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The King's Witches
The King’s Witches by Kate Foster is a gripping and beautiful historical novel, giving an unforgettable voice to the women at the heart of the real-life witch trials in sixteenth-century Scotland.
Women whisper secrets to each other; it is how we survive.
1589. Princess Anne of Denmark is betrothed to King James VI of Scotland – a royal union designed to forever unite the two countries. But first, she must pass the trial period: one year of marriage in which she must prove herself worthy of being Scotland's new Queen. If the King and the Scottish royal court in Edinburgh find her wanting, she faces permanent exile to a convent. Determined to fulfil her duties to King and country, Anne resolves to be the perfect royal bride. Until she meets Lord Henry.
By her side is Kirsten Sorenson, her loyal and pious lady's maid. But whilst tending to Anne's every need, she has her own secret motives for the royal marriage to be a success . . .
Meanwhile, in North Berwick, a young housemaid by the name of Jura is dreaming of a new life. She practises the healing charms taught to her by her mother, and when she realises she is no longer safe under her master’s roof, she escapes to Edinburgh. But it isn't long before she finds herself caught up in the witchcraft mania that has gripped not just the capital but the new queen . . .
Will Anne, Kirsten and Jura be able to save each other and, in doing so, save themselves?
Women whisper secrets to each other; it is how we survive.
1589. Princess Anne of Denmark is betrothed to King James VI of Scotland – a royal union designed to forever unite the two countries. But first, she must pass the trial period: one year of marriage in which she must prove herself worthy of being Scotland's new Queen. If the King and the Scottish royal court in Edinburgh find her wanting, she faces permanent exile to a convent. Determined to fulfil her duties to King and country, Anne resolves to be the perfect royal bride. Until she meets Lord Henry.
By her side is Kirsten Sorenson, her loyal and pious lady's maid. But whilst tending to Anne's every need, she has her own secret motives for the royal marriage to be a success . . .
Meanwhile, in North Berwick, a young housemaid by the name of Jura is dreaming of a new life. She practises the healing charms taught to her by her mother, and when she realises she is no longer safe under her master’s roof, she escapes to Edinburgh. But it isn't long before she finds herself caught up in the witchcraft mania that has gripped not just the capital but the new queen . . .
Will Anne, Kirsten and Jura be able to save each other and, in doing so, save themselves?
304 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 6, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
March 4, 2024
Wonderful, compelling and rich. I loved how this combined an exploration of the panic over witchcraft with a fascinating look at court intrigue within the Scottish royal household, making it feel a bit of a different witch trial novel.
Want to read
June 10, 2024A new book coming from Kate Foster?! Excuse me while I go pre-order this. 😃
Foster's previous book, The Maiden, was longlisted for the 2024 Women's Prize for Fiction. It was such a whirlwind story of scandal and sisterhood that I couldn't put it down.
I wouldn't have dared to hope for another book from Foster so soon, but here we are! Already pre-ordered my copy and am looking forward to reading it immensely.
Foster's previous book, The Maiden, was longlisted for the 2024 Women's Prize for Fiction. It was such a whirlwind story of scandal and sisterhood that I couldn't put it down.
I wouldn't have dared to hope for another book from Foster so soon, but here we are! Already pre-ordered my copy and am looking forward to reading it immensely.
March 22, 2024
Women whisper secrets to each other; it is how we survive.
1589. Princess Anna of Denmark is betrothed to King James VI of Scotland – a royal union designed to forever unite the two countries. But first, she must pass the trial period: one year of marriage to prove herself worthy of being Scotland's new Queen. Determined to fulfil her duties to King and country, Anna resolves to be the perfect royal bride. Until she meets Lord Henry . . .
By her side is Kirsten Sorenson, her loyal and pious lady-in-waiting. But, whilst tending to Anna's every need, Kirsten has her own secret motives for the royal marriage to be a success . . .
Meanwhile, in North Berwick, young housemaid Jura practises the healing charms taught to her by her mother. When she realises she is no longer safe under her master’s roof, she escapes to Edinburgh, only to find herself caught up in the witchcraft mania that has gripped not just the capital, but the new queen . . .
Firstly huge thanks to Book Break/Pan MacMillan for sending this one my way, I was thrilled to get an advanced copy of The King’s Witches by Kate Foster a few weeks ago and throughly enjoyed it.
It was an engaging, gripping and beautifully written historical novel, inspired by true events, the 16th century North Berwick witch trials and giving an unforgettable voice to the women at the heart of the real-life witch trials in sixteenth-century Scotland.
Primarily following three key women, Princess Anna of Denmark, her ladies maid Kristen and a young girl accussed of bring a witch; Jura Craig. The author does an excellent job of showing how hysteria and panic can build by gossip and whispers behind closed doors. Full of court intrigue and a few twists and turns this is a slightly different take on the witch hunts.
There are a lot of books out about witch trails, some much better than others. This King's Witches is one of the better ones. Would certainly recommend for fans of this genre.
'Women whisper secrets to each other, its how we survive.'
1589. Princess Anna of Denmark is betrothed to King James VI of Scotland – a royal union designed to forever unite the two countries. But first, she must pass the trial period: one year of marriage to prove herself worthy of being Scotland's new Queen. Determined to fulfil her duties to King and country, Anna resolves to be the perfect royal bride. Until she meets Lord Henry . . .
By her side is Kirsten Sorenson, her loyal and pious lady-in-waiting. But, whilst tending to Anna's every need, Kirsten has her own secret motives for the royal marriage to be a success . . .
Meanwhile, in North Berwick, young housemaid Jura practises the healing charms taught to her by her mother. When she realises she is no longer safe under her master’s roof, she escapes to Edinburgh, only to find herself caught up in the witchcraft mania that has gripped not just the capital, but the new queen . . .
Firstly huge thanks to Book Break/Pan MacMillan for sending this one my way, I was thrilled to get an advanced copy of The King’s Witches by Kate Foster a few weeks ago and throughly enjoyed it.
It was an engaging, gripping and beautifully written historical novel, inspired by true events, the 16th century North Berwick witch trials and giving an unforgettable voice to the women at the heart of the real-life witch trials in sixteenth-century Scotland.
Primarily following three key women, Princess Anna of Denmark, her ladies maid Kristen and a young girl accussed of bring a witch; Jura Craig. The author does an excellent job of showing how hysteria and panic can build by gossip and whispers behind closed doors. Full of court intrigue and a few twists and turns this is a slightly different take on the witch hunts.
There are a lot of books out about witch trails, some much better than others. This King's Witches is one of the better ones. Would certainly recommend for fans of this genre.
'Women whisper secrets to each other, its how we survive.'
June 7, 2024
‘The King’s Witches‘ is inspired by the witch trials that gripped Scotland in the sixteenth century. It is told through the eyes of three women whose lives may be vastly different, but who ultimately might need to save each other, and themselves. Part history, part fiction, this is the kind of story that will always enthral my historical fiction loving heart.
Anna, Princess of Denmark, is on her way to Scotland to marry King James VI. First she will need to pass a trial period. One year of marriage in which to prove herself worthy of being a Queen. Anna was raised to do exactly that. Except nobody counted on her meeting Lord Henry. It’s hard not to feel for Anna. At the age of 17, her life has been planned out for her since childhood. She has no options, no choices. It has been determined for her that she will marry James and her only job in life is to produce heirs. But what if she doesn’t?
By her side, we find Kirsten, her loyal companion. She seems to have her very own reasons for wanting to get to Scotland and it’s quite clear she’s hiding something. Kirsten is rather hard to warm to. She’s a tough nut to crack, and even though along the way you learn more about her, I never really got to that point where I liked her character.
Finally, there is Jura. She has recently lost her mother and is desperately trying to find a new life away from her alcoholic father. Jura is a healer, a skill she learnt from her mother. But in these treacherous times, healing might just as well be witchcraft to some. Will Jura find this new life she seeks, and will she be safe?
‘The King’s Witches‘ is a tale of superstition, fear of the unknown, and men’s cruel and cunning ways to make anything fit their narrative. Think torture “to get to the truth”. Think witchcraft to explain what can’t be explained; or simply what they don’t understand. How fitting that the devil only seeks out those poor weak women so man can show his strength and power.
Life at court has never seemed to me like something to aspire to. To be subjected to the whims of kings and those around them has never come across as something appealing. In Anna’s case, the threat doesn’t necessarily loom quite as large as some other queens found themselves subjected to. If she’s unable to produce an heir, she will simply be sent to live with nuns. But if she, Kirsten, and Jura find themselves caught up in this witch hunt, things will end up being far worse for all of them. That is where the tension lies.
