Witchbane

by Deborah Carr

Dancing with the devil's son1640 Jersey

Rue Underwood has long understood that her magic could kill her. In an age where witches are reviled and hunted gleefully by men like Elias le Cerf, the notorious Witchfinder, it’s crucial that she remain hidden. But when whispers reach Elias’s ears of Rue’s abilities, he sends his new apprentice – his son, Theo – to find Rue and bring her in.

But after one chance moonlit meeting, everything changes.

In a world where witches burn, loving the enemy is the most dangerous magic of all…

391 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 27, 2026

About the author

Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.

Social psychology, aging, gender, and family are the interests of sociologist Deborah Carr. She teaches sociology and social psychology. She is co-director of the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) post-doctoral training program at Rutgers’ Institute for Health.
She authored, co-authored and editited a number of books on Sociology.

Reviews

[The_reading_kit ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this historical fiction, Deborah Carr takes you back to the days of witchcraft in mid 1600 Jersey. The story of Rue, a young witch in rural England, loses her mother: burned at the stake. When years later she dances with a young man, not knowing it is the witchhunter's son. Romance enters the plot. But Rue becomes the subject of scrutiny and now Theo - the witchhunter's son- goes on a quest to save Rue from his father's wrath.

I loved how the author caught you in the young romance. It feels fresh as young love can go from zero to all consuming really quickly. The duality that grips Rue when she finds out who Theo is, is tangible. But I had trouble believing the too good natured sweetness of Theo. I wanted to see him struggle with the discrepancy between his love for a witch and the principles hammered into him bu his father. His arc could have swept me more of my feet.

Other characters fell flat for me: Jem, who loves Rue but knows it cannot be. The aunt and grandmother of Rue feel too indecisive, almost naive, in making choices. Relying too much on spells to save the day, as if they have no other means or ideas.

The dual POV worked well. Leaving Rue or Theo's story for the other one's, created more tension and suspence. I felt like the first half of the book really needed that as the pacing is rather slow. The end of the story on the other hand felt rushed.

Overall a nice story to read when you have time and mental space to dive into a slow paced historical fiction.

Thank you One More Chapter and Deborah Carr for having me as a Netgalley ARC reader.

[Becky Whittingham · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the Publisher for giving me an Advanced Reader Copy in exchange for an honest review.

A cute fantasy read, but I wanted a bit more depth.

Witchbane has SUCH a strong opening. The prologue immediately throws you into something traumatic and sets up the dynamic between Rue, the daughter of a witch and Theo, the Witchfinder's son. I absolutely love a short, snappy prologue that gives you just enough information to make you need to know what happens next and this book absolutely delivered.

The initial complexity of Rue and Theo's relationship was intriguing. Rue carries so much anger towards Theo's family because of what happened to her mother, whilst Theo is struggling with becoming his father's successor when he clearly doesn't share the same beliefs. Add in the fact that they are both attracted to each other before Rue even realises who he is and I thought we were being set up for a super complicated forbidden romance - this would have been an incredible way to add additional depth to this story.

Unfortunately, it didn't quite reach the level of emotional depth that I was looking for.

There were quite a few moments where things just felt too easy or convenient. Rue agrees to go with Theo surprisingly quickly considering everything his family represents and how much pure hatred she had for them even as a 9 year old in the Prologue. Characters that should have been so much harder to find suddenly appear and are willing to help and some bigger confrontations seem to be resolved before they'd really had chance to build any tension.

I actually wonder whether delaying Theo's POV would have helped. Knowing from early on that he was fundamentally a good person removed some of the uncertainty around him - I would have loved to experience him through Rue's eyes first - distrust him alongside her, question his intentions and then discover what was really going on inside his head towards the last 50% of the book.

The writing felt quite narrator-led to me. I understood what was happening, but I never really felt as though I'd stepped into the world and was experiencing everything alongside the characters. For a fantasy book, I am now really looking for that immersive feeling.

This is also a fantasy with a small romantic subplot - personally, I've realised I need either a bit more spice / romance in my fantasy or a plot that is so immersive that I completely forget I am missing it, Witchbane didn't quite get there for me.

