Condemn Me Not: Accused of Witchcraft by Heather B. Moore

“This woman was one of the most impudent, scurrilous, wicked creatures of this world; and she did now throughout her whole trial discover herself to be such a one. Yet when she was asked what she had to say for herself, her chief plea was that she had led a most virtuous and holy life.” —Reverend Cotton Mather, 1692

USA Today Bestselling author Heather B. Moore brings the life of her 10th great-grandmother to center stage. Susannah North Martin, accused of witchcraft in 1692, joins five women in the Salem Jail, all sentenced to death for their crimes. Amidst tragedy, Susannah finds hope and compassion as she remembers a well-loved life, and readers discover that love reaches far beyond the grave as Susannah faces the magistrates in Salem.

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I knew going into this book that it was going to be emotional and hard to read.  I have read things about the Salem Witch Trials but nothing too in depth and nothing this personal.  Heather B. Moore does an excellent job of bringing the injustice and bleak realities of the people unfairly accused to real life.  My heart broke.

The story of Susannah Martin is told both from her view as a prisoner, accused of witchcraft to flashbacks of her younger years as she meets and falls in love with her husband.  Those were moments that held more hope, promise and love.  It was a necessary change of pace from the hopeless and desperate circumstances of the prison and  inquiries that Susannah and the other prisoners faced.  

It's honestly so hard to believe that people can do such horrible things to other people.  It's absurd and heart wrenching.  So, so sad.

I thought the book was beautifully done.  It made me think and feel so many emotions.  I'm glad I had the opportunity to read it.

Content:  prisoners are abused and treated poorly, mild violence, death, characters stand naked in front of accusers to be scrutinized, kissing, some intimate touching, married relations (non graphic)

- I received a copy of this book for free.  All opinions expressed are my own.