Reviewed by Francine:
Set in Minster Lovell, a place in which the River Windrush flows through in its former crystal clear glory, although the overall setting is mediaeval during the reign of Edward IV, it brought back wonderful memories of my children wading in the waters in search of crayfish. There is nothing better than books that traverse time with wonderful prose and natural dialogue thus presenting good sense of times past whilst transcending personal time, that sense of familiarity. Although the mediaeval period is far from my favourite reading material I appreciate others’ perspectives on the past, and putting my author hat aside I can relish a good read no matter the period: more especially when historical input is seamlessly woven into the tapestry of the overall story. Whilst the mistletoe bride is a matter of myth the ghostly atmosphere enhances the story of a fairly ordinary gathering of family and friends, but the fact legend can almost become reality in another time is startling in its power of presentation. Well written, albeit a novella, this is a truly worthwhile read for lovers of the mediaeval period and that of legends – true or imagined and thus retold across the centuries.
