VentureVerse Travel Library Highlight: The Whitby Witches by Robin Jarvis

Amanda Vosloh-Tedford
Mar 15, 2024
9 min read

Updated: Feb 4

Welcome to the inaugural post of my new blog series highlighting books from our travel library! In this series, I invite you to join us on a literary journey inspired by our travels around the world.

As avid readers and passionate adventurers, my husband and I have made it a tradition to collect a book related to every place we visit. Whether it's a novel set in the location or written by a local author, each book serves as a cherished souvenir of our travels, allowing us to immerse ourselves in the culture, history, and stories of each destination.

Our travel library is a treasure trove of tales that span genres and continents, reflecting the diverse landscapes and cultures we've encountered on our adventures. From enchanting children's stories and captivating fairytales to immersive young adult fantasies and evocative historical fiction, each book holds a special place in our hearts and memories.

In this series, I'll be shining a spotlight on some of the highlights from our travel library, sharing insights, recommendations, and reflections on the books that have left a lasting impression on us. Through these literary explorations, I hope to inspire fellow travelers and book lovers to discover new worlds and experiences through the pages of a book.

To kick off the series, I'm thrilled to introduce the current highlight: The Whitby Witches by Robin Jarvis. Set in the picturesque coastal town of Whitby, England, this spellbinding novel transports readers to a world of magic, mystery, and ancient legends. Join us as we delve into the eerie streets of Whitby and uncover the secrets that lie within its shadowy corners.

Purchase The Whitby Witches

Book Overview

The Whitby Witches by Robin Jarvis is a captivating young adult fantasy novel that immerses readers in a world of magic, mystery, and supernatural intrigue. Set in the atmospheric coastal town of Whitby, England, the story follows the adventures of orphaned siblings, Ben and Jennet, as they uncover the dark secrets hidden within the town's ancient streets.

The narrative begins with Ben and Jennet arriving in Whitby to live with the elderly and eccentric Miss Boston. From the outset, it's clear that Whitby is no ordinary town. As the siblings settle into their new home, they soon discover that they are part of a larger, centuries-old conflict between the forces of good and evil.

Ben and Jennet quickly find themselves thrust into a supernatural conflict that will put their bravery, resiliency, and familial ties to the test. Throughout their journey, they also encounter a colorful cast of characters, including the fur-covered Miss Droon, the malevolent sorceress Rowena Cooper, and the legendary fisher folk. As things progress, the depth and complexity of each character adds layers of intrigue and suspense to the story.

As the siblings navigate the twists and turns of their adventure, they must confront their own fears, doubts, and insecurities, ultimately discovering the power of courage, loyalty, and self-belief. Together, they uncover long-buried secrets about their past and their destinies, leading to a thrilling climax that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end.

About Whitby, England

Whitby is a picturesque coastal town nestled on the northeast coast of Yorkshire, England. With charming cobblestone streets, ancient ruins, and dramatic cliffs overlooking the North Sea, the area has captured the hearts and imaginations of visitors for centuries.

The town's history dates back to 656 AD, with indications of earlier inhabitation by the Romans. Over the centuries, Whitby flourished as a bustling port, trading in everything from wool and alum to jet, a semi-precious gemstone found in the area's cliffs. Its maritime heritage is evident in the quaint fishing boats that bob in the harbor and the historic shipyards that line the river.

One of Whitby's most iconic landmarks is its ancient abbey, perched atop a sheer cliff overlooking the town. Founded in the 7th century and overseen by abbess Hild, the daughter of an Anglian nobleman, Whitby Abbey became one of the most important religious centers in northern England. Today, the haunting ruins of the abbey are a testament to the town's rich history and a popular attraction for visitors.

Whitby's connection to literature is also well-known, thanks in part to its association with Bram Stoker's classic novel, Dracula. Stoker visited Whitby in 1890 and was inspired by its eerie atmosphere, winding alleyways, and Gothic architecture. It's said that the imposing ruins of Whitby Abbey served as the inspiration for Dracula's castle in the novel, adding to the town's mystique and allure. A few chapters of the book also take place in Whitby.

Not only is Whitby well-known for its historical and literary significance, but it's also renowned for the location's immense natural beauty. The town is situated in the North York Moors National Park, which is a vast expanse of heather-covered hills, ancient woodlands, and sweeping coastline. Miles of picturesque walking routes wind through the park, providing visitors with breath-taking vistas of the untamed coastline and undulating terrain.

For many visitors, a trip to Whitby wouldn't be complete without sampling its culinary delights. The town is famous for its fresh seafood, particularly its renowned Whitby scampi and fish and chips. Visitors can dine in cozy seaside pubs, quaint tearooms, or upscale restaurants, savoring the flavors of locally sourced ingredients and traditional Yorkshire cuisine.

Whitby's vibrant cultural scene is another draw for visitors, with its lively festivals, art galleries, and music venues. The town hosts an array of events throughout the year, including the Whitby Folk Festival, the Whitby Regatta, and the Whitby Goth Weekend, attracting visitors from near and far.

Whether you're exploring its ancient ruins, strolling along its sandy beaches, or simply soaking up its unique atmosphere, Whitby is a town that captivates the senses and leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. With its rich history, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality, it's no wonder that Whitby remains one of England's most beloved seaside destinations.

Personal Experience & Rating

As a self-professed literary nut and avid fan of horror, my fascination with Whitby was originally ignited by its association with Bram Stoker's classic novel, Dracula. The mere mention of Whitby Abbey, perched ominously atop a cliff overlooking the North Sea, conjured images of Gothic horror and dark, atmospheric tales. I've wanted to visit this iconic landmark for years!

