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Window on the Square
THE SCENE IS NEW YORK CITY IN THE 1870's. A letter summons young Megan Kincaid to the house on Washington Square. In a startling interview the master of the house, Brandon Reid, informs her that he wishes her to devote herself to moody, unbalanced Jeremy, Mrs. Reid's son by her previous husband, Brandon's younger brother Dwight. Dwight Reid's brilliant career as New York District Attorney had been ended by a shocking and tragic accident with a gun--or so the newspapers had claimed--at the hands of this same guilt-ridden child, then aged seven. Against her better judgment, Megan accepts the challenge.
From the beginning Megan feels uneasy in the house; she senses the presence of lurking evil, of mysterious emotional undercurrents, of relationships that are not what they appear to be. She does not know whom to trust--the haughty yet strangely sad beauty, Leslie Reid, or the somber, fascinating master of the house, whose warm voice belies his cold, grave manner. She finds herself irresistibly drawn toward him, and their growing mutual attraction is duly noted by interested members of the household. When Megan realizes fully the extent of her own feelings, she knows she cannot honorably remain in the Reid home. Yet she also knows that if she goes, Jeremy will be left alone in world, irretrievably lost.
From the beginning Megan feels uneasy in the house; she senses the presence of lurking evil, of mysterious emotional undercurrents, of relationships that are not what they appear to be. She does not know whom to trust--the haughty yet strangely sad beauty, Leslie Reid, or the somber, fascinating master of the house, whose warm voice belies his cold, grave manner. She finds herself irresistibly drawn toward him, and their growing mutual attraction is duly noted by interested members of the household. When Megan realizes fully the extent of her own feelings, she knows she cannot honorably remain in the Reid home. Yet she also knows that if she goes, Jeremy will be left alone in world, irretrievably lost.
252 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1962
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1171 people want to read
About the author
Phyllis A. Whitney
193 books556 followersPhyllis Ayame Whitney (1903 – 2008) was an American mystery writer. Rare for her genre, she wrote mysteries for both the juvenile and the adult markets, many of which feature exotic locations. A review in The New York Times once dubbed her "The Queen of the American Gothics".
She was born in Japan to American parents and spent her early years in Asia. Whitney wrote more than seventy novels. In 1961, her book The Mystery of the Haunted Pool won an Edgar Award from the Mystery Writers of America for Best Juvenile novel, and she duplicated the honor in 1964, for The Mystery of the Hidden Hand. In 1988, the MWA gave her a Grand Master Award for lifetime achievement. Whitney died of pneumonia on February 8, 2008, aged 104.
She was born in Japan to American parents and spent her early years in Asia. Whitney wrote more than seventy novels. In 1961, her book The Mystery of the Haunted Pool won an Edgar Award from the Mystery Writers of America for Best Juvenile novel, and she duplicated the honor in 1964, for The Mystery of the Hidden Hand. In 1988, the MWA gave her a Grand Master Award for lifetime achievement. Whitney died of pneumonia on February 8, 2008, aged 104.
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 84 reviews
September 25, 2022
This was another good historical suspense piece by Phyllis A. Whitney. This story was set in New York and one of the main characters was an Egyptologist.
Possible spoilers…..
It’s full of twists and turns. It’s a mostly clean story, but if you are turned off by adulterous actions be mindful of this one.
Possible spoilers…..
It’s full of twists and turns. It’s a mostly clean story, but if you are turned off by adulterous actions be mindful of this one.
September 5, 2011
I have not been a great fan of Phyllis Whitney's novels that I have read to date...recently I started and tossed aside 3 books of hers, and others that I did get through were just pretty ho hum, but I'm sure glad I didn't give up on her. I absolutely loved this book. I realize that it is only a gothic suspense novel from the 60's, 1962 to be exact, and definitely not fine literature, (which I usually try and reserve my 5 star ratings for with well-beloved classics such as Jane Eyre, Pride and Predjudice, etc), but just as I felt about Moura and Dragonwyck, I was totally engaged and immersed in this heroine's world...I did not know what was going to happen next, and I was so on edge wanting to know what was going to happen I ended up reading the whole thing overnight...if that doesn't deserve a 5 star rating, I don't know what else does!
