Recently, I came across an old review of mine for Darkmere by Helen Maslin, and I was quite shocked at how harsh I was on the book and the author. Really shocked. It wasn’t even a fair review, because whilst reading it I realised my opinions on the book weren’t actually that of what I expressed in that review.
So I gave Darkmere a second thought. I decided to write a ‘do-over’ review for the book, one to reflect what I actually think of the book.
Leo has inherited a castle, Darkmere Castle, and has invited Kate to come and spend the summer with him and a few other friends at the castle. Kate agrees; she thinks it’s the perfect place to try and bond with Leo, but instead they all find themselves drawn in the story of a nineteenth-century bride who once roamed the halls of the castle, and whose curse really now hangs over them all.
Now, granted, this book still isn’t for me. I don’t take personal offence to the book, as my original review would have you believe and quite frankly I never did, but it really isn’t my cup of tea.
I thought the plot was really interesting, and the characters were pretty interesting too. Leo and Kate were well thought out, and their personal stories were woven into the plot well too.
I also want to commend Helen’s style of writing. Even though I wasn’t a fan of the plot of the book, Helen’s writing style really kept me drawn into the story and was really interesting to follow.
Really, I can see the appeal of this book. I can see why many others liked it, and I’m really glad I gave this book a second glance. No, I did not hate the book, but no, I wouldn’t say I’m its biggest fan either. It’s a really well planned and well written book with a really interesting concept and very good characters too.
I would advise those in two minds about the book to give it a read, because I can see the appeal and I think you’ll be able to see it too. I look forward to reading what Helen has to write next, but personally, it really just wasn’t for me.
- Buy this book at the Guardian Bookshop
