The Witch’s Orchard by Archer Sullivan

#TheWitchsOrchard #NetGalley

I was drawn to this novel when I learned that it was set in Appalachia. I have previously read the novels by Julia Keller that were set here and found them to be gripping. I was also intrigued to read that the author of this title is a ninth generation Appalachian.

I was less sure about the plot which involved three young girls who were sequentially taken from their homes about ten years before the start of this story. Child abduction is not my favored mystery sub-genre.

That said, I loved spending time with the PI who is hired by the brother of one of the missing girls. Annie Gore is tough and resourceful with an interesting backstory. Many of the other characters are equally well portrayed and they are many. There are the families of the girls, the local law enforcement, a friend and mentor of Annie’s, and others.

The settings in the book are as well delineated as are the characters. I could see the cabin where Annie was staying in my mind, for example.

What will happen as misdeeds from the past are aroused again? Read this one to find out.

I hope that Sullivan will continue to write now that her debut has been published. I highly recommend this first book.

Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press-Minotaur for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 12 August 2025

Reviews:

“The narrative is linear, relatable and revealing… And the ending, just―wow!” –BookPage (starred review)

“An auspicious debut for this series.” –Dayton Daily News

“This gothic-horror story–murder mystery offers a chilling look at dark secrets in a small, poverty-stricken Appalachian town. Full of suspense, shocking twists, and a healthy dose of Appalachian folklore and traditions, it’s guaranteed to keep readers spellbound from first page to last.” –Booklist

“A mesmerizing mystery that blends small-town secrets with ominous folklore. . . Delivering intrigue, atmosphere, and well-shaded characters with the efficiency of a seasoned pro, Sullivan knocks it out of the park on her first try.” –Publishers Weekly

“A tough heroine who refuses to quit uses her own troubled background to crack the case.” –Kirkus Reviews