Janet Horne, the last woman executed for witchcraft in Scotland almost 300 years ago, has been given new life in the novel “The Last Witch of Scotland” by Philip Paris. Horne, who suffered from dementia and likely couldn’t defend herself during her trial in Dornoch, Sutherland, was accused of consorting with the devil and transforming her daughter into a pony.
The book reimagines Horne’s story and her daughter’s fight to prove their innocence in a society biased against women. Waterstones, a major bookseller, crowned this novel as the Scottish Book of the Year, praising it as haunting and deeply moving, perfect for fans of Outlander or those interested in Scottish history.
Author Philip Paris, known for his historical fiction books, expressed his gratitude for receiving this accolade and bringing these characters from the past to a wider audience. He emphasized the importance of finding historical events that resonate with people today and using them as inspiration for his novels.
Angela MacRae, Waterstones Scottish Buyer, commended the novel for its absorbing plot, rich factual detail, and fabulous characters, declaring it the Scottish Book of the Year 2024. Iain MacLeod, Commercial Expert for Scotland, described the book as a timeless tragedy with a spark of hope for change.
“The Last Witch of Scotland” sheds light on an important historical event that hasn’t been explored in the form of a novel before, offering readers a compelling and thought-provoking narrative. The themes of injustice, prejudice, and resilience depicted in the book continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a powerful and relevant read.
In a world where faith can be more powerful than truth and whispers more dangerous than fire, the story of Janet Horne and her daughter serves as a reminder of the dangers of prejudice and misinformation. Through the pages of “The Last Witch of Scotland,” readers can immerse themselves in a gripping tale of injustice and perseverance, shedding light on a dark chapter in Scotland’s history.
