Review: Hag

Hag by Kathleen Kaufman
My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

4.5 Stars

It's seldom that I comment on a cover but in this case I have to say that the cover was a real disservice to the book. This is a beautiful novel with intertwined stories, principally of an ancient Scottish magical entity called Cailleach, that stems from the era of Scandinavian Scotland, and Alice Grace Kyles, one of Cailleach's descendants, along with a variety of other women descended from the Cailleach's line. Alice's story alternates chapters with Cailleach's stories and memories of her many daughters, slicing back and forth through time, eventually closing the circle. It's a beautiful novel and one that is well suited to those looking for a great Samhain read.

Those who know little about the Viking period in Scotland can read more about it here. The Ingwaz design on the cover of the book and used as chapter headers throughout the text is on of the original furthorc designs has an interesting history itself, not appearing part of the Kylver stone that lists the runes of the elder furthark. Named for Ing, a mythical male godlike figure who united the Vikings in peace and harmony, it symbolizes unity, completion. Though it is associated with maleness, I loved that it is claimed by the Cailleach as her symbol in this story.

ETA: found a link to more information on Cailleach... Beautiful images here.

I received a Digital Review Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

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