As always, with book tours I want to say I was given access to a copy of this book to review on netgalley by Bonnier Books. My reviews are always a 100% honest and contain my own opinions. #NetGalley #BookReview #TheWitchesOfVardo #AnyaBergman #BonnierBooksUK

The Witches of Vardo is a fierce and evocative read about the true events of the 1662 witch trails in Norway. I love stories and history of witches and witchcraft and while often times it is difficult to read the atrocities those people suffered. As a practicing pagan I find its important to learn and see how witches are now represented. I have to say Anya Bergman’s tale is a perfect mixture of historical retelling with just the right sprinkling of magic to make it a fully memorable read.

The Witches of Vardo follows the stories of several women whose lives become interconnected through the dangerous hysteria of the witchcraft. Zigri a recent widow embarks on a doomed affair with the local merchant she is sent to the fortress at Vardo to be tried and condemned as a witch. Soon Zigri’s daughter Ingeborg sets off into the wilderness to try and bring her mother back home. Accompanying her on this quest is Maren – herself a daughter of witch – whose nature and unconquerable spirit gives Ingeborg the courage to continue into the unknown and risk everything for her family. Also captive is Anna Rhodius, once the King of Denmark’s mistress, who has been sent in disgrace to the island of Vardo. And just what is Anna willing to do to return to her privileged life of court.

Bergman’s storytelling is beautiful and transports the reader back in time to this harsh and unyielding period. It is a story of sistership, kinship and the those that will not surrender to those who would keep them down. With a sprinkle of the fantastic added to the harsh realties women, and sometimes men, faced during these dark times The Witches of Vardo is a wonderful but sometimes brutal read. I particularly liked the inclusion of a ‘higher ranking’ female in Anna Rhodius and seeing how she reacts to being thrust into the situation. It added and extra layer to how the women of the time had to play parts and certain roles in order to survive themselves.

I couldn’t put this down and it definitely started a new research project looking into the witch trails in Norway. I never overly like spoilers but I feel this doesn’t count but the inclusion of the names of those actually involved in the trials was such a lovely touch and really sparked the want to know more.


This novel is definitely a must read if you are interested in witches, the history of witches and witchcraft and witch trails. Especially ones that are presented in a beautifully written way and respectful of the atrocities that often happened to the women during the time from so called justices and those who claimed to the witch hunters. I never like spoilers either but I have to say Maren is most definitely a character I will not forget soon and I loved the ending she received in this. The ending was definitely one that will also stick with me for a long time. I will most definitely be recommending to friends, family and anyone who will listen to me.

An historical fiction inspired by true events and real people surrounding the Witch trials on the island of Vardø, Norway in 1662/1663.

The story weaves through two points of view, two different women from two different places, their lives coming together in a most brutal and tragic way.
This brilliantly written book leads you through their story, their lives consisting of not only fear, painful struggle and loss, but also love, loyalty and incredible bravery in the face of pure hatred and religion fuelled persecution.

It's a tale that's all too familiar, Witch trials, their atrocities and the frenzy of the worst elements of human reaction.

It's a must read book, that lump in your chest you'll have while you read is a small price to pay considering what the people accused of Witchcraft went through.
It's beautifully descriptive, brutal in it's honest account of the women accused or punished by powerful men and raw in it's display of deep love, grief and loyalty.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers Bonnier Books UK for the opportunity to read and review this book.

Wild, vivid and beautiful.

Six women fight for survival after being blamed for the loss of the governor’s child. Wild accusations fly about their meddling with ‘weather magic’ and turning into birds and cats to steal supplies and sink ships. The irony of their so-called ability to transform into different beings yet are still captured in a fortress throughout an unforgiving Norwegian Winter is not lost. It just emphasises the real power that those in authority had to terrify and manipulate common people striving to get by, setting women and families against each other to issue blame for their hardships.

The brilliant writing weaves a brutal, heart aching yet moving story with resilience, love and kindness triumphing over cruelty at the heart of it. This isn’t one to take lightly and I found it really difficult to read at times, not because of the quality of the writing but because of the brutality faced by the women accused. There is beautiful imagery and connection between the characters but the strength of the writing is also woven into the sense of dread and fear inspired by the terrorising governor and his henchman.

An historical fiction inspired by true events and real people, The Witches of Vardo is a beautiful commemoration and brutal reminder about the women who suffered at the hands of religious zealots in the 17th century.

This rewiew will appear on www.instagram.com/gothicshelf on Monday 12th December.

I've read a few books about the Pendle Witch Trials but never about the Vardo Witch Trials. It seems that no matter where you go in the world, women will be penalised and punished for being different and disobeying men. Anya Bergman does a brilliant job of giving these women a voice in such horrific circumstances.

Historical fiction based on the very real Norwegian witch trails in the mid-1600s. The cover reads “a dangerous time to be a woman” and this is no exaggeration. You’re gripped by injustice right from the start and the whole book is brutal both in landscape and events. The familiar story of women not fitting the social norm being labelled witch and facing torture and death as a result. Speak out of turn? Lock her up. Sleep with someone’s husband? Must be witchcraft you beguiling temptress… it’s sad, it’s unfair, it’s tragic but it has been the lot of women for centuries.

