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Hex
£4.49
A fierce, haunting and deeply human retelling of the North Berwick Witch Trials — a Darkland Tales novella that bridges 1591 and the present day.
Jenni Fagan brings extraordinary emotional power to the final hours of Geillis Duncan, visited in her cell by a woman from the future who understands all too well the persecution she faces.
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About the Ebook
Hex is a visceral, poetic and devastatingly intimate reimagining of one of Scotland’s darkest historical moments: the North Berwick Witch Trials.
It is the 4th of December 1591. In a cold prison cell beneath Edinburgh’s High Street, Geillis Duncan — a young woman condemned as a witch — awaits her execution. But on this final night, she receives an unexpected visitor: Iris, a woman from the future who knows that the persecution of women for their bodies, beliefs and autonomy is far from over.
As the night unfolds, Geillis recounts her arrest, torture, forced confession and trial, while Iris offers solace, solidarity and the faint possibility of escape. Their conversation becomes a bridge across centuries — a reckoning with misogyny, fear, superstition and the violence of state power.
Part historical fiction, part contemporary feminist meditation, Hex is a bold, lyrical and unforgettable entry in the Darkland Tales series.
“This series has already produced two works of note and distinction… Hex and Rizzio are showing the way towards a reckoning, and about time too.”
— Stuart Kelly, Scotland on Sunday
Critical Praise
"A powerfully poignant tale of one of the most turbulent moments in Scotland’s history."
Why You'll Love This Ebook
- A gripping Darkland Tales novella rooted in real historical events.
- A powerful feminist lens on persecution, misogyny and resistance.
- Atmospheric, lyrical writing from one of Scotland’s most acclaimed contemporary authors.
- A tense, intimate two‑hander set over a single night.
- Perfect for fans of historical fiction with a sharp, modern edge.
About the Author
Dr Jenni Fagan is an award‑winning poet, novelist and screenwriter. Her debut novel The Panopticon established her as one of Granta’s Best Young British Novelists, and her work has been shortlisted for major prizes including the Desmond Elliott Prize, the James Tait Black Prize and the BBC International Story Prize. Her novels, poetry and screenwriting have earned international acclaim, and she continues to be one of Scotland’s most distinctive literary voices.
Publication Details
Publisher: Birlinn Ltd
Imprint: Polygon
Publication Date: 3 March 2022
Print Length: 81 pages
ISBN (Ebook): 9781788854832
Format: Ebook
Language: English
Categories: Fiction / Historical Fiction
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