The Witch's Orchard

By Archer Sullivan
** Publication Date 12 August 2025 **
​4 stars


I’m fascinated by Appalachian folklore. The tale of the Witch of Quartz Creek is a story that changes with each telling. Every person has a slightly different version of the story. The moral is always the same though. Be careful what you wish for.


Annie is a private investigator. She’s tiny but packs a powerful punch. A former investigator in the military, she’s honed her skills enough to be good, but not very financially successful. She takes the work when she can get it, especially if she finds it fascinating.


Max comes to her with a plea. He’s been saving as long as he could to try to find his sister who was abducted ten years ago. His sister Molly wasn’t the only abduction. There was Jessica, and also Olivia, who was returned after just a few days. Olivia is autistic. Jessica and Molly were better choices, as they were whole.


Ten years have passed, but no one has been able to solve the disappearances. Annie comes to town and stirs things up. Most of the town doesn’t want it all stirred up again. Not the sheriff, not Jessica’s father, not Olivia’s mother. But there are some who are willing to go the extra length to try to help Annie find the answers that Max is looking for.


Really well woven story. While it clearly pointed at just a few suspects from the beginning, the story of this very small mountain town and the folklore of the witch is fascinating. Annie is a tough cookie who simply won’t give up, even when a lot is thrown at her. I loved the friendships that she made while staying in Quartz Creek. The characters of the town were amazing as well. The writing was beautiful and very well laid out. I hope that Annie will be around for a few more books.


Excellent and quick read.