How to Hang a Witch by Adriana Mather is a masterfully written debut novel concerning the history and the modern ramifications of The Salem Witch Trials. As a descendant of Cotton Mather, a key figure in the accusations and hangings of multiple people, author Adriana Mather provides great insight into this period. Drawing from her own family history and endless research, this gripping tale sweeps readers into a unique world of a story-within-a story.

Firstly, we meet Samantha Mather, a self-proclaimed sarcastic and bossy outcast. She has just relocated to Salem with her stepmother and her father is in a coma in the local hospital. She was not popular back home in New York City and is hoping for a fresh start in Salem. That is not to be, as residents of Salem instantly recognize her ‘Mather’ name. A group of students, known as The Descendants, soon single her out and begin to torment her throughout the school days.

Before long, a series of unexplainable events begin to occur and Sam realizes more is going on than bullying. There is a spirit living in her house, she is getting death threats, and she is partnered with her cute neighbor, Jaxon, to find the location of the Witch Trial hangings – a spot that is as good as haunted, and people are beginning to die in eerie ways.

As these events escalate, a centuries-old curse is revealed and Sam, The Descendants, and the spirit must work together to unravel this curse before even more people die. The suspense of this adventure will keep readers on their toes and in awe at every twist and turn. As I was reading, I would catch myself jumping at sounds and movements.

Adriana Mather is a master of writing a creepy, scary book that will haunt you as you read. Her writing is beautiful, sinister, and utterly quotable! Her research and family history is very evident and makes the reader feel like they are in the story. It was rather hard to believe that this was Adriana’s debut novel.

Additionally, the novel makes comparisons to the Witch Trials and modern day bullying, which lends even more depth to this already compelling novel.

Fans of horror stories will instantly fall in love with this novel, as well as fans of Katherine Howe’s novel, Conversion, and fans of the movie Mean Girls. It is an interesting compilation of both storylines with added supernatural flair. This is one book you should pick up immediately!!