ISBN: 0745163807 Order from: Amazon.com
This mystery has a few appealing passages, however, for the most part, the melodramatic, predictable plot and a passive heroine make for a weak book.
Reviewed by David on February 01, 2004
Genre: Mystery
Synopsis: Young, pretty Penelope was still adjusting to her married life, when her former guardian, beloved Great-Aunt Hermione died in a tragic accident. Left alone, Penelope feels increasingly isolated and threatened, even as her older, sophisticated husband lavishes luxury and protection on her.
Full Review: Right from the start, the style and reactions of people seem to telegraph their characters. Thus, it is relatively easy to repdict the plot from the first pages. The path there could be interesting, but alas borrows from the Victorian melodrama, and seems not only predictable but often improbable as well.
Only when Penelope—our generally passive heroine—shakes off her lethargy and starts acting on her own behalf the plot gains some interest, but it's too little, too late.
Overall: 4; Plot: 4; Characters: 4.5; Style: 4.5; World-building: 4.5; Originality: 4.5;
Copyright date 1961, Chivers Audio Books, 1991, Audio cassette, 4 cassettes
ISBN: 0745163807 Order from: Amazon.com