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A review by lenaryn
The Long Shadow by Celia Fremlin
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
This was my first Celia Fremlin novel, and I picked it up from the thriller table on a whim over Christmas.
To describe this book as a thriller is somewhat misleading, I would describe it more of a domestic mystery.
Ivor, a celebrated and wealthy academic, has died in a car accident, the novel opens with his 3rd wife Imogen returning from his funeral. What follows is various relatives and hanger's on moving into Imogen's house, including the ghost of Ivor himself. Meanwhile Imogen is threntend with blackmail after being accued of murdering her husband.
This is a slow paced read, but an enjoyable charater study of a blended 1970's family and how people behave after a bereavement. The language and sociey standards may appear dated but are accurate for the 1975 publication date.
To describe this book as a thriller is somewhat misleading, I would describe it more of a domestic mystery.
Ivor, a celebrated and wealthy academic, has died in a car accident, the novel opens with his 3rd wife Imogen returning from his funeral. What follows is various relatives and hanger's on moving into Imogen's house, including the ghost of Ivor himself. Meanwhile Imogen is threntend with blackmail after being accued of murdering her husband.
This is a slow paced read, but an enjoyable charater study of a blended 1970's family and how people behave after a bereavement. The language and sociey standards may appear dated but are accurate for the 1975 publication date.
Content Warnings
This book was written in the mid 70's, and the language and family member stereotypes reflect that. Should be read as a historical reflection