It took less than one page for me to be completely transported to 1589, where the story begins. ‘The King’s Witches‘ is wonderfully descriptive and compelling. It depicts how fear and panic can cause events to spiral entirely out of control and put innocent people’s lives in danger. The combination with the never-ending intrigue at a royal court works extremely well. So maybe the initial topic isn’t an original one, but the execution most definitely is. If you enjoy reading about witch-hunts and witch trials but would like something a little different, then this is definitely for you.
This is the second book I’ve read by Kate Foster and she has found a new fan. I would quite happily recommend both this novel and her previous one, ‘The Maiden‘, and I’m adding her name to my list of go-to authors. Recommended!
Anna, Princess of Denmark, is on her way to Scotland to marry King James VI. First she will need to pass a trial period. One year of marriage in which to prove herself worthy of being a Queen. Anna was raised to do exactly that. Except nobody counted on her meeting Lord Henry. It’s hard not to feel for Anna. At the age of 17, her life has been planned out for her since childhood. She has no options, no choices. It has been determined for her that she will marry James and her only job in life is to produce heirs. But what if she doesn’t?
By her side, we find Kirsten, her loyal companion. She seems to have her very own reasons for wanting to get to Scotland and it’s quite clear she’s hiding something. Kirsten is rather hard to warm to. She’s a tough nut to crack, and even though along the way you learn more about her, I never really got to that point where I liked her character.
Finally, there is Jura. She has recently lost her mother and is desperately trying to find a new life away from her alcoholic father. Jura is a healer, a skill she learnt from her mother. But in these treacherous times, healing might just as well be witchcraft to some. Will Jura find this new life she seeks, and will she be safe?
‘The King’s Witches‘ is a tale of superstition, fear of the unknown, and men’s cruel and cunning ways to make anything fit their narrative. Think torture “to get to the truth”. Think witchcraft to explain what can’t be explained; or simply what they don’t understand. How fitting that the devil only seeks out those poor weak women so man can show his strength and power.
Life at court has never seemed to me like something to aspire to. To be subjected to the whims of kings and those around them has never come across as something appealing. In Anna’s case, the threat doesn’t necessarily loom quite as large as some other queens found themselves subjected to. If she’s unable to produce an heir, she will simply be sent to live with nuns. But if she, Kirsten, and Jura find themselves caught up in this witch hunt, things will end up being far worse for all of them. That is where the tension lies.
It took less than one page for me to be completely transported to 1589, where the story begins. ‘The King’s Witches‘ is wonderfully descriptive and compelling. It depicts how fear and panic can cause events to spiral entirely out of control and put innocent people’s lives in danger. The combination with the never-ending intrigue at a royal court works extremely well. So maybe the initial topic isn’t an original one, but the execution most definitely is. If you enjoy reading about witch-hunts and witch trials but would like something a little different, then this is definitely for you.
This is the second book I’ve read by Kate Foster and she has found a new fan. I would quite happily recommend both this novel and her previous one, ‘The Maiden‘, and I’m adding her name to my list of go-to authors. Recommended!
May 24, 2024
An exquisite tale of the precarious nature of being a woman in the 16th century. I'm a sucker for a witch book and I love Anna of Denmark - if you combine Weyward with Alison Weir. Just beautiful.
March 22, 2024
A truly triumphant book! I can’t believe I’ve read nothing by Kate Foster before. This is a story of three women wrapped in the chaos of sixteenth century Scotland and Scandinavia- following the famous outbreak of witch-hunting. I found the writing so addictive, the fictionalised characters pure joy. It gave me similar vibes to Tracy Borman’s “ The King’s Witch” though this felt a lot more harrowing in its exploration of King James‘ treatment of women healers.
I really enjoyed the reimagining of Anne of Denmark as she embarks on her famous voyage from her “ cunning kingdom” in Skanderborg to the ghostly shores of Stuart Scotland. You can feel her anguish and anticipation. Foster’s depiction of James I was also terrifying. He really did feed into his own witch mania.
A story full of jaw dropping twists, a love story and spellbinding writing. I’m very happy to have gotten my hands on a proof copy! Get it on your lists.
I really enjoyed the reimagining of Anne of Denmark as she embarks on her famous voyage from her “ cunning kingdom” in Skanderborg to the ghostly shores of Stuart Scotland. You can feel her anguish and anticipation. Foster’s depiction of James I was also terrifying. He really did feed into his own witch mania.
A story full of jaw dropping twists, a love story and spellbinding writing. I’m very happy to have gotten my hands on a proof copy! Get it on your lists.
June 4, 2024
This book was completely engrossing. I'm a huge fan of the history of our monarchy and I love that we are seeing more and more stories carrying the voices of the women that were involved in royalty (and history in general!) that we don't study or learn about growing up.
I'm also fascinated with the history surrounding witchcraft and witch trials and this book includes both subjects so I knew I was going to really enjoy it.
This story is inspired by the North Berwick trials.
Of course, the topic of witches from the 16th and 17th century is heartbreaking as the story discusses in depth of how men and women were tortured into confessing, so I found it to be emotional and quite melancholic, but insightful and immersive at the same time.
I really enjoyed reading about the three women and their separate journeys that united them and allowed them to make fearless decisions and take courageous action against powerful men.
Beautifully written with strong and inspiring characters and I highly recommend this to anyone who has even the slightest interest in UK history, whether that be the monarchy, witchcraft or otherwise.
A huge thank you to Book Break/ Pan Macmillan for the beautiful copy. I am so grateful I got the chance to read this before publication ✨
I'm also fascinated with the history surrounding witchcraft and witch trials and this book includes both subjects so I knew I was going to really enjoy it.
This story is inspired by the North Berwick trials.
Of course, the topic of witches from the 16th and 17th century is heartbreaking as the story discusses in depth of how men and women were tortured into confessing, so I found it to be emotional and quite melancholic, but insightful and immersive at the same time.
I really enjoyed reading about the three women and their separate journeys that united them and allowed them to make fearless decisions and take courageous action against powerful men.
Beautifully written with strong and inspiring characters and I highly recommend this to anyone who has even the slightest interest in UK history, whether that be the monarchy, witchcraft or otherwise.
A huge thank you to Book Break/ Pan Macmillan for the beautiful copy. I am so grateful I got the chance to read this before publication ✨
March 1, 2024
The story follows the relationships of 3 key women...
Princess Anna of Denmark - handfasted to King James V of Scotland.... but in love with one of his courtiers Henry
Kristen - Princess Anna's ladies maid
Jura Craig - a young scottish girl accused of being a witch.
King James is obsessed with witches and is convinced with his cousin they are trying to remove the scottish throne from him.
The torture of those accused was very graphic and quite horrifying to what they went through.
A good read, with some twists and turns.
Princess Anna of Denmark - handfasted to King James V of Scotland.... but in love with one of his courtiers Henry
Kristen - Princess Anna's ladies maid
Jura Craig - a young scottish girl accused of being a witch.
King James is obsessed with witches and is convinced with his cousin they are trying to remove the scottish throne from him.
The torture of those accused was very graphic and quite horrifying to what they went through.
A good read, with some twists and turns.
April 9, 2024
This has to be one of my most eagerly anticipated reads of 2024
I absolutely loved The Maiden and I’m happy to say Kate has done it again. The King’s Witches is a brilliant realised portrayal of a fascinating and terrifying period in Scottish history.
The story centres around the North Berwick Witch trials. Initiated by the paranoia and obsession of King James VI himself, the trials centred around North Berwick in East Lothian. At least 70 people were accused of witchcraft there in the period 1590-92. Many were burned at the stake.
In the King’s Witches, Kate takes the facts of the trials and weaves a wonderful story around them. We meet Jura, a servant in North Berwick, Anna, Princess of Denmark and King James’ wife and her attendant Kirsten. All three women for one reason or another have much to fear from the witch mania that grips the Country.
Kate is so talented at giving these historical women a real and vivid voice. All in this book, from servant Jura to Princess Anna felt so real and relatable. Their worries not only over witches but also the day to day business of surviving, particularly when it comes to defending themselves from the men in their lives, feels incredibly true and current. I particularly enjoyed the use of the local dialect to give Jura an authentic voice.
Places too are brought to life. From the splendour of a Danish castle to the stink and bustle of Edinburghs Canongate making them so easy to conjure in your mind.
