As a Mantel fan, interesting to discover her first (1985 ) novel. Mentally retarded (though is she?) Muriel lives in a crumbling house with her mother, plagued by poltergeists and refusing entry to strangers, including Isabel, the social worker assigned to Muriel's case. As the situation inside the house deteriorates in ghastly ways, Isabel tries to run her own life outside: married lover, difficult father. The conflict between 'abnormal' and 'normal' ends with a mighty crash. Imperfect but promising.
(Annabel Bedini - bwl 70 Autumn 2013 ) |
