THE BRAMPTON WITCH MURDERS Samuel Pepys, Book 1

Charles Johnston artfully narrates this lively look at witch hunts and trials in seventeenth-century rural England. Wealthy Jacob Standish and housemaid Abigail Harcourt are called in to help free diarist Samuel Pepys's sister, who is accused of witchcraft. Johnston portrays Jacob's insecure and often fumbling nature in contrast to socially inferior Abigail's determination to prove Paulina's innocence. Striking details of the townsfolk's superstitions, prejudices, and infighting-- along with period music and descriptions of potions, food, drink, and clothing--transport listeners to an earlier, dangerous time. The inquisitors are frighteningly rendered, especially fanatical Simon Hopkins. Disturbing explanations of witchcraft and a visit from Samuel Pepys himself add intrigue. Johnston's accounts of the trials make for an absorbing, well-narrated listen. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2025, Portland, Maine [Published: MARCH 2025]