Book Review: Daisy Darker by Alice Feeney
I’ve always had a soft spot for mysteries that unfold during family gatherings, and Alice Feeney’s Daisy Darker instantly tugged at my curiosity. The concept of a family reuniting at a gothic seaside manor, under the ominous shadow of an impending storm? Yes, please! It felt like stepping right into a chilling classic, where secrets fester and tension simmers tighter than a noose.
At the heart of this moody narrative is Daisy, the youngest granddaughter whose life has been marred by family drama, particularly at the hands of her relatives. As we dive into Nana’s 80th birthday bash—a gathering fueled by a foreboding prophecy from a palm reader—Daisy’s voice takes center stage. I found myself instantly captivated by her unique perspective. Daisy’s mix of vulnerability and sharp wit offered striking insights and provided an engaging lens through which to explore the disjointed family dynamics.
The story artfully juggles both present and past, intertwining Daisy’s childhood memories with the unsettling present where Nana’s will-reading spirals into chaos with her sudden demise. It poses a haunting question: Was it an accident, or is there something more sinister lurking in the corners of the manor? It’s no surprise that parallels to Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None spring to mind; the feeling of claustrophobia was palpable as the storm outside mirrored the mounting tension inside the house.
Feeney’s writing bursts with a classic vibe, laced with modern sensibilities. The use of eerie poems scattered throughout enhances the atmosphere and deepens the mystery—something I found both compelling and evocative. I must admit, the pacing had me glued to the audiobook, allowing me to immerse myself in every twist and turn.
One of my favorite parts was the relatable yet hostile interactions among the characters. You could feel the years of tension bubble to the surface in moments of sharp banter and biting remarks, which made the storyline feel all the more genuine and reflective of real family complexities. I also appreciated how Daisy’s bond with her neglected great-niece, Trixie, serves as a beacon of support amid the chaos, illuminating the tender connections that can exist even in the most dysfunctional families.
As I closed the last chapter, I realized that Daisy Darker isn’t just a thrilling mystery; it’s a poignant exploration of love, betrayal, and the importance of confronting one’s family history. It comfortably sits among my favorite reads of 2022, and I can hardly think of a better recommendation for fans of gothic fiction and intricate mysteries alike.
So, who would enjoy this tale? If you’re someone who relishes a story that twists and turns like a winding staircase, dark family secrets revealed one page at a time, and a protagonist who isn’t afraid to speak her mind, then this book is for you. Daisy Darker is a gem I wish I had discovered sooner, and I’m grateful to Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to experience Feeney’s brilliance.
If only I could have penned this one myself! Alas, I am content to bask in the aftermath of such a thrilling read. What a delight it was!
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