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Legends of the Family Dyer #1
Sister Witch: The Life of Moll Dyer
Moll Dyer prays she can leave her troubles behind when she immigrates to the new world, but a paranormal threat grows, and soon follows her across the ocean to Maryland.
Colonial life in the Old Line state was tough on both man and woman. Hunger, disease, Indian attacks, and drought tested the resolve of the settlers daily, but troubles for the Dyers included the threat of a succubus on a mission! Will the demonic call initiated by her family prove too much to resist as she labors to rebuild her life in a distant land?
The legend of Moll Dyer originated in earliest colonial Maryland. Despite 300 years of civilization, and scientific reason, Moll's name is still often heard there, especially around campfires late at night, or as a warning to misbehaving little people. Her spirit is often seen as a wisp of unnatural fog in the swampy woodlands near her homestead, with her half wolf companion at her side. This is her story.
Colonial life in the Old Line state was tough on both man and woman. Hunger, disease, Indian attacks, and drought tested the resolve of the settlers daily, but troubles for the Dyers included the threat of a succubus on a mission! Will the demonic call initiated by her family prove too much to resist as she labors to rebuild her life in a distant land?
The legend of Moll Dyer originated in earliest colonial Maryland. Despite 300 years of civilization, and scientific reason, Moll's name is still often heard there, especially around campfires late at night, or as a warning to misbehaving little people. Her spirit is often seen as a wisp of unnatural fog in the swampy woodlands near her homestead, with her half wolf companion at her side. This is her story.
263 pages, Paperback
First published October 31, 2017
68 people are currently reading
669 people want to read
About the author
David W. Thompson
9 books84 followersThe author is a rare native of Southern Maryland, and a graduate of University of Maryland, University College. Prior to retirement from a position with a major Aerospace Corporation, he tried his hand at a variety of occupations- from grocery store clerk to warehousing, from shoveling coal to a four year stint with the U.S. Army. When he isn’t writing, he enjoys time with his family and grandchildren, kayaking (mostly flat water please), fishing, hiking, hunting, wine-making, and pursuing his other “creative passion”- woodcarving.
After his family and cheesecake, reading was his first love. It exposed him to people, cultures and ideas he’d never experience otherwise. Writing was a natural extension of this “out of body” experience as characters carved little niches in his skull, showing their worlds, and their possibilities. He's hopes to honestly convey the stories they've whispered in his ears.
Often bloody, habitually dark, always original!
After his family and cheesecake, reading was his first love. It exposed him to people, cultures and ideas he’d never experience otherwise. Writing was a natural extension of this “out of body” experience as characters carved little niches in his skull, showing their worlds, and their possibilities. He's hopes to honestly convey the stories they've whispered in his ears.
Often bloody, habitually dark, always original!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
March 8, 2018
Sister Witch, The Life of Moll Dyer is the debut novel by author David W. Thompson. What separates this novel from other paranormal and historical fiction offerings is that it is inspired by true events in colonial America.
There is a considerable mythos surrounding the title character (Moll Dyer) and even after 300 years, her story is still whispered around campfires. It is said that her story was the basis of The Blair Witch movies, and if so, many details were omitted or changed, including the setting.
The novel opens in Kinsale, Ireland and quickly transitions to the Maryland colony. The travails of colonial life are well depicted- Indian attacks, harsh living conditions, as well as judicial and societal iniquities. For the family Dyer, life is further complicated by a demon on a mission!
Sister Witch is both a historical fiction (with a distinct overlay of the supernatural), and a coming of age story in a world of extreme prejudices. The story contains elements drawing on the tradition of horror while introducing the emotional muddles and complexities desired by readers of any genre. As one early reviewer said, "This is definitely a story everyone should read."
There is a considerable mythos surrounding the title character (Moll Dyer) and even after 300 years, her story is still whispered around campfires. It is said that her story was the basis of The Blair Witch movies, and if so, many details were omitted or changed, including the setting.
The novel opens in Kinsale, Ireland and quickly transitions to the Maryland colony. The travails of colonial life are well depicted- Indian attacks, harsh living conditions, as well as judicial and societal iniquities. For the family Dyer, life is further complicated by a demon on a mission!
Sister Witch is both a historical fiction (with a distinct overlay of the supernatural), and a coming of age story in a world of extreme prejudices. The story contains elements drawing on the tradition of horror while introducing the emotional muddles and complexities desired by readers of any genre. As one early reviewer said, "This is definitely a story everyone should read."
October 27, 2017
It’s rare that a protagonist so swiftly draws me into her mind. From the first paragraph of Sister Witch, I dropped into the world of the seventeenth-century accused witch Moll Dyer. Told almost entirely from her perspective, Sister Witch speaks effortlessly in Moll’s voice, revealing her history and her world as casually as if we were having tea together. She faces down the trials of her day with a stubborn will and an inquisitive mind, be they illnesses, civil injustices, murder, religious intolerance, or simply the casual sexism common to her day. Although she is scarcely more than a child when we meet her and boxed in by the many restrictions placed on a woman of her time, Moll overcomes every obstacle and becomes a figure of strength and wisdom, a resource to her friends and a symbol of fear to her enemies. In the end, Moll must face a darkness more powerful than she had imagined to save her son and secure her lineage from true evil. A triumph of surpassing love over every form of evil, Sister Witch will satisfy readers of historical fiction and magical realism alike.
February 10, 2018
Just so good!
This book is just really good, plain and simple. Being from Texas never heard of this tale but I read it wondering if it might be true. The stuff of legends! Wonderfully crafted, believable and just enjoyable from start to finish
This book is just really good, plain and simple. Being from Texas never heard of this tale but I read it wondering if it might be true. The stuff of legends! Wonderfully crafted, believable and just enjoyable from start to finish
October 3, 2020
Fantastic!
