Who Would Like This Book:
If you love fresh takes on classic literature, especially Shakespeare, this book is a treat! It's a reimagining of Macbeth from the perspective of one of the witches, offering a feminist twist and a vivid portrayal of life in medieval Scotland. The main character, Gilly, is compelling as she navigates themes of revenge, identity, and coming of age. Fans of historical fiction and strong, complex heroines will find themselves engrossed. The writing style and immersive atmosphere keep the story engaging and emotionally powerful.
Who May Not Like This Book:
Some readers might be put off by the book's occasionally overwritten style, which leans hard into faux-medieval language. If you dislike frequent use of 'Tis' and 'Twas' or get frustrated by coincidences in plotting, this one might grate on your nerves. A few found the story slow or felt that some characters and plot elements were underdeveloped or confusing. Those looking for historical accuracy over literary drama may also feel left out.
About:
'The Third Witch' by Rebecca Reisert is a retelling of the classic story of Macbeth from the perspective of a young girl named Gilly. Raised by two older women in the forest, Gilly harbors a burning need for revenge against Lord Macbeth, whom she sees as the source of all her suffering. As the narrative unfolds, Gilly's quest for vengeance leads her to disguise herself as a boy and involve herself in Macbeth's dark deeds, all while exploring themes of love, identity, and the treatment of women in society.
Reisert's writing style weaves together elements of drama, suspense, and action, keeping readers engaged as they follow Gilly's journey of self-discovery and revenge. The novel offers a fresh take on the familiar tale of Macbeth, presenting a compelling narrative that delves into the complexities of human emotion and the consequences of unchecked ambition.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
The book includes themes of violence, revenge, and the darker aspects of witchcraft which may be unsettling to some readers.
From The Publisher:
In this stirring debut novel, Rebecca Reisert enters the world of Shakespeare's Macbeth, in which a young woman's search for vengeance plunges her into a legendary tale of deceit, murder, and retribution....
I have made my life an arrow, and His heart is my home. I have made my life a blade, and His heart is my sheath....So pledges Gilly, vowing to destroy Macbeth, the most powerful man in medieval Scotland. She escapes from the hut in Birnam Wood in which she has lived for the past seven years, ever since she was taken in by Nettle and Mad Helga - wise women whose powers are widely feared and reviled. Disguising herself as a servant boy, Gilly finds work in the kitchen of her enemy's castle. Soon she insinuates herself into the lives of Macbeth and his beautiful, dangerous wife, subtly manipulating the forces governing their fate. But as Gilly moves closer to her private revenge, she finds herself at risk when she confronts the startling legacy of a long-concealed heritage.
Ratings (3)
It Was OK (1) | |
Hated It (2) |
Reader Stats (15):
Read It (3) | |
Want To Read (7) | |
Not Interested (5) |
2 comment(s)
my first and the last retelling. Already fifteen years ago, the writers took it upon themselves to rewrite female characters into insufferable, self-righteous slags.
Mediocre Macbeth fanfiction.
What can you read after
The Third Witch?
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