Do not be fooled by the cover which hints at light hearted fun. This is an enjoyable first novel that has a dark tone, dealing as it does with obsession, power and relationships forged by necessity not love. The Duchess gives birth to a son - vital for her plans to ensure her power base; the baby dies - but in her lonely garret, the governess has also had a baby boy . . . The scene is set.
(Ferelith Hordon - bwl 35 July 2006 ) |