It starts off like a Jane Eyre-type story, about a young woman hired to be a governess at a remote country estate. Elise Cooper journeys to Greenmere House to teach, but quickly ends up becoming a student herself, learning of the House’s ties to ancient mysteries and folklore. I won’t spoil it, but let’s just say we plunge deep into the world of Arthurian legend and the mythology of the British isles.
If I have a criticism, it’s that the book is a little too fast-paced. Elise goes from being an innocent young woman to confronting The Big Bad in a relatively short period of time. I wouldn’t have minded more time for the character to develop.
On the flip side, that could also be construed as a positive thing, because the world the author created was so interesting I wouldn’t have minded staying there longer. It’s a haunting, bittersweet, simultaneously creepy and yet also somehow serene place, at least when monsters aren’t actively attacking our heroes. I could say more, but I won’t. Hopefully I’ve intrigued you enough to make you want to give it a try yourself.
This is a great story for anyone who enjoys old-fashioned tales of mystery and romance; meaning romance not in the sense of love, but in the classic sense of a tale of adventure and chivalry. It features a charming protagonist, plenty of fantasy and magical elements, and a unique setting. Fans of C.S. Lewis in particular are encouraged to check it out.