September 3, 2020
(3.5 stars) As a reader of a certain age, I grew up reading Mary Stewart, Victoria Holt, and Phyllis Whitney romantic suspense/Gothic romance. Stewart wrote contemporary romantic suspense, Victoria Holt wrote Victorian Gothics, and Whitney, the only American of the three, wrote in both genres. All three authors were more or less contemporaries, all born in the early 1900s, and they wrote books for decades, beginning in the 1950s.
This particular Gothic takes place in 1870s New York City. It follows much of the formula for Victorian Gothics: There's a young woman alone in the world and struggling to keep her head above water. There's a brooding man, who may or may not be trustworthy. There's a non-brooding male character who seems trustworthy, but who really knows because, remember, it's a Gothic. One or two female characters who actively dislike the heroine. Possible insanity of a character or two.
So, yes, this is formulaic, but I enjoyed it more than many of Whitney's other novels, because this particular female protagonist was a proactive character, rather than the more common reactive one often found in a Whitney Gothic. She is hired by a wealthy family, ostensibly as a seamstress, but actually to take care of the troubled young 9-year-old boy of the family. He is a tortured soul who acts out frequently and is difficult to deal with.
Two years before, he shot and murdered his father, supposedly accidentally, although it seems the family believe it was on purpose. Since this time, the boy's mother has married her late husband's brother and the blended family is dysfunctional, to say the least.
Secrets and lies abound and the truth will be hard for our heroine to uncover, especially when she develops affection for the young boy and also starts to feel a romantic attraction to one of the other characters. There will be an antagonistic relationship for her with some characters. She will find it difficult to know who to trust. And then...another death. But this one will serve as a catalyst to unraveling the whole mystery.
Since this is an old-fashioned, formulaic Gothic, the romance it contains is underdeveloped and the love is only slightly convincing. You have to go into the reading of a Whitney novel with the understanding that it was written in a different time and make allowances for that fact. This, IMO, is one of her better Gothics and filled the bill for me as a comfort read.
This particular Gothic takes place in 1870s New York City. It follows much of the formula for Victorian Gothics: There's a young woman alone in the world and struggling to keep her head above water. There's a brooding man, who may or may not be trustworthy. There's a non-brooding male character who seems trustworthy, but who really knows because, remember, it's a Gothic. One or two female characters who actively dislike the heroine. Possible insanity of a character or two.
So, yes, this is formulaic, but I enjoyed it more than many of Whitney's other novels, because this particular female protagonist was a proactive character, rather than the more common reactive one often found in a Whitney Gothic. She is hired by a wealthy family, ostensibly as a seamstress, but actually to take care of the troubled young 9-year-old boy of the family. He is a tortured soul who acts out frequently and is difficult to deal with.
Two years before, he shot and murdered his father, supposedly accidentally, although it seems the family believe it was on purpose. Since this time, the boy's mother has married her late husband's brother and the blended family is dysfunctional, to say the least.
Secrets and lies abound and the truth will be hard for our heroine to uncover, especially when she develops affection for the young boy and also starts to feel a romantic attraction to one of the other characters. There will be an antagonistic relationship for her with some characters. She will find it difficult to know who to trust. And then...another death. But this one will serve as a catalyst to unraveling the whole mystery.
Since this is an old-fashioned, formulaic Gothic, the romance it contains is underdeveloped and the love is only slightly convincing. You have to go into the reading of a Whitney novel with the understanding that it was written in a different time and make allowances for that fact. This, IMO, is one of her better Gothics and filled the bill for me as a comfort read.
November 3, 2018
American politician and academic Elizabeth Warren said:
“Never be so faithful to your plan that you are unwilling to consider the unexpected. Never be so faithful to your plan that you are unwilling to entertain the improbable opportunity that comes looking for you.”
I thought that quote captured the idea of this story that appealed to me.