That said, it was still a cute easy read. I liked Rue, I enjoyed the overall concept and the ending was sweet. I think readers who enjoy lighter, more YA feeling fantasy with a gentle romance woven through may enjoy this much more than any readers looking for a spicy or romance-heavy fantasy.

[Candice · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very fun historical fantasy romance with lots of witchy magic!

We follow the story of Rue, our FMC, and her family of witches in the mid 1600s. Due to tragedy, she was left alone with only her aunt and grandmother to care for her, and grew up in poverty, despite being a Lord’s daughter. Adding to the tension we have the Witchfinder, who was all too aware of her family, and could at any moment accuse any of them of witchcraft and have them hunted down.

However, we have an interesting turn here: the Witchfinder’s son, Theo. He meets Rue at a May Day celebration and is instantly taken with her. But of course we see the problem here: she’s a witch, and he’s the son of the man who could have her killed.

This makes for a compelling story, filled with high stakes and emotion and leaves you wondering what will happen next. I recommend it gladly for anyone who enjoys historical fantasy romance, especially with a witchcraft, magical theme.

However, there were a few things I didn’t love as much.

First, the ‘insta love’ feelings between Rue and Theo. A cozy cute romance is great, but this one went from 0-100 in about half a second when they first met. Honestly, the overall romance was very ‘YA’ feeling, even though this book isn’t labelled YA. I prefer the romance to take some time to build.

Second, the witchcraft. Now, if you are a general reader and enjoy fantasy with witchy magic, you probably won’t share my feelings here. But if you are someone who knows a lot of the history of witchcraft, you’ll notice some inconsistencies. For example, the terms ‘green witch’ and ‘book of shadows’ are modern, not something anyone would have been using in the 1600s. For history nerds like me, this was frustrating at times. But if you can allow for these modern conventions in a historical setting, then you’ll probably have no issues here and find the overall depictions of magic charming and fun.

Third, how quickly things wrapped up. At the end we were left wondering what happened to…well, basically all the characters except Theo and Rue! I felt perhaps an Epilogue would have been a great addition here, to tie up some more loose threads.

But that said, I still do think it’s worth picking up if you like books in this genre!

My thanks to NetGalley, Deborah Carr and One More Chapter for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Witchbane is one of those stories that wraps you in atmosphere from the very first page — all moonlit tension, salt‑rough air, and the constant awareness that danger is never far away. Set in 1640 Jersey, it blends historical grit with a thread of forbidden magic that feels both intimate and perilous.

Rue Underwood is a compelling centre to the tale. Her quiet determination, her awareness of the risks her magic carries, and her instinct for survival make her instantly sympathetic. Life in an age where witches are hunted is already fraught, but the shadow of Elias le Cerf — ruthless, relentless — adds a sharp edge to every choice she makes.

The turning point arrives with Theo, the Witchfinder’s son, sent to track Rue down. Their first meeting has a lovely, haunting quality: a brush of connection under the moonlight that feels dangerous in all the right ways. From that moment, the story shifts into something more emotionally charged, exploring the tension between loyalty, fear, and the pull of something neither of them should want.

The romance is threaded with real risk, never allowed to feel easy or safe. Loving the enemy in a world where witches burn gives the book its strongest heartbeat — a sense that every stolen moment could be their last. The historical setting deepens that tension beautifully, grounding the magic in a world that feels harsh, cold, and vividly real.

Atmospheric, tender, and edged with danger, Witchbane delivers a captivating blend of historical drama and forbidden love. It’s a story that lingers, especially in the quiet moments where magic and fear collide. A lovely, haunting read for anyone who enjoys witchcraft woven with genuine emotional stakes.

With thanks to Deborah Carr, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Denice Langley · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not a casual read. Deborah Carr grabs readers' attention from page 1 with a prologue that sets the backstory for WITCHBANE. Then she sets the pace as we meet the main characters and learn more about the witch-hunting that took place in the 1600s. Rue Underwood is a witch; her mother was a witch, and her grandmother was a witch. Magic is as much a part of her family tree as the blood running through her veins. But Rue has always known she must hide her magic, or she would be put to death, just like her mother was. As a small child, she watched her mother die, and her father flee to save himself. She has always known that it is up to her to seek revenge for her mother's death.

