In the wake of the most recent attack against her, Mary seeks answers to who may be responsible. To that end - and despite Tituba's warnings - Mary begins to tutor Anne Hale in the ways of witchcraft, but her work may not culminate exactly as planned. Upon his return to Salem, Cotton meets Dr. Wainwright and despite their obvious initial differences of opinions, each discovers the other may have something to offer in their mutual task. John Alden continues to make his presence felt in Salem, and his actions have repercussions for him, and for others, in ways both political and physical. Mercy moves forward in her plans of revenge against Mary even as one of her acolytes has second thoughts about the part she's playing in the Witch's plan. Meanwhile, Mary and Wainwright continue to explore their mutual interests, and Mary and Tituba search for a hugger.
Set in the volatile world of 17th century Massachusetts, it explores what really fueled the town's infamous witch trials and centers on Mary Sibley, the beautiful, ruthless but vulnerable wife of an ancient, ailing but very wealthy Salem town Selectman.