When we first meet Megan Kincaid we learn that she is a dressmaker. It’s a career she entered by default, and is certainly not a passion for her. The business was her mother’s dream, one she build painstakingly, client by client over many years. Morgan’s mother became quite busy so she taught Megan the trade so that the family business could keep up with the ever growing demand. Dressmaking was a skill that Megan became proficient at, but she always saw the work as a “job.” Despite the fact that she wasn’t thrilled with the work in the same way her mother was, she did continue to improve and as a result she was able to take over some of the work for a few of her mother’s clients.
But as of late, the hiring of Megan came out of necessity due to the fact that her mother and younger brother were both tragically killed only six months before.
In the opening pages of “Window on the Square” we learn that Megan has been summoned to one of the illustrious mansions on Washington Square, the home of Leslie Reid. She is expecting to be hired on as a dressmaker. She is vaguely aware of the scandal involving the death of Mrs. Reid’s first husband and her subsequent marriage to his older brother. But she knows that these rumors, true or false would have little consequence for her as a dressmaker. Simply put, she needs a job and here is an opportunity.
She arrives at the grand house, naturally expecting to meet with Mrs., Reid, but instead, to her surprise, she is met by Mr. Brandon Reid, her husband. He leads her to the library to discuss the employment opportunity they have in mind for Megan.
The interview itself turns out to be unexpected in every way, confusing Megan, but despite this, she never loses her “footing” in the conversation.
“Tell me about yourself” Mr. Reid asks in his “rich, deep timbre” tone of voice, leaving Megan wondering why this man would be interested in getting to know a woman his wife was to hire as her dressmaker. She begins by telling him about her professional credentials when suddenly Brandon stops her, informing her he’s interested in knowing about her personality, her background and her interests. He seemed surprised to hear of her penchant for history, geography, foreign lands and antiquity.
“You had a brother did you not?” He unexpectedly inquires.
This got Megan thinking about her late twelve-year-old brother and how his tragic death was in some way a release from the heavy burden he was forced to bear at such a young age. Still, Megan missed him dearly, every day. She tells Brandon that her brother had an injury at birth, one that left him permanently with the mental capacity of a child. Even as she was relating this information, she had a feeling that Brandon already knew of it.
And his next statement proved it.
“Miss Kincaid, a mutual friend has told me of how good you were with your brother, and of how he improved to his fullest capacities because of your interest and care.”
Now Megan was more confused than ever, “Why are you asking me these things?” She finally asks. It’s at that point in the conversation that the truth comes out, Brandon turns away from Megan, he’s now looking down to the street below.
“It was at my suggestion that my wife wrote asking you to come here today. Neither of us is interested in your dressmaking skill. She has a son – the son of my brother who is dead. He is a difficult, unbalanced boy. Neither his mother nor I, neither his tutor nor governess, have been able to handle him. He responds to no one. We have reached a point of desperation with him. Would you, Miss Kincaid, consider coming here to devote yourself to this boy?”
And that is the crux of the conversation, the real reason she is here. Megan just stands there.
Startled.
“But I have no training as a teacher” she replies.
“I’ve taken that into consideration” Mr. Reid mentions, then goes on to give the details of the salary offering which causes Megan to gasp inwardly.
“This boy is unbalanced in his mind, like my brother?” Megan asks.
“Unbalanced, yes” Brandon replies, But not in the same way as your brother…his mental growth is not impaired, but he is unpredictable, moody and has a violent, dangerous temper.”
He looks to Megan, then continues.
“There is nothing easy about this assignment Miss Kincaid.”
I really liked what happened next. Megan is willing to entertain the “improbable opportunity that came looking for her.” I liked it because I tend to gravitate to stories that feature courageous characters, especially ones that are courageous, yet practical at the same time.
“May I see the boy?” Megan asks, to which Brandon agrees. He explains that Jeremy is nine years old and that his younger sister, Selina is eight. Miss Thora Garth is the children’s governess.
As I considered Melinda’s request, especially after the dire warnings she’s just received, I can’t help but thinking of a quote by the American writer Minna Antrim:
“A beautiful woman delights the eye, a wise woman, the understanding; a pure one, the soul.”
At this stage of the story Phyllis Whitney offers no clues as to Melinda’s physical attractiveness, but based on how she responds, I did get the indication that she’s wise and I was looking forward to reading how she would find a way to understand young Master Jeremy. What a fantastic story start this was turning out to be!
