This is a look at the story of Susan Mummey, also known as the witch of Ringtown, who was murdered in the early 1900s in Pennsylvania. Taj takes us back to Susan's early childhood and her upbringing with her German immigrant parents and all her siblings. One of the younger of the brood, Susan learned POWWOW at the knee of her father when she was just a young girl. Powwow is explained as a blend of The Bible and rituals more akin to witchcraft, Powwow was something that Susan practiced all her life and therefore why she gained her moniker from the people of the area. Of course, given the time and the prejudices that were rampant back then, this did not afford Susan the simplest or happiest of lives. Her story is fascinating and yet sadly all but forgotten in the passage of time. Taj Magruder has done an incredible job of reawakening this small part of history and honoring Susan in so doing.
I became completely and utterly immersed in Susan's story and that of her family along with the peripheral characters who all played their parts. It was hard at times to remember that this was actually a true story. What is clear is that the author did extensive and thorough research and wrote in a vein reminiscent of David Grann.
" In the day of Trouble" by Taj Magruder is written in a narrative nonfiction style which is wonderful for the reader. This style makes it accessible and readable for almost anyone.
I loved it !

This book was so interesting and thrilling to read! It was very historical fiction from my point of view, which I did enjoy! It was based on the Pennsylvania hex belt and the retelling seemed so accurate! From start to finish, this book kept me on my toes and wanting to keep reading!