Secret history of witchcraft inspires Nova Scotia author’s new book

We chat with author Vanessa Penney about her new book, ":The Witch of Willow Sound."

The North Atlantic Ocean has been a watery grave for sailors through history and the inspiration for many ghost stories that haunt the Maritimes, but it’s the region’s witches that motivated author Vanessa Penney to write her new book, “The Witch of Willow Sound.”

“This book was inspired by some little-known, East Coast Canadian history,” Penney said.

About three years ago Penney discovered a piece of local history about women called witches who lived in the province. She said it was a Nova Scotia secret that was perfect for a novel in the gothic genre.

“What is more gothic than the idea of shadows from the past reaching out to us in the present to tell us secrets?”

Penney said growing up in rural Colchester County helped her develop the setting for the book.

“My brothers and I grew up in the blueberry fields and the deep, dark woods there,” she said. After living all over Nova Scotia, she said the book is inspired by her love of the whole province, especially the landscape.

“These colossal rock formations that feel supernatural when you are standing in their shadow,” Penney said.

“The Witch of Willow Sound” was selected to appear on The Booksellers’ List – a new initiative from the Canadian Independent Booksellers Association. Penney said it’s a huge honour, especially as a debut author.

“My writing idols are on this list, so I feel very humbled and I feel very grateful,” she said.

“The Witch of Willow Sound” is available now, just in time for Halloween.

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