Elias le Cerf is a well-known witch hunter. He has sent hundreds of women to their deaths; all it takes is one accusation for him to sentence them to death. When he hears a rumor of Rue's magic, Elias will send his apprentice, his son Theo, to find proof of her guilt. But Theo has doubts. He doesn't feel danger when he faces Rue, just interest. But Rue knows Theo's father is responsible for her mother's death. At this point, the story is broken into multiple POVs, and in each chapter, readers hear a different piece of the story. Carr perfectly describes the community and the residents who were too scared of Elias le Cerf to question his quick rush to punishment. The history behind the story is well documented and Carr pulls the fears of the many into the public responses that refused to stop the deaths of women, many just like them, who knew nothing and did nothing to deserve death. While the book has a dark history at its base, the romance that sneaks up on Rue and Theo helps balance the story. Carr's skillful writing made it easy to get lost in the story.

[Emily Pankhurst · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rated 4.5/5

Netgalley Review

The writing was lighter than I expected and engaging. Whilst there was fear and tension throughout, it didn't feel too heavy, with a lot of the focus being on the budding romance between the two main characters.

The book was made up of a Prologue and then fairly long chapters. This meant that you got a good chunk of the story before moving on. Each chapter was from one character's point of view. It was titled with the character whose view point you were about to read from. I enjoyed seeing the story from both perspectives. It gave the story a well rounded feel and we were left in no doubt as to what each of the main characters were feeling.

There was an interesting flow to the book, made up by the jumping from one view point to the next. It was smoothly done though and I enjoyed reading it.

There was a good pace to the book, with nothing being lingered on. There was always something happening that the characters had to be mindful of which kept the story moving forward.

The characters were great. I loved the complications that the main characters had to overcome if they truly wanted to be together. I felt that the ending was a bit open and I would have liked the story to have carried on a bit to give the characters more closure.

The main 'villain' of the story was truly awful and brought all the fear and tension to the story well.

Lastly the settings. There were some lovely descriptions throughout that brought a magical feel to the book. To balance that, there were also some darker bits that brought a different feel to the overall story.

Overall an excellent read full of tension and will they, won't they.

[Debyi Kucera (Book&BuJo) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Witchbane by Deborah Carr is a fantastical story about a witch and a witch hunter, love and loss, doing the right thing versus the easy thing, and community.
Set in the 1600s, we find out that at 9 years old, Rue’s mother was killed by the local witch hunter, and now the witch hunter's son, Theo, has returned home to take over for his father. At a chance meeting, Rue and Theo meet, not knowing who the other is, and it’s love at first sight. What is going to happen to their love once they find out they are actually enemies?
I love the historical aspect of the story, and the atmosphere and world-building help to set the tone. I love all of the characters and the journey they go on. The writing style is easy to read, and the premise of the book is believable. I was really invested in each of the characters, as well as wanting to know what was going to happen to them. The only thing holding me back from giving this a 5-star rating is the ending. It was rushed, almost like the author was trying to keep the book under 400 pages. I think adding a couple more chapters with another 25 to 50 pages would have been the sweet spot. There were a few unanswered questions that an extra chapter or two could’ve answered as well. I loved the ending, but there needed to be a bit more to the story between the 3/4 mark and the end.
Even with wanting just a bit more out of the story, it is still a favorite, one that I will be reading again. Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter, for the advance review copy of this book.
4.5 stars

[Andie Newton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This witchy historical captured me right away!

Every time I pick up a book by Deborah Carr, I know I’m going to be whisked away to another time and place. With this story, it was another century. The 1600s, to be exact, and on the island of Jersey. I have read almost all of Deborah's other books, having recently read The Witching Hour (and loved it), so you can say that I am a fan. I know exactly what I’m going to get, too: compelling characters, historical atmosphere I can curl up in, a forward-moving plot that keeps me interested, and a satisfying ending. This book delivers on all fronts.

