Isobel

I really wanted to give this a higher rating, as it certainly kept me turning the pages (the deliciously descriptive satanic rituals and the coven itself are a delight), but much like it's titular character, the narrative starts to crumble towards the end. After everything Isobel endures, resulting in the hardening (and liberation) of her character against her oppressors, she seems to just give up her arduously earned destiny right at the crucial moment, leaving us with a disappointing and ultimately unsatisfying resolution. Some may feel I've missed the point, as undoubtedly Jane Parkhurst wanted to retain a sense of history regarding the ‘real' Isobels fate, but the weak and lamentable finale can't help but leave a musty aftertaste.