The Minister's Daughter

British author Hearn makes a memorable American debut with this tightly woven tale of a witch hunt. She pits 15-year-old Grace, the daughter of a hypocritical Puritan minister, against Nell, the granddaughter of a midwife and healer who has taken Nell as her apprentice. The novel alternates between the dangerous times of the English Civil War during April 1645–January 1646, and the confessions of Patience Madden, the minister's "simple" daughter, from the New World in 1692. Patience reveals how she colluded to throw fits in order to conceal Grace's pregnancy and to damn Nell as a witch. Hearn effectively contrasts the sanctimonious minister and the creepy town "Watchers" ("women who like nothing better than a good hanging") with the magical, impish piskies and fairies that populate the countryside plus the knowledge of herbs and spells (offered with a liberal dose of humor) passed down to Nell. Hearn places actual historical figures (including Matthew Hopkins, "Witch-finder General") among her stellar cast and, through Nell's scenes, reveals prevailing attitudes toward religion: "The little church is full.... There are those who truly believe; some who are trying to; and a few who never will, but need to pretend, for the look of it." Those in the know will not be surprised when Patience's recollections lead to the doorstep of the Salem witch trials, while others less knowledgeable may be inspired to find out more. With its thought-provoking perceptions about human nature, magic and persecution, this tale will surely cast a spell over readers. Ages 12-up. (June)