The story, set in Shropshire, in the early years of the 19th century is so fascinating and moving on so many levels. Not only does it bear reference to the effects of the industrial and agricultural revolution on a rural community, but it also has the over-riding atmosphere of ancient mystical rites, superstitions and the cruelty to women accused of being witches.
The story of Pru Sarne, a gentle and kind girl, suffering from a facial disfigurement from birth, is so touching. Because of ther disfigurement, she is repeatedly told (in a 'kindly' way) that she will never marry and she accepts that until she meets a wonderful journeyman weaver with whom she falls in love.
The climax of the book combines both the horror of the way people could be accused of witchcraft, on no grounds other than an accusation taking hold, the cruelty with which people dealt with anyone who was different, and - to my mind - one of the most romantic and beautiful lines in all historical fiction, spoke so simply by the weaver. I would not like to give away the story for anyone who hasn't read it, but it is such a wonderful story with so many layers of meaning.
Yes, I did love the ending. 
