Snake Wife is
“An exquisitely written and gut-wrenching masterpiece of a fantasy novel.”
-Kirkus Reviews
Recipient of the prestigious Kirkus Star for excellence in writing.
Burgess-Smith’s debut novel is an intense and intimate exploration of motherhood nestled in a lush feminist fantasy.
When Liama, who can stop a man’s heart with a single thought, finds herself captive to a powerless man, she must shatter an ancient legacy to protect her daughter from inheriting the same fate.
In this mythic fantasy of reclaimed power and fierce maternal love, one woman's fight for freedom will determine whether the power-bearing women who come after her live as weapons or warriors.
What Readers Are Saying…
“The depictions of motherhood are so satisfying and true. And the plot twists I never saw coming.”
— Sarah K
“Burgess-Smith shines in her cutting dialogue and breathless action scenes. My head is totally spinning! WOW!!”
— Betsy
“I’m obsessed with this book. Do I have to parent or can I just read it again?”
— Sarah E
“I haven’t finished a book in ten years. I finished this one. And loved it.”
— Gail
“This book is a work of art and I’m so glad it exists in the world.”
— Alice
“This author must have some magical power. How on earth does someone write a book THIS good?”
— Brittany
About the Author
Samantha Burgess-Smith is a writer of feminist fantasy fiction.
Her works illuminate the world-shaping power of mothers, daughters, sisters, wives, and matriarchs.
More Praise for Snake Wife
“Burgess-Smith’s debut novel is a masterfully crafted exploration of womanhood, motherhood, legacy, sacrifice, and righteous fury. Through first-person narration, readers gain an intimate understanding of the shrewd and resilient Liama and the well-developed supporting characters. The book’s steady pace and lush prose are captivating, even during scenes of misogynistic brutality. Readers will be enthralled by the author’s complex worldbuilding and the inclusion of some universal truths about motherhood, such as ‘A mother sees her child’s death in a thousand ways and at a thousand times…For every wonderful moment, every breath of gladness, there is the threat of sorrow.’”
-Kirkus Starred Review
“Samantha Burgess-Smith’s SNAKE WIFE is a dark, myth-soaked tale that feels ancient and visceral from the very first pages. The story follows Liama, Chieftainess of House Est, a powerful and unsettling figure whose connection to healing, decay, and transformation sets her apart from everyone around her. As Norse raiders threaten her land and storytellers like Aemilie recount the violent clashes, the line between legend and lived experience is blurred. What makes the book stand out is its raw physicality which gives Liama’s power an eerie, almost sacred weight. It’s a haunting, folkloric story that will leave readers wanting more.”
-Indie Reader
“The worldbuilding is imaginative and textured, and the emotional undercurrents, particularly around the bonds between mothers and daughters, resonate long after the final chapter.”
-Sarah Kamp, mom of 2
“A delightful blend of Tolkein-like world-building, Madeline Miller style romantic female gladiatrix, with a dash of Anne Lemott’s witty wisdom. A highly satisfying epic tale of maternal love and destiny.”
-Betsy Piper, mom of 3, grandmother of 4“‘A mother sees her child’s death in a thousand ways and at a thousand times.’ Oh my gosh. I thought it was just me.”
-Gail Gonzalez, mom of 2
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