I didn't write this as it was midnight.

In 1617, a terrible storm steals the lives of Vardo's men, leaving the women to learn how to survive this desolate region of Finnmark alone. Maren was there that terrible night, watched as her father and brother were drowned. Now she dreams of a whale, a sign that something is coming.

For 18 months the women learn to survive, tending the land and learning to row the boats to fish. Then, when word reaches them that the new Commissioner, Absalom Cornet and his wife Ursula are coming to bring order to Vardo, discord and superstition breaks the women apart; for Absalom Cornet is a witch finder.

Kiran Millwood Hargrave is a genius when it comes to giving a voice to women who haven't had one before. Maren and Ursa grew up world's apart from each other - Millwood Hargrave's characterisation of these protagonists is exquisite. Maren is hardwired for the harsh existence on Vardo, something Ursa is not. They contrast each other beautifully.

The reality of the witch trials is stark in this novel. To be different is damning. Little tifs and dislike between people only worsened a woman's standing. Millwood Hargrave roots her novel in research - it is so apparent that effort has been made to make fictitious accuracy of this moment in history. She is the writer I aspire to be.