This is a story about forbidden love. Rue, a witch, is in love with Theo. The only problem is that he's the son of a witchfinder (his name is Elias le Cerf, which is an intimidating name in itself), and she’s on his kill list! I loved the alternating POVs in this story, but mainly, I just loved RUE! She is the type of character I can connect with right away. She takes risks despite the danger, but there is an undercurrent of innocence and naivety about her that had me biting my nails. Will she get caught? Is she flying too close to the sun? (No pun intended.)

Deb’s research is always spot-on, and the fact that this story is set on the very island she is from and lives on just adds that extra layer of authenticity. Be sure to read the author’s note. Crack Ankle Lane! That’s all I will say about that.
Thank you, Deborah, for a fantastic read.

[Nicola Michelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay so first, the cover is stunning! And witches, magic and a close, coven-ly vibe is so my thing so this book hit many of my marks.

From the opening, we start out strong. It’s harrowing, shocking and I feel like we’re thrown right into the thick of it from the get go. It’s quite a hard pace to keep so I feel it somewhat slowed rather dramatically throughout the rest of the book but I did love the gentle, meandering pace of it.

Witchfinder x Witch trope always makes for a lot of drama, with Theo, the Witchfinders assistant, tasked with bringing together evidence that Rue is a practicing witch. The romance between the two seemed a little breakneck to me, especially towards the end (although I was very happy that they were starting to get their happy ending).

My gripe was that I felt it needed another few chapters at the end to tie up a few loose ends. Did the other witches ever get released? What will happen to Theo’s mother? Did Theo successful get out of his position with his father, etc…. I could easily have read more!

Overall though it was super enjoyable and it kept me on the edge, guessing to where the next twist and turn might be and what would happen! I’ve read a snippet of The Witching Hour by this author and think that too sounds fab so I’ll definitely have to look into that one after this!

Thank you to the author and publisher for a copy of this book in return for my honest thoughts and review.

[Sherri · Rating 5 out of 5]

***I received an ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review

Rue Underwood comes from a long line of witches. In fact, her mother was put on trial for being a witch & killed right in front of her when she was just a child. Shortly after, her father flad, leaving her to be raised by her grandmother. Ever since, Rue has vowed to get vengeance on the witch hunter who ordered her mother to be killed, Elias le Cerf. Now he has brought his son Theo in to mentor him & Theo has taken an interest in Rue. Because of his parentage (and not trusting that he isn't just like his father) she will have nothing to do with him. When Elias sends Theo to prove Rue is a witch, Theo does everything in his power to do just the opposite. But when the coven meets in the woods to cast a spell to make Elias stop his obsession with them - and Rue's aunt in particular - Elias is hiding there and catches them in the act. As the women scatter, Theo sees just how obsessed his father is, & how he no longer cares about justice, only revenge. Theo will have to choose - his family, or Rue.

This book was really good. I love anything about witches, so this was right up my alley, but I loved the cast of characters, and the way the younger generation of witchfinder saw that what they were doing wasn't right. The story is told in the alternating viewpoints of Theo & Rue. This is perfect for fans of Alice Hoffman & Louisa Morgan.

[Doreen Prentiss Gabriellini · Rating 4 out of 5]

Witchbane by Deborah Carr is a delightful magical story. The time is the mid 1600’s. We meet our female main character, Rue and her family. Due to a family tragedy, Rue was left with only her aunt and grandmother to care for her. Adding to the tension we have the Witchfinder, who was all too aware of her family, and could at any moment accuse any of them of witchcraft and have them killed and burned at the stake.

As in most good stories there is an interesting plot twist. The Witchfinder’s son falls in love with Rue. Theo, the male main character meets Rue at a May Day celebration and is instantly taken with her. But of course we see the problem here: she’s a witch, and he’s the son of the man who could have her killed.

This makes for an interesting and somewhat compelling story. I would consider this story an historical fantasy romance, especially with the witchcraft and magic. Overall it was an enjoyable story and kept me turning the pages and wondering where the next twist might be.

I love reading Deborah Carr yet I couldn’t give this five stars. Apparently I and many others felt that the ending was missing. It left way too many unanswered questions that easily could have been answered or alluded to in another few short chapters. Even an epilogue would have been good. However, I will say that despite that complaint it was an enjoyable read. I am interested to see what she comes up with next.

