Review of 'The Year of the Witching'

Synopsis

A young woman living in a rigid, puritanical society discovers dark powers within herself in this stunning, feminist fantasy debut.

In the lands of Bethel, where the Prophet's word is law, Immanuelle Moore's very existence is blasphemy. Her mother's union with an outsider of a different race cast her once-proud family into disgrace, so Immanuelle does her best to worship the Father, follow Holy Protocol, and lead a life of submission, devotion, and absolute conformity, like all the other women in the settlement.

But a mishap lures her into the forbidden Darkwood surrounding Bethel, where the first prophet once chased and killed four powerful witches. Their spirits are still lurking there, and they bestow a gift on Immanuelle: the journal of her dead mother, who Immanuelle is shocked to learn once sought sanctuary in the wood.

Fascinated by the secrets in the diary, Immanuelle finds herself struggling to understand how her mother could have consorted with the witches. But when she begins to learn grim truths about the Church and its history, she realizes the true threat to Bethel is its own darkness. And she starts to understand that if Bethel is to change, it must begin with her.

Review

The Year of the Witching is one of those novels that stands out against the crowd. From the opening chapter to the end, this novel offers tension and deals with issues like sexism, misogyny, and racism is powerful ways.

A Resounding Story

Immanuelle Moore is a biracial girl born out of wedlock. Not only does she have dark skin and curly hair like her father, upon his death, but her mother also ventured into the Darkwoods, the realm of the Mother and Witches, returning pregnant. These events make Immanuelle an outcast, but her family loves her and stands by her through it all, never blaming her for any hardships.

This strong family unit contrasts with the Puritanical society in which they live. At first glance, it reads like a cult following, grounding the reader in the eerie familiarity it brings to the table, reminding readers of Puritans during the Witch Hunts.

This cultish feel to the novel gives off an edge of discomfort yet hooks the reader in. In some ways, it is reminiscent of The Grace Year, highlighting the subservient nature placed on women as a gender. It is a compelling look at the continued mistreatment of women.

A Look at Sexism and Racism

The Prophet has many wives, and even uses his position of power to take young women at such young ages. This feels so real, Immanuelle anger at this discovery, at the mistreatment of women in her town, how they are made to be cowed and stripped of their voices and desires, resonates with the reader.

The Year of the Witching takes a good look at sexism and misogyny. Through this lens of religion and setting the novel in a town similar to the Puritan settlements, the reader can see that this mistreatment of women still lives on today, where women are subjected to the whims and inequality of men.

There is also such a powerful message of racism in the novel. Immanuelle is made to feel like an outcast because of her skin. However, a more powerful look at racism is the way that the people of Bethel force people of color to live on the Outskirts. Because of their skin color, they have to beg for scraps, unable to enter the town that claims to have their salvation.

Final Thoughts

There is a wall within the novel, both metaphorically and physically, that keeps the people of Bethel submissive and chained to these archaic teachings. However, for Immanuelle she sees beyond these teachings. Immanuelle is the strength, not giving in to her anger, but using her anger to inspire change and open the eyes of her people. She is an incredible character who grows so much and finds the power within herself to stand up for what is right and inspire change throughout the community.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

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About the Author

Cynthia Bujnicki graduated from Emerson College with a BA in Writing, Literature and Publishing. She has always loved to read since she was a child. A contributing writer for YA Fantasy Addicts, she is also the Editor-in-Chief for Cyn's Workshop. She lives in sunny South Florida with her husband and son and their two cats, Mr. J the Kitten and Nyx.