When I first heard of The Burnings I knew I had to give it a read, it's a local author, writing a fictional retelling of one of the most prolific witch trials in British history. I saw Naomi at a talk discussing this book during Newcastle Libraries Local History Month back in May, and came away really intrigued and excited to read it and learn more about British Witch history. 

Naomi takes us back to the Jacobean era of King James VI and his child bride, Anne of Denmark. Whilst the theme of the book is largely around the conspiracy to end the Kings lineage, the main POV is that of Margareta, Queen Anne's lady in waiting, and Geillis Duncan, a maid and apprentice midwife. Through these 2 characters the story of the Berwick Witch trials unfolds from within, with at times, grueling detail. What I liked about this book is that the writer hasn't shied away from the atrocities the Women, and Men faced during this time, the torture they endured is laid out in brutal detail. I understand a lot of people will find this difficult to read, but I find it an injustice to those who suffered to sugar coat what they went through. Naomi's writing is very well researched and at times poetic, I got chills at Geillis's final words. 
The storyline that surprised me the most was the love that developed between Margareta and her forced marriage to John Weymes. I wasn't expecting them to develop such an affection towards each other, I feel like this added a much needed softness to this book, alongside the love and friendship that ultimately developed between our FMCs Margareta & Geillis. 
To anyone with an interest in the British History of witches I'd definitely read this book, the historical accuracy gives us enough insight into what truly went on, alongside Naomi's incredible storytelling and characterizations of the people we know very little about. 

I went with the audiobook format on this one, and I'm so glad I did thanks to Rhianna McGreevy's fantastic narration. Her range of accents is honestly incredible, every character was easily distinguishable after a couple of chapters which made the book flow really well, and there was no confusion between narration and characters. 

Overall, I absolutely loved this audiobook despite how dark and at times difficult it is. I'll definitely be keeping and eye on Naomi Kelsey and look forward to what History she brings to life next!