[Bailey Eubank · Rating 5 out of 5]

Witchbane is charming, witty, and full of rich history.

Rue Underwood is a witch, a good person, and who always keeps her word.
That is until Theo le Cerf returns home after being sent away for several years.

The story starts out in a terrible turn of events that leaves a community scared and unsettled. Neighbors are not as trustworthy as they used to be. Thanks to a self proclaimed witch hunter.
Although a tragedy has been witnessed, life does have to move on.

Following two points of views, we see how life has been affecting our two main characters. One has been filled with hopes of revenge and staying alive, whilst the other just wants to take care of his mom.
Rue and her coven want to cast a spell to keep the witch hunter off their backs, but at the same time Rue is under suspicion, Theo has to investigate and ultimately make a hard choice.
What is better for the greater good of the island?

I was hooked and rooting for the coven of course.

Deborah Carr has written several historical fantasies, though her ones about witches have been my favorites so far. I don’t know if it's because of the seasons changing or if Deborah is putting magic into these books. I have fallen head over heels for these characters!


Thank You to Harper Collins for reaching out with this, and Netgalley for making it possible for this honest review in exchange for a great book!

[Sj · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review of Witch Bane by Deborah Carr ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4 stars)

Thankyou to NetGalley, Deborah Carr and Penguin publishers for providing me with an advanced copy to review.

Set in 1640s Jersey, Witch Bane follows Rue Underwood, whose mother has died and whose father has abandoned her, leaving her to be raised by her grandmother and aunt. As fear of witchcraft spreads across the island, Rue’s path crosses with Theo, the son of the island’s Witchfinder. Coming from completely opposing worlds, the two form an unexpected bond that challenges everything they’ve been taught. Set against the backdrop of one of history’s darkest periods, the story blends folklore, romance and historical fiction into a warm, engaging read.

I found this to be a well-written, cosy historical novel that was easy to settle into without ever feeling overly complicated. I particularly enjoyed the way the story moved between different characters’ perspectives, allowing you to experience events from multiple viewpoints and adding extra depth to the narrative.

If you enjoy cosy stories with witches, folklore and a rich historical setting, this is well worth picking up. While it didn’t completely blow me away, it was an enjoyable read with likeable characters, an engaging setting and a satisfying ending that left me closing the book with a smile.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4 stars).

[Suzie Boswell · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was immediately drawn to Witchbane as a fantasy reader who loves anything about witches. The beginning gripped me right away, and I couldn’t wait to read more.

Unfortunately, that excitement didn’t last. The story felt very light overall, with little happening in terms of darkness, drama, or twists to get your heart racing. It was quite tame.

The romance between Theo and Rue developed from zero to intense in just seconds, with no real build-up, tension, or longing. Considering Rue’s hatred for Theo’s father and everything he stood for, her immediate deep trust in Theo didn’t make sense to me.

Rue’s father’s return also had no real impact on the story and seemed unnecessary.

The magic felt very light and subdued, which is surprising for a witch-themed book. When magic did appear, it was barely felt or described, just casually mentioned. The setting, supposedly in the 1600s, also felt too modern most of the time.

Lastly, the ending left me frustrated. There was no resolution or explanation about the fate of the other captured witches.

Perhaps I’ve read too many dark, gothic witch stories filled with magic and drama, which made this book feel flat and disappointing by comparison.

That said, if you want a cozy, easy read with some magic and a simple story, this book is 100% for you.

[Sarah Mclennan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, Deborah Carr and Penguin for the ARC!

Okay, witches, forbidden romance AND a historical setting? Obviously I was going to eat this up.

Witchbane follows Rue, a young witch living in 1640s Jersey, who just happens to fall for Theo… the Witchfinder’s son. Because apparently a normal love story was simply not an option.

I really loved the cosy witchy atmosphere of this one. The magic, folklore and historical setting all worked so well together and I was very happily living in my little witchy world while reading this.

And Rue and Theo… I was invested. Forbidden romance will get me every single time and watching these two get closer when they absolutely should not was SO much fun.

I also loved the different character perspectives throughout the story. It gave everyone a little more room to shine and made me even more invested in what was happening.

