The White Witch

The White Witch by Elizabeth Goudge, published by Hodder in 2005, is a historical narrative set against the backdrop of the English Civil War. This edition spans 433 pages and is presented in English. The story follows Robert Haslewood, a local squire who becomes a puritan and leaves his family behind to join the conflict. Central to the tale is his cousin Froniga, known as the White Witch, who possesses healing powers and faces danger due to her heritage. The narrative intertwines the lives of various characters, including Yomen, a tinker and royalist spy, and Francis, a journeyman painter, as they navigate the complexities of loyalty and personal ties amidst the chaos of war.

Readers will find a rich exploration of family life and the impact of historical events on personal relationships. The characters’ loyalties are tested as the war escalates, leading to conflicts that threaten their friendships and humanity. The themes of healing, loyalty, and the struggle between personal desires and societal obligations are woven throughout the narrative. This edition of The White Witch offers a detailed portrayal of the era and its characters, inviting readers to reflect on the consequences of war on individual lives and relationships.