There is beauty in this story. There is love, friendship and strength. It’s just so tragic that despite it being a somewhat feminist celebration, the characters are absolutely powerless in the face of the real evil: the men in power.

It’s quite a slow burner but I loved the complexity of the characters and the stunning backdrop of Arctic Norway - I got vibes of the Winterknight trilogy and the more recent Grishaverse novels so I’d definitely recommend for lovers of both historical fiction and fantasy.

Wow! This is a taut and thrilling tale, full of fantastic historical detail and compelling characters. The elements of magical realism elevated the story by adding an extra level of intrigue.

The arrival of Anna Rhodius, the Danish king’s former mistress, in 1662 on the Norwegian island of Vardø signals the beginning of a new witch-hunt. Meanwhile, Ingeborg’s mother begins a passionate affair with the local merchant’s son, putting her life and her children’s in jeopardy. And Maren, daughter of notorious witch Liren Sand, is determined to prove her power despite the threat of the tyrannical governor and his bailiff. Fierce, feminist, and based in fact, this novel is utterly spellbinding

Perfect for fans of ‘The Mercies’ by Kiran Millwood Hargrave and ‘Her Kind’ by Niamh Boyce.

The topics of witch, witchcraft, trials lead to an instant 'Must Read' for me and 'The Witches of Vardo' combines all of these topics, in a bleak, intense and inspiring novel based on the events of 1662/3 in Norway when a terrible series of witch trials took place.
When the story begins, we meet Zigri a mother and widow who has been accused of witchcraft and is now facing a prison sentence until her trial.
Similarly, we meet Fra Anna Rhodius, an older woman who is experienced in medicine but has been imprisoned due to angering the King of Denmark.
And finally, we meet the younger girls of Ingebord, Kristen and Maren. Ingebord and Kristen are the daughters of Zigri, and have come to Vardo in a bid to save their mother, before finding themselves also in prisoned. As for Maren, well she is the most intriguing character as the daughter of a noted witch. Maren can communicate with nature and seems to knowledge and skills that are unlikely to have non-supernatural origins.
This is a long and difficult tale to read, but the author has done justice to those brave women who faced trials and death, simply for being considered knowledgeable, a nuisance etc. The descriptions of the landscape are indeed beautiful and helped to draw me into the tale.
A tough read in parts, when reading of the abuse towards the accused woman, but a beautiful and inspiring story that deserves to be read.

I have to confess that I came to this book with a little trepidation. I’ve seen an increase in popularity in novels focused on witches and magic and I wasn’t quite sure this was going to be my thing.

How wrong I was! If I’d paid a little more attention to the book’s description, I would have seen it sits within historical fiction rather than anything too fantastical, though there are displays of magic within the book, so there’s an element of magical realism, too (depending on your own beliefs)!

The story begins in 1662 and follows Anna, Ingeborg and Maren. Anna is being taken to be imprisoned at Vardø, in the far reaches of Norway, seemingly for over-extending her welcome with the King. Ingeborg and Maren find themselves in Vardø a short time later, following a witch hunt in their villages that sees their mother and aunt captured and imprisoned. Later, Ingeborg’s sister and one of their neighbours are also brought to the fortress. All of them must defend themselves against the wrath of the governor and his bailiff and find a way to escape or be released.

I found a lot to enjoy about this book. The descriptions of the scenery, the sights and the sounds really drew me in – and the smells; I could practically smell the fish, the seal meat, and the witches hole. The differing personalities of the women in the novel was interesting to observe – their strengths and vulnerabilities – as well as the treatment of women during this period. I also really liked the ending where we find out about Ingeborg and Maren’s life after their experiences in Vardø. I found Maren to be the most engaging, enigmatic character overall but all of them drew an emotional response in some way. Finally, I enjoyed the author’s note at the end, sharing the fact behind the fiction, which makes for sobering reading indeed.

‘The Witches of Vardø’ is well worth a read and I found myself eager to keep the pages turning.

Understandably, there are parts of this book that some readers may find triggering, including: violence towards women, sexual assault, animal cruelty, violent death, suicide, child loss.

I’m really grateful to Vicky Joss at Bonnier Books for reaching out and offering me the opportunity to read this book on NetGalley in exchange for this review.

The Witches of Vardo had many appealing elements: witches, plot rooted in history, different povs, plot twists.

The characters were complex and well drawn. I can't really say I liked Anne, but I don't think her character needed to be liked, just understood and listened to.

The pace was too slow for my liking and some chapters felt unnecessary, but I'm sure there are readers out there who will appreciate this book.

Thank you to Bonnier Books for offering me to read an advance copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

Inspired by the horrific true story of the Norwegian Witch Trials of the 17th Century, Bergman has produced a novel that is vivid and enthralling, painting a bleak and traumatic story of how women were repressed and faced injustice.