Woven through the story too is all the juicy intrigues of the royal court giving the reader a glimpse of life there and a deeper understanding of how the relationships and the panic developed.
The Kings Witches is a truly excellent and compelling read
A huge thanks to Chloe at Pan Macmillan for an early copy of this one. The only problem now is that I have even longer to wait for Kate's next one!
I absolutely loved The Maiden and I’m happy to say Kate has done it again. The King’s Witches is a brilliant realised portrayal of a fascinating and terrifying period in Scottish history.
The story centres around the North Berwick Witch trials. Initiated by the paranoia and obsession of King James VI himself, the trials centred around North Berwick in East Lothian. At least 70 people were accused of witchcraft there in the period 1590-92. Many were burned at the stake.
In the King’s Witches, Kate takes the facts of the trials and weaves a wonderful story around them. We meet Jura, a servant in North Berwick, Anna, Princess of Denmark and King James’ wife and her attendant Kirsten. All three women for one reason or another have much to fear from the witch mania that grips the Country.
Kate is so talented at giving these historical women a real and vivid voice. All in this book, from servant Jura to Princess Anna felt so real and relatable. Their worries not only over witches but also the day to day business of surviving, particularly when it comes to defending themselves from the men in their lives, feels incredibly true and current. I particularly enjoyed the use of the local dialect to give Jura an authentic voice.
Places too are brought to life. From the splendour of a Danish castle to the stink and bustle of Edinburghs Canongate making them so easy to conjure in your mind.
Woven through the story too is all the juicy intrigues of the royal court giving the reader a glimpse of life there and a deeper understanding of how the relationships and the panic developed.
The Kings Witches is a truly excellent and compelling read
A huge thanks to Chloe at Pan Macmillan for an early copy of this one. The only problem now is that I have even longer to wait for Kate's next one!
July 2, 2024
A a beautiful retelling of the North Berwick witch trials with a woman’s voice this time at the forefront.
This story gripped me from the very beginning and I loved sharing my thoughts with my lovely book group.
Written in the voices of the three main female characters it was Kirsten’s tale I enjoyed most - strength and bravery throughout was to be admired in such a patriarchal world.
The panic over witchcraft around this time vividly comes across on every page and the horrific treatment of innocent women was brutally described. I wasn’t that aware of the court of King James and his involvement in the witchcraft trials, so this was an education as well as a thoroughly entertaining read.
This story gripped me from the very beginning and I loved sharing my thoughts with my lovely book group.
Written in the voices of the three main female characters it was Kirsten’s tale I enjoyed most - strength and bravery throughout was to be admired in such a patriarchal world.
The panic over witchcraft around this time vividly comes across on every page and the horrific treatment of innocent women was brutally described. I wasn’t that aware of the court of King James and his involvement in the witchcraft trials, so this was an education as well as a thoroughly entertaining read.
June 12, 2024
Having previously enjoyed Kate Foster’s wonderful debut ‘The Maiden’ I was so excited to be sent a copy of her next release.
While this didn’t hit in quite the same way as her previous novel, this is still a solid outing and an enjoyable read. Our three main perspectives all bring their own unique charm, along with their own secrets, and I found the movement between each of the perspectives balanced out the progression of the plot perfectly.
While I found this just a little too similar to a lot of other ‘witch’ based stories that’s mostly a me-thing as I’ve read so many, and I would encourage others to pick this one up. Especially new Historical Fiction readers, I think this would be a cracking place to start.
I will await what Kate Foster writes next with interest.
Huge thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
While this didn’t hit in quite the same way as her previous novel, this is still a solid outing and an enjoyable read. Our three main perspectives all bring their own unique charm, along with their own secrets, and I found the movement between each of the perspectives balanced out the progression of the plot perfectly.
While I found this just a little too similar to a lot of other ‘witch’ based stories that’s mostly a me-thing as I’ve read so many, and I would encourage others to pick this one up. Especially new Historical Fiction readers, I think this would be a cracking place to start.
I will await what Kate Foster writes next with interest.
Huge thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 22, 2024
A wonderful retelling of the history of the North Berwick witch trials of the 1590s with a necessary feminist lens.
Kate Foster encapsulates the male mania of witch hunting expertly but peppers her narrative with sweet moments of female power and solidarity.
A necessary and beautiful feminist addition to a shameful time in history that highlights the experiences of women in an empowering way.
Kate Foster encapsulates the male mania of witch hunting expertly but peppers her narrative with sweet moments of female power and solidarity.
A necessary and beautiful feminist addition to a shameful time in history that highlights the experiences of women in an empowering way.
June 4, 2024
Witch. The very word can strike not only fear, but also biased misunderstanding, harmful thoughts, and even darker feelings, for we have always been told ever since the discovery of such beings to be afeared of such an individual who has been sent by the devil himself to corrupt and taint the souls of the good and pure. And non shall survive persecution or the judgement of all mighty God himself….
The year is 1589. Princess Anna of Denmark is betrothed and bound to King James VI, but to prove herself such a worthy vessel of rare lineage and devotion to become Scotland’s Queen, she has no choice but to spend a year in constant observation or face permanent exile with no say in the matter.
Determined to survive and triumph, Anna resolves to be the perfect example of a royal bride. That is, until she meets Henry, then everything changes.
Kirsten, Anna’s loyal and pious lady’s maid, has her own share of secret motives for this royal marriage to succeed, reasons that she must secure this match, for if she fails, the consequences will be dire and the outcome shall not be welcome.
While young Jura, having fled her spiteful and abusive master, for hopefully a new start in Edinburgh, soon finds herself caught up in the turmoil of witchcraft allegations and rumours rife around every corner that have ensnared the minds of the country, but little do all three of them know that should any of them wish to escape their fate, they will have little choice but to rely on each other and perhaps in doing so, save themselves from eternal damnation, yet this will be no easy feat as all three are being watched by unknown forces that could put a stop to everything.
Evocative, moving, and truly terrifying, The King’s Witches highlights not only the suffering and plight of women through the ages, but also the pure talent of this author.
The year is 1589. Princess Anna of Denmark is betrothed and bound to King James VI, but to prove herself such a worthy vessel of rare lineage and devotion to become Scotland’s Queen, she has no choice but to spend a year in constant observation or face permanent exile with no say in the matter.
Determined to survive and triumph, Anna resolves to be the perfect example of a royal bride. That is, until she meets Henry, then everything changes.
Kirsten, Anna’s loyal and pious lady’s maid, has her own share of secret motives for this royal marriage to succeed, reasons that she must secure this match, for if she fails, the consequences will be dire and the outcome shall not be welcome.
While young Jura, having fled her spiteful and abusive master, for hopefully a new start in Edinburgh, soon finds herself caught up in the turmoil of witchcraft allegations and rumours rife around every corner that have ensnared the minds of the country, but little do all three of them know that should any of them wish to escape their fate, they will have little choice but to rely on each other and perhaps in doing so, save themselves from eternal damnation, yet this will be no easy feat as all three are being watched by unknown forces that could put a stop to everything.
Evocative, moving, and truly terrifying, The King’s Witches highlights not only the suffering and plight of women through the ages, but also the pure talent of this author.
June 8, 2024
Princess Anna Of Denmark is to be married to King James of Scotland, but the tradition demands that the bride must prove herself the first year before she can truly become his wife. A violent storm delays the outward journey and soon all noses are pointing in the direction of witchcraft. Anna's lady-in-waiting Kirsten has her own motives for returning to Scotland. And in Scotland, the young cunning woman Jura enters the service of a landowner who sees in her more than a maid.
The King's witches is Kate Foster's second book, but I haven't read her first book 'The maiden' yet. The book is told in three perspectives: Anna, Kirsten and Jura. That James IV of Scotland was very afraid of witchcraft is well known and the North Berwick witch trials is where it all starts. Those trials coincide with the beginning of his marriage to Anna. So this formed the setting of the book.
So much for real history, the rest of the story is rather fictional, both Jura and Kirsten never existed. The story is smoothly told, because of the three perspectives there is a lot of pace in the story and the fate of the three women is nicely interwoven. At the same time, the witch hunts and how they mainly targeted women (including gruesome torture) are covered, so it gives a nice picture of Stuart court in Scotland.
Perhaps not the most original story as I saw some things coming, but entertaining nonetheless. I enjoyed reading it and I might pick up The maiden or any of the next books Foster will write.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in return of my honest opinion.