I could not put it down!
An enthralling tale of Moll Dyers life leading up to that fateful night in 1697 when she was chased out of her home by self righteous, sanctimonious colonists who believed that she was a witch and was to blame for the bad storms, crops failing and a sickness that swept through the colony.
It was well-written, engaging and wonderfully descriptive.
Absolutely do recommend and would read again.
I could not put it down!
An enthralling tale of Moll Dyers life leading up to that fateful night in 1697 when she was chased out of her home by self righteous, sanctimonious colonists who believed that she was a witch and was to blame for the bad storms, crops failing and a sickness that swept through the colony.
It was well-written, engaging and wonderfully descriptive.
Absolutely do recommend and would read again.
February 20, 2018
A young woman, Moll Dyer comes to Maryland with her Uncle to start a new life. But before she leaves her home in Ireland Moll goes for a walk one night and is attacked and ends up pregnant. After much discussion with her mother and father, it is decided that in order to save the Dyer name Moll will leave with her Uncle to sail to Maryland.
On the ship over she meets a young woman whom she learns is pregnant like her. Moll and Beth become fast friends. Beth and her husband already have a place to stay in Maryland so they offer Moll and her Uncle a place to stay until they can get their own place. Beth goes into labor while crossing the ocean. Beth and her baby both lose their lives before they even make it to Maryland.
Upon reaching the shores of Maryland Moll and her Uncle obtain land to build a home and a place to raise her son. They are told of an action where they can buy indentured servants to help work their land. But Moll says that is no more than slavery and will never own slaves. But when she sees a black woman Nema about her age that has been abused Moll buys her and tells her that if she works hard for them that after her time is up she will be free. Moll and Nema become lifelong friends in no time. Moll meets some of the local natives and becomes fast friends with them as well. Moll, Nema and one of the native women, Bluebird become fast friends.
Moll came to Maryland to for her son so that he can have a normal happy life without people knowing that he was born to an unwed mother. Moll never told her son that she was his mother he always believed that she was his sister.
When sickness hits everyone except for Moll and her family the people of the town start to blame Moll and start to call her a witch. Moll has never wanted anything but good for people and never wished evil upon them. The townsfolk are out to get revenge and make her pay for all her evil doings or what they assume is evil and her fault.
I have always been fascinated with the Salem witch trials and anything to do with witches in history so when the author contacted me about reviewing Sister Witch: The Life of Moll Dyer there was no way I was going to turn this one down and I am so glad I didn’t. I have honestly and truly loved reading Moll’s story about her family and cannot wait for more. Once I picked up Sister Witch I couldn’t put it down I just kept flipping those pages. I loved traipsing through the woods with Moll, Nema, and Bluebird. I got so lost in its pages that I felt as if I was there with them and Moll knows how to make you feel and see the world through her eyes. I think Moll was one of the best mothers ever. Moll and her story will leave you in tears while following her on her journey from her home in Ireland to her new home in Maryland.
I would recommend Sister Witch: The Life of Moll Dyer to anyone who loves reading about witches the paranormal or just a good book filled with lots of love as well as twists and turns around every corner.
On the ship over she meets a young woman whom she learns is pregnant like her. Moll and Beth become fast friends. Beth and her husband already have a place to stay in Maryland so they offer Moll and her Uncle a place to stay until they can get their own place. Beth goes into labor while crossing the ocean. Beth and her baby both lose their lives before they even make it to Maryland.
Upon reaching the shores of Maryland Moll and her Uncle obtain land to build a home and a place to raise her son. They are told of an action where they can buy indentured servants to help work their land. But Moll says that is no more than slavery and will never own slaves. But when she sees a black woman Nema about her age that has been abused Moll buys her and tells her that if she works hard for them that after her time is up she will be free. Moll and Nema become lifelong friends in no time. Moll meets some of the local natives and becomes fast friends with them as well. Moll, Nema and one of the native women, Bluebird become fast friends.
Moll came to Maryland to for her son so that he can have a normal happy life without people knowing that he was born to an unwed mother. Moll never told her son that she was his mother he always believed that she was his sister.
When sickness hits everyone except for Moll and her family the people of the town start to blame Moll and start to call her a witch. Moll has never wanted anything but good for people and never wished evil upon them. The townsfolk are out to get revenge and make her pay for all her evil doings or what they assume is evil and her fault.
I have always been fascinated with the Salem witch trials and anything to do with witches in history so when the author contacted me about reviewing Sister Witch: The Life of Moll Dyer there was no way I was going to turn this one down and I am so glad I didn’t. I have honestly and truly loved reading Moll’s story about her family and cannot wait for more. Once I picked up Sister Witch I couldn’t put it down I just kept flipping those pages. I loved traipsing through the woods with Moll, Nema, and Bluebird. I got so lost in its pages that I felt as if I was there with them and Moll knows how to make you feel and see the world through her eyes. I think Moll was one of the best mothers ever. Moll and her story will leave you in tears while following her on her journey from her home in Ireland to her new home in Maryland.
I would recommend Sister Witch: The Life of Moll Dyer to anyone who loves reading about witches the paranormal or just a good book filled with lots of love as well as twists and turns around every corner.
February 25, 2018
Are you a fan of historical fiction? Perhaps you enjoy action, adventure and even the supernatural? If you answered in the affirmative to any of these questions, then Sister Witch: The Life of Moll Dyer, may be just what you are looking for!
The story is focused upon the main character, Moll Dyer, who travels to Maryland from England with her Uncle Sean. She is basically forced to leave as she had been assaulted and left pregnant by her attacker. For an unwed woman to be in such a state would only bring shame and persecution to her family, and a new life in America was the only viable option. For the sake of her family, both Moll and her Uncle needed to escape from their past so they could start anew.
