46 pages • 1 hour read
Kathleen KentThe Heretic's Daughter
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2008A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
The Heretic’s Daughter by Kathleen Kent follows young Sarah Carrier, whose mother, Martha, is accused and executed for witchcraft during the Salem witch trials of the 1690s. Through Sarah's perspective, the narrative traces her family's ordeal from fleeing a smallpox epidemic to enduring imprisonment and societal persecution. The book explores themes of community crisis, the dangers of theocracy, and the legacies of the past.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
The Heretic's Daughter by Kathleen Kent is a gripping historical novel praised for its rich detail and emotional depth, bringing to life the Salem Witch Trials. Readers appreciate the vivid characterization and immersive storytelling. However, some find the pacing slow and the narrative bleak. Overall, it’s a compelling read for fans of historical fiction.
Who Should Read The Heretic's Daughter?
A reader who enjoys historical fiction with strong female protagonists and a mix of drama and emotional depth would be captivated by The Heretic's Daughter by Kathleen Kent. Fans of The Crucible by Arthur Miller and Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks will find its exploration of the Salem Witch Trials particularly engaging.