Perhaps we are all a little bit Weyward. Just as nature intended us to be.

Weyward is a remarkable novel by Emilia Hart that intertwines the stories of three women from different periods, all connected by their mysterious powers and the same bloodline.

Published in 2023, this debut novel blends historical fiction with magical elements to explore themes of female empowerment, nature, and breaking free from oppression.

The book follows Kate, Violet, and Altha – three women separated by centuries but united by their supernatural abilities and the struggle to claim their independence in a world that fears their power.

Plot Summary

“Women like us are not meant to be contained.”

The story unfolds through three alternating timelines:

2019: Kate flees an abusive relationship in London and takes refuge in Weyward Cottage in Cumbria, a property she inherited from her great-aunt.

1942: Violet, a young woman trapped in her father’s manor house during World War II, discovers strange abilities and secrets about her family’s past.

1619: Altha, a healer living in a small village, faces accusations of witchcraft after the mysterious death of a local man.

As the narrative progresses, we learn how these women are connected not just by blood but by their unique connection to nature – a power known as being “Weyward.”

Characters

• Kate – A modern woman escaping domestic abuse who must confront family secrets and embrace her heritage.
• Violet – A sheltered young woman during WWII who uncovers her abilities while seeking freedom from her controlling father.
• Altha – A wise woman with knowledge of herbs and healing who faces witch trials in the 17th century.

The novel explores female autonomy, intergenerational trauma, the healing power of nature, and the strength found in embracing one’s true self. It examines how patriarchal systems have attempted to control women’s power throughout history.

What Genre Does It Focus On?

Weyward belongs to multiple genres:

• Historical Fiction, with its detailed portrayal of three different periods
• Magical Realism through the subtle supernatural elements
• Feminist Fiction in its exploration of women reclaiming their power
• Gothic Fiction, with its mysterious atmosphere and family secrets

Readers can expect a blend of historical detail, subtle magic, and emotional depth. The book doesn’t feature flashy spells but rather naturalistic magic—a deep connection with animals, plants, and the elements. The writing style is immersive and evocative, drawing you into each woman’s world.

Ratings and Reviews

Ratings

Weyward holds a solid 4.1-star rating on Goodreads, with over 30,000 reviews. This rating reflects the book’s ability to captivate readers with its blend of historical fiction, magical realism, and feminist themes.

Reviews

• “A mesmerizing novel that beautifully intertwines the lives of three women across centuries. The connection between them is both haunting and empowering.”
• “Hart’s storytelling is immersive, and the atmospheric prose makes every timeline feel vivid and real. A truly unforgettable read.”
• “A deeply moving and beautifully written novel that celebrates the resilience of women throughout history. I couldn’t put it down.”
• “An enchanting mix of historical fiction and subtle magic. The characters are compelling, and their struggles feel incredibly raw and real.”

Unlike many witch-themed novels, Weyward grounds its magic in nature rather than in spellcraft. The book stands out for its realistic portrayal of domestic abuse and how women find strength in their connections to each other across time.

Who Should Read This Book?

Age and content warning: This book is best suited for adult readers due to themes of domestic violence, sexual assault, abortion, abuse, and death. The content is handled sensitively but may be triggering for some readers.

This book is perfect for readers who enjoyed:

• “The Once and Future Witches” by Alix E. Harrow
• “Practical Magic” by Alice Hoffman
• “The Night Circus” by Erin Morgenstern

Book Recommendations If You Liked Weyward

If you enjoyed Weyward, consider these similar titles:

• The Binding by Bridget Collins – A historical fantasy with gothic elements and forbidden love
• Hamnet by Maggie O’Farrell – Historical fiction with a focus on women’s stories and grief
• The Familiars by Stacey Halls – Historical fiction centered around the Pendle witch trials
• The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner – Dual-timeline historical fiction featuring women’s secrets and revenge

Conclusion

Weyward is a standout debut that skillfully blends historical detail with magical elements to tell a powerful story of women finding their voice and power across generations.

Through its three compelling protagonists, the novel reminds us that strength often comes from embracing who we truly are, even when the world tries to contain us.

Hart’s evocative prose and emotional depth make this a novel that will resonate with readers who enjoy feminist historical fiction with a touch of magic.

More From This Author

Emilia Hart is an Australian-British writer who studied law before pursuing writing. Weyward is her debut novel, published in 2023 to critical acclaim. In March 2023, the book was chosen as the Good Morning America Book Club pick.

As a debut author, Hart doesn’t have other published novels yet, but based on the success of Weyward, readers are eagerly anticipating her future work.