During the journey to America, Moll befriends a couple named Beth and Gideon who were expecting their first baby. However, it becomes a disastrous trip for Beth who is often ill and in a very poor state of health. Moll attempts to help Beth by teaching her about the medicinal benefits of roots and plants. Tragically, both Beth and the baby pass away leaving the husband Gideon totally distraught. In such a state he accuses Moll of being a witch and causing his wife's death. These accusations are a pivotal point in the novel as they will follow Moll to her new home in America.
After a journey filled with hardship and heartache, Moll and Sean settle in Maryland and begin to build a farm together in which to raise Moll's unborn child. Moll soon gives birth to a boy she names Zachary and passes him off as her brother to the villagers. The unorthodox family continues to farm their land and grow their presence in the area. However, times are difficult for the colony and when a devastating illness and epidemic arise, "Moll the Witch" becomes and easy scapegoat.
Will Moll and her family survive such persecution? Will the colony drive her from the life she has tried so hard to build? Or will Moll convince them otherwise and help to heal their ills? The answer is both intriguing and provocative.
Undoubtedly, the author has done very diligent research when composing this novel. The story of Moll Dyer is legendary and actually inspired the plot of the film "The Blair Witch Project." However, this story is about much more than witchcraft and persecution. While it is certainly reminiscent of the Salem Witch Trials, the plot and setting is far more variegated. In his work, Sister Witch, David Thompson aptly explores a variety of historical issues such as slavery, religious intolerance and the issue of women's rights. Such significant and perplexing topics are expertly weaved into this spellbinding and fascinating story which comes to us from the mind of the author. It takes a great deal of skill to make that happen. Moll as the heroine of the story, who is maliciously maligned throughout, is very believable and she grows in her credibility with each passing page. The secondary characters whether they be friends such as Nema and Bluebird, or foes in the form of Peter or Gideon at the outset, are also very well presented and and add elements of love, loyalty, hatred and revenge.
In regards to an appropriate audience for this novel, I would place it at a young adult and up. It is a thoroughly enjoyable read for that group, but certain explicit scenes make it inappropriate for younger readers. History buffs and fans of the supernatural alike will find a lot to enjoy in this work. Also, the theme of sacrifice for others stands out as very prominent and convincing.
5 Unearthly Stars for this one! *****
The story is focused upon the main character, Moll Dyer, who travels to Maryland from England with her Uncle Sean. She is basically forced to leave as she had been assaulted and left pregnant by her attacker. For an unwed woman to be in such a state would only bring shame and persecution to her family, and a new life in America was the only viable option. For the sake of her family, both Moll and her Uncle needed to escape from their past so they could start anew.
During the journey to America, Moll befriends a couple named Beth and Gideon who were expecting their first baby. However, it becomes a disastrous trip for Beth who is often ill and in a very poor state of health. Moll attempts to help Beth by teaching her about the medicinal benefits of roots and plants. Tragically, both Beth and the baby pass away leaving the husband Gideon totally distraught. In such a state he accuses Moll of being a witch and causing his wife's death. These accusations are a pivotal point in the novel as they will follow Moll to her new home in America.
After a journey filled with hardship and heartache, Moll and Sean settle in Maryland and begin to build a farm together in which to raise Moll's unborn child. Moll soon gives birth to a boy she names Zachary and passes him off as her brother to the villagers. The unorthodox family continues to farm their land and grow their presence in the area. However, times are difficult for the colony and when a devastating illness and epidemic arise, "Moll the Witch" becomes and easy scapegoat.
Will Moll and her family survive such persecution? Will the colony drive her from the life she has tried so hard to build? Or will Moll convince them otherwise and help to heal their ills? The answer is both intriguing and provocative.
Undoubtedly, the author has done very diligent research when composing this novel. The story of Moll Dyer is legendary and actually inspired the plot of the film "The Blair Witch Project." However, this story is about much more than witchcraft and persecution. While it is certainly reminiscent of the Salem Witch Trials, the plot and setting is far more variegated. In his work, Sister Witch, David Thompson aptly explores a variety of historical issues such as slavery, religious intolerance and the issue of women's rights. Such significant and perplexing topics are expertly weaved into this spellbinding and fascinating story which comes to us from the mind of the author. It takes a great deal of skill to make that happen. Moll as the heroine of the story, who is maliciously maligned throughout, is very believable and she grows in her credibility with each passing page. The secondary characters whether they be friends such as Nema and Bluebird, or foes in the form of Peter or Gideon at the outset, are also very well presented and and add elements of love, loyalty, hatred and revenge.
In regards to an appropriate audience for this novel, I would place it at a young adult and up. It is a thoroughly enjoyable read for that group, but certain explicit scenes make it inappropriate for younger readers. History buffs and fans of the supernatural alike will find a lot to enjoy in this work. Also, the theme of sacrifice for others stands out as very prominent and convincing.
5 Unearthly Stars for this one! *****
October 22, 2017
With his debut novel, Thompson puts a new spin on an old ghost story. Artfully crafted, Moll dyer becomes a sympathetic figure, allowing the reader an alternative view of the early American legend. With surprising plot twists and affable characters, Sister Witch will keep you reading until the end.
