The Familiars
The Familiars
Book Brief
Beta420
Novel • Fiction
England • 17th Century
2019
Adult
14-18 years
Super Short Summary
The Familiars by Stacey Halls follows a young woman named Fleetwood Shuttleworth in 1612 England as she navigates societal expectations and her own troubled pregnancy. She forms a crucial bond with a midwife suspected of witchcraft, set against the backdrop of the Pendle witch trials. Together, they confront challenges that test their resilience and friendship.
Reviews & Readership
62,729 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Stacey Halls' The Familiars captivates readers with its rich historical setting and strong female protagonist. Praised for immersive atmosphere and detailed research, it occasionally receives critique for slow pacing and predictable plot twists. Overall, it's a compelling read for historical fiction enthusiasts seeking a glimpse into 17th-century England.
Who Should Read The Familiars?
Readers who relish historical fiction with strong, complex female protagonists and a touch of the supernatural will enjoy Stacey Halls' The Familiars. Fans of Philippa Gregory's works and The Witch's Daughter by Paula Brackston will find its exploration of 17th-century witch trials compelling.
62,729 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
The Familiars is Stacey Halls' debut novel and is inspired by the real Pendle witch trials of 1612, which are among the most famous witch trials in English history.
The book is set in the beautiful and atmospheric landscape of Lancashire, England, which Halls researched extensively to accurately portray the historical setting.
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Stacey Halls wrote The Familiars with a focus on exploring themes of female empowerment and resilience, inspired by the historical challenges women faced.
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420
Novel • Fiction
England • 17th Century
2019
Adult
14-18 years
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