Grady Hendrix’s Witchcraft for Wayward Girls is a spellbinding (of course) journey into the heart of darkness and defiance, set within the confines of a girls’ school where the ordinary turns extraordinary. The plot features dark humor and horror, and could be seen as a critique of societal norms.
The story starts with an air of mystery as Fern arrives at Wellwood House in St. Augustine, Florida, where unwed mothers are hidden by their families to have their babies in secret, give them up for adoption, and most important of all, to forget any of it ever happened. Quickly, we learn that this isn’t just any school for wayward girls; it’s a place where the line between our world and a magical reality is blurred. The plot showcases witchcraft as more than a tool for chaos but as a symbol of rebellion.
The discovery of a secret group of witches among the students sets the stage for a story of power struggles, secret societies, and the quest for freedom. The plot is fast-moving, with twists that keep you guessing until the very end.
One of the most compelling aspects of the plot is how Hendrix manages to make the supernatural feel grounded in our world. The magic isn’t just for spectacle; it’s a means to explore themes of identity, freedom, and the cost of power. Each plot twist is both a revelation and a lesson, making the story not just about what happens but what it means for the characters involved.
The climax of the book has everything you might expect: action, emotion, and revelation that ties together the threads of the narrative in a way that feels both satisfying and thought-provoking. It’s here that Hendrix truly showcases his ability to blend horror with heart, with much of the books horror being in the knowledge of how we treated people who found themselves in this situation.
In essence, Witchcraft for Wayward Girls is more than just a plot; it’s an adventure into the depths of human nature, wrapped in the cloak of witchcraft. The social commentary woven throughout the narrative challenges us to reflect on society in general. As a Brit I knew the history of homes like this in the UK so it was interesting to read of the US equivalent and it sounds like they were every bit as harsh and dehumanising.
For some I can understand that this might feel slow as it’s over halfway through the book before we start the aspects that are horror/supernatural but I liked that it took the time to showcase the horrors of society and we got to know the situation and characters before the genre aspects kicked in.
In conclusion, Witchcraft for Wayward Girls is a great entertaining novel. With characters you can’t help but want to know more about, this book not only entertains but also leaves you with a poignant message about the human condition. It’s a must-read for anyone who loves their horror with a side of heart and a dash of defiance. I have other books by Grady on my tbr pile and they’ve now moved up!