Take a photo of a barcode or cover
A review by nicolenoodles
The Beholders by Hester Musson
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
This is a tricky book to rate, as historical fiction isn’t usually my cup of tea but the gothic fiction element drew me in. I had my issues with it; not understanding the draw that Harriet had to Clara being the biggest, and wondering quite how a maid with little education could compose such a well-written diary. I also wish the pace had picked up sooner, but it was a page-turner and I enjoyed the ending. Some wonderful writing and descriptive language which would make me interested to pick this author up again.
Graphic: Child death, Domestic abuse, Sexual assault
Moderate: Animal cruelty, Animal death, Child abuse