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4.0
The Secret of Mirror House by Jennifer Blake is a 2013 Steel Magnolia Press publication. (Original publication date: 1969)
I love these classic Gothic novels!!
After her mother's death, Amelia finds herself nearly destitute, so when distant relatives extend an invitation for her to come stay with them, she doesn't hesitate to accept.
However, Amelia begins to regret that decision almost immediately, when she encounters a house full of relatives who seem to dislike her on sight.
She is particularly shaken by the response she receives from Neville, a man who has never married, is rude, blunt, and even cruel at times.
But, at least her cousin, James is friendly... On the surface, at least.
But, Amelia is doubly shocked when it becomes clear her relatives want her marry one of these gentlemen, the sooner the better. Not only that, they seem to have a preference. But, Amelia has no interest in marriage, much less to either of these two men.
The tension mounts as the family seems to become more desperate and worried about the threat Amelia represents for their future.
Is there anyone in the house Amelia can trust? Will she learn the secrets of Mirror House?
This book was written at the height of the Gothic mystery/romance craze, but boasts a historical setting which gives it a more sinister atmosphere, as does the Southern locale. The extreme heat and humidity that hangs in the air intensifies the feeling of hostility and increases the level of suspense.
The author did a very good job of capturing the true Southern Gothic tones, building the tension at just the right pace. Because the story was set in the 1870's, a time when women had few options, Amelia could have become a stereotypical 'damsel in distress', but instead, she stands her ground, even when she was subjected to numerous mind games and trickery, displaying bravery, even when she began to fear for her life.
The romance is clean, and while there are some adult situations, anyone can enjoy these stories.
So, although this book was originally published back in the late sixties, it manages to stand the test of time for the most part.
I was so excited to see these books out there in the digital market because they are very hard to find in paperback. For people like myself, who loved borrowing these books from their mothers, it is so nice to be able to buy them , re-read them, and keep them forever. It is also a chance for readers to discover them anew and gain a new audience.
A wonderful and rare Gothic Classic- 4 stars
I love these classic Gothic novels!!
After her mother's death, Amelia finds herself nearly destitute, so when distant relatives extend an invitation for her to come stay with them, she doesn't hesitate to accept.
However, Amelia begins to regret that decision almost immediately, when she encounters a house full of relatives who seem to dislike her on sight.
She is particularly shaken by the response she receives from Neville, a man who has never married, is rude, blunt, and even cruel at times.
But, at least her cousin, James is friendly... On the surface, at least.
But, Amelia is doubly shocked when it becomes clear her relatives want her marry one of these gentlemen, the sooner the better. Not only that, they seem to have a preference. But, Amelia has no interest in marriage, much less to either of these two men.
The tension mounts as the family seems to become more desperate and worried about the threat Amelia represents for their future.
Is there anyone in the house Amelia can trust? Will she learn the secrets of Mirror House?
This book was written at the height of the Gothic mystery/romance craze, but boasts a historical setting which gives it a more sinister atmosphere, as does the Southern locale. The extreme heat and humidity that hangs in the air intensifies the feeling of hostility and increases the level of suspense.
The author did a very good job of capturing the true Southern Gothic tones, building the tension at just the right pace. Because the story was set in the 1870's, a time when women had few options, Amelia could have become a stereotypical 'damsel in distress', but instead, she stands her ground, even when she was subjected to numerous mind games and trickery, displaying bravery, even when she began to fear for her life.
The romance is clean, and while there are some adult situations, anyone can enjoy these stories.
So, although this book was originally published back in the late sixties, it manages to stand the test of time for the most part.
I was so excited to see these books out there in the digital market because they are very hard to find in paperback. For people like myself, who loved borrowing these books from their mothers, it is so nice to be able to buy them , re-read them, and keep them forever. It is also a chance for readers to discover them anew and gain a new audience.
A wonderful and rare Gothic Classic- 4 stars
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