The Heretic's Daughter: A NovelKathleen Kent
Back Bay Books, Oct 2009
ISBN: 978-0316024495
The Heretic’s Daughter, is a stunning debut novel -- truly one of the best. Hewn from her own family history and intensive research, Kent shares the life of her grandmother nine generations back – Martha Carrier – who was hanged for witchcraft during the trials of Salem, Massachusetts in 1692. While not falling within the generally prescribed boundaries of traditional Christian genres, this beautiful work of historical fiction is a must-read for all believers – if only to prevent similar atrocities from taking place in the name of Christ again.
Written from the perspective of Martha’s daughter Sarah, readers are immediately immersed in a bleak, harsh landscape. Living under the shadow of smallpox, threat of attacks from surrounding natives, and the oppressive leadership of religious zealots in most towns, 11-year-old Sarah’s life offers little in the way of warmth or comfort. Born into a stoic, and mysteriously set-apart family, the trails of Sarah’s childhood will soon pale in comparison to the terrible impact the Salem witch-trials will leave in its wake.
Deftly drawing together the strands of historical detail, coming-of-age story, and rich, spell-binding prose, The Heretic’s Daughter is both unforgettable and heart-breaking.
Junior Cain