October 11, 2020
The story of Moll Dyer caught my attention from the first page, the second my homeland was mentioned. Like so many in Ireland during this time in history when work was scarce and mouths needed to be fed. Moving across the pond to England where her father still struggled to find work, she is raped, shunned, all the while her mother opens up about the gifts she is yet to figure out. WHAT? I know! Talk about your life being turned upside down. But that isn't even the worst thing to happen. Pregnant, shipped off to the Colonies with her uncle, befriending Beth, making an enemy in the process, giving birth to her "brother" being the easiest way to play her baby's sudden appearance in her new home, listening as said "brother" is flogged, James (the nasty little so and so), nemeses turned acquaintance, Bluebird, Nema, there is mischief afoot if we are to go by Moll's dreams of demons and possession.
And breathe.....
Bluebird and Nema prove their loyalty constantly which leaves you happy that after all Moll has been through, these women are what makes her strong in their own ways. Witch-hunt, death, murder... it just keeps giving.
I truly enjoyed the story David W. Thompson has portrayed in his words. I will definitely read the next installments.
K K Weakley
And breathe.....
Bluebird and Nema prove their loyalty constantly which leaves you happy that after all Moll has been through, these women are what makes her strong in their own ways. Witch-hunt, death, murder... it just keeps giving.
I truly enjoyed the story David W. Thompson has portrayed in his words. I will definitely read the next installments.
K K Weakley
December 9, 2018
Excellent Historical Fiction with Some Paranormal Spice
Sister Witch is the story of perhaps Maryland’s most famous witch, Moll Dyer. The novel portrays her as a courageous and determined woman with opinions and beliefs far ahead of her time. I found myself cheering when she took an unpopular, progressive stand, but also cringing when she took another step toward what I knew to be her fate. Certainly, she had some unusual beliefs, such as in her ability to create love potions or protection spells. But they were harmless … at least until other people discovered she held those views. And when that happened, the woman became the target of suspicion and then, hatred. Over the course of the story, she was held accountable for everything from still births to season-long droughts.
The first two-thirds of the book is a chance to study the psychology of a unique individual and the sociology of a superstitious and sometimes violent society in which she lived. And lest I make the novel sound dry and academic, author Thompson makes you feel Moll’s determination and dedication to family as well as her isolation, pain, and finally, her tenuous grasp on reality. And while I’m no expert on language, the more formal wording of Moll’s speech and thoughts felt realistic to the time and I enjoyed listening to her. For example, while this observation is still made today, I appreciated the way she (via Thompson) phrased it. “Men are such poor custodians of the heart, its language is foreign to them.” It is historical fiction at its best.
In the last third or so of the book, the flavor shifts and the supernatural plays a much more prominent role. The ‘twist,’ if its possible to have one in a story so well-known is that in her need to secure a future for her family, she called upon dark powers. She no longer sought only protection from her enemies; she desired their downfall. And in the end, she had to pay the price for those wishes. Personally, I didn’t need this aspect of the book, but I fully understand why it was included. To write about the folk legend that is Moll Dyer without reference to the paranormal is to leave the story half told.
Overall, the book is excellent historical fiction, rich in the language, thoughts, and beliefs of the time and the life of one strong, courageous woman wronged by society. And if you like your historical fiction with a bit of paranormal spice, you’ll love Sister Witch.
Sister Witch is the story of perhaps Maryland’s most famous witch, Moll Dyer. The novel portrays her as a courageous and determined woman with opinions and beliefs far ahead of her time. I found myself cheering when she took an unpopular, progressive stand, but also cringing when she took another step toward what I knew to be her fate. Certainly, she had some unusual beliefs, such as in her ability to create love potions or protection spells. But they were harmless … at least until other people discovered she held those views. And when that happened, the woman became the target of suspicion and then, hatred. Over the course of the story, she was held accountable for everything from still births to season-long droughts.
The first two-thirds of the book is a chance to study the psychology of a unique individual and the sociology of a superstitious and sometimes violent society in which she lived. And lest I make the novel sound dry and academic, author Thompson makes you feel Moll’s determination and dedication to family as well as her isolation, pain, and finally, her tenuous grasp on reality. And while I’m no expert on language, the more formal wording of Moll’s speech and thoughts felt realistic to the time and I enjoyed listening to her. For example, while this observation is still made today, I appreciated the way she (via Thompson) phrased it. “Men are such poor custodians of the heart, its language is foreign to them.” It is historical fiction at its best.
In the last third or so of the book, the flavor shifts and the supernatural plays a much more prominent role. The ‘twist,’ if its possible to have one in a story so well-known is that in her need to secure a future for her family, she called upon dark powers. She no longer sought only protection from her enemies; she desired their downfall. And in the end, she had to pay the price for those wishes. Personally, I didn’t need this aspect of the book, but I fully understand why it was included. To write about the folk legend that is Moll Dyer without reference to the paranormal is to leave the story half told.
Overall, the book is excellent historical fiction, rich in the language, thoughts, and beliefs of the time and the life of one strong, courageous woman wronged by society. And if you like your historical fiction with a bit of paranormal spice, you’ll love Sister Witch.
March 1, 2018
Moll Dyer was, according to Wikipedia, “...a legendary 17th-century resident of Leonardtown, Maryland, who was said to have been accused of witchcraft and chased out of her home by the local townsfolk on a winter night... Stories say her spirit haunts the land, looking for the men who forced her from her home.”
David Thompson's book, Sister Witch: the Life of Moll Dyer, is written from the point of view of Moll, with a couple of chapters from her son, Zachary's, perspective. It begins in Kinsale in County Cork, Ireland, but moves for the majority of the story to Newtown, Maryland. (I assume this is the same place Wikipedia refers to as Leonardtown.) Moll is a typical young woman who makes the mistake of trusting the wrong person and is soon forced to flee her home. She joins her Uncle Sean, who has his own set of problems, on a boat headed to America. Here's an excerpt:
Her name was the Mary Regina, and she carried four masts with square rigging. With multiple decks below, she carried 120 tons of cargo. Uncle seemed impressed describing her, but Father said she was just a foreign galleon, and little more than a low riding carrack built for speed.
