The Manningtree Witches

by A.K. Blakemore, Ava Pickett (Other)

"It does not matter what is true, or not true. All that matters is what is written down."

Essex, 1643. A country divided. A town on its knees. A teenage girl with a dangerous secret.

Adapted by Ava Pickett from the award-winning novel by A. K. Blakemore, The Manningtree Witches is both a gripping historical drama and a fiercely modern exploration of fear, control, and what happens when women's voices are silenced.

It is published alongside the premiere production by Mercury Theatre Colchester in 2026.

142 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 12, 2026

About the author

A.K. Blakemore is the author of two collections of poetry: Humbert Summer and Fondue. She has also translated the work of Sichuanese poet Yu Yoyo. Her poetry and prose writing have been widely published and anthologized, appearing in The London Review of Books, Poetry, The Poetry Review, and The White Review, among other publications. Her debut novel, The Manningtree Witches won the Desmond Elliot Prize 2021. She lives in London, England.