Dutch review:
Prinses Anna Van Denemarken wordt uitgehuwelijk aan koning James van Schotland, maar daar bestaat de traditie dat de bruid zich het eerste jaar voor het huwelijk moet bewijzen alvorens ze echt zijn vrouw mag worden. Een hevige storm vertraagt de heenreis en al snel wijzen al neuzen in de richting van hekserij. Anna's hofdame Kirsten heeft zo haar eigen motieven om terug te keren naar Schotland. En in Schotland zelf gaat de jonge vrouw Jura in dienst bij een landeigenaar die in haar meer ziet dan een meid.
The King's witches is het tweede boek van Kate Foster, maar het eerste boek dat ik van haar lees. Het boek wordt in drie perspectieven vertelt: Anna, Kirsten en Jura. Dat James IV van Schotland heel veel schrik had voor hekserij is bekend en de North Berwick witch trials is waar het allemaal begint. Die trials lopen gelijk met het begin van zijn huwelijk met Anna.
Tot zover de echte geschiedenis, de rest van het boek is eerder fictief, zowel Jura als Kirsten hebben nooit bestaan. Het verhaal is vlot verteld, door de drie perspectieven zit er heel wat tempo in het verhaal en het lot van de drie vrouwen wordt mooi met elkaar verweven. Tegelijkertijd komt de heksenjacht en hoe die vooral gericht is op vrouwen (inclusief gruwelijke martelingen) aan bod en dat geeft dus een mooi beeld van de tijdsgeest.
Misschien niet het meest originele verhaal, maar wel entertainend. Graag gelezen.
Bedankt aan Netgalley en de uitgever voor een exemplaar van dit boek in ruil voor mijn eerlijke mening.
The King's witches is Kate Foster's second book, but I haven't read her first book 'The maiden' yet. The book is told in three perspectives: Anna, Kirsten and Jura. That James IV of Scotland was very afraid of witchcraft is well known and the North Berwick witch trials is where it all starts. Those trials coincide with the beginning of his marriage to Anna. So this formed the setting of the book.
So much for real history, the rest of the story is rather fictional, both Jura and Kirsten never existed. The story is smoothly told, because of the three perspectives there is a lot of pace in the story and the fate of the three women is nicely interwoven. At the same time, the witch hunts and how they mainly targeted women (including gruesome torture) are covered, so it gives a nice picture of Stuart court in Scotland.
Perhaps not the most original story as I saw some things coming, but entertaining nonetheless. I enjoyed reading it and I might pick up The maiden or any of the next books Foster will write.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in return of my honest opinion.
Dutch review:
Prinses Anna Van Denemarken wordt uitgehuwelijk aan koning James van Schotland, maar daar bestaat de traditie dat de bruid zich het eerste jaar voor het huwelijk moet bewijzen alvorens ze echt zijn vrouw mag worden. Een hevige storm vertraagt de heenreis en al snel wijzen al neuzen in de richting van hekserij. Anna's hofdame Kirsten heeft zo haar eigen motieven om terug te keren naar Schotland. En in Schotland zelf gaat de jonge vrouw Jura in dienst bij een landeigenaar die in haar meer ziet dan een meid.
The King's witches is het tweede boek van Kate Foster, maar het eerste boek dat ik van haar lees. Het boek wordt in drie perspectieven vertelt: Anna, Kirsten en Jura. Dat James IV van Schotland heel veel schrik had voor hekserij is bekend en de North Berwick witch trials is waar het allemaal begint. Die trials lopen gelijk met het begin van zijn huwelijk met Anna.
Tot zover de echte geschiedenis, de rest van het boek is eerder fictief, zowel Jura als Kirsten hebben nooit bestaan. Het verhaal is vlot verteld, door de drie perspectieven zit er heel wat tempo in het verhaal en het lot van de drie vrouwen wordt mooi met elkaar verweven. Tegelijkertijd komt de heksenjacht en hoe die vooral gericht is op vrouwen (inclusief gruwelijke martelingen) aan bod en dat geeft dus een mooi beeld van de tijdsgeest.
Misschien niet het meest originele verhaal, maar wel entertainend. Graag gelezen.
Bedankt aan Netgalley en de uitgever voor een exemplaar van dit boek in ruil voor mijn eerlijke mening.
June 7, 2024
The King's Witches is set close to home for me and is inspired by true events, the 16th century North Berwick witch trials. The three main characters are Anna of Denmark, a princess betrothed to King James VI, coming to Scotland to face a one year marriage trial, her lady's maid Kirsten who has a strong connection to Scotland and Jura, a housemaid from North Berwick who has learned healing skills from her late mother and who has hopes of a better life in Edinburgh. She's fleeing an alcoholic father and a lecherous master but finds herself accused of witchcraft.
It's hard to comprehend the fear of so-called witchcraft felt by the people of the time. These were people who were deeply religious and didn't understand the world in the way we do today. They genuinely believed in witchcraft and the devil. As we know, women who were healers were frequently accused of witchcraft and there was little they could do to defend themselves. The way they were treated was barbaric as they were 'examined' to force confessions of witchcraft. Having said that people believed in witchcraft, I do feel that something one of the characters said was also true: "No woman is safe. Men are using it as a way to get rid of troublesome women."
I loved reading about all three women and particularly enjoyed that the chapters moved between their first person points of view. They were women from very different parts of society and yet in many ways their lives were similar. They all were at the mercy of men and constrained by society's expectation of them. I was transported to 16th century North Berwick and Edinburgh. Any time I am in the Canongate in the future, I'll be thinking of these women. Kate Foster has given them very distinct voices, particularly Jura's chapters which included a lot of Scots dialect which making her feel very real.
I was gripped by this book and my heart was in my mouth as I wondered as to the fate of the three women. I loved their strength and the way ultimately they needed each other's support. The King's Witches is another brilliant read from Kate Foster with love, female friendship, danger and courage among the themes. She brings the era and hysteria around the witch trials vividly to life and brings the experiences of the women, both real and fictional, to the fore.
It's hard to comprehend the fear of so-called witchcraft felt by the people of the time. These were people who were deeply religious and didn't understand the world in the way we do today. They genuinely believed in witchcraft and the devil. As we know, women who were healers were frequently accused of witchcraft and there was little they could do to defend themselves. The way they were treated was barbaric as they were 'examined' to force confessions of witchcraft. Having said that people believed in witchcraft, I do feel that something one of the characters said was also true: "No woman is safe. Men are using it as a way to get rid of troublesome women."
I loved reading about all three women and particularly enjoyed that the chapters moved between their first person points of view. They were women from very different parts of society and yet in many ways their lives were similar. They all were at the mercy of men and constrained by society's expectation of them. I was transported to 16th century North Berwick and Edinburgh. Any time I am in the Canongate in the future, I'll be thinking of these women. Kate Foster has given them very distinct voices, particularly Jura's chapters which included a lot of Scots dialect which making her feel very real.
I was gripped by this book and my heart was in my mouth as I wondered as to the fate of the three women. I loved their strength and the way ultimately they needed each other's support. The King's Witches is another brilliant read from Kate Foster with love, female friendship, danger and courage among the themes. She brings the era and hysteria around the witch trials vividly to life and brings the experiences of the women, both real and fictional, to the fore.
July 4, 2024
A feminist witchy retelling offering a fictionalised account of the North Berwick witch trials of 1590.
Princess Anna of Denmark is betrothed to King JamesVI of Scotland but before they can marry she is handfasted to him (this is an ancient Scottish tradition of living like you are married for a year and a day before deciding whether too actually get wed). She is being constantly tested and watched and she is drawn to another man.
Sent to watch over her is Kirsten a lady in waiting desperate to return to Scotland to put right her secret past.
Jura is a young maid running from her puritanical and abusive master she flees to Edinburgh where she is accused of witchcraft….
A mesmerising tale of three very different women searching for love and safety in world of superstition and strict religion.
Told through multiple POVs and letters this was a beautiful and intricate tapestry of life in sixteenth century Scotland where witch trials were often brutal and the Kirk was all powerful with religion being present in all aspects of life.
From a (fiercely) Scottish pov this one did tend towards twee on a few occasions but I felt like the story and the accurate details more than made up for it so overall I really enjoyed it.
I loved being transported to old Edinburgh and the struggles of the women were authentic and intriguing. My favourite was Kirsten….