Coming back to the plot, it is just before Melinda makes her way up to the nursery that an agreement is struck between her and Brandon that it would be best if Jeremy was under the impression that Melinda is joining the household in the role of dressmaker, designing frocks for Miss Selina. This guise would allow Melinda the benefit of observing Jeremy “at a distance” and would also allow him to get used to her presence in a non-invasive way.
She arrives in the nursery where she is met by Selina and governess Garth. Jeremy is sitting alone in the corner, sullenly reading his book. Whitney’s description of how Melinda “sees” Jeremy is excellent:
“An angel, a dark, sullen angel.”
“Wide dark eyes.”
I was able to visualize this troubled boy immediately. I also thought that the boy’s opening remark to Melinda was unexpected:
“Someone has died in your family” He states, perhaps noticing the black mourning dress Melinda is wearing.
In the fleeting few minutes Melinda spends in the nursery she already gains clues as to some of the problems in this environment. Selina, for example, accuses Jeremy of something that turns out to be untrue, the response of the governess making it plain that she favors Selina. This is perhaps partly forgivable considering the monstrous deeds Jeremy was said to have done, but still too far where Melinda is concerned.
Melinda measures Selina, then leaves the nursery. She is completely unsure if she can help Jeremy in any way, and is even afraid of trying. But by the time she reaches the library she is asking herself, “If I do not try to help that boy, who would?”
Much to Brandon’s relief, Melinda greets him with the following statement:
“I don’t know if there’s anything I can do” she begins, “But I see the need. I would like to try, for a time at least. I will not stay if I find myself failing.”
And that’s where the story really began. I was eager to read on.
It’s only a short time after she’s hired that Megan learns a disturbing fact that is that young Jeremy has been accused of murdering his late father in cold blood. The story was that in a fit of rage he’d shot his father with a pistol. The hard evidence was circumstantial, therefore the police gave the boy the benefit of the doubt, but the rumors continued, which only fueled the fire of belief that Jeremy did in fact murder his father. As far as Jeremy’s uncle Brandon and mother Leslie are concerned, he is guilty, but given the circumstances, they are best to simply help the boy forget the past and find his way forward in life.
It is the boy’s uncle, Brandon, who is willing to give Megan a chance to make a positive difference in Jeremy’s life, and since he is the new master of the house, his orders are carried out.
Megan, for her part, is now fully aware of the general consensus of Jeremy’s guilt, furthermore, she understands that the boy’s sullen, withdrawn temperament and sudden aggressive outbursts only solidify many people’s conviction of his guilt.
But Megan can never really bring herself to believe that Jeremy is guilty and early on decides to have faith in his innocence. For me, the fact that almost everyone else assumes the boy is guilty makes Megan’s belief in him so wonderful and special. I found it heartwarming to read that Megan doesn’t just believe he is innocent, but acts in bold and daring ways to try to break through to him while at the same time affirming his innocence.
There is one part in the story where Mr. and Mrs. Reid leave on a short vacation with Jeremy’s sister Selina. This leaves Megan, Jeremy and the governess Miss Garth alone on the upper floors of the mansion. The house is much emptier at this point, since the serving staff are far away on the floors below. It is during this short space of time in the story that two of my favorite scenes happen.
The first one happens right after a terrible scene in which the governess, Miss Garth accuses Jeremy of stealing something. She shakes the boy violently, and drags him to another room. It turns out he admits to guilt in the end, but the rough handling and caustic words of the governess are far more severe than is called for. Young Jeremy is so upset that he begs Megan to lock him in his room for the night. Megan is concerned for Jeremy and her heart breaks at the idea of locking him away, alone and afraid with his own unhealthy thoughts, so she suggests a different idea. Here’s the scene:
“’I’ve a better plan than that’ I told him. ‘Come and help me and I’ll show you.’
He followed me doubtfully into his own room and waited while I stripped his bed.
‘Now then,’ I said when the covers were off, ‘You can help me with the mattress. It’s too heavy for me to manage alone.’
‘What are you going to do with it?’ He asked.
