This was certainly a significant departure from Richard Adams's previous works.

Instead of the fantastical realms and creatures that he was known for, he delved into the realm of real-life.

I must admit that I'm not entirely convinced that it was a seamless transition.

However, one thing that Adams managed to maintain was the air of mystery that has always been a hallmark of his writing.

Despite my initial reservations, I found myself drawn into the story and ended up liking the book in spite of myself.

It was a refreshing change of pace, and I'm glad that Adams took the risk to explore a different genre.

I'm curious to see what he will come up with next.

**The Girl in a Swing - A Unique Piece by Richard Adams**

The Girl in a Swing by Richard Adams presents a distinct departure from some of his other works. When I described an early event in the book, the school experiment, to my sister, she likened it to Steven King's style. And she was right. This book is not about the usual animals like rabbits, dogs, horses, or cats that Adams often writes about. However, there is no mistaking his signature. The strong geographic base and the wandering in real terrain, the flawless voicing and personal reasoning of his characters, and his consideration of moral questions based on plot and situation are all present. Adams follows his own design and creates compelling characters and a captivating story. It would be an excellent choice for a book club or a couple to read and discuss. Moreover, if you understand German, it's an added bonus as the book contains a good amount of German (mit Dichtung). I wholeheartedly recommend this weirdly wonderful book. After some time, when the book has settled in my mind, I've been reminded of other books I've read, like Lilith by J.R. Salamanca, which I read years ago and was creeped out by.

Characters: Alan, Käthe (Karin in later editions), Tony, Flick and Angela, Diedre, Mrs Taswell, Mother.

It was an experience that truly and completely creeped me out. From the very beginning, there was an eerie atmosphere that hung in the air. Every sound seemed magnified, and the shadows played tricks on my eyes. I felt as if I was being watched, though I couldn't see anyone. My heart was pounding in my chest, and a sense of unease washed over me. I tried to tell myself that it was just my imagination, but the feeling persisted. It was a moment that I will never forget, a moment that left me with a sense of dread.

The End.

I have read and re-read "Watership Down" countless times. I first delved into it when I was around 10 years old, and over the past almost 2 decades, it has remained one of my absolute favorites. So, I was intrigued to read a book by Adams that focused on people.

For the first approximately 50 pages, I truly wasn't certain if I would be able to persevere. It started off rather dull, and then it became shockingly dreadful when it transformed into a seemingly never-ending lecture on his ceramics business. I would personally suggest skimming through that particular section, pausing only to learn about the characters or basic facts.

Then, when he embarks on his trip to Copenhagen, it's time to tune back in. Honestly, I still don't know precisely what it was about the story from that point on that captivated me, but it did. Up until then, the book would have merited only 1 or 2 stars. However, for reasons that are seriously unknown to me, it then ascended to 4 stars. Much like he is mysteriously struck by Kathe, I was also drawn in.

Then, the ending arrived, and it plummeted back down to 2 or 3 stars. I'm not sure what would have constituted a good ending for me, but this one simply wasn't it. I'm left a bit perplexed as to how to review it favorably or clearly convey my feelings about it. Nevertheless, it was worth reading, at least if you're a fan of Adams.

In some ways, the book has been sadly underrated by both readers and critics alike.

It possesses the subtlety that one can find in the works of Waugh, along with the high-quality readability similar to that of Watership Down.

As an added bonus, the reader might develop an obsession with collecting English pottery while delving into this book.

If the reader has even the slightest appreciation for ghost stories, I cannot recommend this story highly enough.

It has a charm and allure that is truly captivating.

The way the story unfolds, with its mysterious elements and engaging plot, keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.

Whether you are a fan of classic literature or simply enjoy a good ghost story, this book is definitely worth a read.

Don't let its underrated status fool you; it has the potential to become one of your favorite reads.

Give it a chance and discover the hidden gems within its pages.

Nothing less than fantastic

This phrase truly encapsulates something that is extraordinary and remarkable. It implies a level of excellence that is beyond ordinary expectations. When we describe something as "nothing less than fantastic," we are expressing our absolute admiration and awe for it.

It could refer to a breathtaking work of art, a mind-blowing performance, or an outstanding achievement. It is a term that leaves no room for mediocrity. It suggests that whatever it is being described is of the highest quality and has the power to inspire and amaze.

Using this phrase not only conveys our enthusiasm but also emphasizes the significance and value of the thing or experience in question. It is a way to give due recognition to something that truly stands out and makes a lasting impression.

In conclusion, "nothing less than fantastic" is a powerful and evocative phrase that captures the essence of something truly remarkable. It serves as a reminder that there are things in this world that are capable of leaving us speechless and filled with wonder.

Technically, it might probably be a 3.5?

The work is very good indeed, yet it is overlong. At times, Adams gives the impression that he desires to extract every possible ounce from his research.

Moreover, there is a persistent feeling that Karin is, at heart, a literary equivalent of a Manic Pixie Dream Girl. Despite Adams' efforts to make her character work fully, there remains a nagging sense that she is not entirely believable or that it's not entirely clear why she suddenly falls in love with Alan.

However, the best parts of the work are incredible, strange, and beautiful. Adams is a truly gorgeous prose writer.

