This book was truly an outstanding piece of gothic horror/romantic murder mystery.

The plot was extremely tight, keeping me on the edge of my seat from start to finish. Every twist and turn added to the suspense, making it impossible to put the book down.

The characters were despicable, yet I found myself loving to hate them. Their flaws and vices were so vividly portrayed that they seemed almost real.

I had no idea who the real murderer was until the very end. The author did an excellent job of leading me astray with red herrings and false clues.

When the truth was finally revealed, I was both shocked and satisfied. The murderer got just what he deserved, which made the ending all the more satisfying.

This book is a must-read for anyone who loves gothic horror or romantic murder mysteries. It has everything you could want in a good book: a great plot, despicable characters, and a satisfying ending.

This is an enjoyable gothic mystery that also has a touch of romance. The story is filled with suspense and intrigue, keeping the reader on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. The setting is dark and atmospheric, adding to the overall sense of mystery. The characters are well-developed and complex, each with their own secrets and motives. The romance element adds an extra layer of depth to the story, making it not just a mystery but also a tale of love and longing.

A more appropriate title for this novel would be "Web of Lies". The title perfectly captures the essence of the story, as the characters are all caught up in a web of lies and deceit. The lies are so intertwined that it becomes difficult for the reader to distinguish between truth and falsehood. As the story progresses, the web of lies begins to unravel, leading to a shocking conclusion that will leave the reader breathless.

Overall, this is a great novel that combines the elements of mystery, romance, and gothic horror in a unique and engaging way. It is a must-read for fans of the genre and anyone who enjoys a good mystery with a touch of romance.

The author has penned several remarkable novels. However, this particular work fails to reach the same high standard.

It does have a few good moments that manage to capture the reader's attention for a brief period. But unfortunately, these moments are not enough to sustain the overall interest.

One of the major drawbacks of this novel is the portrayal of the heroine. She comes across as rather colourless and lacking in depth.

There is a distinct lack of character development, which makes it difficult for the reader to form a connection with her.

As a result, the story fails to engage on an emotional level and falls flat.

Despite its flaws, there is still some potential in this novel. With a bit more work on character development and a stronger plot, it could have been a much better read.

But as it stands, it is a disappointment and not one of the author's best works.

This was rather engaging, original and unusual.

It had a certain charm that initially drew me in. However, as time went on, it became clear that everyone was actively trying to gaslight everyone else at all times.

Their overtures grew increasingly hysterical, and it was truly exhausting.

The constant manipulation and mind games took a toll on me, draining my energy and leaving me feeling rather defeated.

Despite the initial allure, the negative atmosphere that had developed made it difficult for me to fully enjoy the experience.

I found myself constantly on guard, trying to protect myself from the gaslighting tactics being used against me.

It was a rather unpleasant situation that I was eager to escape from.

In the end, I was left with a sense of disappointment and a longing for a more genuine and respectful environment.

3.8

I would classify this as belonging to the gothic mystery romance category. It is similar to the books written by Mary Stewart and others that I used to devour with great enthusiasm from high school all the way into my twenties.

Back then, I couldn't get enough of those captivating stories that combined elements of mystery, romance, and a touch of the gothic. The atmospheric settings, the complex characters, and the thrilling plots always kept me on the edge of my seat.

However, as I have grown older, I guess my taste has evolved a little. While I still have a soft spot for this genre, I now look for more depth and sophistication in the stories. I appreciate a more nuanced exploration of the characters' emotions and motives, as well as a more intricate and thought-provoking plot.

Nevertheless, I still enjoy revisiting the works of authors like Mary Stewart and indulging in the guilty pleasure of a good gothic mystery romance from time to time.

Challenge: March Mystery Madness 2022 2x2 - Buddy read/Janelle/Too Fond of Books.

Imagine an isolated castle located on the northern mainland of Scotland, with no roads leading in.

Here, one woman becomes the catalyst for turmoil in the lives of three couples.

The question lingers: who will the waiting sands claim? And who will endure?

This is a gothic romantic suspense that contains all the elements of the dysfunctional love found in Wuthering Heights, and the character names echo those of du Maurier.

Everyone attempts to figure out everyone else, believing they know each other well, yet they are constantly grappling with this belief.

The ending, however, is a bit rushed. A remaining couple gets married a bit too fast before they have had the time to process what they have witnessed.

