White Crow - Marcus Sedgwick

Read for: RIP V Challenge, my love for Marcus Sedgwick!

Somehow I didn't even realise this had been published until reading Rhinoa's 5-star review. I ordered it immediately from my local library and was not disappointed. White Crow is a teen gothic fantasy, written by the incomparable Marcus Sedgwick.

Rebecca and her father move to the small countryside village of Winterfold, taking her away from a busy and far more exciting life in London. There, bitter at her father for the move, Rebecca wanders around the village, where she meets the strange, elfin girl, Ferelith. The two girls explore the history of the village and slowly uncover the terrifying secrets about experiments conducted by a mysterious seventeenth century doctor.

White Crow is a slow burn, gently introducing details about our two main characters, and the secrets and lies then uncover. The story slowly edges towards its creepy conclusion, as Rebecca's life unravels and the truth of her presence in Winterfold is revealed. Ferelith is indeed a strange creature. Her mannerisms and attitude to Rebecca is unsettling to say the least. And the unanswered question...what really lies beyond death.

Although aimed at teens, this is certainly more adult material. The atmosphere is deftly crafted, the uncomfortably hot summer against the chilly tale.

Fantastic stuff.

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