In the past month I’ve read eight novels.
My reading momentum was curtailed by a surgery and ongoing recovery, so only eight novels read this month, but I enjoyed every one of them!
“Magpie Lane” by Lucy Atkins
This novel had everything I require in an excellent read. A setting that evokes atmosphere in spades, a protagonist with a secretive past, and a dysfunctional family that seem to have a hidden agenda.
The Oxford University Master’s Lodging house was an ancient gothic pile with creepy vibes. A house steeped in history – it even had a priest’s hole.
The nanny, Dee, was an eccentric and enigmatic woman. The allusions to her past evoked an aura of mystery and earlier trauma. Her brilliant mathematical mind lent her personality a certain gravitas. While she seemed a quirky, aloof person, she seemed very loving toward her small charge Felicity.
Felicity herself was an extremely troubled little girl with whom you couldn’t help but have empathy for.
The plot was clever and expertly executed. It was a cut above the typical ‘missing child’ thriller. The ending was perfect – somewhat ambiguous, but perfectly fitting for the book.
This psychological novel kept me captivated throughout. I have added all of Lucy Atkins previous novels to my TBR. Highly recommended!
I feel very lucky to have access to so many wonderful books. All the books above are reviewed here on the blog if you want to take a look.
Fictionophile 
Positive vibes for a smooth recovery, Lynne! Couldn’t agree more about Magpie Lane. It was one of my books of the year. So good! xx
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Thanks so much! I’m getting better every day ❤👍
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Happy to hear you are on the other side of your surgery! Wishing you a speedy recovery. 🙏 So thankful for books during times like these!
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So true Carol. For over 9 days I couldn’t read at all because I was on an opiate for pain and could not concentrate. Just on Tylenol now so my brain is less fuzzy.
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Glad to hear the worst is in your rear view mirror!
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Thanks so much Carol. 👍❤
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Hope your recovery is gong well Lynne! xx
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Feeling better every day. Thanks Nicki.😘
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Great to hear Lynne xx
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