The Vanishing Witch

Book excerpt: Step back in time with Karen Maitland, author of the hugely popular Company of Liars. This dark tale is sure to thrill fans of The Witchfinder's Sister and C. J. Sansom with its chilling recreation of the Peasants' Revolt. **Includes an exclusive preview of Karen's new medieval thriller, A Gathering of Ghosts** 'A gem, crafted in the darkness ... Maitland has produced another gripping tale, from a darker age, which has surprising resonances with the present' Independent on Sunday By the pricking of my thumbs ... Lincoln, 1380. A raven-haired widow is newly arrived in John of Gaunt's city, with her two unnaturally beautiful children in tow. The widow Catlin seems kind, helping wool merchant Robert of Bassingham care for his ill wife. Surely it makes sense for Catlin and her family to move into Robert's home? But when first Robert's wife - and then others - start dying unnatural deaths, the whispers turn to witchcraft. The reign of Richard II brings bloody revolution, but does it also give shelter to the black arts? And which is more deadly for the innocents of Lincoln? What readers are saying about The Vanishing Witch: 'Engrossing, enchanting and mysterious - this book kept my mind busy from start to finish' 'Compulsive reading. Thoroughly researched, highly informative and just a downright good story!' 'Magical and mysterious. Against this fascinating historical background, Maitland weaves a sinister tale of witchcraft, betrayal and terror'