Nevertheless, it is a good read for unpacking attitudes about women in the 60s/70s regarding independence and sexual coldness.

It was nice to revisit this author in a buddy read, sharing thoughts and interpretations with a partner.

Overall, despite its flaws, the story offers an engaging and thought-provoking exploration of love, mystery, and the complex nature of human relationships.

Susan Howatch is a highly regarded author.

Her works are known for their depth, complexity, and engaging storylines.

Howatch has a talent for creating vivid characters that readers can easily connect with.

Her novels often explore themes such as love, power, and morality.

One of her most famous series is the "Starbridge" series, which delves into the lives of the clergy and the complex web of relationships within the Church of England.

Howatch's writing style is both elegant and accessible, making her books enjoyable for a wide range of readers.

Whether you are a fan of historical fiction, religious literature, or simply a good story, Susan Howatch's books are definitely worth checking out.

Her ability to bring her characters and settings to life on the page is truly remarkable, and her novels will leave you thinking long after you have turned the final page.

I read the first few pages of the book, and at that moment, I truly thought the story line was going to be extremely interesting. The initial setting and the introduction of the characters seemed to hold great promise.

However, as I continued reading, it soon took a turn for the worse. The plot started to become convoluted and confusing. The characters' actions and decisions didn't seem to make much sense, and it was difficult to follow their motives.

The writing style also seemed to change, and it lost the engaging quality that it had in the beginning. I found myself losing interest and struggling to get through each page.

Overall, what started out as a potentially exciting read quickly turned into a disappointment. I was hoping for a captivating story, but unfortunately, it didn't live up to my expectations.

Apesar da história começar sendo narrada pela personagem Rachel, alguns dos outros personagens têm direito a passagens com seus pensamentos, como se trocássemos de protagonista ao trocar o "narrador".

A personagem que move toda a trama é Décima, ex-amiga de escola de Rachel. Décima foi criada por sua mãe, indo de um país para outro, acompanhando a promiscuidade da mulher até esta morrer e o pai levá-la para sua propriedade na Escócia.

Durante o período que ficou em Genebra, interna em uma escola para moças, Décima e Rachel se conheceram e se tornaram amigas, apesar de serem totalmente diferentes, tanto fisicamente quanto em caráter. Foi através de Rachel, num encontro duplo bolado por Rohan (amigo de infância de Rachel e primo de Charles), que Décima conheceu Charles, um professor de Oxford e autor célebre, com quem veio a se casar alguns meses depois. A maior parte da história do livro se passa cerca de dois anos depois deste casamento.

Décima manda a Rachel uma carta, convidando-a para se hospedar em sua casa na Escócia, para que pudesse participar do seu jantar de aniversário de 21 anos. Após sua chegada, Rachel fica sabendo por Décima que esta teme por sua vida, pois se morresse antes de completar 21 anos, seu marido herdaria tudo e ela tinha quase certeza de que ele pretendia matá-la.

Temos então as opiniões de cada uma das pessoas desta casa sobre Décima e seu casamento. Todas afirmam que Décima é uma descarada que flertava com todos os homens que podia, humilhando o marido e que era fria feito um bloco de gelo. Rachel se apaixona de cara por Daniel Carey, ex-aluno de Charles e que está hospedado com a família em companhia de sua irmã, Rebecca. Daniel havia tentado se tornar amante de Décima, mas mudara de ideia ao perceber que ela desejava apenas usá-lo. Enquanto isso, sua irmã se tornara amante de Charles. Além destes personagens, temos Rohan, o primo que estava sempre passando as férias com o casal e que era apaixonado por Décima desde que a conheceu.

Resumindo, todos os homens queriam Décima, que era uma vaca com todas as letras maiúsculas. Ela havia sido amiga de Rachel na escola e, depois de casar, se quer tornara a entrar em contato com a moça, exceto quando necessitara dela. Além disso, ela queria todos os homens aos seus pés, mas não se envolvia fisicamente com eles porque era fria... nem o marido podia se aproximar dela. Décima só amava Décima.

