In Depression-era Arkansas, something wicked has come to a haunted mountain town in a novel of uncanny suspense by the author of Parting the Veil.

Blood and power bind three generations of women in the Ozark Mountains. So does an evil that’s followed them across the decades.

1931. Gracelynn Doherty lives peacefully on Tin Mountain, helping her adoptive granny work her cures. Despite whispers that the women are witches, the superstitious locals still seek them out, whether they suffer from arthritis or a broken heart. But when evangelist Josiah Bellflower comes to town touting miracle healing, full bellies, and prosperity, his revivals soon hold Tin Mountain in thrall—and Granny in abject fear.

Granny recognizes Josiah. Fifty years ago, in a dark and desperate moment, she made a terrible promise. Now Josiah, an enemy, has returned to collect his due.

As Granny sickens and the drought-ridden countryside falls under a curse, Gracelynn must choose: flee Tin Mountain and the only family she knows or confront the vengeful preacher whose unholy mission is to destroy her.

The Witch of Tin Mountain (Amazon US) (Amazon UK) (Audible) (AbeBooks) was one of the two selections allowed for Amazon Prime First Reads. Normally I get the book for free, don’t have time to read it, then am able to get the audio version for only $1.99, which is what I did in this case. I’m not sure that was the best decision.

Some books, such as this one, don’t lend themselves to an audio version, where people can lose track of what timeline they’re following, which is what happened to me. There are two timelines in this story: Deidre in 1881 and Gracelynn in 1931, are women who belong to a family of witches in Arkansas mountain country. Both encounter a devil who masquerades as a preacher who wants to bring out the evil side out in each woman.

What didn’t work for me even though the premise of the story was intriguing, was that the two main protagonists were too similar, making it difficult to follow along and know which timeline was being discussed. The problems they had were also similar, which also added to the confusion.

I appreciated the folklore and tales of the Ozarks, but overall found this book confusing. The author’s note was great to find out her inspiration, and I may try to read the book next time, instead of listening to it, so I can devote my attention to it properly.

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