FICTION: The Witches of Vardø by Anya Bergman
They will have justice. They will show their power. They will not burn. Norway, 1662.
A dangerous time to be a woman, when even dancing can lead to accusations of witchcraft. After recently widowed Zigri’s affair with the local merchant is discovered, she is sent to the fortress at Vardø be tried as a witch. Zigri’s daughter Ingeborg sets off into the wilderness to try to bring her mother back home.
Accompanying her on this quest is Maren – herself the daughter of a witch – whose wild nature and unconquerable spirit gives Ingeborg the courage to venture into the unknown, and to risk all she has to save her family. Also captive in the fortress is Anna Rhodius, once the King of Denmark’s mistress, who has been sent in disgrace to the island of Vardø. What will she do – and who will she betray – to return to her privileged life at court? These Witches of Vardø are stronger than even the King.
Stunning, mesmerising storytelling from Anya Bergman, The Witches of Vardø is a powerful, feminist tale, focusing on three women’s experiences of the 17th century witch trials on Norway’s Varanger Peninsula.
This fury-inducing story of power and coercion examines the ignorance and fear of women and their bodies, at a time when male violence, sexual exploitation and distrust of the unexplained was commonplace. A fierce, timely look at misogyny, discrimination, diminishing women’s experience of menopause, aging and sexuality which really resonates; this is a heartbreaking and relevant read.
NON FICTION: The Swedish Art of Ageing Well by Margareta Magnusson
From New York Times bestselling author of The Gentle Art of Swedish Death Cleaning, a book of humorous and charming advice for embracing life and ageing joyfully. This is a guide to a life well-lived. It is about the wonder of the everyday and the lessons that age brings.
Wear stripes. Eat chocolate. Don’t leave empty-handed. But also embrace change, let go of what doesn’t matter and take care of something or someone other than yourself.
The Swedish Art of Ageing Well is a gentle and welcome reminder that, no matter your age, there are always fresh discoveries ahead and pleasures to be enjoyed every day.