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Weyward" is a hauntingly beautiful debut novel that intertwines the lives of three remarkable women, spanning across centuries, all connected by their shared resilience and a deep bond with nature. Set in three distinct timelines��1619, 1942, and 2019—the novel explores the trials, sacrifices, and strength of Altha, Violet, and Kate, each navigating a world that seeks to suppress their inherent power.

The story opens in 2019 with Kate, a woman escaping an abusive relationship, seeking solace in the inherited Weyward Cottage. As she rebuilds her life, she uncovers her ancestors�� hidden legacies. Violet’s story in 1942 transports us to a war-torn world where societal expectations suffocate her dreams, while Altha, in 1619, faces the perilous accusations of witchcraft during the era of witch hunts. Despite the centuries between them, their experiences echo one another, unified by their fight for survival and self-discovery.

Hart’s storytelling is both atmospheric and poetic, drawing the reader into each timeline with vivid, sensory-rich descriptions. The detailed portrayal of Weyward Cottage, a sanctuary for these women, adds layers of symbolism, representing both physical refuge and spiritual empowerment. The novel’s pacing builds gradually, allowing for deep emotional investment in each character’s journey, making the moments of revelation and tension all the more impactful.

What stands out most in Weyward is its subtle yet powerful commentary on womanhood and the cyclical nature of oppression and resilience. The novel highlights how women, across generations, are often forced to reclaim their identity and power in the face of patriarchal forces. Hart skillfully contrasts the societal constraints of each era while underscoring the timeless strength these women inherit from their ancestors.

Though all three timelines are captivating, there is a particular magic in Altha’s storyline, set in the dark and dangerous world of 17th-century witch hunts. Her connection to the natural world, passed down from her mother, offers a poignant meditation on how knowledge, when misunderstood, can be feared and vilified.

Weyward is not just a story about witches or magic—it’s about the enduring power of family, legacy, and the invisible ties that bind generations of women together. It’s a compelling, emotionally charged novel that celebrates feminine resilience, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a richly layered, immersive tale that resonates long after the final page is turned.