"Ulinka Rublack's narration is cinematic. While reading, one thinks one hears the voices of the main characters speaking." Elisabeth von Thadden, Die Zeit Germany, 1615. The mother of the famous astronomer Johannes Kepler is accused of being a witch. Against the fascinating backdrop of a world in flux between magic and modern science, Rublack describes in equal measure how the accusation of witchcraft divides families in a compelling and moving way. "In incisive digressions, Rublack paints a moral picture of a society on the threshold of a rational, enlightened era." Anja Leuschner, ZEIT Wissen.