Long Island (New York). But this is not any ordinary family. The Duncan women are witches. Each of them has a different “gift.’ Eventually we get the stories of a number of generations of the Duncan women, starting with Sadie in the late 1800s and through the present day. Each of the women fight the patriarchy in their own way and I found them all to be fascinating characters. In the present day, we have sisters Brigid and Phoebe, plus Phoebe’s adult daughter Sibyl. Brigid was my favorite character, a movie star who can foresee exactly how someone will die in the very near future, a gift that has shaped her life. Brigid and Phoebe haven’t spoken to each other for 30 years but circumstances have them both returning to Wild Hill on Long Island, along with Sybil. They’re not sure exactly why - and you’ll have to read the book to find out.
I loved the ghost of Bessie, the colonial woman who was killed for being a witch. And the enduring power behind it all: The Old One. Be aware that there are VERY few “nice” men in this story - that’s the point: take down the patriarchy, save the earth from their depredations, and more. This is a fiercely feminist story, from start to finish.
The descriptions of the land and of the overgrown mansion that somehow has stayed pristine, were wonderful. I have not read The Change (yet!!), but for those that have, you’ll enjoy an appearance by one of the major characters in that book.
A huge thank you to William Morrow and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book, including a beautiful hardcover edition. All opinions are my own.
October 9, 2025
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up
Wild Hill on Long Island is home to generations of the Duncan witches. Each woman uses her “gifts” according to The Old One’s plan, ridding the Earth of evil men bent on destruction.
Each generation is touched on briefly with the stories of Bessie, Lilith, Flora, and the current witches, Brigid, Phoebe and Sibyl. While I enjoyed their stories, I wish the early witches would have been fleshed out a bit more. I wanted to know more of their individual lives and loves.
The second half of the book was really well done and the tension and mystery was built up well until the fantastic ending. Overall a great read and but for the too brief first half chapters, a fun witchy tale for spooky season!
Thank you NetGalley and William Morrow publishers for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Wild Hill on Long Island is home to generations of the Duncan witches. Each woman uses her “gifts” according to The Old One’s plan, ridding the Earth of evil men bent on destruction.
Each generation is touched on briefly with the stories of Bessie, Lilith, Flora, and the current witches, Brigid, Phoebe and Sibyl. While I enjoyed their stories, I wish the early witches would have been fleshed out a bit more. I wanted to know more of their individual lives and loves.
The second half of the book was really well done and the tension and mystery was built up well until the fantastic ending. Overall a great read and but for the too brief first half chapters, a fun witchy tale for spooky season!
Thank you NetGalley and William Morrow publishers for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
December 1, 2025
4.5 rounded up💫
join in as we say with Kirsten Miller “F THE PATRIARCHY”and “eat the rich”👏👏👏
I’ve really enjoyed all KM’s books so far but this one has become my new favorite! Natural magic, feminine rage, multigenerational saga, prophecy and sisterhood!!✨
The writing is so good, the way she can weave a story that is timely, smart, poignant! but is also full of humor and magic, while being engaging and mysterious! Props props props!
The audiobook was narrated by one of my favorites, January LaVoy, and I highly recommend it! she made each POV feel distinct and did such a good job bringing the story and emotion to life!!
Sometimes it was a smidge too heavy handed and had slight pacing issues but I had a blast!
join in as we say with Kirsten Miller “F THE PATRIARCHY”and “eat the rich”👏👏👏
I’ve really enjoyed all KM’s books so far but this one has become my new favorite! Natural magic, feminine rage, multigenerational saga, prophecy and sisterhood!!✨
The writing is so good, the way she can weave a story that is timely, smart, poignant! but is also full of humor and magic, while being engaging and mysterious! Props props props!
The audiobook was narrated by one of my favorites, January LaVoy, and I highly recommend it! she made each POV feel distinct and did such a good job bringing the story and emotion to life!!
Sometimes it was a smidge too heavy handed and had slight pacing issues but I had a blast!
September 24, 2025
* thanks to William Morrow for the NetGalley review copy (pub date: October 7, 2025)
If you are a fan of THE CHANGE** and need more stories about witchy women taking care of business, this is the book for you. (And as a bonus, some friends from The Change make cameos - the best!) I love Kirsten Miller - her books make me feel like maybe there is some possibility for hope in this absolute shitshow of a world. Long live the witches. And fuck the oligarchs.
** and if you haven't read The Change, go read it RIGHT NOW, and then read this.
If you are a fan of THE CHANGE** and need more stories about witchy women taking care of business, this is the book for you. (And as a bonus, some friends from The Change make cameos - the best!) I love Kirsten Miller - her books make me feel like maybe there is some possibility for hope in this absolute shitshow of a world. Long live the witches. And fuck the oligarchs.
** and if you haven't read The Change, go read it RIGHT NOW, and then read this.
February 21, 2026
Audiobook (11 hours) narrated by January LaVoy
Publisher: HaperCollins (William Morrow)
Expertly and excellently narrated by the award winning January LaVoy.
