A review by msteinhaus
Thornyhold by Mary Stewart

lighthearted mysterious slow-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

A lovely, quiet daydream about a young woman gaining the autonomy she needs (via fairy godmother Cousin Geilles) to build a contented, self-sufficient life. The magical elements are left to the reader to assess, as most are given plausible earthly causes, but do add a bit of intrigue. The romance is very light, basically a reward for Gilly's stoicism. Comforting.