VentureVerse at Dracula Experience in Whitby, England

My nephew felt the same, so it was quickly placed at the top of our travel to-do list during his visit to the United Kingdom. I booked tickets through English Heritage and we were on our way!

Unsurprisingly, Whitby Abbey was everything I hoped it would be and more. I found myself transported back in time, enveloped in the eerie silence of centuries past but also completely captivated by its beauty. As I wandered through the crumbling ruins, I couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence for the history that lay beneath my feet. The audio guide provided by English Heritage offered a wealth of information about the abbey's storied past, from its founding by St. Hild in the 7th century to its eventual decline and abandonment.

While it was the abbey's connection to Dracula that first peaked my interest, this wasn't what my visit ultimately centered upon. Instead, it was the rich tapestry of history and folklore surrounding Whitby Abbey that truly captivated me. Learning about St. Hild, the abbess who played a pivotal role in the town's early history, was particularly fascinating. Her legendary confrontation with the snakes that plagued the countryside, and her subsequent transformation of them into stone, spoke to the enduring power of myth and legend in shaping the town's identity.

It was during my visit to the abbey's gift shop that I found a copy of Robin Jarvis's The Whitby Witches. Intrigued by the mention of the book in the audio guide, I picked up a copy. Little did I know that this chance encounter would lead me on yet another journey — one filled with magic, mystery, and the timeless allure of Whitby's haunted shores.

My reading of The Whitby Witches actually began far from the shores of Yorkshire where the story unfolds. Just a day after bidding farewell to the charming beauty of Whitby, England, we took a trip to Naples, Italy. It was during this journey, high above the clouds and surrounded by the hum of airplane engines, that I first cracked open the pages of Robin Jarvis's enchanting tale.

Initially, I expected to read a chapter or two before succumbing to drowsiness and napping through the rest of the flight. However, I soon found myself utterly captivated. The book's opening chapters drew me in with their richly drawn characters, atmospheric setting, and tantalizing hints of magic and mystery. Before I knew it, I was fully immersed in the story, eagerly turning pages until we'd landed and it was time to disembark the plane.

As our vacation in Naples unfolded, I continued reading during the evenings. After a day of exploring ancient ruins and bustling streets, The Whitby Witches provided a lovely way to relax before bed.

What struck me most about The Whitby Witches was its accessibility and readability. The prose flowed effortlessly, drawing me into its world with its evocative descriptions, vivid imagery, and engaging storytelling. I found myself effortlessly swept along on Ben and Jennet's journey, rooting for them as they navigated the challenges and dangers that awaited them in Whitby.

As a fan of cosmic horror, I was pleasantly surprised to find sprinklings of Lovecraftian elements throughout the story. The inclusion of Deep Ones, creatures inspired by H.P. Lovecraft's mythos, added an extra layer of intrigue and mystery to the narrative. Their presence lent a sense of cosmic dread to the proceedings, hinting at forces beyond human comprehension lurking in the shadows of Whitby's ancient streets.

However, the real highlight of The Whitby Witches for me was its use of Whitby's actual history and folklore. With its winding streets, towering cliffs, and brooding atmosphere, the town serves as the perfect backdrop for the eerie events that unfold. Jarvis masterfully incorporates elements of Whitby's real-life history and folklore into the narrative, seamlessly blending fact and fiction to create a world that feels both familiar and fantastical. Having recently visited the town myself, I could literally visualize the streets, landmarks, and landscapes described in the book. This added a layer of depth and authenticity to the narrative, allowing me to immerse myself fully in the world of the story and appreciate the rich tapestry of history and legend that surrounded it.

Moreover, Jarvis's attention to detail brings the characters and settings to life, immersing readers in the world he's created. From the bustling marketplace to the ancient ruins atop the cliffs, every corner of Whitby is imbued with a sense of wonder and intrigue.

Despite being classified as young adult fantasy, the book's appeal transcends age boundaries, making it equally enjoyable for both kids and adults.

No book is without its flaws, however, and The Whitby Witches is no exception. While I thoroughly enjoyed the story and found myself eagerly turning pages to uncover its secrets, there were moments when I wished certain elements had been more fully explored. Some plot points felt rushed or underdeveloped, leaving me with lingering questions and a desire for more depth and complexity.

Additionally, I found the book to be a bit bloodier than I had anticipated. While this wasn't necessarily a problem for me, it could be upsetting for younger audiences or readers who are sensitive to violence and death. Several characters meet untimely and sad demises, adding a somber tone to the narrative that may not be suitable for all readers.

Overall, however, my experience with The Whitby Witches was overwhelmingly positive. Its blend of magic, mystery, and historical detail kept me spellbound from beginning to end, and I found myself deeply invested in the fate of its characters and the world they inhabited. As I turned the final page and bid farewell to the various characters, I couldn't help but feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that I had discovered a book that served as a perfect representation of everything I loved about visiting Whitby, England.

For its ease of readability, incorporation of history, and captivating storytelling, I am happy to give The Whitby Witches five stars. I recommend it to anyone looking for an enchanting tale of adventure, magic, and mystery.

VentureVerse Travel Library 5 Star Rating

More by Robin Jarvis

I'd be remiss not to mention that The Whitby Witches is part of a trilogy. Plot points I felt could be further developed may be enhanced during subsequent books, but I can't confirm this because I've yet to read them. I plan to, though, and will provide an update here once I do!

Robin Jarvis has also written several other books, some connected to the happenings in Whitby and some not. A British author, he's become well-known for his imaginative and captivating works of children's and young adult fiction. Born in Liverpool in 1963, Jarvis seems to draw a lot of inspiration from local folklore, mythology, and fantasy.

In addition to writing novels, Jarvis is also an accomplished illustrator, providing artwork for many of his own books. You can find information about his books, as well as examples of his artwork, on his author's website.