The story takes place in Boston in 1662, a time of change in the new world when the witch accusations were just beginning. The setting alone is enough to set the tone for the story, creating a sense of dark anticipation. The characterization of Mary—a beautiful and young woman who is married to an older man and who is a tad too defiant and outspoken—just adds to the tension.
This is far from a historical romance. The marriage between Mary and Thomas was not one she wanted, full of violence and fear. His abuse is born of anger and alcohol, and he’s a misogynist and a sadist to the core. He’s also powerful in their community, putting Mary in even more of a tenuous position when she tries desperately to escape his treatment of her. Between his place in society and her well-known rebellious nature, that is not so simple a process. All of this comes together with some interesting twists and turns to put Mary, the victim, at risk of losing her life as an accused witch.
The only issue I truly had with the book was the incredibly slow first half or so. The author painted a detailed portrait of life in the time period, describing the people and ideology. And while that was interesting, it did drag down the pace of the rest of the book. But the second half truly made up for it!