With beautiful prose, at times poetic in nature and rich in detail, the novel is atmospheric and deeply thought-provoking as themes of fear, loyalty paranoia and power run throughout.

I found the characters incredibly engaging and the perfect balance in providing different perspectives of the chilling world of historic witch hunts.

The Witches of Vardø is a novel that is deeply affecting, evocative and haunting - one that will remain on your mind long after it has ended.

Based on the true story of the horrific witch trials of Vardø in 1662, this book follows the story of Ingeborg and her family after her mother's affair has her accused of witchcraft and shipped to Vardø, a dreaded notorious fortress, to stand trial. A trial that's already set against her for the simple crime of being a woman. Also captive at the fortress is a noblewoman named Anna, the King's past mistress, sent to Vardø in disgrace. The Witches of Vardø tells their story, the story of women who refuse to be victims in an age where the odds are against them.

I absolutely loved this! From the beautiful storytelling, the Norse setting to the strong female characters, it had everything. Ingeborg and Anna were very likeable narrators and I really enjoyed both points of view. Maybe goes without saying based on the blurb but please be advised of trigger warnings and check them out beforehand.

It's based on a true story and the descriptions of torture during the witch trials can make for hard reading. But there is a somewhat HEA so it's not all doom and gloom!

The Witches of Vardø will be released in 2023, will you be adding it to your TBR?

Set in the 1660s in Norway, the book tells the story of the women who were accused and tried as witches. The narrative alternates between Anna and Ingeborg. Based on true events this is a harrowing tale of the cruelty inflicted on the women and their personal strength in trying to fight back.
Unfortunately I didn't find this as good a read as I had hoped. The pace was slow and I felt the characters were rather flat.

A vivid new telling of an old tale.

The book opens in Norway, 1662. Aboard a small ship on a stormy sea, we meet Zigri, who is on her way to the fortress of Vardo to be tried as a witch. Her repressive and vindictive village has turned on her following her affair. At the fortress we also meet Anna Rhodius, once the King of Denmark's mistress, who has been sent to Vardø in disgrace. Two very different women, thrown together.

Zigri's daughter Ingeborg follows her mother, intending to rescue her. Accompanying her is Maren - herself the daughter of a witch ­- whose wild nature and spirit gives Ingeborg the courage to venture into the unknown, to save her family. This is perhaps the most rewarding part of the story.

This is a true story of powerful women living in dangerous times. The storytelling is bleak, as befits the times , but the world is painted vividly, and the characters brought into sharp focus by the author. It's also a story of the search for justice in an unjust world, and the strength of women forced to defend themselves.

I struggled in places with this book, not because of the pace, but because of the bleakness. Not surprisingly given the background. The witch trials were held in the winter of 1662–1663 and were one of the biggest in Scandinavia. Thirty women were put on trial, accused of sorcery and making pacts with the Devil. Eighteen were burned alive at the stake. However, it's a powerful read.

Recommended for fans of Stacey Halls and Bridget Collins

The Witches of Vardo tells of true events in 17th Century Norway and the persecution of women accused of witchcraft. It was a compelling read, which I found hard to put down. I had no idea about witch trials going on in Norway at this time, and it was both fascinating and horrifying to learn more about them. An excellent book.

This was an intriguing and absolutely gripping read that I just couldn't put down. It was atmospheric and haunting with a chilling undertone. I have always been fascinated by the witch tirals and the fervor and horror that came with them and this showcased that perfectly, in a trial I had never heard of before but will definitely been looking at more now.
This was an immersive and evocative read that shone a new light on the trials and really made me think. I loved it and I will definitely be looking for more from this author again

Witches are an automatic read for me, and although I expected more witchcraft and spells and just basic magic I can’t say I was disappointed as we delve into the lives of two very different women. Ingeborg and Anne, Ingeborg is the daughter of a fishermen and soon becomes a victim of witch accusations due to her mother and eventually her sister. Anne is a prisoners of the king, sent to a land ruled over by a witch Hunter governor who demands she helps with the witch confessions or else she’ll find herself in the witches hole. The story follows Ingeborg through her life from happy family to worried daughter to prisoner and beyond. Anne’s story is told in letters to the king who keeps more secrets than anyone could possibly know. Ingeborg greatest friend is the accused witch and daughter of a witch burnt at stake: Maren, who’s own story is full of tales and confusion, she claims to be a witch like her mother but no one truly believes this, except the witch hunters of course:

I thought I knew everything there was to know about witchcraft, but this a really different take. Gripping and vivid, this provides a new insight and felt immersive.

Chilling, fascinating, and fiercely written - The Witches of Vardo tells of true events in 17th Century Norway. A hugely compelling read that explores just how much of the witch trials was a direct attack on femininity, science, and female empowerment. I'm from a Lancastrian family, so had childhood tales of the Pendle witch trials, and have read about the Salem witch trials etc - so reading about this happening in Norway was utterly fascinating - and told in such a compelling fashion