Ghost
Three girls, one mystical forest, and the passing of centuries, connect these young souls.
60 AD: Aine, an enslaved Celt girl, escapes from her Roman captors unwittingly unleashing an animal presence by lifting a druidic carving. 1783: a healer’s daughter, Sarah, feels Aine’s tormented presence as she walks through the woods. Marie, in the present day, has dropped out of art school, leaving her twin behind, to stay with her aunt on the edge of the forest and senses the old magic within.
This novel was inspired by a reputedly haunted woodland in Wiltshire, which is steeped in folklore and mystery. The story begins at a steady pace but quickly ramps up tension, drama and action to reach the satisfying conclusion. The detail and horror of the Roman occupation is graphically, but authentically described, as we are introduced to Aine’s family life, the attack, and her enslavement. Sarah’s mother lives at a time when nature’s healing ways were linked to witchcraft, bigotry, and fear. The gift of second sight, fate and understanding of nature all play a strong part in the fabric of this mystery as danger is ever-present.
The characters appeal and resonate with young readers because all three are brave, determined, speak out for what they believe is the truth, and make a stand against adversity as they seek to find answers to the mystery of the evil entity that has entrapped them. They must find a way to connect and jointly defeat their tormentor. It is their strength of character and defiance that ultimately form the link between them that is appealing and inspiring to the reader.
I recommend this beautifully written book for readers of ages of 12 years and up. It is an excellent read, for those attracted to tales of fantasy, myths and magic.
