The Silver Witch

By: Paula Brackston

Narrated by: Marisa Calin

Length: 13 hrs and 24 mins

Publisher's summary

A year after her husband's sudden death, ceramic artist Tilda Fordwells finally moves into the secluded Welsh cottage that was to be their new home. She hopes that the tranquil surroundings will help ease her grief, and lessen her disturbing visions of Mat's death. Instead, the lake in the valley below her cottage seems to spark something dormant in her - a sensitivity, and a power of some sort. Animals are drawn to her, electricity shorts out when she's near, and strangest of all, she sees a new vision: a boatful of ancient people approaching her across the water. On this same lake in Celtic times lived Seren, a witch and shaman. She was respected but feared, kept separate from the community for her strange looks.

When a vision came to her of the Prince amid a nest of vipers, she warned of betrayal from one of his own. Prince Brynach both loved and revered her, but could not believe someone close to him wished him harm, even as the danger grew. In her own time, Tilda's grief begins to fade beside her newfound powers and a fresh love. When she explores the lake's ancient magic and her own she discovers Seren, the woman in her vision of the boat. Their two lives strangely mirror each other's, suggesting a strong connection between the women.

As Tilda comes under threat from a dark power, one reminiscent of Seren's prophecy, she must rely on Seren and ancient magic if death and disaster are not to shatter her life once more.

©2015 Paula Brackston (P)2015 Macmillan Audio

A story about a Welsh witch

Like the Stevie Nicks song "Rhiannon," this is the story of a Welsh witch. (Actually, two Welsh witches, one long dead and one her modern-day descendant.) The point of view switches between the two women in alternating chapters, so that the story from a thousand years ago seems just as real—and the dangers just as urgent—as the one from today. There's also an undercurrent to the story about what it means to be different, both now and in the time of the ancient Celts, and how being different can be a source of strength. This is the first book of Paula Brackston's that I have read, and now I am sure that I will read the others.

Thoroughly Entertaining

If you could sum up The Silver Witch in three words, what would they be?

Entertaining, interesting, well written

What other book might you compare The Silver Witch to and why?

Style of Kate Morton, not as deep. Themes of Mary Stewart, intrigue of ?.. I don't know but it was intriguing. I listened to all in 2 segments. Not a super long book but well paced.

What about Marisa Calin’s performance did you like?

Extremely well narrated. I always say how much I dislike the English voice. I suppose this is Welsh but I really enjoyed her narration of all characters. I will look for her again.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

Yes...

Any additional comments?

This was an unexpected really good book. The pieces over the centuries had to come together, and this story was very satisfying. When you listen to book that captures you and then you immediately want to share it with a friend.

Absolutely Fantastic. Paula Brackston is brilliant

Would you listen to The Silver Witch again? Why?

Absolutely. Over and Over. Whenever one of Paula Brackston's books are over I have to pass through a period of grief, at which point i immediately devour another one. I have reached the point where i've read them all, and must re-listen! I'm totally ok with that!

What did you like best about this story?

She's so good at weaving stories and intrigue and mystery and character development ... I just love her work

What about Marisa Calin’s performance did you like?

She is magnificent as always. Enveloping.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

ABSOLUTELY. I had to stretch it out just so it didn't go too fast. I found myself taking long unnecessary car rides just as an excuse to listen, and listening on my way to sleep at night

Truth be told.

Truth be told the book was slow and long winded with description at first. Was very dry but as the story unfolded for the characters, the story took off. I couldnt stop listening to it. The story had rich historical facys in twined with a love story and the honorable old ways of art of craft. A must read.

Hoping for a sequel

My fav audio book yet! I craved it when I couldn't listen! I am sincerely hoping for a sequel!

Good, not great

The most artful parts of this book were the main character and the overall arc/concept itself. I'm a sucker for archeology/cultural anthro/ folklore,and the historical framework and detail here truly enriched the story, instead of just serving as filler.
I wish the central (present day) relationship was fleshed out more (since, for risk of spoilers, it ends up being quite central to the plot...). I guess all of Tilda's other relationships--with the setting, with the dog, with her art, with her new sense of self--are so genuine and rich, it just makes her romantic interest and relationship seem lacking.
Still would read it again. The narration is excellent.

Loved it.

Loved the voice of the gal reading the story.
Listened to the book in 4 days. Couldn't stop listening to it.

Excellent tie of past and present

What made the experience of listening to The Silver Witch the most enjoyable?

The narrator makes it 'visual' and switches well between personas.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Silver Witch?

When the lead character is saved in the lake. No spoilers, but was excellent

What about Marisa Calin’s performance did you like?

She made the two characters true to their period, yet so similar to tie them together. Her inflection was perfect for each character. Wonderful storyteller!

If you were to make a film of this book, what would the tag line be?

Same as the title

Any additional comments?

Nicely woven, but a little confusing at first figuring out it was the perspective of two different women. In print,Netherlands chapter title would have been more obvious, but it took a couple chapters to really catch on.

Great Novel!

What a great story to listen to!! Another superb read Paula!! Well done!
Love your books! They are so inviting & keep me hooked. Cant wait to listen to the next!
Narration is perfect!

it's a fun listen.

I enjoy driving and listening to her books. narrator can get a bit sharp.