‘Help me and you’ll see,’ I said with as lighthearted a smile as I could manage.
He took one end of the mattress, and I led the way, backing, as we carried it into my room. With a little rearranging of the furniture, we were able to spread it out on the floor near my bed.
‘There!’ I said. “This is where you may sleep tonight. ‘We’ll keep each other company, since there’s no one else upstairs in the house.”
He did not answer of come with me when I ran back for the bedclothes, but stayed where he was, staring at the mattress.
‘You won’t mind sleeping on the floor, will you?’ I asked. ‘It will be like something from a story – like camping out. We’ll put and extra quilt over you to keep away the drafts, and you’ll be cozy warm.’”
Even as I read this small scene, I couldn’t help sensing that Megan’s gesture of inviting Jeremy to sleep her room when he was afraid was a powerful demonstration of her trust in him as well as her desire to connect with the boy in a most forthright genuine way. I just had the feeling this would be a turning point for the positive in their relationship.
The scene also struck a nostalgic chord in me as I used to allow my two younger brothers to “camp out” in my room, especially on the evenings when my parents were out of town, the house was empty, and they were naturally anxious to sleep alone in their own rooms. I would tell stories to them and before we knew it everyone was asleep. In hindsight, thought as the eldest brother I would not have admitted it, I also took comfort from having my two brothers stay in my room on those long dark winter evenings.
The second scene also featured Megan and Jeremy, taking place when Brandon, Leslie and Selina were away on their trip. Megan decides that since the house is so empty and since things have been cheerless in the house for quite some time that she would suggest a special occasion to brighten things up for her and Jeremy.
“That afternoon, when Andrew had gone and we had done our lesson on Egypt, the idea came to me that before his mother and uncle returned, I ought to arrange some sort of festive occasion for Jeremy. Often I regretted his lack of friends, but there was nothing I could do about it for the time being.
When we came into the downstairs hall after our walk, I made my announcement. ‘By the way,’ I said elaborately polite, ‘I am giving a little dinner party this evening, Master Jeremy, and I would like the pleasure of your company. Though perhaps I shouldn’t invite you formally, since you must be the host in your uncle’s absence.’
He looked at me in amazement.
‘I really mean it Jeremy. Come along and let’s see what can be managed.’
We went into the dining room together, and I rang for Henry and braced myself against the butler’s opposition. We would, I informed him, not daring to look straight into that haughty face, omit our early supper tonight. Instead, we would dine at eight, with candlelight and the best linen and silver. And Jeremy should have the privilege of choosing the menu.
Henry surprised me. He did not so much as blink an eye. His haughty mien did not soften, but he made a suitable bow of acquiescence.
‘Yes, miss,’ he said. ‘I will see that everything is properly prepared. May I suggest that Master Jeremy consult with Cook concerning the menu?’
I warned Jeremy that he was to wear his best suit that evening, with the round, starched collar and the soft tie, and I spent as much time with my own dressing, as though I had been going to a real dinner party.
I took out my gown, one I’d seldom worn. It was not altogether in style, but Jeremy was hardly likely to notice. The faille was a soft wisteria color, with black velvet banding for a trim. The fitted bodice was cut with a square neck, and the sleeves came just above my elbows. The tight draping over the hips was edged with accordion pleating, repeated again at the hem and in the fullness that fell away in a small train.
‘This isn’t our grand entrance,’ I said. ‘This time we’ll just run down and check to see that everything is right. Then a little before eight you can knock at my door and escort me downstairs.’”
I adored everything about this part of the story. The thoughtfulness of Megan to think of this wonderful idea, the unique and special opportunity I was for young Jeremy, the idea of a grown woman meticulously getting ready for a dinner with a nine-year-old boy, the dining room table with all it’s finery. And all of this for a boy who, before Megan arrived was largely ignored and barely tolerated.
I was moved by these two scenes and I thought the story was so much better for them!
Neil Gaiman said, “A book is a dream you hold in your hand.” Such a wonderful thing to say…one that applied to “Window on the Square” in so many ways!
I won’t forget this one anytime soon. You should read it!
