Archer Sullivan brings the mountains of North Carolina to life in The Witch’s Orchard, an atmospheric and twisty debut introducing private investigator Annie Gore. Former Air Force Special Investigator Annie has traded military life for PI work, and her latest case drags her deep into an Appalachian holler much like the one she grew up in. Ten years ago, three little girls vanished—one came back, the others never did—and the brother of one of the missing hires Annie to finally dig up the truth. But as she chases old leads and navigates small-town suspicion, she finds herself tangled in local legends, buried secrets, and whispers of the supernatural.

I loved this story! It’s engaging, richly atmospheric, and full of Appalachian texture. I was instantly drawn in (knew this book was right up my alley by page 10) and stayed riveted until the final page. While I had my suspicions, there was plenty to keep me guessing until the very end. The “witch” element woven through the folklore was a fantastic touch, with The Witch of Quartz Creek front and center. I loved how each character had their own version of the legend, twisting and changing the tale until it felt like the town itself was haunted by its own history.

This was a fantastic debut! I have no complaints and the story was beautiful to read and Emily Pike Stewart did an amazing job of narrating the story. Is this the start of a series? I sure hope so because I am absolutely ready for more Annie Gore.

AMAZON | GOODREADS | BOOKSHOP | ★★★★★

The Witch’s Orchard comes out August 12, 2025. Huge thank you to Minotaur Books and Macmillan Audio for my copy in exchange for my honest opinion.  If you liked this review please let me know either by commenting below or by visiting my Instagram @speakingof.books or on Tiktok @speakingof.books