The scenes in America provide an excellent picture of life in the colonies, not only for the new arrivals, but also the Native Americans of the Conoy, Chaptico, and Susquehannock tribes. There's also a supernatural side to the story with spells and demons. I won't get into this aspect of the book for fear of giving too much away. Suffice it to say this makes the novel a fun read.
Steve Lindahl – author of Hopatcong Vision Quest, White Horse Regressions, and Motherless Soul
David Thompson's book, Sister Witch: the Life of Moll Dyer, is written from the point of view of Moll, with a couple of chapters from her son, Zachary's, perspective. It begins in Kinsale in County Cork, Ireland, but moves for the majority of the story to Newtown, Maryland. (I assume this is the same place Wikipedia refers to as Leonardtown.) Moll is a typical young woman who makes the mistake of trusting the wrong person and is soon forced to flee her home. She joins her Uncle Sean, who has his own set of problems, on a boat headed to America. Here's an excerpt:
Her name was the Mary Regina, and she carried four masts with square rigging. With multiple decks below, she carried 120 tons of cargo. Uncle seemed impressed describing her, but Father said she was just a foreign galleon, and little more than a low riding carrack built for speed.
The scenes in America provide an excellent picture of life in the colonies, not only for the new arrivals, but also the Native Americans of the Conoy, Chaptico, and Susquehannock tribes. There's also a supernatural side to the story with spells and demons. I won't get into this aspect of the book for fear of giving too much away. Suffice it to say this makes the novel a fun read.
Steve Lindahl – author of Hopatcong Vision Quest, White Horse Regressions, and Motherless Soul
October 11, 2019
I loved this so much! It’s hard to find words that will do it the justice it deserves. I kept thinking about the Salem witch trials and how people were accused of being a witch. But it was so different and unique. After being raped, Moll Dyer becomes pregnant and has a choice to make. To save her family’s name from disgrace, she travels with her uncle aboard a ship to America. Along the way she meets a young couple who are expecting a baby. She tries to help the woman with her mom’s remedies and draws suspicion on herself. The trip is hard enough without that. When they make it to their destination, they save a slave girl. She is to become someone who is dear to Moll. After all, she will be someone to help work the land but free at the same time. Moll meets some of the native Americans and becomes fast friends. So much happens. I found myself getting so caught up in their lives. This read like a great story rich in history from long ago, but also had some magical elements when the demons appeared. Moll’s mother had never taken her into her sewing room and shared the secrets she had until the day before she had to leave. Then it was like a crash course. With a small piece of information and a book with lots of secret family stuff passed down, Moll had set off to a new world. Little did she know about her family history involving the demons.
This was the perfect read, especially for Halloween coming up. The narration was so wonderful. I LOVED the accent. I’m so sad it’s over though. I will for sure have a book hangover for a while with this one.
This was the perfect read, especially for Halloween coming up. The narration was so wonderful. I LOVED the accent. I’m so sad it’s over though. I will for sure have a book hangover for a while with this one.
September 22, 2019
An excellent story!
I love the character of Moll Dyer: strong, opinionated, well ahead of her time but also loving and compassionated. In those times, though, a woman like her was easy prey to suspicion and malicious gossip. Nema and Bluebird, her friends, her sisters in beliefs, are also fascinating characters.
The book is a fantastic portrait of the times, the way superstitions are born, race prejudices and women's position in society. And the story-line is so greatly done! Any time Moll stands for herself you have this sense of foreboding... you know she is dealing with forces she doesn't really understand and that there will be a high price to pay.
An excellent story!
Honey St. Dennis does a great job with the narration per se, but some extra editing would have been a good idea. There are repetitions and intervals of silence too long. But it didn't stop me from enjoying the story.
I love the character of Moll Dyer: strong, opinionated, well ahead of her time but also loving and compassionated. In those times, though, a woman like her was easy prey to suspicion and malicious gossip. Nema and Bluebird, her friends, her sisters in beliefs, are also fascinating characters.
The book is a fantastic portrait of the times, the way superstitions are born, race prejudices and women's position in society. And the story-line is so greatly done! Any time Moll stands for herself you have this sense of foreboding... you know she is dealing with forces she doesn't really understand and that there will be a high price to pay.
An excellent story!
Honey St. Dennis does a great job with the narration per se, but some extra editing would have been a good idea. There are repetitions and intervals of silence too long. But it didn't stop me from enjoying the story.
March 19, 2019
I am a sucker for classic literature and when I picked up a copy of David Thompson’s Sister Witch, I was ecstatic to discover a perfect blend of local Maryland lore mixed with supernatural elements.
Moll Dyer, known over many campfires in Southern Maryland, was whisked from her family and home in an attempt to cover up a pregnancy by rape. Moll was shipped to the New World where she is met with supernatural forces that seem to have followed her across the ocean.
An outcast of the colony, and separated from her loved ones, Moll spends her life battling demons in hopes to rectify her mother’s mistakes with the spirit world.
A gripping novel that had me wanting to know everything about this mysterious woman who has captured the interest of Maryland resident’s for the past 400 years.
Moll Dyer, known over many campfires in Southern Maryland, was whisked from her family and home in an attempt to cover up a pregnancy by rape. Moll was shipped to the New World where she is met with supernatural forces that seem to have followed her across the ocean.
An outcast of the colony, and separated from her loved ones, Moll spends her life battling demons in hopes to rectify her mother’s mistakes with the spirit world.
A gripping novel that had me wanting to know everything about this mysterious woman who has captured the interest of Maryland resident’s for the past 400 years.
