Introduction

In 1917, Madeline Fairbanks is an herbalist to the people of a dying town in the Southern Appalachians. Renetta Morgan—with whom it is taboo to fraternize because of race—is her apprentice. Maddie is also teaching her granddaughter from an ancestral box containing hints of a mystical heritage. Carl Howard—power-hungry, misogynistic, and charismatic—appears, claiming himself to be the pastor. He fans fear into hatred, leading to racial conflict. Maddie does not bend the knee to Carl, but continues in her progressive ways—and in doing so, finds herself accused of witchcraft and targeted by the KKK.

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Excerpt

Chapter One

MADDIE
Her ancestors were healers. Mysterious, wise, noble. They championed their ideals and frequently stood accused for them. Some were legends.
She doubted such people still existed in 1917.
Madeline Fairbanks wished for a smidgen of her forbearers’ grit as she filled her medical bag. A man had been dispatched to retrieve her. His report was harrowing, an incident unheard of in their sleepy rural community. ... view entire excerpt...

Discussion Questions

1)Do you think Maddie's age affects how she is perceived--elder, crone, or both--and would the reception to her have been different if her deceased husband had not been so powerful in town?

2)Hannah sees Maddie at her weakest moment. What effect does this have on Hannah?

3)Maddie and Ren see each other as equals, save for one moment, when Maddie is worried for Ren. Why does this upset Ren, and what allows them to heal?

4)Why is the snowstorm important to the story? 5)Who would play these characters in a movie?

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