HOUR OF THE WITCH

Grace Experience narrates the lion's share of this audiobook, with cameos from additional narrators who deliver the notes and observations that begin each chapter. Experience's high-pitched voice is suitable for the character of 24-year-old Mary Deerfield, who recounts the story of her life in 1662 Boston. Mary, the sometimes shrill second wife of the abusive Thomas Deerfield, sues for divorce after he beats her and stabs her in the hand. While Experience captures Thomas's cruelty and lack of empathy, the other women she portrays sound similar to Mary regardless of age and station. Nonetheless, Experience ensures that the novel's tongue-twisting period language flows smoothly throughout Mary's trial for divorce and witchcraft at a time when Boston is rife with mistrust, superstition, and rumors of devilry. M.B.K. © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2021]