- Year of Publication: 2009
- Hardcover: 384 pages
- Publisher: Voice (June 9, 2009)
- Language: English
- ISBN-10: 1401340903
The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe is a captivating novel that seamlessly blends historical fiction, magic, and mystery.
The story follows Harvard graduate student Connie Goodwin as she's unexpectedly thrust into a family quest. While grappling with her doctoral thesis, she's tasked with preparing her grandmother's long-abandoned home for sale. During this endeavor, a startling discovery – an ancient key and a parchment bearing the name Deliverance Dane – sets her on an intriguing path.
Deliverance Dane, a woman accused of witchcraft during the Salem Witch Trials, becomes the focus of Connie's research. Intrigued by the possibility of a forgotten legacy, Connie delves into historical records, uncovering a hidden family connection to a powerful magical lineage passed down through a mysterious "receipt book."
The novel expertly weaves between 1991 and the chilling era of the Salem Witch Trials, creating a rich tapestry of time and circumstance. While the identity of Connie's antagonist may become apparent to astute readers early on, the journey of discovery remains thoroughly engaging.
"The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane" is essentially three intertwined narratives: Connie's present-day quest, the tragic story of Deliverance Dane, and the intriguing history of the "receipt book" itself. The author masterfully blends magic and historical reality, incorporating genuine practices like the "Sieve and the Scissors" divination method and the "Method for the Redress of Fitts."
This book will enchant readers who enjoy magical realism, historical fiction, and a touch of romance. Fans of "The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane" will also appreciate the sequel, "The Daughters of Temperance Hobbs."
Overall: A spellbinding and thought-provoking read that will leave you pondering the enduring power of history and the unexpected legacies we inherit.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Pointy Little Hats (I'm working on my rating system).
LINKS
Carolina Dean
Official Book Reviewer
12th House Books
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