This is certainly better than the disappointing Dark North, but still well below her best work. When I think back to Horses of Heaven or The Beacon at Alexandria (my favourite) I can't help wishing that Gillian Bradshaw would go back to writing books that are more ... adult (i.e. mature, not today's common meaning of adult!).

I don't think this is specifically marketed for teenagers, but with its restricted language, predictable plot, and rather stereotyped characters, it reads that way. It was also missing her common trick of managing to place modern concerns in a historical setting without making them seem out of place (e.g. the experience of immigrants in Island of Ghosts).

I didn't dislike it; it was a diverting read with a couple of exciting moments and a nice little twist at the end. I just know she used to be able to do better. ( )