October 17, 2018
This is such a brilliant and remarkably well written novel. It gripped me in the beginning and didn't let go until the end. It's a beautifully crafted mixture of historical and paranormal fiction.
Moll Dyer is cast from her own home to avoid the shame of pregnancy. A journey to the American colonies proves many difficulties, including persecution as a witch. She carries the weight of her families dark past, dealing with demonic sources, along with surviving the hardships of building a farm and raising a child.
It addresses many issues of the time, adding onto the plot. Beautiful imagery and well plotted conflict invites you to see the world through Moll's eyes. I highly recommend this!!!
Moll Dyer is cast from her own home to avoid the shame of pregnancy. A journey to the American colonies proves many difficulties, including persecution as a witch. She carries the weight of her families dark past, dealing with demonic sources, along with surviving the hardships of building a farm and raising a child.
It addresses many issues of the time, adding onto the plot. Beautiful imagery and well plotted conflict invites you to see the world through Moll's eyes. I highly recommend this!!!
December 5, 2019
Wow! Where have I been?
I wish I had found this series a long time ago. This book was written so well and I loved every moment of it. I am looking forward to the next books so much I'm starting the second one immediately. The author knew how to put you right in the moment. The story of Moll,and her family and friends was so interesting and full of excitement, mystery, legends and myth. One of my new favorite books. Look so forward to more of this authors books!
I wish I had found this series a long time ago. This book was written so well and I loved every moment of it. I am looking forward to the next books so much I'm starting the second one immediately. The author knew how to put you right in the moment. The story of Moll,and her family and friends was so interesting and full of excitement, mystery, legends and myth. One of my new favorite books. Look so forward to more of this authors books!
October 28, 2017
Sister Witch, The Life of Moll Dyer is a real page turner. Everything about this story drew me in, from the characters to the settings. This is a great read from a talented author. This story should be on top of every readers must read list!
December 21, 2018
Loved it!
This tale was enthralling and full of experience and adventure. Mysteries, secrets and the excellent story line had me reading to the very end and with a lust for the next installment!
This tale was enthralling and full of experience and adventure. Mysteries, secrets and the excellent story line had me reading to the very end and with a lust for the next installment!
March 7, 2021
Human Spite and Violence Bring Madness.
Moll Dyer and her family leave for England, hoping to prosper. There they face hardship and intolerance, as Irish nationals and Catholics. Things get worse for Moll, as she gets raped – and defends herself. Left pregnant, her family gives her the choice of going back to Ireland to live with an aunt, or to follow her uncle Sean to Maryland. Both she and Uncle Sean have become outcasts but leaving for the colony gives them hope to forge a new life. Sea travel is no pleasure trip in the 17th Century, and the travellers experience both stormy and becalmed seas. A newlywed couple befriends Moll, and she helps the young woman, Beth, with her troublesome pregnancy. Still, the journey ends disastrously for Beth and through her, for her husband Gideon.
On the arrival in the virginal world of Maryland, it looks like Sean and Moll will create a better existence for themselves. Society accepts them, and they settle down to farm the land. They get to know and love several indigenes. This idyll doesn’t last long and rumours about Moll’s presumed witchcraft.
Written in the first person – Moll’s voice – Sister Witch touches many themes from slavery to witchcraft, and from fear of outsiders, to hate and spite. This is a masterly executed piece of historical fiction. Thompson studies the living circumstances, intolerance, religion (aboriginal as well as Christian). He points out how easily people become a mob and how love and tolerance can be found only with open eyes and hearts. Thompson explores women’s situation, early medicine, and how easily that could be misunderstood in a society that fears the supernatural. The characters, especially Moll, are vivid and convincing. It springs to mind that the ultimate sacrifice is a motivating theme for the entire novel.
Moll Dyer and her family leave for England, hoping to prosper. There they face hardship and intolerance, as Irish nationals and Catholics. Things get worse for Moll, as she gets raped – and defends herself. Left pregnant, her family gives her the choice of going back to Ireland to live with an aunt, or to follow her uncle Sean to Maryland. Both she and Uncle Sean have become outcasts but leaving for the colony gives them hope to forge a new life. Sea travel is no pleasure trip in the 17th Century, and the travellers experience both stormy and becalmed seas. A newlywed couple befriends Moll, and she helps the young woman, Beth, with her troublesome pregnancy. Still, the journey ends disastrously for Beth and through her, for her husband Gideon.
On the arrival in the virginal world of Maryland, it looks like Sean and Moll will create a better existence for themselves. Society accepts them, and they settle down to farm the land. They get to know and love several indigenes. This idyll doesn’t last long and rumours about Moll’s presumed witchcraft.
Written in the first person – Moll’s voice – Sister Witch touches many themes from slavery to witchcraft, and from fear of outsiders, to hate and spite. This is a masterly executed piece of historical fiction. Thompson studies the living circumstances, intolerance, religion (aboriginal as well as Christian). He points out how easily people become a mob and how love and tolerance can be found only with open eyes and hearts. Thompson explores women’s situation, early medicine, and how easily that could be misunderstood in a society that fears the supernatural. The characters, especially Moll, are vivid and convincing. It springs to mind that the ultimate sacrifice is a motivating theme for the entire novel.
March 29, 2018
Sister Witch is, as the title explains, a story about the life of Moll Dyer. Moll is a young, Irish lass whose family take her to England to find a better future. There, she gets raped and, to save her family name, she is shipped to Amerca with her uncle. The trip overseas is crucial for what happens to Moll in the New World.
I found the story very well written, drawing you in from the beginning, with hints of the paranormal and witchcraft. These hints are dispersed through the whole of the book, coming to a climax at the very end. Most of all, the book describes what it was like to live in the seventeenth century as a woman. It is extremely well researched and the knowledge is woven into the story with ease.
