If you like ghost stories with historical tragedy as a plot device, then this novella-length story is for you.
The couple are trying to mend their marriage, and they have come to the worst place to do so. In the 70s of the last century, the insulation of the farmhouse became more convincing due to the fact that they do not have cell phones or a lot of furniture, and have little money. The nearest village, Peace & Plenty, could not have been more wrong. The locals looked hostile and repeatedly gave Hardings harsh warnings about staying in the farmhouse for the winter.
Jenny Dowling seemed quite unsurprised to see moving ‘shadows’ in the house, despite the fact that she did not believe in ghosts. She almost welcomed the spirit that had taken over writing her book. I found that I did not care so much about any of the Dowlings. They looked to me like cardboard cuts. The really interesting character in the story was the owner of the creepy old shop in the village.
The writing was repetitive at times, and did not look polished. These observations are not shared by other reviewers, so I will let you have your own opinion.
The historical back story was interesting, and it seems more real than today’s story in my opinion.
Overall, a decent way to end my seasonal reading month. A mediocre ghost story with an atmospheric setting near the Blue Ridge Mountains in Virginia.
I purchased a digital copy of this short novel published by the author.
Release Date: June 20, 2021
ISBN: 9798504318660 – ASIN: B094YMW259 – 125 pages
LB Stimson Growing up in a town with one light in central Idaho. After completing a bachelor’s degree in cultural anthropology from the University of California State-Chico, she moved to start a new life in Washington, D.C., where she began a diverse career in professional communication in private business and education.
LB currently resides in Virginia, but its core remains to the west, near the seductive vines of Redwood’s true location.
Follow LB Stimson on Twitter @stimsonink