Princess Anna of Denmark is betrothed to King JamesVI of Scotland but before they can marry she is handfasted to him (this is an ancient Scottish tradition of living like you are married for a year and a day before deciding whether too actually get wed). She is being constantly tested and watched and she is drawn to another man.
Sent to watch over her is Kirsten a lady in waiting desperate to return to Scotland to put right her secret past.
Jura is a young maid running from her puritanical and abusive master she flees to Edinburgh where she is accused of witchcraft….
A mesmerising tale of three very different women searching for love and safety in world of superstition and strict religion.
Told through multiple POVs and letters this was a beautiful and intricate tapestry of life in sixteenth century Scotland where witch trials were often brutal and the Kirk was all powerful with religion being present in all aspects of life.
From a (fiercely) Scottish pov this one did tend towards twee on a few occasions but I felt like the story and the accurate details more than made up for it so overall I really enjoyed it.
I loved being transported to old Edinburgh and the struggles of the women were authentic and intriguing. My favourite was Kirsten….
April 3, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and PanMacillan publishing for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book is set in 1589. It is a turbulent time at home and abroad, as witchcraft is on the rise and King James is convinced they are all conspiring to uproot him from his throne.
It is a beautifully written, somewhat haunting book based on true historical events, which follows the story of three very different women, living very different lives in a time when it was dangerous to be a woman. During 16th century North Berwick witch trials .
Princess Anne of Denmark is betrothed to King James VI of Scotland – a royal union designed to forever unite the two countries. But first, she must pass the trial period: one year of marriage in which she must prove herself worthy of being Scotland's new Queen. If the King and the Scottish royal court in Edinburgh find her wanting, she faces permanent exile to a convent. Determined to fulfil her duties to King and country, Anne resolves to be the perfect royal bride. Beside her is her servant and loyal maid Kirsten Sorenson who has travelled to Scotland with her from Denmark,. And Jura a young healer taught to her by her mother in the ways of old who is herself accused of witchcraft.
This book will appeal to all fans of historical fiction and witch trials in general. The description of some of the happening to these poor women who were persecuted due to a lot of the time peoples naivety and superstition is almost barbaric in places so some sensitive readers might find it difficult to read.
Having been to Edinburgh, Scotland and North Berwick I really enjoyed the scene setting and different locations in the book as I could see myself transported back to the 16th century and how different things would have been and looked at that time.
A really enjoyable book and I will definitely look out for the authors other works in the future.
This book is set in 1589. It is a turbulent time at home and abroad, as witchcraft is on the rise and King James is convinced they are all conspiring to uproot him from his throne.
It is a beautifully written, somewhat haunting book based on true historical events, which follows the story of three very different women, living very different lives in a time when it was dangerous to be a woman. During 16th century North Berwick witch trials .
Princess Anne of Denmark is betrothed to King James VI of Scotland – a royal union designed to forever unite the two countries. But first, she must pass the trial period: one year of marriage in which she must prove herself worthy of being Scotland's new Queen. If the King and the Scottish royal court in Edinburgh find her wanting, she faces permanent exile to a convent. Determined to fulfil her duties to King and country, Anne resolves to be the perfect royal bride. Beside her is her servant and loyal maid Kirsten Sorenson who has travelled to Scotland with her from Denmark,. And Jura a young healer taught to her by her mother in the ways of old who is herself accused of witchcraft.
This book will appeal to all fans of historical fiction and witch trials in general. The description of some of the happening to these poor women who were persecuted due to a lot of the time peoples naivety and superstition is almost barbaric in places so some sensitive readers might find it difficult to read.
Having been to Edinburgh, Scotland and North Berwick I really enjoyed the scene setting and different locations in the book as I could see myself transported back to the 16th century and how different things would have been and looked at that time.
A really enjoyable book and I will definitely look out for the authors other works in the future.
May 2, 2024
Princess Anna of Denmark is preparing for her handfasting to King James of Scotland and then her subsequent journey to Scotland. But before that she's taken to witness the burning of a suspected witch. Haunted by this, she has premonitions and the journey across the sea is perilous. Her lady in waiting Kirsten is acting secretive and has her own reasons for wanting to visit Scotland. And them we have Jura, a herbalist and cunning woman, like her mother, who works for the Kincaid family.
This fabulous novel is based on the North Berwick Witch Trials in 1590's. We feel the suffering of the accused, and the betrayal of those in power. This is a great read for people who love historical fiction and witchery. My first book from the author but I will be looking out for more of her books
This fabulous novel is based on the North Berwick Witch Trials in 1590's. We feel the suffering of the accused, and the betrayal of those in power. This is a great read for people who love historical fiction and witchery. My first book from the author but I will be looking out for more of her books
June 4, 2024
Kate Foster was recently longlisted for "Maiden" and she follows that success up with "The King's Witches." This is not a sophomore slump as "The King's Witches" shows that Kate Foster is an exciting new writer of historical fiction. She takes The North Berick witch trials as her inspiration for the story of how men use witch hunts to control and murder women who dare not to be perfect angels. Foster interweaves this horrific event with the upcoming marriage of King James and Queen Anna.
Foster creates three strong female characters in the future Queen Anna, Jura the housemaid and healer, and Kirsten, Anna's lady-of-the-bedchamber. Through these women, Forster again looks at how women are always punished for daring to exist outside of a man. This is an exciting but infuriating novel because it's not only based on real-life events, but it's relevant to today's world where society is always on the lookout for "witches" to metaphorically burn at the stake.
There is some strong material here (sexual assault and torture) but Foster explores the violence perpetrated upon women by hypocritical men who revel in their power of women. It's not exploitative; it's illuminating but very rough to read (especially the descriptions of the torture devices). As in "Maiden," I kept reading until the very end because I needed to know what would happen to Kirsten and Jura as I know of Anna's ultimate fate. This is another fantastic book from Kate Foster! Highly recommended.
Foster creates three strong female characters in the future Queen Anna, Jura the housemaid and healer, and Kirsten, Anna's lady-of-the-bedchamber. Through these women, Forster again looks at how women are always punished for daring to exist outside of a man. This is an exciting but infuriating novel because it's not only based on real-life events, but it's relevant to today's world where society is always on the lookout for "witches" to metaphorically burn at the stake.
There is some strong material here (sexual assault and torture) but Foster explores the violence perpetrated upon women by hypocritical men who revel in their power of women. It's not exploitative; it's illuminating but very rough to read (especially the descriptions of the torture devices). As in "Maiden," I kept reading until the very end because I needed to know what would happen to Kirsten and Jura as I know of Anna's ultimate fate. This is another fantastic book from Kate Foster! Highly recommended.
March 15, 2024
This book has been the most surprising one for me this year. The story is compelling, and the female characters are strong and complex even in death. The whole fiction is well-developed and feels real, especially the trials. However, I must warn that some parts of the book may be a bit too graphic and grotesque for sensitive readers, The plot is exciting with the perspective of three women from different times and countries. I found it interesting to read about a woman's of the past and since this is about witch trials I enjoy it lots . This is a great read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction. I would like to thank the publisher for providing me with an advanced copy of this book
July 8, 2024
Horrifying and eye-opening but beautifully written tale of witch trials (misogyny under another name) in the time of James VI. Compelling reading, I was gripped from the start. It will haunt me for some time!
March 5, 2024
I don’t often read historical fiction and after this masterpiece for Kate Foster I wonder why not! This book had me hooked and as per usual I devoured it in 24 hours.
This book has multiple points of views from strong female characters showing the prejudice women faced in Europe at this time. However, as heavy as that topic is this book was easy to read and digest and the interwoven stories were perfect. It did make me chuckle what was seen as witchcraft and the troubles these women faced.
Being from Newcastle I found the Scottish sections with their dialect so easy to read but I am interested to see how others found that as I could sound this in my head easily.
This is now a go to author for me and I need to get The Maiden and read this as the concept of that book sounds great. I recommend getting this book when it comes out in June!
This book has multiple points of views from strong female characters showing the prejudice women faced in Europe at this time. However, as heavy as that topic is this book was easy to read and digest and the interwoven stories were perfect. It did make me chuckle what was seen as witchcraft and the troubles these women faced.
Being from Newcastle I found the Scottish sections with their dialect so easy to read but I am interested to see how others found that as I could sound this in my head easily.
This is now a go to author for me and I need to get The Maiden and read this as the concept of that book sounds great. I recommend getting this book when it comes out in June!
February 20, 2024
Another haunting and captivating novel from Kate Foster, based on true historical events - the North Berwick witch trials and King James VI of Scotland involvement.