Basically, give me a witch, a forbidden romance and a suspiciously charming man and apparently I have no self control!

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of Witchbane.

This was an enjoyable read. It weaves together elements of witches, witch hunters, family drama, and romance. Set in 1640, Rue was raised by her grandmother after a tragic childhood. Her mother was executed for witchcraft, and her father mysteriously abandoned her shortly after. Despite these hardships, Rue grew up surrounded by loving and caring people, becoming a happy and strong woman, who also happened to be a practicing witch, alongside her grandmother, aunt, and neighboring women. Together, they formed their coven of 13, meeting secretly to avoid detection by the witchhunter. However, Rue’s seemingly happy and peaceful life was about to be shattered by past bitterness, envy, jealousy, and a new stranger in town.

Highly recommend for fans of historical fiction and witchy and magical reads! See less

[stacey Elizabeth Coombe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Witchbane follows Rue who from a young age witnessed the cruelty of the witch finder and swore she'd seek revenge and Theo the witch finders assistant and son who is trained to take over the family business one day until a meeting between them both without the knowledge of who each other are sparks feelings. Theo is given his first assignment as a witch finder's assistant and learns that Rue is under investigation and is torn between his feelings for rue and his loyalty for his father. This book drew me in from the prologue and kept me hooked till the very end. The suspense as the witch finder did his utmost to find rue guilty was intense and the romance between rue and Theo was suspenseful but exhilarating as they tried to hide their feelings for the loyalty of their families. The ending was perfect and I enjoyed my walk in 1640 Jersey. I will be looking out for other titles from this author as I really enjoyed the writing style and storyline of witchbane.

[Goosey Loopsy Bookish · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review. Thanks to Netgalley for the ecopy.

Readers who are fans of a witch x witch hunter, slow-burn romance story will love this book. One of my favourite series is The Crimson Moth, and this book is reminiscent of that story.
I particularly liked the intensity of the story of never knowing how far the witchfinder or his son would go against Rue and her family. This is truly a story of a man driven mad by power and rejection.
I found Rue and ther family to be so resilient against this plight towards their home and family. I can imagine the fear they must have faced . To think this type of thing actually occurred in Jersey during the 1600s is frightening.
I really enjoyed all of the witchy scenes and how they came together to come up with plans. I also loved how Theo stuck to his instincts about eveything and his approach to Rue from the beginning. A truly artfully composed standalone book. I only wished I could have read more of Theo and Rues story

[Kirby · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is my first time reading from this author and I found it very easy to read and enjoy. It kept my attention the whole time. I really enjoyed the story and it’s characters. Rue’s family was so interesting and entertaining. I wanted to know more about the other coven members and their stories.

I loved the setting on one of the Channel Islands during the 1600’s. (fun fact- the author lives there now). It really feels like Carr did her research for this- I’m a bit of a history nerd and that part of the story fascinated me too. I would love to read more books from this time period.

My one problem was the ending- it was so abrupt and way too easy! I was left with so many questions. What happened to Theo’s mom and dad? Rue’s dad? Are the other ladies who were in danger going to be ok? Where are our main characters going to go from here?

[Second Chapter Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

Witchbane was an enjoyable read overall. I really liked the historical setting and the premise of witches hiding while being hunted. The magic, mystery, and forbidden romance kept me interested, and I wanted to see how Rue's story would unfold.

For me, the pacing was a little uneven at times, and I never felt completely connected to the characters the way I had hoped. There were moments where I wanted a little more depth and emotion to really pull me into the story.

That said, I still enjoyed my time with it. If you like historical fantasy, witches, forbidden romance, and slower-paced stories with a touch of mystery, this one is worth picking up. I'd definitely read another book from this author.

[Stephanie · Rating 3 out of 5]

3/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
Arc copy review 📚

This story follows Rue and her family after a witch finder kills her mother. As the story unfolds, we learn that Theo is the witch finder’s son, and he instantly falls for Rue without knowing her true identity or her past.

While the story is quite slow, I really enjoyed the multiple POVs and the amount of effort the author put into creating an authentic 1640s setting. Where it fell short for me was the pacing. The plot felt long-winded, and then the ending came so abruptly it honestly felt rude.

