Fairy-tale, magical realism, historical mystery - what more can you ask for.

filled star filled star filled star filled star star unfilled
biajohn951 Avatar

By

As its name implies, Once Upon a River reads like a fairy tales in some places and mystery throughout. A little girl is recused from the river, thought dead she somehow comes back to life. Claimed by three separate groups we are taken on a journey to find out who she is and past secrets of those who wish to lay a claim on her.

The novel is broken in 4 parts. It starts off good and steady in the first part, the scene is set and the players are placed. While engaging it felt daunting at times, but stick with it your patience will be greatly rewarded. Diane Setterfield weaves a magical tale that truly transports you, making you feel as if you’re pulling up the seat in the Summer Room at the Swan.