Nickerson, Jane The Mirk and the Midnight Hour, 371 p. Alfred A. Knopf (Random), 2014. Language: G. Mature Content: PG (voodoo); Violence: PG (nothing graphic).
Before her father leaves for the (Civil) War, he brings Violet a frail new stepmother, a vain, spoiled stepsister, a young cousin, and an older cousin who has ulterior motives for being on their property. When Violet finds an enemy soldier in dire condition, things only get more difficult. His condition seems to have something to do with their reclusive neighbors - the ones who are rumored to be connected to dark magic - voodoo. Everyone around Violet needs guarding, protecting or defending.
The magic parts and the Civil War parts are just backdrops to the multiple human dramas that Nickerson weaves. When I look back at the many plot threads, I am happily surprised that it makes a coherent whole, not a muddled mess. Historical novels are a hard sell right now, but the idea of a haunting story and the ghost-like cover may draw in more readers than expected.
MS - OPTIONAL. Cindy, Library Teacher
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