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As an avid reader of gothic and haunted house novels, I’ve always believed that more stories of this genre should be set in the Upper Midwest. There’s something inherently eerie about being trapped in snow-covered houses, isolated from the outside world.
So, when I discovered author Jaime Jo Wright, who hails from Wisconsin and specializes in crafting creepy tales set in the Midwest, I was thrilled. Her latest book, “The Vanishing at Castle Moreau,” exceeded my expectations with its haunting legends, ominous curses, and a search for buried secrets.
The novel takes us on a dual-time journey, intertwining the lives of three generations of women connected to the enigmatic Castle Moreau in rural Wisconsin. In 1870, we meet Daisy François, an orphaned young woman seeking refuge from the horrors of her past.
She takes a position as a housemaid in Castle Moreau, only to discover that the castle’s resident, Ora, is a reclusive and eccentric Gothic author whose own tales are even more harrowing than those in her novels. As women start disappearing from the area, Daisy finds herself entangled in a web that threatens her sanity and her life, mirroring a local legend.
Wright expertly crafts well-rounded and relatable characters who bring their own past traumas to the story. Daisy and Ora, in particular, exemplify the struggles and limitations faced by women in the 19th century, highlighting the dangers of societal constraints and the desire for control from the men in their lives.
Ora’s backstory as a writer adds an extra layer of eeriness to the narrative, further immersing the reader in the haunting atmosphere of the castle.
Cleo’s modern-day perspective offers a contrasting view of the women’s resilience and the evils they’ve encountered in their pursuit of authenticity. The incorporation of multiple timelines adds depth to the mystery, although it builds slowly at times.
Nonetheless, the plot is meticulously plotted and keeps the suspense alive throughout the book. Wright skillfully blends elements of romance and inspiration into the story, making it accessible to readers who might typically shy away from darker gothic literature.
While the ending may have felt a tad too neat compared to the rest of the story, “The Vanishing at Castle Moreau” is a fresh take on the haunted house genre.
Wright’s attention to detail, atmospheric writing style, and her ability to seamlessly weave together multiple timelines make this novel a captivating and chilling read. I highly recommend diving into this suspenseful tale, especially if you’re seeking a blend of mystery, historical elements, and a touch of the supernatural.
What sets “The Vanishing at Castle Moreau” apart from other gothic novels is Wright’s deep exploration of the female experience in different time periods. She skillfully portrays the struggles and limitations imposed on women in the 19th century, shining a light on the societal norms that often silenced their voices and constrained their lives.
Daisy’s journey as a housemaid in Castle Moreau exemplifies the dangers and hardships faced by women seeking to escape their pasts and find their place in a world controlled by men.
Similarly, Cleo’s character in the present day represents a modern woman grappling with her own past and attempting to forge a new path.
Through Cleo’s eyes, we witness the stark contrast between the resilience of the women who have inhabited Castle Moreau and the oppressive forces that have sought to suppress their identities.
Wright deftly explores themes of empowerment, resilience, and the enduring strength of the female spirit, making this novel not just a chilling tale, but also an empowering one.
I hope you enjoyed my book review for Vanishing at Castle Moreau by Jaime Jo Wright! Happy reading! ❤️