I look forward to reading more of her works.
The lead protagonist is Miranda Wells "Ranny", an 18-yr romantic who is stuck on her family farm. She, of course, is someone you eagerly sympathize with because she is the oldest of the family. Her father Ephraim is a stern, strict Christian man who dislikes how Miranda loves her romantic fancies. Then comes opportunity when Johanna Van Ryn, Miranda's aunt, writes to invite either Miranda or her sister Tibby to live in her grand mansion Dragonwyck, to learn the customs of the gentry.
The mansion Dragonwyck is similar to the mansion in Jane Eyre or Manderley of Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca: there's something mysterious about it. In fact, there are a lot of parallels. However, there is an element of horror or suspense in it, however, the author fails to keep this theme consistent: in fact, this part is brushed off carelessly.
Like the Rochester in Jane Eyre, there is the tall, dark, and handsome man in Dragonwyck, who is the Nicholas Van Ryn, a powerful man who is a great believer in the tenant system, however, he is perturbed by the socialist uprisings. He's a gifted pianist, an avid Edgar Allen Poe reader, and loves boat races.
But is this a historical novel? There are instances of socialism in American history, however, this is all told in the perspective of aristocrats, who really don't know much.
Is this a romance? It could have been. It could have been similar to Edith Wharton's Age of Innocence, a racy tale of passions. But again, this theme is also thrown carelessly by the author and the few sexual tensions raised are left cold.
I should mention another key recurring character, Doctor Jeff. He's handsome and you will fall in love with him. He's pretty aggressive, among other things. The only thing I hate about him is that his character believes that women needs to just settle down on a farm and have babies. In this day and age, would you fall for a guy like that?
Why did I read this in the first place? I will honest, it was mentioned in Rosemary Daniell's memoir Fatal Flowers, and mentioned that it had some racy scene. Well, you can judge for yourself about that. However, the author can write sensually and use exotic imageries, all great techniques. So, if you are curious in anyway, read.
