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46 pages 1 hour read

The Heretic's Daughter

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008

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Book Brief

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Kathleen Kent

The Heretic's Daughter

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008
Book Details
Pages

332

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Massachusetts • 1690s

Theme
Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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Super Short Summary

The Heretic’s Daughter by Kathleen Kent follows young Sarah Carrier, whose mother, Martha, is accused and executed for witchcraft during the Salem witch trials of the 1690s. Through Sarah's perspective, the narrative traces her family's ordeal from fleeing a smallpox epidemic to enduring imprisonment and societal persecution. The book explores themes of community crisis, the dangers of theocracy, and the legacies of the past.

Dark

Mysterious

Melancholic

Emotional

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Heretic's Daughter by Kathleen Kent is a gripping historical novel praised for its rich detail and emotional depth, bringing to life the Salem Witch Trials. Readers appreciate the vivid characterization and immersive storytelling. However, some find the pacing slow and the narrative bleak. Overall, it’s a compelling read for fans of historical fiction.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Heretic's Daughter?

A reader who enjoys historical fiction with strong female protagonists and a mix of drama and emotional depth would be captivated by The Heretic's Daughter by Kathleen Kent. Fans of The Crucible by Arthur Miller and Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks will find its exploration of the Salem Witch Trials particularly engaging.

Character List

Sarah Carrier

A central character who begins her journey as a nine-year-old girl in 1690, characterized by her directness and evolving perspective on her family and their history.

Sarah's mother, known for her forthrightness and resolve in maintaining her principles, even when confronted by community and authority pressures.

Martha's husband, a tall and physically distinctive man who emigrated from Wales, influenced by ideals of freedom and his past involvement in significant historical events.

Sarah's cousin who shares a close bond with her, recognized for her unusual behavior and emotional connection with Sarah.

Sarah's uncle, a charismatic man with hidden weaknesses, who self-identifies as a surgeon and expert in witchcraft detection.

Sarah's kind and nurturing aunt, often passive, who shows deep affection toward Sarah and suffers due to her husband's decisions.

Roger's eldest son, who bears animosity towards the Carrier family due to inheritance disputes and later manages family affairs.

A young woman with a troubled history involving abduction, known for her scheming and conflicts with the Carrier family.

Sarah's empathetic and sensitive brother, who demonstrates his capability and protective nature despite his age.

The eldest son of Martha and Thomas, a quiet and brooding character who upholds family loyalty and becomes successful.

A middle child of the Carrier family, severely affected by smallpox but survives to lead a productive life despite challenges.

Sarah's youngest sister, marked by early trauma and separation anxieties, fostering her challenges with instability.

A supportive figure in the Salem jail, offering medical care and moral support while being connected to Sarah's father.

The matriarchal figure who provides refuge to the Carrier family, ultimately leaving a significant inheritance based on family character assessments.

Book Details
Pages

332

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Massachusetts • 1690s

Theme
Publication Year

2008

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14-18 years

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