I was left with so many questions. How did Theo’s father react? What ultimately happened to Theo and Rue? And what became of everyone else in the household? I don’t mind an open ending, but this one felt like it stopped before the story was truly finished.

[The.Curly.Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

🔥 I don’t know what kind of witchcraft this book used on me… but I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN. 🔥

⭐⭐⭐⭐½

I genuinely can't put my finger on exactly why I was so hooked by Witchbane… but once I started, I was DONE. 😂

The pacing was 🔥 — it felt like something was happening on every single page, and I was constantly thinking, “Okay, just one more chapter…” 🤣

I really loved Theo’s internal turmoil too. Watching him wrestle with whether to follow in his father’s footsteps or turn his back on everything he stands for gave his character so much depth.

And Rue’s relationship with her aunt and grandmother? 🥹❤️ Absolutely lovely. You could really feel how much they loved and cared for one another, and those moments added such a beautiful warmth to the story.

Then there’s Rue and Theo… 👀

The tension between these two was PALPABLE. I spent the entire book thinking:

ARE THEY? AREN’T THEY? JUST KISS ALREADY! 😂

Overall, Witchbane was fast-paced, gripping and packed with enough tension to keep me turning those pages way past the point where I should have been putting the book down.

A very solid 4.5 ⭐️ from me!

📚 Witchbane — Deborah Carr
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️½

[James Childe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deborah Carr delivers an immersive blend of historical fiction, folklore, and romance, bringing seventeenth-century Jersey vividly to life. Rich in atmosphere and emotional depth, Witchbane balances compelling suspense with an authentic bond that keeps the pages turning.

Witchbane contains memorable characters, elegant prose, and a haunting sense of place within its ambitious plot. This is a captivating historical novel that lingers.

My thanks to Carr, One More Chapter, and NetGalley for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Chrissie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set In 1640 Jersey Rue Underwood is a young woman whose power could kill her in an age that equates sorcery with sin .Her Mother had been accused of being a witch 10 years previously and burnt at the stake, so the Witch Finder is after her as he is convinced she is also a witch but he has a son who has feelings for her .A vivid atmospheric witch hunt tale with heart and moral clarity .A really enjoyable read .Thank you to NetGalley for my ARC.

[Sara · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free DRC of this book through Netgalley and the publisher. 3.5 stars rounded up to 4. I found the book overall to be well-written, but there are some phrases that tell us stuff we already know which bugged me so I think it could use a little more editing. I also thought the ending felt a bit rushed after the length of the rest of the book. If you are interested in star-crossed lovers or just like witches in general, this might be a good read for you.

[Jo Wyld · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a story about a Coven of witches who are trying to evade a witch hunter.

He has already killed one of their number, Rue's mother and now he's after Rue, or at least he has sent his son to investigate!

Though Rue and Theo have already met and sparks flew! So how can he investigate her?

The story had great potential but I felt it lacked detail in areas and would have liked a more realistic and thorough ending!

[Katy Harper · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a little darker than I often read, but Rue and Theo are such amazing characters that it swept me along despite the darkness. Their romance balanced out the darkness and after worrying a bit early on that this read was going to devastate me too much, I ended up with all the feels in a good way. Absolutely loved this, so thank you to the author and publisher for giving me this NetGalley arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Sue Watts · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn't sure about this book, but loved it right from the start.
Rue and Theo and all the other characters were stand alone stars of this book.
The writing style is simple, readable and enjoyable, not to descriptive with over long words, just enjoyable reading.
The story was good , well told and interesting, held my attention from start to finish.
Recomend this book to anyone.Teen or adult

[Lindsay Brazil · Rating 3 out of 5]

A wonderful story but ooof I feel like this book draggged on. It really captured my attention in the beginning then the rest of the time I felt like I was just wading through pages for things to happen. Maybe this authors writing style just isn't for me.

I really did enjoy the root story though.

[Jasmine Queen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this book! Perfect for spooky season with witches, magick and a sprinkle of romance!
I aspire to be as brave and both Rue and Theo!