Recently, I’ve been asked whether my second novel, DON’T LET ‘EM TAKE THE CHILDREN, was inspired by any real tales of witchcraft (no spoilers here!). The answer is somewhat, but not exactly – let me explain. Scrolling through the tangled history of witchcraft in Wales is like wandering its winding country lanes: full of unexpected twists, quiet corners, and the occasional chilling tale. Unlike the hysteria that swept across Europe, Wales saw only five recorded executions for witchcraft.
One example is Gwen ferch Ellis. Born in Llandyrnog around 1542, she was a healer and charm maker – likely someone who understood the rhythms of the land and the secrets of old remedies. In 1594, Gwen became a target when she was accused of crafting a backward-written charm amid local disputes between the gentry. The Witchcraft Act of 1562 sealed her fate – and she was hanged in Denbigh town square – the first recorded victim of this unjust law.
Another example comes from my home on Anglesey. In 1655, Margaret ferch Richard of Llanddona was tried and executed for witchcraft in Beaumaris. The usual accusations – cursing livestock and spreading illness – spiraled out of control, and she was hanged. To this day, Margaret’s story haunts the town, serving as a stark reminder of how suspicion and superstition can turn deadly.
So, two examples out of five recorded executions. The others are also well known in their localities. It seems Wales didn’t embrace the witch-hunting frenzy with the same zeal as its neighbors in the UK or across Europe. Why? Perhaps it’s because older traditions stubbornly survived here – where magic wasn’t malevolent but practical – woven into the very fabric of rural life. Or perhaps the decentralized nature of Welsh society didn’t allow for the organized paranoia needed to fuel a witch hunt. Practicality over passion, perhaps.
Returning to my earlier point – was my second novel inspired by any of these tales? Perhaps in spirit. But it’s interesting to consider how the Welsh setting and historical context add an extra layer of tone to the tale. If you read the novel, you’ll be able to see for yourself!
