The Witch Hunter's Wife: A Short Story

by Jessica Lunt

"[A]n intimate portrait of a couple in crisis that mirrors the collapse of Salem—and, indeed, society at large. Historical fiction fans will appreciate this taut narrative that probes the dangers of an inherently unequal social system." --BookLife/Publishers Weekly (EDITOR'S PICK)


When love is put on trial with witchcraft, which side will she choose? Salem, Massachusetts Bay Colony, 1692. Caroline Choate has lived in Salem for ten years, privately grieving several miscarriages before accusations of witchcraft seize the Puritan community and catch Caroline and her husband, John, in the beginnings of its horror.

At first, Caroline’s day-to-day life is left unaltered. But after John’s growing interest in Salem’s turmoil leads him to join the witch hunt — accusing both neighbors and friends — Caroline is forced to grapple with the devastating choice of standing with her husband or setting out on her own.

Amidst a cast of real people and real events, The Witch Hunter’s Wife is a hauntingly beautiful story that explores the power of confessions, staying silent, and how both can alter your life, or those you love, forever.

A compelling perspective on a dark chapter in American history, perfect for fans of The Heretic's Daughter, and The First Witch of Boston.

Please see front matter for content warnings.

Genres: Historical Fiction

131 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 30, 2025

About the author

Jessica Lunt grew up in Arizona, but since becoming a military spouse, has enjoyed living the nomadic lifestyle. When not writing, she takes advantage of exploring whatever part of the world she's in by napping with cheetahs, racing through the DMZ, and singing the U.S. national anthem in front of the original Star-Spangled Banner, among many other things. But her four young children weren't truly impressed with her until she wrote a book.

Reviews

[Hilaree · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story is genius and the writing, sophisticated! A clever and intriguing plot. And concise which is impressive

[Kelsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This short story carries more weight than most full-length novels. My heart broke eight times over, or was it nine? And in the final sentence, it began to mend.

The Witch Hunter’s Wife follows Caroline Choate, wife of John Choate, as he becomes increasingly participatory in the Salem witch trials of 1692. Through her eyes, we experience neighbor after neighbor accused, condemned, and ultimately hanged. Even Caroline’s dearest friend meets the gallows, and her husband admits to having condemned her there.

This story begs the questions: What would you have done if the person pointing the finger was someone you loved? Would you have been strong enough, or brave enough to stand up for what’s right when doing so meant betraying your own partner? And could you do it knowing suspicion would almost certainly turn to you next?

I had the pleasure of meeting Jessica Lunt recently at the History Through Fiction Conference in Beverly, Massachusetts, just a few miles north of Salem. Little did I know that she had written such a powerful story set in the very place where I sat sipping a martini.

Two days earlier, I had taken a Salem Witch Walking Tour, and now, I can’t help but wish I had read this beforehand! This story made the witch trials feel more real to me than the others I’ve heard. It’s haunting, and heartbreaking, and introduced me to the key players whose names I couldn’t remember before, but I’ll never forget now.

In her author’s note, Lunt shares that Samuel Martin of Andover, who she says was one of the principal accusers, was her 11th great grandfather. Knowing her ancestral connection adds another layer entirely, and perhaps explains how vividly she captures what it must have felt like to watch something so wrong unfold at the hands of your own family.

Five stars. Highly recommend.

[Kristina Fluitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella got me out of a major reading rut. I was immediately hooked by the characters, the premise, and the gorgeous writing. I devoured this in one sitting (minus having to force myself away to pick up my kids from school).

It was clear that Ms. Lunt did her research, and while I've read several books about the Salem witch hunts, I'd never read one from such a unique POV before. Caroline Choate's husband becomes a witch hunter during the trials, and it's fascinating to watch her find her own agency in a world where women had none. Her confliction around her husband's decision, and her husband's reasons for pursuing this role, made for a fascinating read.

This author handled the theme of pregnancy loss well, but please take care of yourself if you are triggered by miscarriages and stillbirths.

Highly recommend this book and will look forward to reading more by this author.

[Lisa Lunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to the author for the free copy. It was so good that I bought my own hard copy 🌟🌟🌟🌟 the author hooked me very quickly into the story and I felt emotions and pains for Caroline as I read her story. I felt her losses, frustrations and fears dealing with not only some of her neighbors and significant people in Salem but her husband too. Jessica's story telling really pulled me in and had me invested in many of the characters. This story can be a little bit of a rough story to read (as in it can really pull on your emotions and such) but I finished the book wanting to know even more of Caroline's story and curiosity to explore more into that period of history too. Very interesting portrayal of how we as humans can get caught up in a trend or a following and so sad how badly we are willing to treat others.

[Nathalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all i want to Thank to the author for letting me be part of her ARC team 💖

The story is heartbreaking and healing at the same time, i can see how much effort was put not just in the historic environment, but also in how the protagonist navigate her feelings and the grief that she had carried for years.

The mourn along with the hope and the illusion of that something, the way she ends choosing what she knows is the right, even if it hurts her in a way and heal in another. she follows her heart and faith.

[Stellar Curie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Witch Hunter's Wife" is a poignant historical fiction tale set against the backdrop of the infamous Salem Witch Trials. Caroline Choate's life is turned upside down as her husband becomes entangled in the witch hunt, forcing her to confront a heart-wrenching dilemma. This gripping short story delves into themes of loyalty, morality, and the consequences of one's actions during a time of mass hysteria. With its vivid portrayal of 17th-century Salem and its exploration of human nature, this narrative offers a compelling perspective on a dark chapter in American history.

[Alexie Linn · Rating 4 out of 5]

A horrific injustice revealed

The author brings this unbelievable era to life with the story of a woman plagued by miscarriages. The tale flips back and forth between a five year period during the witch hunts. She lives in the town and witnessed the events while experiencing her next pregnancy. References are included.

I recommend this book to those who want to stay vigilant so that it never happens again.

[Rockhouse Novels · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Witch Hunter’s Wife is a beautifully written glimpse into Salem’s dark history. The story captures both the tension of the witch trials and the personal struggles of Caroline in a way that’s haunting and compelling. I really enjoyed the historical detail and the emotional depth—short but powerful.

[BookedBySunrise · Rating 2 out of 5]

Could have been a good story but found it too depressing not just with the witchcraft accusation which you are prepared for going in but with all the miscarriages and still births. Was just a little too much for me. Plus the ending was somewhat confusing. Did the baby die, live , or was there twins where one lived, one died.. What exactly did I miss?

[P.A Social · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel broke my heart in the quietest way. The Witch Hunter’s Wife isn’t just about the Salem witch trials it’s about grief, fear, and the impossible choices women were forced to make. Caroline’s inner conflict felt painfully real, and the writing is beautiful without ever feeling overwrought.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an impactful story from a unique point of view from a woman living through her own trials during the Salem Witch Trials. It was well written and I would recommend. I received a Kindle version as part of a Goodreads giveaway.

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

DNF I liked the writing and the story, however, the descriptions for some scenes were too intense for me which is why I did not finish. 4 stars for writing.

[Jessica Eckhout · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really great short story! I love historical fiction and this one did not dissapoint.

[Sue · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn't expecting the emotions I had while reading this book. I would recommend it for a great read.

[A. Douglas · Rating 5 out of 5]

a solemn reminder.

No matter how often this horror is discussed, the chaos, fear and the violence of New England make me shudder.

[Enid · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a one read kind of book. I only picked it up because I’m very interested in the subject matter. It delivered.