"This wonderful collection of poems--lyrical, passionate and shimmering with insight--is Susan King’s celebration of women’s lives. It is a hard-won celebration. She does not flinch from recording neglect, abuse, and the bitterest of tragedies. But whether she is introducing her reader to mythical goddesses from past centuries or to her contemporary next-door neighbor, her observations often sparkle with laughter, sly wit, and unexpected twists. Her vibrant imagery, confident and deft experiments with form, and love of language make Coven a pleasure for anyone who enjoys poetry. But also read Coven to learn about their deepest affections, intense preoccupations, imaginative and sometimes desperate modes of survival, and rich friendships. This is a book a woman should give to her mother, sister and best friends--and also to any man she cares about, so he can understand more about who she is." --Susan Allen Toth, author of Blooming, My Love Affair with England, and Leaning into the Wind