I loved this author’s previous book The Maiden, and was thrilled to receive her latest book to review. From the first paragraph, I was enthralled and engaged with the setting, the characters and the retelling of this historical event with fictional characters and events complementing this book. I loved it, couldn’t stop reading it and wholeheartedly recommend readers reserve a copy of the hardback on publication day as the cover is beautiful too! Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review.
I loved this author’s previous book The Maiden, and was thrilled to receive her latest book to review. From the first paragraph, I was enthralled and engaged with the setting, the characters and the retelling of this historical event with fictional characters and events complementing this book. I loved it, couldn’t stop reading it and wholeheartedly recommend readers reserve a copy of the hardback on publication day as the cover is beautiful too! Thank you to NetGalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review.
February 9, 2024
It was an interesting novel about witches trials with a subplot I quite early on guessed at. The historical facts were accurate, while the subplot dealt with fictional characters. I found it really disturbing to read about how "witches" were forced to confess (though I did know about that!) under torture while this never seemed to bother their inquisitors! This was so horrible and unfair. But that's how it was. The subplot, though, did not engage me so much, probably because I guessed early what would be the problem. However, I did not guess the conclusion.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.
I received a digital copy of this novel from NetGalley and I am leaving voluntarily an honest review.
June 21, 2024
1589. Princess Anna of Demark is betrothed to King James VI of Scotland. She is under no doubt that she must please King James in the year's trial period that lays before her, but before she can meet her new lord and master she must sail across dangerous seas to reach Scotland. This voyage proves to be more perilous that anticipated and on the way she falls in love with Lord Henry Roxburgh, who has been sent to tutor her in the things she must learn to be Queen. She is torn between her duty and her heart.
With Anna is her lady's maid Kirsten Sorenson, a woman who will accompany her in her new life. Kirsten longs to return to Scotland, where she spent her youth, for secretive reasons of her own. It is important for them both that this new life goes smoothly. Anna must be persuaded to follow her destiny as Queen, and they must do their best to distance themselves from the rumours of witchy goings on in their homeland.
In Scotland, Jura has become a housemaid to the Kincaid family in North Berwick, ruled with a rod of iron by the predatory Baillie Kincaid. Healing charms and potions, taught to her by her cunning woman mother, are a natural part of her life, but when they get her into trouble she flees to Edinburgh. Little does she know that the frenzy for witch hunting that is sweeping across Europe is about to tie her fate to that of the two women from Denmark.
Based on the North Berwick witch trials of the sixteenth century, Kate Foster once again blends fact and fiction to create an epic historical novel that holds you fast from the first page to the last. The story unfurls through the intricate and emotional narratives of Anna, Kirsten and Jura. Through them, we follow the Danish women in their near disastrous journey to Scotland, where Anna's happiness is soured by the realisation that King James is not the man she hoped he would be and Kirsten must do her utmost to protect those she cares for from witch hunting fever, while Jura must fight for her very survival.
The stories of the three women weave seamlessly together, rife with themes of female expectations dashed in the face of patriarchal power, even though their background are very different. As in Foster's debut, The Maiden, she does an incredible job of giving you a glimpse into the hidden lives of women in history, their notions of love, and the harsh realties of the choices they must make, but this time she also uses their plight to write a stunning exploration of the rise of the witch hunting fever that swept through Europe at this time of political instability.
Anyone interested in Jacobean history will surely know of James VI of Scotland (later James I of a united realm of Scotland and England) and his obsession with witches, dark magic and devilry, but how did he become so enmeshed in his endeavours? Armed with the knowledge that his interest in witches arose around the time of his meeting with Anna of Denmark, Foster makes an excellent fictional case for the hows, whys and wherefores of the actions that colour his reign, and she does so by way of a story that is spellbinding (if you will pardon the pun).
My heart was in my mouth for almost all of this book, and the way the threads of the women's stories come together is beautifully contrived, slowly revealing the secrets that bind them to each other. There are so many scenes that are difficult to read and will incite you to rage, and Foster uses them all to force you to look long and hard at the perfect storm of fear, political machinations, religious fervour, and cruelty that brought about the deaths of so many innocent men and women - especially of cunning women and those deemed 'difficult'. Superb!
If you loved The Maiden, then you will adore The King's Witches. I cannot wait to see which part of history Foster turns her pen to next.
With Anna is her lady's maid Kirsten Sorenson, a woman who will accompany her in her new life. Kirsten longs to return to Scotland, where she spent her youth, for secretive reasons of her own. It is important for them both that this new life goes smoothly. Anna must be persuaded to follow her destiny as Queen, and they must do their best to distance themselves from the rumours of witchy goings on in their homeland.
In Scotland, Jura has become a housemaid to the Kincaid family in North Berwick, ruled with a rod of iron by the predatory Baillie Kincaid. Healing charms and potions, taught to her by her cunning woman mother, are a natural part of her life, but when they get her into trouble she flees to Edinburgh. Little does she know that the frenzy for witch hunting that is sweeping across Europe is about to tie her fate to that of the two women from Denmark.
Based on the North Berwick witch trials of the sixteenth century, Kate Foster once again blends fact and fiction to create an epic historical novel that holds you fast from the first page to the last. The story unfurls through the intricate and emotional narratives of Anna, Kirsten and Jura. Through them, we follow the Danish women in their near disastrous journey to Scotland, where Anna's happiness is soured by the realisation that King James is not the man she hoped he would be and Kirsten must do her utmost to protect those she cares for from witch hunting fever, while Jura must fight for her very survival.
The stories of the three women weave seamlessly together, rife with themes of female expectations dashed in the face of patriarchal power, even though their background are very different. As in Foster's debut, The Maiden, she does an incredible job of giving you a glimpse into the hidden lives of women in history, their notions of love, and the harsh realties of the choices they must make, but this time she also uses their plight to write a stunning exploration of the rise of the witch hunting fever that swept through Europe at this time of political instability.
Anyone interested in Jacobean history will surely know of James VI of Scotland (later James I of a united realm of Scotland and England) and his obsession with witches, dark magic and devilry, but how did he become so enmeshed in his endeavours? Armed with the knowledge that his interest in witches arose around the time of his meeting with Anna of Denmark, Foster makes an excellent fictional case for the hows, whys and wherefores of the actions that colour his reign, and she does so by way of a story that is spellbinding (if you will pardon the pun).
My heart was in my mouth for almost all of this book, and the way the threads of the women's stories come together is beautifully contrived, slowly revealing the secrets that bind them to each other. There are so many scenes that are difficult to read and will incite you to rage, and Foster uses them all to force you to look long and hard at the perfect storm of fear, political machinations, religious fervour, and cruelty that brought about the deaths of so many innocent men and women - especially of cunning women and those deemed 'difficult'. Superb!
If you loved The Maiden, then you will adore The King's Witches. I cannot wait to see which part of history Foster turns her pen to next.
June 30, 2024
“Women whisper secrets to each other; it's how we survive.”
The King’s Witches is a bewitching story of duty, love, secrets, suspicion, fear and courage. A story of women - both cunning and ordinary - set against a backdrop of the real-life witch trials in Scotland during the sixteenth century, this was the SquadPod Book Club pick this month. It is told by three women: Princess Anna of Denmark, Kirsten Sorenson, Anna’s lady-in-waiting, and Jura Craig, a Scottish housemaid and healer. Princess Anna is betrothed to King James VI of Scotland but must pass a year-long trial period before they can marry. She is determined to be the perfect royal bride and prove herself worthy of being Queen of Scotland. So, along with Kirsten she sets sail for Scotland and her new life, unaware that Kirsten harbours her own secret reasons for wanting to join her and for the royal marriage to succeed. Meanwhile, Jura is using the healing charms she was taught by her mother to help others. But as King James’ obsession with witchcraft grows, she finds herself caught up in the hysteria that is gripping all of Scotland.
"But a new plague is upon us. A plague of fear; a disease of ideologies."
Kate Foster has once again crafted a compelling and evocative historical novel that is rich in time and place. Her meticulous research is evident in the historic details on every page while vivid imagery brings the sixteenth century to life in glorious technicolour. She immerses us amidst the witch hunts and trials, showing how the accusations were used as a way to eliminate troublesome women. She expertly uses the trials as a backdrop to amplify the female voices that were being silenced. The themes explored feel as relevant today as they did then and I was enrapt.
"And that is the trouble with accusations, is it not? That if one person says something against another, and the accuser is more powerful than the accused, what hope is there?"
