Esmeralda Holly

I’m a reader of nonfiction, and detective and spy fiction, but my daughter sent me this book, urging me to read it. It introduced me to a whole new fictional world and a linking of the world I know to that new world. There is a range of moods and themes, from puzzlement to joy and horror – and back again. Pea Jannings has a mastery of language, a language that is almost poetic at times, with some delightful turns of phrase and images such as this ‘They subtly shifted their uncomfortable bottoms as they took dainty nibbling bites from finger-sized fancies and sipped over-appreciatively, at homemade elderflower cordial.’

I don't normally read fantasy, so it took me a wee bit of time to get used to the style, but I found myself getting drawn into this twisting, turning story. The narrative shifts from one character to another, but weaves their lives together mysteriously. I am fascinated by fairy lore, and this book seems to explain a lot while keeping everything tantalisingly just out of reach. Just like the fogs and absences conjured in the story. The narrative rises to a crescendo of activity at the end, so I am relieved to hear that Jannings is planning a second book, because these characters' stories are certainly not over!

I read this in a couple of days, as once started l didn't want to put it down! Now I am hoping for another chance to step back into Pea Jannings enchanting world, with a second book. Loved the writing style and characters, and the plot twists. A book I will definitely be keeping to read again.

Wow, literally couldn't stop reading, so many cliff hangers meant I couldn't put the book down. This has been so well written with such detailed descriptions and imagination that you feel like you are one of the characters in the book. I fell in love with Holly and Esme and felt the hurt, shock, excitement and all the emotions for them. Its a fantasy, love story, thriller all in one that keeps you entertained throughout , Can't wait to read the next book once it's out.

This was an excellent read which engaged me right from the start. Not normally my genre however the writing style was gentle and flowed well. Lots of questions need answering and I look forward hopefully to a follow up!