I will be completely honest and say that Samuel Pepys and I (well his diaries) have a rocky history. It was probably my second least favourite book/collection to study at university. However the blurb for The Brampton Witch Murders sounded too good to let bad memories put me off and I can honestly say I am so glad it did.


For a start Pepys is actually brought to life by Blackwood and I felt invested right away. This is paired with two wonderful characters, Abigail and Jacob and creates a hook to get me invested. Add to this the mention of witchcraft or witches and I devoured this book.


I have always been interested and horrified by the European witch craze and to have a story featuring Matthew Hopkins son instantly got me going – I didn’t want Simon to succeed from the start. A quick aside, I adored the historical context and realism Blackwood peppers throughout be it with places, events, people or opinions. But before I go off on a rant about witches and witchfinders lets get back on track.


The writing is brilliant. It’s paced well, keeps you hooked and more importantly keeps you guessing. The characters are fantastic, believable and most importantly well rounded for a cosy crime.
All in all this has everything you could want from a historical mystery.

As always thank you to Zooloo’s Book Tours for the copy to review. My review is always honest and truthful.