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Ever wonder what would happen if a fed-up Puritan woman teamed up with a possibly demonic, possibly misunderstood forest cryptid? Well, buckle up, because Slewfoot: A Tale of Bewitchery by Brom is here to answer that very specific question in the most metal way possible.

Set in 1666 Connecticut (because, of course, that’s the spookiest year imaginable), Slewfoot introduces us to Abitha—a woman just trying to mind her own business, keep her land, and not get burned at the stake. Unfortunately for her, she’s surrounded by Puritans who have the combined chill of a wet matchstick. After her husband mysteriously dies, she’s left fending off both supernatural forces and her absolutely insufferable brother-in-law, Wallace (who, frankly, deserves to be punted into the sun).

Enter Slewfoot—or, as Abitha dubs him, Samson. He’s ancient, powerful, and might be a demon…or a misunderstood forest spirit who just wants to vibe. Either way, he and Abitha form an alliance that makes the local Puritans lose their collective minds. And honestly? We love that for them.

Why This Book Slaps (Or Hexes, Whatever Works)

Abitha is the feminist icon Puritan New England didn’t deserve. She’s feisty, independent, and ready to fight for her survival—whether against creepy men or supernatural forces.

Samson is giving major “feral but kind of hot” energy. Is he a monster? Maybe. Is he protective? Definitely. Would you still be a little tempted? Absolutely.

The setting is gorgeously eerie. Brom doesn’t just tell a story; he paints it (literally—there are stunning illustrations). You can practically smell the damp earth, the candle wax, and the righteous indignation.

The social commentary is biting. Nothing says “fun, lighthearted read” like an exploration of misogyny, religious extremism, and the fine line between liberation and destruction!

Final Verdict

Slewfoot is an enchanting mix of historical horror, dark fantasy, and “Let’s burn this whole oppressive system down.” If you like witches, revenge, and men named Wallace getting what they deserve, this book is an absolute must-read. Grab a copy, light a candle (preferably not in a Puritan village), and prepare for a wild ride into the woods.