Topics as rape and slavery come up in the book and are wonderfully challenged by the strong women in it.
Although, strictly speaking, this is urban paranormal fiction, I would classify this more as a historical novel with paranormal hints.
It is not an action-packed story, apart from a few passages. My personal preference goes out to a bit more edge-of-your-seat suspense/action.
I would recommend this book to anybody interested in colonial life, witchcraft, and stories about strong women.
I found the story very well written, drawing you in from the beginning, with hints of the paranormal and witchcraft. These hints are dispersed through the whole of the book, coming to a climax at the very end. Most of all, the book describes what it was like to live in the seventeenth century as a woman. It is extremely well researched and the knowledge is woven into the story with ease.
Topics as rape and slavery come up in the book and are wonderfully challenged by the strong women in it.
Although, strictly speaking, this is urban paranormal fiction, I would classify this more as a historical novel with paranormal hints.
It is not an action-packed story, apart from a few passages. My personal preference goes out to a bit more edge-of-your-seat suspense/action.
I would recommend this book to anybody interested in colonial life, witchcraft, and stories about strong women.
November 4, 2017
Sister Witch is about a young girl, Moll Dyer, who is from Ireland in the 1800s. She falls in love with the wrong man (James). He rapes her and she becomes pregnant. Her family protects her reputation by sending her to America with her uncle. On the passage to the states, she meets a couple, Gideon and Beth. They make plans that would help Moll and her uncle out. Beth is also pregnant, but she loses the baby and dies. Gideon blames Moll and calls her a witch. Her mother taught her a great deal about roots and plants which only adds to the 'witch' accusation once Moll settles in America. She and her uncle get a farm together in some kind of indentured-servant type of deal. Moll has her baby and names him Zachery. He doesn't know that she is his mother and grows up thinking he is her brother. Without giving too much away, Moll learns that some evil spirits are plotting against her and her son. She sacrifices it all.
My Review: This is a terrific tale for anyone. Great story-telling by David! I loved Moll and her Indian friends. I also love her dog, Waba. It reminded me of my dog. Great tale and highly entertaining. 5/5 Stars
My Review: This is a terrific tale for anyone. Great story-telling by David! I loved Moll and her Indian friends. I also love her dog, Waba. It reminded me of my dog. Great tale and highly entertaining. 5/5 Stars
January 17, 2018
I love this subject matter.
If you randomly asked a group of Americans to tell you something about the history of witchcraft in America, chances are they would mention Salem, Salem, and Salem. This is indeed a shame, because there are so many other remarkable tales and legends about witches in America.
Moll Dyer is a noteworthy legend in certain parts of Maryland, but most Americans have never heard of her. She allegedly perished in 1697 after being accused of witchcraft and being chased from her home. This is why David Thompson's debut novel is such a pleasure -- great historical fiction educates as well as entertains.
Her legend persists to this day, and although very little historical record exists, Mr. Thompson does a tremendous job of depicting her life, including a terrible trauma and a grueling emigration. You will find it next to impossible not to sympathize with this young woman, and you will find yourself turning the pages at a rapid clip. The chapters are short, but the characters are compelling, and the book is flawlessly written.
Five stars and well done!
If you randomly asked a group of Americans to tell you something about the history of witchcraft in America, chances are they would mention Salem, Salem, and Salem. This is indeed a shame, because there are so many other remarkable tales and legends about witches in America.
Moll Dyer is a noteworthy legend in certain parts of Maryland, but most Americans have never heard of her. She allegedly perished in 1697 after being accused of witchcraft and being chased from her home. This is why David Thompson's debut novel is such a pleasure -- great historical fiction educates as well as entertains.
Her legend persists to this day, and although very little historical record exists, Mr. Thompson does a tremendous job of depicting her life, including a terrible trauma and a grueling emigration. You will find it next to impossible not to sympathize with this young woman, and you will find yourself turning the pages at a rapid clip. The chapters are short, but the characters are compelling, and the book is flawlessly written.
Five stars and well done!
July 6, 2019
Without giving any spoilers, Thompson’s writing reels you in like thread and before you know it you’re already halfway through the book and wonder where on Earth the time went.
The protagonist, Moll Dyer, is written in such a way that you instantly root for her: the more you read, the more you want to find out, plus the more you’ll be fizzing with rage at some of the...less appealing characters in the novel. A juicy trickle of horror runs throughout the story in an ever-present undercurrent of mounting doom, coupled with some very creepy prophetic dream sequences to keep you on your toes.
A difficult book to put down, a wonderfully written tale and thoroughly engaging story!
The protagonist, Moll Dyer, is written in such a way that you instantly root for her: the more you read, the more you want to find out, plus the more you’ll be fizzing with rage at some of the...less appealing characters in the novel. A juicy trickle of horror runs throughout the story in an ever-present undercurrent of mounting doom, coupled with some very creepy prophetic dream sequences to keep you on your toes.
A difficult book to put down, a wonderfully written tale and thoroughly engaging story!
January 15, 2018
My review is 4.5 stars.
I must say you're an architect, a very creative, innovative and an awesome one. The way you wrote the book, penned down the story. It's amazing and quite marvellous.
I love the character 'Moll'. The scenes you wrote are incredible. The time you chose is perfect and the characters are just the cherries on top.
I loved it very much.
I must say you're an architect, a very creative, innovative and an awesome one. The way you wrote the book, penned down the story. It's amazing and quite marvellous.
I love the character 'Moll'. The scenes you wrote are incredible. The time you chose is perfect and the characters are just the cherries on top.
I loved it very much.
