ISBN: 1-7887-0806-6 Order from: Recorded Books
This romantic mystery introduces a handful of colorful characters, a supernatural motif which is used largely for color, and an occasionally strained plot.
Reviewed by David on December 25, 2000
Genre: Mystery (Romance, Occult)
Synopsis: Heather Tradescant, a young American teacher, and her father have long planned to tour the famous English gardens. Devastated by her father's sudden death, and unable to concentrate, Heather decided to follow up on these plans, visiting the gardens that her father would love to see. Frustrated in her request to view the private garden at Troytan House, Heather tries to sneak in through the hedge in the back of the garden. The plan misfires and Heather gets involved in the confusing and occasionally threatening events at the mansion, its neighbors and the small town.
Full Review: The local history of witchcraft and witch trials is featured prominently in this book. However, despite its constant presense, the witchcraft—or indeed any supernatural activity play little, arguably no role in the plot. The mystery is not bad, but the characters occasionally behave with frustrating implausibility, presumably to advance the plot. Partly compensated for by the sense of humor, the mystery is resolved together with the romantic subplot.
While enjoyable and at times quite funny, the heroine is at times irritatingly defensive. This, together with the notable lack of meaningful detection process or true supernatural elements, make this mildly enjoyable novel less than completely satisfying.
Overall: 5; Plot: 5; Characters: 5.5; Style: 5.5; World-building: 5; Originality: 5;
Copyright date 1997, Recorded Books, 1998, Audio cassette, 8 cassettes
ISBN: 1-7887-0806-6 Order from: Recorded Books