Review: The Girl in the Photograph by Kate Riordan

[LauraBambrey]

This book was the best possible way to kick-start my reading for 2015. Set simultaneously in the summer of 1933 and the late 1800s, The Girl in the Photograph follows the story of Alice Eveleigh who is sent away from her home in London in disgrace, having fallen pregnant by a married man. She is packed off unceremoniously to spend her confinement in the privacy and faded grandeur of Fiercombe Manor.

The story of Alice’s pregnancy soon intertwines with the story of Elizabeth, past lady of the manor – another manor – in the same isolated valley. The eerie similarities between Alice and Elizabeth soon begin to make themselves known, and Alice begins to feel as though her fate is already sealed and set upon a pre-determined, but shrouded path. The secrets of the valley begin to occupy Alice’s every waking moment, consuming her imagination.

The Girl in the Photograph is dense and full of detail, ensuring that the reader slows down, taking their time to read as the absorbing worlds of Alice and Elizabeth come to light. There is very little dialogue throughout the book, adding to the tense, claustrophobic atmosphere created by the author.

There is a serene sense of mounting terror that runs throughout the narrative (and I know that’s a complete oxymoron, but you’ll see what I mean), so much so that reading late at night had me hunkered down in my dim room, checking over my shoulder and listening out for unusual noises in the house – this is definitely not one to read when you’re feeling unsettled.

Although not an easy read as you wait for the taut silken thread that runs through the entire story to snap, I can’t help but recommend this book to everyone. It’s beautifully written, has a fantastic ending and has all the makings of a modern classic.

I'm going to give this 4 out of 4 stars - in my opinion, it's a faultless debut.

[bookowlie]

Thanks for the great review! The book sounds very interesting.

[LauraBambrey]

Thanks for the great review! The book sounds very interesting.

Thank you! It really was a great novel - certainly one I'll keep on my bookshelves for a re-read over the coming year!

[Ealasaid]

Thank you for this review. I am going to add this book to my to-read shelf.