In Sharon Lynn Fisher's Grimm Curiosities, Lizzy Grimm inherits her father's antique shop in 1851 York, a city steeped in ghostly secrets. Struggling to keep the "charmingly creepy" Grimm Curiosities afloat, Lizzy encounters Antony Carlisle, whose sister shares a mysterious affliction with Lizzy's mother – both silenced after encountering ghosts. Their investigation leads them to her father's collection of rare books on folklore and enchantments, coveted by a persistent collector. As Lizzy and Antony delve deeper into the bewitching texts and their captivating illustrations, they unravel a dangerous Yuletide myth, risking the release of something ancient and terrifying in their quest to save their loved ones.
Review Grimm Curiosities
"Grimm Curiosities" completely charmed me! It's the perfect blend of cozy mystery, enchanting magic, and captivating folklore – everything I adore in a book. The Victorian setting of York, England, is vividly portrayed, transporting you to a time of gas lamps, snow-covered streets, and a palpable sense of history. I loved how the author seamlessly wove in references to Grimm's Fairy Tales; it added a delightful layer of familiarity and intrigue, though I'll admit, I was a few chapters in before making the connection myself! The subtle hints and allusions kept me guessing and added to the overall mystery.
Lizzy Grimm, the strong and independent heroine inheriting her father's curiosity shop, is wonderfully endearing. She's resourceful, determined, and facing the daunting task of keeping the shop afloat while dealing with her ailing mother and the eerie secrets the shop holds. Antony Carlisle, her ally in unraveling the mystery surrounding the affliction impacting both their families, is a perfectly complementary character; supportive but never overshadowing Lizzy's strength. Their relationship felt genuine and developed naturally, adding a heartwarming romantic element to the story without detracting from the central mystery.
The plot itself is cleverly constructed. The mystery surrounding the silent women, the enigmatic collector, and the ancient books all intertwine beautifully, creating a compelling narrative that kept me hooked from beginning to end. The author masterfully builds suspense, revealing clues gradually while keeping you guessing. I especially appreciated the descriptive language used to paint the Victorian atmosphere, making the setting feel almost tangible. The descriptions of the shop, the snowy streets of York, and even the illustrations within the ancient books, painted vivid pictures in my mind.
While some reviewers felt the characters lacked depth, I found them well-developed enough to be engaging and relatable. Their struggles, both personal and those tied to the overarching mystery, felt authentic, and their growth throughout the story was satisfying to witness. For me, the slightly formulaic aspects were easily overlooked because the overall atmosphere and storytelling were so captivating. The Christmas setting added a unique layer of warmth and cosiness, making it a truly delightful read perfect for the holiday season.
In short, "Grimm Curiosities" is a captivating read for anyone who enjoys a good mix of mystery, magic, and romance set against a beautifully rendered historical backdrop. It’s a wonderfully written, atmospheric tale that leaves you with a warm, fuzzy feeling and a desire for more adventures in the world of Lizzy Grimm and Antony Carlisle. I wholeheartedly recommend it and am eagerly awaiting any potential sequels!
Information
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 1 x 8.5 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 299
- Publication date: 2024
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