This is the kind of story I would describe with the Hokkien phrase "pek chek" - to be annoyed or frustrated. Why? Because firstly I know it's going to end badly for the heroine. This isn't a spoiler given it's based on a historical event. Like knowing a story about Anne Boleyn isn't going to end well. 

The fact that it seems like Winterson is setting Alice Nutter up as a strong but compassionate female makes this even worse.

After reading several reviews I've decided to spare myself the stress.