The narrators are three fascinating, strong and bold women whose lives interlace in unexpected ways. They come from different walks of life yet so much of who they were and what they faced felt similar to each other. I enjoyed watching as they fought against societal conventions to gain some sense of power for themselves. I quickly felt a connection with Princess Anna and Jura, but it took me a bit longer to warm up to Kirsten, something I think was because she felt more mysterious and secretive than Anna or Jura. And though they are women very much of their time, they felt as relatable today.
"I think that when women are accused of wickedness, someone usually means them harm."
Spellbinding, poignant and surprising, The King's Witches is a must for all those who love historical fiction. And don't miss the fascinating author's note at the end where Ms. Foster discusses the characters and how she crafted the book in detail.
The King’s Witches is a bewitching story of duty, love, secrets, suspicion, fear and courage. A story of women - both cunning and ordinary - set against a backdrop of the real-life witch trials in Scotland during the sixteenth century, this was the SquadPod Book Club pick this month. It is told by three women: Princess Anna of Denmark, Kirsten Sorenson, Anna’s lady-in-waiting, and Jura Craig, a Scottish housemaid and healer. Princess Anna is betrothed to King James VI of Scotland but must pass a year-long trial period before they can marry. She is determined to be the perfect royal bride and prove herself worthy of being Queen of Scotland. So, along with Kirsten she sets sail for Scotland and her new life, unaware that Kirsten harbours her own secret reasons for wanting to join her and for the royal marriage to succeed. Meanwhile, Jura is using the healing charms she was taught by her mother to help others. But as King James’ obsession with witchcraft grows, she finds herself caught up in the hysteria that is gripping all of Scotland.
"But a new plague is upon us. A plague of fear; a disease of ideologies."
Kate Foster has once again crafted a compelling and evocative historical novel that is rich in time and place. Her meticulous research is evident in the historic details on every page while vivid imagery brings the sixteenth century to life in glorious technicolour. She immerses us amidst the witch hunts and trials, showing how the accusations were used as a way to eliminate troublesome women. She expertly uses the trials as a backdrop to amplify the female voices that were being silenced. The themes explored feel as relevant today as they did then and I was enrapt.
"And that is the trouble with accusations, is it not? That if one person says something against another, and the accuser is more powerful than the accused, what hope is there?"
The narrators are three fascinating, strong and bold women whose lives interlace in unexpected ways. They come from different walks of life yet so much of who they were and what they faced felt similar to each other. I enjoyed watching as they fought against societal conventions to gain some sense of power for themselves. I quickly felt a connection with Princess Anna and Jura, but it took me a bit longer to warm up to Kirsten, something I think was because she felt more mysterious and secretive than Anna or Jura. And though they are women very much of their time, they felt as relatable today.
"I think that when women are accused of wickedness, someone usually means them harm."
Spellbinding, poignant and surprising, The King's Witches is a must for all those who love historical fiction. And don't miss the fascinating author's note at the end where Ms. Foster discusses the characters and how she crafted the book in detail.
May 2, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley and Mantle for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I, like so many, absolutely adored Kate's previous book The Maiden, and was so happy to see it placed on the longlist for the Women’s Prize for fiction. I was so eager to see her follow-up and this sounded really good.
For some reason, I did initially think it was going to be about Macbeth and the witches. I don't know why, as it doesn't say anywhere that it is, but that was my immediate assumption. I saw Scotland and royalty and witches and came up with Shakespeare. That would have been an interesting book to read but this book is no less stunning for not meeting my initial assumption.
Kate's grasp of historical writing is absolutely phenomenal. I love a historical novel, especially about strong women, and this is what she brings with great aplomb.
Whilst I'm very open as to who I read, and I love discovering new authors, there are certain authors I go to for specific things: Laura Purcell for gothic novels, Lisa Jewell for thrillers, Heidi Swain for romance, that sort of thing, and I think Kate has become my top author for historical novels, and that's only two books in!
You can really put yourself into this story. You can feel yourself there, smell the salt on the sea, hear the rumours flying down the corridors, see the world around you. It is all encompassing and you almost become one of the characters.
I admit I wasn't aware that Anne of Denmark was a real person, which makes this even more impressive, because not only does it need to be entertaining, it will need to be as historically accurate as possible, and from what I can tell (I did go into a Google black hole), she's mastered that well.
It is an historical novel obviously, but there's action and adventure, fantasy, magic, romance, thriller - it's got something for everyone. It's about royalty, witches, friendship, it's about strangers, family, love, fear, desire, secrets, and about control.
It is such a rich book, so full of depth on every page, with so many layers. She's got such a grasp on the human language to evoke feelings of love, fear, hate, peril, beauty, and jealousy. It is moving in so many different ways.
There are moments in this book that made me so angry. I know it was a different time, and in the 1500s men were King (literally and figuratively) and women did as they were told. But this goes beyond that, into the realms of torture and harm and it's rage inducing. I know it's only a book, but the idea of thee kind of things happening, you just wish you could enter their world and put a stop to it.
This is definitely a worthy follow-up of The Maiden. She needn't worry about whether the second novel will live up to the first. This is every bit as fabulous and has really whet my appetite for more.
I, like so many, absolutely adored Kate's previous book The Maiden, and was so happy to see it placed on the longlist for the Women’s Prize for fiction. I was so eager to see her follow-up and this sounded really good.
For some reason, I did initially think it was going to be about Macbeth and the witches. I don't know why, as it doesn't say anywhere that it is, but that was my immediate assumption. I saw Scotland and royalty and witches and came up with Shakespeare. That would have been an interesting book to read but this book is no less stunning for not meeting my initial assumption.
Kate's grasp of historical writing is absolutely phenomenal. I love a historical novel, especially about strong women, and this is what she brings with great aplomb.
Whilst I'm very open as to who I read, and I love discovering new authors, there are certain authors I go to for specific things: Laura Purcell for gothic novels, Lisa Jewell for thrillers, Heidi Swain for romance, that sort of thing, and I think Kate has become my top author for historical novels, and that's only two books in!
You can really put yourself into this story. You can feel yourself there, smell the salt on the sea, hear the rumours flying down the corridors, see the world around you. It is all encompassing and you almost become one of the characters.
I admit I wasn't aware that Anne of Denmark was a real person, which makes this even more impressive, because not only does it need to be entertaining, it will need to be as historically accurate as possible, and from what I can tell (I did go into a Google black hole), she's mastered that well.
It is an historical novel obviously, but there's action and adventure, fantasy, magic, romance, thriller - it's got something for everyone. It's about royalty, witches, friendship, it's about strangers, family, love, fear, desire, secrets, and about control.
It is such a rich book, so full of depth on every page, with so many layers. She's got such a grasp on the human language to evoke feelings of love, fear, hate, peril, beauty, and jealousy. It is moving in so many different ways.
There are moments in this book that made me so angry. I know it was a different time, and in the 1500s men were King (literally and figuratively) and women did as they were told. But this goes beyond that, into the realms of torture and harm and it's rage inducing. I know it's only a book, but the idea of thee kind of things happening, you just wish you could enter their world and put a stop to it.
This is definitely a worthy follow-up of The Maiden. She needn't worry about whether the second novel will live up to the first. This is every bit as fabulous and has really whet my appetite for more.
June 30, 2024
Told through the viewpoints of three women, this is a novel set in that disturbing and hysterical era in the late 1500s when King James VI of Scotland (later James I of England) becomes convinced that his scheming cousin, Lord Bothwell, has recruited witches in order to take over the throne and results in the infamous torture, trials and burnings of many women.
Anna is the King’s reluctant young Danish bride whose ship is damaged and delayed by tremendous storms on her way to Scotland, allegedly caused by witchcraft. Kirsten is her lady companion who has knowledge of Scottish ways and must educate the young Queen. Jura is a maid living at North Berwick who has rudimentary and innocent knowledge of ‘charmes’ and potions that help people.
Anna submits to her duty, but her heart is elsewhere with her tutor, Henry, and she doesn’t want to get pregnant so she can have her handfasting union with James annulled. Kirsten is a dark horse and is in secret communication with an unknown person in Scotland. Jura becomes the victim of her despicable employer Baillie Kincaid and flees to practice her skills in the Canongate area of Edinburgh.
There is a satisfying major twist in the inevitable result although the personal links between the women feel a bit contrived. The men of the church are the usual bigots who seem to get off on cruelty. Henry is shadowy and unconvincing. Jura’s quaint semi-Scots dialect can be distracting. And the current trend delving into the nature of the relationships between King James and his male favourites is given another outing.
