Thursday, November 5, 2026

Book Review: The Devon Witches by Melanie Hudson

 Book Review


The Devon Witches

Melanie Hudson

 

 

Book Description:

 

Inspired by the true story of the last women to be hanged for witchcraft in England

The Village of Bideford, 1682

 A woman rises from a shipwreck with nothing but a silk shift, a stolen name, and a necklace worth a fortune. She is taken in by three outcasts the town calls witches—an old beggar woman who laughs at The Devil, a foul-mouthed widow, and gentle Mary.

But fear is rising. A witchfinder has arrived. And the woman from the sea carries secrets darker than any spell…

A blazing story of survival, sisterhood, and fear – and of the women who refused, gloriously, to be silenced.

 

Order Now:

Amazon Kindle – Paperback – Audiobook

 Releases November 30, 2026

 

My 5-Star Book Review:

I love a good historical novel, especially one filled with mystery, intrigue, and strong female characters, and The Devon Witches by Melanie Hudson certainly delivers! Set in 1642 England, during a time when superstition and fear could lead to innocent women being accused of witchcraft, this beautifully written story captivated me from the beginning.

After surviving a devastating shipwreck, Orla finds herself in the care of three women who are considered outcasts by their community. As she struggles to hide the truth about her past, the arrival of a witchfinder brings danger and uncertainty to their lives. What follows is a compelling story of courage, friendship, loyalty, and survival, with a touch of romance woven throughout. 

Hudson does a wonderful job of bringing the historical setting to life, capturing both the beauty and harsh realities of the period. I especially loved the relationships between the women and their determination to stand together in a world where being different could cost them everything. Rich in historical detail, filled with emotion, and wonderfully atmospheric, The Devon Witches is the kind of novel that draws you in and stays with you long after the final page. I thoroughly enjoyed it and highly recommend it to anyone who loves historical fiction.

 

 


About the Author:

Melanie is an award-winning and USA Today bestselling writer of contemporary and historical fiction. She also writes the comedy crime series, The Edge of the World Detective Agency, under the pen name, Jo Silva. Melanie lives in the Scottish Highlands with her family.