Corrag

Corrag tells the story of a young woman accused of witchcraft in the Scottish Highlands in 1692. She sits in prison awaiting execution when an Irish minister arrives to record her testimony about the Glencoe Massacre, a historical tragedy she witnessed. The narrative moves between Corrag's present-day imprisonment and her memories of life in the wilderness. Through her conversations with the minister, she reveals her deep connection to nature, her healing abilities, and the events that led her to the Highland community of Glencoe. The story takes place against the backdrop of political and religious turbulence in late 17th century Scotland. The clash between Jacobite loyalists and supporters of the new Protestant monarchy forms the historical context for Corrag's personal tale. This novel explores themes of persecution, the relationship between humans and nature, and how truth can shift depending on perspective. Through its interweaving of historical fact and fiction, the book examines what it means to be marked as different in a world of rigid social and religious expectations.

Readers highlight the lyrical, nature-focused prose and atmospheric portrayal of the Scottish Highlands. Many note the book requires patience, with a slow-building story that rewards careful reading. The dual narratives and historical elements draw particular appreciation. Likes: - Detailed descriptions of herbs, landscapes, and Highland life - Character development of Corrag/Jacobite conflict perspective - Integration of folk beliefs and customs - Emotional depth and complexity Dislikes: - Pace too slow for some readers - Writing style can feel repetitive - Some find the Irish priest's letters less engaging - Historical details sometimes overwhelm the story Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (2,800+ ratings) Amazon UK: 4.4/5 (180+ ratings) Amazon US: 4.3/5 (90+ ratings) Reader quote: "Like slowly sipping honey - sweet but requires patience" - Goodreads reviewer "The nature writing is exquisite but the plot moves at a glacial pace" - Amazon reviewer

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🔸 The novel is based on the real historical event known as the Massacre of Glencoe (1692), when Scottish government forces murdered 38 members of Clan MacDonald for allegedly failing to pledge allegiance to the new monarchs. 🔸 Author Susan Fletcher extensively researched 17th-century Scottish witch trials to create the character of Corrag, who is accused of witchcraft and awaits execution while telling her story. 🔸 The book was originally published as "Witch Light" in the UK and "Corrag" in other markets, reflecting the dual nature of its protagonist – both a suspected witch and a bearer of truth. 🔸 The novel's unique structure features letters written by Charles Leslie, a real historical figure who was a Jacobite propagandist, interwoven with Corrag's first-person narrative. 🔸 Fletcher spent time living in the Scottish Highlands to capture the atmospheric details and landscape that feature prominently in the book, often writing scenes in the actual locations where they were set.