**Upcoming Novel Explores Strasbourg’s Dancing Plague Through a Witch’s Eyes**
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/isabel-ibanez-witch-dance-043026-2-8606474ead3b46098476478e3d765248.jpg)
In an announcement that has sparked considerable excitement among readers, bestselling author Isabel Ibañez has revealed her forthcoming novel, *Witch Dance*. This captivating tale is set against the backdrop of a peculiar historical event known as the dancing plague, which swept through Strasbourg, France, in the summer of 1518. The book is scheduled for release on March 9, 2027.
The inspiration for *Witch Dance* stems from an astonishing episode in history when, according to accounts, approximately 400 individuals found themselves dancing uncontrollably, leading to their demise. Ibañez’s narrative centers on Evelina del Valle, a brilliant medical student who grapples with her identity as an undercover witch. Evelina’s internal conflict is compounded by her determination to quell the strange affliction that threatens to decimate the quarantined city.
As the story unfolds, Evelina is depicted as a character torn between her romantic fascination for a mysterious man named Alaric Keller and her commitment to assisting those afflicted by the plague. Alaric, who harbours a tragic connection to the plague as his mother was one of its first victims, becomes embroiled in Evelina’s quest for a solution. However, he also holds knowledge of her secret identity, which complicates their relationship.
Ibañez elaborated on her inspiration, noting her fascination with historical events that seem almost too extraordinary to be real. Among these are the Great Molasses Flood, the sinking of the Titanic, and the Scottish witch trials, which resulted in the executions of many women. Each of these incidents reflects a tumultuous time, much like the situation in Strasbourg, where citizens were gripped by a bizarre and tragic fate.
The novel’s cover art, revealed exclusively, captures the essence of its dark and mystical themes. It features an illustration of a woman emerging from an enigmatic forest, clutching a gemstone while draped in a green veil. The historical skyline of Strasbourg looms in the background, complemented by a raven in flight and a skull on the ground—a striking representation of the duality of life and death inherent in Ibañez’s story.
Delving deeper into Evelina’s character, Ibañez describes her as courageous and resolute, willing to risk everything to find a cure for the so-called dancing plague. The author articulates her excitement about sharing Evelina’s journey, which promises to not only explore the challenges of living a double life but also the romance that blossoms amid the chaos.
“Witch Dance” combines elements of historical fiction with fantasy, uniquely positioning it among contemporary novels. Readers can expect a narrative woven with rich historical detail while also delving into the world of witchcraft and magic. The story allows for an exploration of themes such as power, love, and the quest for identity against a backdrop of societal expectations.
Available for pre-order now, *Witch Dance* stands as a testament to Ibañez’s talent for blending historical realism with fantastical elements. It aims to captivate audiences, not only with its portrayal of a young woman’s struggles but also with a gripping historical mystery ripe for investigation.
As we await the release of *Witch Dance*, it is clear that Ibañez has crafted a novel that not only entertains but also invites readers to reflect on the past—an engaging blend of history and fiction that is sure to resonate with many. Mark your calendars for March 9, 2027, when this intriguing narrative will be available in bookstores across the country.