November 4, 2018
This is too ably more.like a YA book. I did enjoy it and some of the history that went along with the book. This is based on a real person. I did go look at book 2 and it was a freebie so I grabbed it. If you just like a book that reads rather fast and want to enjoy an afternoon this book may be for you. It is not a horror story and took place before the Salem Witch trials. So.with that in mind cuddle up and enjoy.
March 31, 2019
Sister Witch was an interesting tale of folk lore in Maryland involving the life of Moll Dyer and her family during the 1600's. On a voyage to the United States from England, Ms. Dyer's trip as her life in England proved to be one nightmare after another. People in the settlement thought she was a witch and what was a hard life before became even harder.
Interesting read and was well written.
Interesting read and was well written.
December 20, 2018
What a very different story from what I expected. But nonetheless it was a great read. Moll was one amazing woman. I hope you enjoy this book as much as I did!
April 20, 2018
David W. Thompson’s “Sister Witch: The Life of Moll Dyer” intimately recounts an American colonial legend that originated in the early days of Maryland. Three-hundred years later, Thompson explains that Moll Dyer’s story is still told around campfires as a warning to misbehaving children and it’s no wonder why—Her spirit is said to walk the swampy woodlands near her homestead with her half-wolf companion by her side.
This is a taut and chilling read that touches on many subjects that were considered taboo in colonial times. Moll Dyer is a young Irish girl who is brutally raped and impregnated. She is banished by her parents, who fear the damage that will be done to their good name, and sent away from her homeland to the New World. Heightened by rumor and speculation, and the fear of anything foreign, Moll is ostracized by the colonists. Always in the back of her mind is the difficult-to-accept fact that she is unable to claim her child as her own.
Thompson’s writing shines as Moll is continuously placed in increasingly dire situations, particularly with the colonists who instigate dark rumors as she turns to the only friends she can count on for help—a young African American woman and the Native American tribe that lives nearby. Her association with society’s outcasts, as well as her practice of herbal medicine, causes Moll to be treated as a social pariah, and she is later branded as a witch, constantly under threat of attack from the colonists. One can’t help but see that Thompson’s expose on the prejudices and misbeliefs of colonial times are still reflected in our own societal biases, and through the telling of Moll’s legend, he demonstrates that many of the same old fears and fallacies that our ancestors held continue to persist today.
With much foreshadowing and insight into Irish folklore, as well as African American and Native culture, Thompson weaves a spell-binding tale using a strong female lead and well-formed, non-stereotypical characters. He draws the reader in with a compelling, dramatic, and provocative plotline that is, quite simply, bewitching. With its sexually violent content and mature subject matter, I would recommend this book as an adult read for ages 17 and up. However, Thompson has done an admirable job in researching the history of this era and this book can play a significant role in educating those who are either interested in, or fascinated by, American history, culture, and folklore.
This is a taut and chilling read that touches on many subjects that were considered taboo in colonial times. Moll Dyer is a young Irish girl who is brutally raped and impregnated. She is banished by her parents, who fear the damage that will be done to their good name, and sent away from her homeland to the New World. Heightened by rumor and speculation, and the fear of anything foreign, Moll is ostracized by the colonists. Always in the back of her mind is the difficult-to-accept fact that she is unable to claim her child as her own.
Thompson’s writing shines as Moll is continuously placed in increasingly dire situations, particularly with the colonists who instigate dark rumors as she turns to the only friends she can count on for help—a young African American woman and the Native American tribe that lives nearby. Her association with society’s outcasts, as well as her practice of herbal medicine, causes Moll to be treated as a social pariah, and she is later branded as a witch, constantly under threat of attack from the colonists. One can’t help but see that Thompson’s expose on the prejudices and misbeliefs of colonial times are still reflected in our own societal biases, and through the telling of Moll’s legend, he demonstrates that many of the same old fears and fallacies that our ancestors held continue to persist today.
With much foreshadowing and insight into Irish folklore, as well as African American and Native culture, Thompson weaves a spell-binding tale using a strong female lead and well-formed, non-stereotypical characters. He draws the reader in with a compelling, dramatic, and provocative plotline that is, quite simply, bewitching. With its sexually violent content and mature subject matter, I would recommend this book as an adult read for ages 17 and up. However, Thompson has done an admirable job in researching the history of this era and this book can play a significant role in educating those who are either interested in, or fascinated by, American history, culture, and folklore.
January 12, 2020
Loved it!
April 27, 2018
In “Sister Witch” 17th century Maryland is brought to life in a vibrant and engulfing way.
Moll is a strong female lead and her journey is harrowing to say the least. She is faced with the challenge of being an unwed pregnant women, and forced to flee to America to start life afresh. The characters deal with tough decisions, and I loved how strong and enjoyable they were as we followed them navigating through their different challenges
“Sister Witch” really is fascinating, and I really liked the darker elements of witchcraft and demons. Everything together made an amazing and fresh tale. If you are a fan of historical fiction and the supernatural, then this is the book for you. Very well written and well researched. I can’t wait to read more from this author and of this series.
Moll is a strong female lead and her journey is harrowing to say the least. She is faced with the challenge of being an unwed pregnant women, and forced to flee to America to start life afresh. The characters deal with tough decisions, and I loved how strong and enjoyable they were as we followed them navigating through their different challenges
“Sister Witch” really is fascinating, and I really liked the darker elements of witchcraft and demons. Everything together made an amazing and fresh tale. If you are a fan of historical fiction and the supernatural, then this is the book for you. Very well written and well researched. I can’t wait to read more from this author and of this series.
April 22, 2018
While not the kind of book I usually read, the description on this one drew me in and I was more than happy with what I had found. A gem of a colonial witchcraft story, I found myself feeling as though I was right there with Moll, through everything. Excellent story and now I plan to learn more about the legend
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