This romance takes place in England around the time of World War II. Gilly Ramsey is a preacher's daughter raised in coal towns of England. It is a dreary life brightened only by a few brief visits from her mother's cousin Geillis. Geillis teaches her about nature and magic and pays for her schooling. Geillis is a herbalist who can also see a bit into the future.

When Gilly grows up and after she nurses her parents through their last illnesses, she received word that her cousin has died leaving her a house named Thornyhold. Having no home now that her father - a minister - has died, she travels to her new home.

Thornyhold is a lovely old house with a reputation for being the home of a long line of witches. Gilly feels at home immediately despite her interfering neighbor Mrs. Trapp who apparently wants something from the house and keeps dropping in.

Gilly also meets a young boy named William who was used to helping her cousin with many things including tending to her garden. And through William, she meets and instantly falls in love with his widowed father John Christopher. But Mrs. Trapp has also set her eye on John Christopher and is willing to use her magic to try to claim him.

The story was filled with lush descriptions of the land and plants of that part of England. It was also infused with magic. The language was lush and lyrical. The narration by Jilly Bond was excellent. ( )

I loved this. The ending seemed a bit weak (hence only 4 stars), but as always, Stewart weaves an atmospheric spell that I find quite addictive. I find her such an evocative writer, and much more interesting than the current fad of plunking a protagonist into a Pivotal Situation on page 1, with action-action-action all. the. time. ( )

I love a good gothic novel but don't love the dark themes that so many newer gothics carry. I really enjoyed Thornyhold because, while the story does contain a bit of witchcraftiness, it's seen to be a negative, even an ungodly, thing and the heroine keeps a pure heart. It's a simple story---a novella, really---and was a refreshing short read during a busy few days. ( )

A young woman inherits a witch's house and has to deal with sudden paranormal events! It's not as exciting as it sounds. I like subtle, meandering, under-stated stories as much as the next ironic slacker, but this book is in a coma. ( )

Just got myself a second hand copy of this charming little book. First read it when it came out in the late 80's. Great read for a cold november night. ( )