I also have a sneaky suspicion that Jonathan Carroll read this early in his career and thought, "This is very good but I can do it better." And truly, it is a good work, and truly, Carroll may have done it better in his own way.

This book was Adams’ fourth, and it stood out distinctively from his previous three novels, namely Watership Down, Shardik, and The Plague Dogs.

In 1980, upon its publication, it might have been initially regarded as a “horror” story. However, it belongs to that category of ghost stories where the true nature of what occurred remains tantalizingly concealed.

The narrative revolves around a quiet Englishman named Alan Desland. He is a contented bachelor who inherits his father’s excellent ceramics business. During a buying trip to Copenhagen, he encounters a young woman named Käthe, and he promptly falls head over heels in love with her. Their romance blossoms in a whirlwind fashion, and they even fly to Florida to elope. Subsequently, they return to his home in England.

Käthe is an extremely mysterious figure, revealing virtually nothing about herself. For instance, it is later discovered that she had drowned her daughter in a bid to ensure Alan would marry her. Her daughter’s spirit then haunts her, and although Käthe succumbs to a medical issue, Alan is certain that her daughter came for her.

This story seems to be much ado about nothing. I suspect it was likely quite challenging for a significant number of American readers to fully engage with this tale, considering it contains numerous references to British and European elements. While I have adored the other Adams’ novels that I have read, I must admit that I was left disappointed by this particular book.

"Only your image trembles in my heart."

Richard Adams - Girl in a swing

I love that quote. This book has truly become an integral part of my heart. Oh my! I can assert with confidence that once one reads this, it is a book that will be etched in their memory forever.

I don't wish to disclose too much. I firmly believe that one shouldn't know an excessive amount when embarking on the reading journey. This is a captivating and utterly enchanting book.

Richard Adams, who also penned the renowned "Watership Down," crafted a masterpiece with "The Girl in a Swing."

Alan is a shy and awkward young man. He has a profound passion for Ceramics and also possesses some Psychic ability. Alan has never experienced deep love.

Alan is a character whom the reader will instantaneously adore. He could be your closest friend, so down-to-earth and devoid of any pretense. And even though he has never loved deeply, he finds contentment in his own unique way.

Then he encounters Cathe. Cathe is as distinct from Alan as possible. She is beautiful, mysterious, and the embodiment of nearly everything Alan has ever desired. He falls head over heels and deeply in love.

He can scarcely believe that she might feel the same way about him. He promptly asks her to marry him, and when she accepts, Alan feels a sense of completeness.

It wouldn't be in the reader's best interest to know any more at this stage. This is not a love story in the traditional sense. If I were to classify it, I would term it a Gothic Mystery that also encompasses numerous Super Natural elements, a character study, and yes, to some extent, a love story.

Suffice it to say, this book touched me profoundly and swiftly found its place on my list of favorites. In fact, I read it long ago, even before Goodreads came into existence. What a remarkable book! This is one that I have reread countless times.

The writing here is simply incredible. The book is ethereal and veiled in mystery, while the prose charms the reader. I had never read anything even remotely similar the first time I delved into this. I still haven't.

The entire book is unforgettable. It is narrated in a manner that is utterly captivating, and before I reveal any more and potentially spoil my own review, I simply have to implore the reader to give this one a chance.

Richard Adams is a bit of a mixed bag for me.

Take 'Maia' for example. When compared to the enchanting beauty of 'Watership Downs', it seemed almost vulgar. Nevertheless, the imagery was equally breathtaking and the characters were captivating. I read the entire book, but it left a sour taste in my mouth at the end.

However, this book has remained with me like no other I've read in a long time. I simply can't put it into words, nor will I attempt to provide a proper synopsis. Suffice it to say that it is a psychological thriller masquerading as a legitimate love story. The characters appear so ordinarily plain and so unassuming that it makes the horrifying conclusion of this story all the more disturbing.

I'm still in a dilemma as to how much of what we've "seen" was real or if we're even supposed to accept it at face value. Although it's marketed as an "erotic thriller", I don't remember the eroticism as much as the creepier moments. In any case, it's a disconcerting story that I don't think I'd read again, yet I feel it's worthy of notice.

In my opinion, Adams' best book is truly a masterpiece.

It has the power to captivate readers from the very first page. The story is engaging and full of twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat.

The characters are well-developed and relatable, making it easy to become emotionally invested in their lives.

Adams' writing style is also a standout feature. It is clear, concise, and yet full of depth and nuance.

He has a way of painting vivid pictures in the reader's mind, making the story come alive.

Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone who loves a good story. It is a testament to Adams' talent as a writer and is sure to leave a lasting impression.

Wow - I really struggled to finish this book.

I should have put it down by page 100.

On the cover of my copy, it gave the impression of being a ghost story. However, far from it.

To me, it is among the most boring books I've read.

The plot seemed to drag on and on without any real excitement or悬念.

The characters were not well-developed, and I found it difficult to connect with them.

The writing style was also rather平淡, lacking in the vivid descriptions and engaging language that I look for in a good book.

I was really disappointed with this book and would not recommend it to others.

It's a shame because the concept had potential, but it just didn't deliver.

I hope the author will do better in their future works.