Bem, a véspera do aniversário da bruxa chega, os convidados chegam e ela desaparece com a lancha em companhia de Rohan. Os convidados estão todos a mesa quando Décima e Rohan voltam totalmente bêbados e provocam uma cena, humilhando Charles e até mesmo Rachel. A esta altura, eu mesma queria matar esta mulher ruim!!!! Pois bem, Rachel coloca Rohan na cama, vai ao seu quarto, passa pelo quarto de Décima para saber se ela está bem (mesmo depois que a bruxa-vaca a humilhou porque estava ofendida por Daniel ter preferido a "amiga" a ela), a escuta falando com alguém (um homem), desce e encontra Charles morto.

Não vou entrar em muitos detalhes, mas certas coisas acontecem e segredos surgem numa espécie de pacto, especialmente após encontrarem o corpo de Décima, que havia sido jogada pela janela de seu quarto e morrera na queda. Tudo isto se passa até um pouco além da metade do livro, na primeira parte. A segunda parte se trata do que aconteceu aos personagens nos cinco anos seguintes (uma descrição superficial) e o retorno a Roshven (propriedade de Décima e onde os crimes haviam ocorrido), com a solução do duplo assassinato, assim como a solução do romance.

Não é um livro excepcional, mas é divertido. Ele prende a atenção e provoca curiosidade. Décima é uma peste, que de cara parece boazinha, mas que aos poucos vai se mostrando como realmente é através dos olhos dos outros. Rachel, a protagonista, é boazinha demais. Se ela fosse decidida (pelo menos no que diz respeito a não levar desaforo para casa), eu teria gostado mais. Rebecca é uma esnobe que se acha melhor por ter conhecimento literário, filosófico, etc. Charles é um egocêntrico muito convencido pelos mesmos motivos que Rebecca, Daniel é um arrogante e convencido que, na casa do antigo professor (que um dia respeitara), pretende se tornar amante da esposa do homem... não tenho como respeitar um cara destes...sério. Por último, Rohan, um chato total. Eu sei que os personagens não inspiram simpatia, mas eu fiquei curiosa com o que aconteceria a eles :-)

Rachel Lord receives an unexpected invitation from her long-lost school friend, Decima Mannering.

Decima, who is on the verge of turning twenty-one and inheriting a Scottish castle named Ruthven, expresses her fear and requests Rachel to visit.

Rachel, renowned for her reliability, decides to accept the invitation.

Upon her arrival at Ruthven, Rachel grows increasingly worried about Decima's welfare.

Decima is firmly convinced that her husband, Charles, has malicious intentions towards her, and her behavior appears erratic.

Rachel must figure out whether her friend is truly in peril or if there is an alternative explanation for her conduct.

As the story progresses, astonishing events disclose the truth about Decima's situation, leaving Rachel with no uncertainty regarding the serious circumstances they encounter.

It is indeed disappointing when a book with a promising concept fails to meet one's expectations, isn't it?

Sometimes, even if the idea is captivating, the pacing and execution can have a substantial impact on the enjoyment of the reading experience.

It seems that the story might have held potential, but the sluggish pace and execution did not make it as engaging as one had hoped.

It is always a bit frustrating when a book falls short of what was anticipated.

A nice little murder mystery awaits you. It is a fairly quick and easy read, perfect for those who want to indulge in a bit of mystery without spending too much time.

Perhaps it has a touch of old-fashioned charm to it, which only adds to its allure. The story unfolds with a series of events that keep you on the edge of your seat.

Some of the twists and turns are fairly predictable, and you might see them coming from a mile away. However, there are also others that will catch you completely by surprise.

These unexpected revelations add an element of excitement and make the reading experience all the more enjoyable. Overall, it's a delightful little mystery that is sure to satisfy your craving for a good whodunit.

Shy and rather sheltered, Rachel Lord has long resided in the shadow of more forceful personalities.

Specifically, her childhood friend Rohan Quist and, more recently, the glamorous Decima have overshadowed her. When she receives an invitation to a house party at a secluded Scottish estate to commemorate Decima's birthday, she becomes embroiled in a tense sextet filled with changing allegiances, infidelities, and ultimately, murder.

Howatch's third Gothic novel demonstrates her ability to heighten the tension for the reader. Rachel makes for an engaging heroine, and the atmosphere is vividly depicted. The book hurtles towards a nail-biting conclusion that keeps the reader on the edge of their seat.

Overall, it is a captivating and thrilling read that showcases Howatch's talent for creating suspense and drawing the reader into a complex and engaging story.