Published by Michael Joseph Genres: Family, Gothic, Historical Fiction, Mystery, Paranormal
Format: Hardcover
Gripping, dark, gothic, and ghostly! The Black Feathers was such an enjoyable and eerie book by Rebecca Netley. This is the second book that I have read by this author, the first book being The Whistling, and I love how her books have interesting women as the main characters.
Annie has married Edward Stonehouse and has moved with him and their infant son to Guardbridge, his manor home on the Yorkshire moors. Edward’s sister Iris lives in the manor home, and she is quite an interesting character. She is both a psychic and a taxidermist. She invites Annie to attend the séances she performs…
This book had many elements that I love in books. The Gothic feel of the home. It’s dark, cold, has many passages and creepy. I also loved the atmosphere created by the moors, the chill in the air, and the old manor home. The days feel long, and the nights are dark. Lying in bed, one can hear the soft steps of the servants, the sound of the wind, and see the shadows cast on the walls. Not to mention the secrets swirling in the air.
I also loved the question about what happened to Edward’s first wife and child. Is Annie safe? Who can she trust? I loved trying to figure out these questions. I loved the mounting sense of unease, tension, and mounting danger in the book. I love books that have the something-isn’t-quite-right feel to them. This book fit that description perfectly!
All the characters have distinct personalities with interesting backstories. Annie and Edward both had their individual motivations for getting married to each other. Iris and her companion, Mrs. North, are interesting and seldom apart.
I enjoy Rebecca Netley’s wonderful writing, her vivid descriptions, and the gothic mysteries she created in this book. Yes, mysteries. There are several!
If you have not read a book by Rebecca Netley, I encourage you to do so.
Gothic, gripping, and atmospheric!