While the background settings are well done and the novel is a good introduction to the topic of the witchcraft trials, it’s not the real story. * There are some minor historical anachronisms that have slipped through as well, e.g. using the colour ‘navy’ blue – this didn’t come into use until nearly two centuries later with the creation of naval uniforms.
Three stars-and-half stars.
* The non-fiction work "Bothwell and the Witches" by Godfrey Watson is recommended for anyone wanting to read more.
https://www.marinamaxwellauthor.com/b...
Anna is the King’s reluctant young Danish bride whose ship is damaged and delayed by tremendous storms on her way to Scotland, allegedly caused by witchcraft. Kirsten is her lady companion who has knowledge of Scottish ways and must educate the young Queen. Jura is a maid living at North Berwick who has rudimentary and innocent knowledge of ‘charmes’ and potions that help people.
Anna submits to her duty, but her heart is elsewhere with her tutor, Henry, and she doesn’t want to get pregnant so she can have her handfasting union with James annulled. Kirsten is a dark horse and is in secret communication with an unknown person in Scotland. Jura becomes the victim of her despicable employer Baillie Kincaid and flees to practice her skills in the Canongate area of Edinburgh.
There is a satisfying major twist in the inevitable result although the personal links between the women feel a bit contrived. The men of the church are the usual bigots who seem to get off on cruelty. Henry is shadowy and unconvincing. Jura’s quaint semi-Scots dialect can be distracting. And the current trend delving into the nature of the relationships between King James and his male favourites is given another outing.
While the background settings are well done and the novel is a good introduction to the topic of the witchcraft trials, it’s not the real story. * There are some minor historical anachronisms that have slipped through as well, e.g. using the colour ‘navy’ blue – this didn’t come into use until nearly two centuries later with the creation of naval uniforms.
Three stars-and-half stars.
* The non-fiction work "Bothwell and the Witches" by Godfrey Watson is recommended for anyone wanting to read more.
https://www.marinamaxwellauthor.com/b...
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 9, 2024
★ ★ ★ ★.25
Enter the tumultuous world of 16th-century Scotland and Denmark with Kate Foster's mesmerizing novel, "The King's Witches". Foster weaves a gripping tale around the real-life witch trials, offering a poignant voice to the women at the centre of these historical events. Princess Anne of Denmark finds herself thrust into a precarious marriage with King James VI of Scotland, facing scrutiny from the royal court in Edinburgh. Alongside her loyal lady's maid, Kirsten Sorenson, and a young healer named Jura, Anne navigates the treacherous waters of court intrigue and witchcraft hysteria.
Foster's exquisite characterizations breathe life into the narrative, as she deftly explores themes of power, resilience, and the enduring bonds of sisterhood. Princess Anne emerges as a complex and compelling figure, torn between her duty to her husband and her own desires for autonomy. Kirsten Sorenson, while loyal to her mistress, harbours secret motives that add layers of intrigue to the story. Meanwhile, Jura's journey from a humble housemaid to a target of witchcraft accusations showcases the harsh realities faced by women of all walks of life during this tumultuous period.
From the haunting atmosphere of the witch trials to the richly drawn historical backdrop, "The King's Witches" is a captivating blend of history and fiction that will leave you spellbound. Foster skilfully captures the paranoia and hysteria of the era, immersing readers in a world where whispers of witchcraft can spell doom for even the most innocent. With its vivid imagery and gripping plot twists, this novel transports readers to a time and place where the line between superstition and reality blurs, offering a compelling exploration of the human condition and the enduring resilience of women throughout history.
Expected Pub Date 6 Jun 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and PanMacmillan for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Enter the tumultuous world of 16th-century Scotland and Denmark with Kate Foster's mesmerizing novel, "The King's Witches". Foster weaves a gripping tale around the real-life witch trials, offering a poignant voice to the women at the centre of these historical events. Princess Anne of Denmark finds herself thrust into a precarious marriage with King James VI of Scotland, facing scrutiny from the royal court in Edinburgh. Alongside her loyal lady's maid, Kirsten Sorenson, and a young healer named Jura, Anne navigates the treacherous waters of court intrigue and witchcraft hysteria.
Foster's exquisite characterizations breathe life into the narrative, as she deftly explores themes of power, resilience, and the enduring bonds of sisterhood. Princess Anne emerges as a complex and compelling figure, torn between her duty to her husband and her own desires for autonomy. Kirsten Sorenson, while loyal to her mistress, harbours secret motives that add layers of intrigue to the story. Meanwhile, Jura's journey from a humble housemaid to a target of witchcraft accusations showcases the harsh realities faced by women of all walks of life during this tumultuous period.
From the haunting atmosphere of the witch trials to the richly drawn historical backdrop, "The King's Witches" is a captivating blend of history and fiction that will leave you spellbound. Foster skilfully captures the paranoia and hysteria of the era, immersing readers in a world where whispers of witchcraft can spell doom for even the most innocent. With its vivid imagery and gripping plot twists, this novel transports readers to a time and place where the line between superstition and reality blurs, offering a compelling exploration of the human condition and the enduring resilience of women throughout history.
Expected Pub Date 6 Jun 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and PanMacmillan for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 13, 2024
‘The Privy Council doesn’t want the Scots to know we have a problem with witches.’
1589.
Princess Anna of Denmark is betrothed to King James VI of Scotland. She must prove herself worthy of the title of Queen in a year long handfasting trial or be banished into exile.
Her loyal maid Kirsten, travels with her to Scotland, she has motives of her own for the marriage to be a success.
Jura, a young housemaid escapes her master for Edinburgh and gets caught up in witchcraft rumours gripping the country.
I loved Kate’s first book The Maiden and so was highly anticipating reading this novel. It is based on the women of the real life witch trials in Scotland in the sixteenth century. King James was judge in the North Berwick witch trials and inspired his book Daemonologie, endorsing witch hunts and severe penalties. He was a man obsessed with witches.
‘Witches are cunning and have hidden themselves in plain sight.’
I loved the perspectives of the three very different women in this book. Foster gives them clear voice, Anna, Kirsten and Jura together painting a vivid picture, so evocative of the time. There is so much detail in this story but it is the humanity that shines through.
‘Women whisper secrets to each other; it is how we survive.’
I connected with Anna and Jura the most. Anna’s naivety and fear, her belief that she is cursed by a witch. Jura’s unwavering belief in the charme’s of her Ma, that most people relied on and now with the fear of witchery makes her hunted.
‘We are bound together. Do you understand? This is not solely about you.’
I found this story utterly absorbing and compelling. I read in disbelief of the horror of what was done to women accused of witchcraft, it beggars belief. As the threads of the story and these 3 women’s lives come together, I could not put it down. Foster has woven a truly brilliant tale, remarkable, rooted in fact and one that will keep you gripped until the very end.
1589.
Princess Anna of Denmark is betrothed to King James VI of Scotland. She must prove herself worthy of the title of Queen in a year long handfasting trial or be banished into exile.
Her loyal maid Kirsten, travels with her to Scotland, she has motives of her own for the marriage to be a success.
Jura, a young housemaid escapes her master for Edinburgh and gets caught up in witchcraft rumours gripping the country.
I loved Kate’s first book The Maiden and so was highly anticipating reading this novel. It is based on the women of the real life witch trials in Scotland in the sixteenth century. King James was judge in the North Berwick witch trials and inspired his book Daemonologie, endorsing witch hunts and severe penalties. He was a man obsessed with witches.
‘Witches are cunning and have hidden themselves in plain sight.’
I loved the perspectives of the three very different women in this book. Foster gives them clear voice, Anna, Kirsten and Jura together painting a vivid picture, so evocative of the time. There is so much detail in this story but it is the humanity that shines through.
‘Women whisper secrets to each other; it is how we survive.’
I connected with Anna and Jura the most. Anna’s naivety and fear, her belief that she is cursed by a witch. Jura’s unwavering belief in the charme’s of her Ma, that most people relied on and now with the fear of witchery makes her hunted.
‘We are bound together. Do you understand? This is not solely about you.’
I found this story utterly absorbing and compelling. I read in disbelief of the horror of what was done to women accused of witchcraft, it beggars belief. As the threads of the story and these 3 women’s lives come together, I could not put it down. Foster has woven a truly brilliant tale, remarkable, rooted in fact and one that will keep you gripped until the very end.
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