REVIEWS+

Deliverance from Evil

by Frances Hill
Overlook, dist. by Penguin. Mar. 2011. c.320p. ISBN 9781590204702. $25.95. F
COPY ISBN
Historian Hill (A Delusion of Satan: The Full Story of the Salem Witch Trials) delivers a fictional account of the infamous Salem Witch Trials. The novel begins in January 1692 as two girls play a fortune-telling game; soon the girls and their friends fall into hysterical fits. Accusations of witchcraft and possession by Satan are rapidly hurled against innocent women and men, and the town of Salem is consumed by show trials and brutal executions. Interspersed with the events in Salem is the story of George Burroughs, a nonconforming minister in Maine (and former Salem resident) who becomes caught up in the hysteria when he is arrested and charged with being the leader of the witches. Hill's broad knowledge of the historical facts behind the trials is amply demonstrated in this straightforward rendering. Unfortunately, the one-dimensional nature of the characters detracts from the power of the narrative.
VERDICT Fans of plot-driven suspense may enjoy this novel, but those interested in a more nuanced and descriptive look at the Salem Witch Trials should try Kathleen Kent's The Heretic's Daughter.
Reviewed by Carly Thompson, Chicago Ridge P.L. , Mar 01, 2011
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?