The audio is flawless.
This review is the reason why I picked up this book:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I cannot agree more.
Beyond the story, which Linzie covers much better than I could, the characters are excellently written. They are full, dynamic, and they grow as the story progresses, both as individuals and in their relationships. The majority of the relationships are familial, have deep lasting ties that are tested, explained, and shown as flashbacks and conversations. I very much enjoy the social dynamic that is expressed several ways including vocally, facial expressions, and through body language.
The world building is excellent, including the actual world descriptors and the social commentary that fits the current time of the books authorship.
I will read more by Kirsten Miller. This was my introduction to her as an author.
I did leave a comment, but if you are reading this Linzie, thank you so much for your excellent review! Having a group of friends who read both authors that I enjoy and those who I have not yet had the pleasure of reading, is one of the reasons that I joined goodreads. I wanted a place to keep track of my personal progress, but also a place where I could discuss what I read, those I enjoy and hopefully find new authors and even explore beyond my personal tastes and preferences.
Happy reading, whatever you decide to pick up today!
༄˖°.☕️.ೃ࿔📚*:･🎧💌📖༄˖°.☕️.ೃ࿔📚*:･👩🏻💻📓✍🏻💡༄˖°.☕️.ೃ࿔📚*:･
Publisher: HaperCollins (William Morrow)
Expertly and excellently narrated by the award winning January LaVoy.
The audio is flawless.
This review is the reason why I picked up this book:
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
I cannot agree more.
Beyond the story, which Linzie covers much better than I could, the characters are excellently written. They are full, dynamic, and they grow as the story progresses, both as individuals and in their relationships. The majority of the relationships are familial, have deep lasting ties that are tested, explained, and shown as flashbacks and conversations. I very much enjoy the social dynamic that is expressed several ways including vocally, facial expressions, and through body language.
The world building is excellent, including the actual world descriptors and the social commentary that fits the current time of the books authorship.
I will read more by Kirsten Miller. This was my introduction to her as an author.
I did leave a comment, but if you are reading this Linzie, thank you so much for your excellent review! Having a group of friends who read both authors that I enjoy and those who I have not yet had the pleasure of reading, is one of the reasons that I joined goodreads. I wanted a place to keep track of my personal progress, but also a place where I could discuss what I read, those I enjoy and hopefully find new authors and even explore beyond my personal tastes and preferences.
Happy reading, whatever you decide to pick up today!
༄˖°.☕️.ೃ࿔📚*:･🎧💌📖༄˖°.☕️.ೃ࿔📚*:･👩🏻💻📓✍🏻💡༄˖°.☕️.ೃ࿔📚*:･
February 25, 2026
4.5 stars
June 19, 2025
This book was just what I needed today. A fantasy world where smart women can manipulate the natural to eliminate the worst of humanity. Mostly female witches and sometimes a male ally, use their “gift” to rid the world of greedy billionaires, Nazis in hiding- this is the type of book I would dream up in my most angry moments.
They say that in the Bible there is no description of evil people going forever to a fire hell. That hell was invented by peasants in the Middle Ages as a revenge fantasy about the ruling classes. I can get behind that. The book has good characters and somewhat of a confusing but hopeful plot. If you get triggered by criticisms of oligarchs or the patriarchy or Nazis (lol) then I am not sure why you are following me. Also if that describes you, you will hate this book.
It is my least favorite Kristen Miller book but her other two are my absolute favorites so that said, I still found this to be excellent. The premise will stay with me a long time.
Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for the ARC. Book to be published October 7, 2025.
They say that in the Bible there is no description of evil people going forever to a fire hell. That hell was invented by peasants in the Middle Ages as a revenge fantasy about the ruling classes. I can get behind that. The book has good characters and somewhat of a confusing but hopeful plot. If you get triggered by criticisms of oligarchs or the patriarchy or Nazis (lol) then I am not sure why you are following me. Also if that describes you, you will hate this book.
It is my least favorite Kristen Miller book but her other two are my absolute favorites so that said, I still found this to be excellent. The premise will stay with me a long time.
Thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for the ARC. Book to be published October 7, 2025.
October 14, 2025
The book was exciting from the start, and the sisters Bridget and Phoebe made a strong impression. It was fascinating to get a glimpse into the Duncan family, where every woman seemed to have her own gift. Soon it got darker and darker. Small actions turned into full on revolt, and the story didn’t hold back. Feminism with a capital F probably not for every man 😂.
January LaVoy is one of my favorite narrators and she really knows how to bring a story to life with her incredible expressiveness. Dark, captivating, surprising, and I loved it. Definitely feels like an important book to read.
January LaVoy is one of my favorite narrators and she really knows how to bring a story to life with her incredible expressiveness. Dark, captivating, surprising, and I loved it. Definitely feels like an important book to read.
October 26, 2025
Witchy perfection! F the patriarchy! ✨
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