“Never be so faithful to your plan that you are unwilling to consider the unexpected. Never be so faithful to your plan that you are unwilling to entertain the improbable opportunity that comes looking for you.”
I thought that quote captured the idea of this story that appealed to me.
When we first meet Megan Kincaid we learn that she is a dressmaker. It’s a career she entered by default, and is certainly not a passion for her. The business was her mother’s dream, one she build painstakingly, client by client over many years. Morgan’s mother became quite busy so she taught Megan the trade so that the family business could keep up with the ever growing demand. Dressmaking was a skill that Megan became proficient at, but she always saw the work as a “job.” Despite the fact that she wasn’t thrilled with the work in the same way her mother was, she did continue to improve and as a result she was able to take over some of the work for a few of her mother’s clients.
But as of late, the hiring of Megan came out of necessity due to the fact that her mother and younger brother were both tragically killed only six months before.
In the opening pages of “Window on the Square” we learn that Megan has been summoned to one of the illustrious mansions on Washington Square, the home of Leslie Reid. She is expecting to be hired on as a dressmaker. She is vaguely aware of the scandal involving the death of Mrs. Reid’s first husband and her subsequent marriage to his older brother. But she knows that these rumors, true or false would have little consequence for her as a dressmaker. Simply put, she needs a job and here is an opportunity.
She arrives at the grand house, naturally expecting to meet with Mrs., Reid, but instead, to her surprise, she is met by Mr. Brandon Reid, her husband. He leads her to the library to discuss the employment opportunity they have in mind for Megan.
The interview itself turns out to be unexpected in every way, confusing Megan, but despite this, she never loses her “footing” in the conversation.
“Tell me about yourself” Mr. Reid asks in his “rich, deep timbre” tone of voice, leaving Megan wondering why this man would be interested in getting to know a woman his wife was to hire as her dressmaker. She begins by telling him about her professional credentials when suddenly Brandon stops her, informing her he’s interested in knowing about her personality, her background and her interests. He seemed surprised to hear of her penchant for history, geography, foreign lands and antiquity.
“You had a brother did you not?” He unexpectedly inquires.
This got Megan thinking about her late twelve-year-old brother and how his tragic death was in some way a release from the heavy burden he was forced to bear at such a young age. Still, Megan missed him dearly, every day. She tells Brandon that her brother had an injury at birth, one that left him permanently with the mental capacity of a child. Even as she was relating this information, she had a feeling that Brandon already knew of it.
And his next statement proved it.
“Miss Kincaid, a mutual friend has told me of how good you were with your brother, and of how he improved to his fullest capacities because of your interest and care.”
Now Megan was more confused than ever, “Why are you asking me these things?” She finally asks. It’s at that point in the conversation that the truth comes out, Brandon turns away from Megan, he’s now looking down to the street below.
“It was at my suggestion that my wife wrote asking you to come here today. Neither of us is interested in your dressmaking skill. She has a son – the son of my brother who is dead. He is a difficult, unbalanced boy. Neither his mother nor I, neither his tutor nor governess, have been able to handle him. He responds to no one. We have reached a point of desperation with him. Would you, Miss Kincaid, consider coming here to devote yourself to this boy?”
And that is the crux of the conversation, the real reason she is here. Megan just stands there.
Startled.
“But I have no training as a teacher” she replies.
“I’ve taken that into consideration” Mr. Reid mentions, then goes on to give the details of the salary offering which causes Megan to gasp inwardly.
“This boy is unbalanced in his mind, like my brother?” Megan asks.
“Unbalanced, yes” Brandon replies, But not in the same way as your brother…his mental growth is not impaired, but he is unpredictable, moody and has a violent, dangerous temper.”
He looks to Megan, then continues.
“There is nothing easy about this assignment Miss Kincaid.”
I really liked what happened next. Megan is willing to entertain the “improbable opportunity that came looking for her.” I liked it because I tend to gravitate to stories that feature courageous characters, especially ones that are courageous, yet practical at the same time.
“May I see the boy?” Megan asks, to which Brandon agrees. He explains that Jeremy is nine years old and that his younger sister, Selina is eight. Miss Thora Garth is the children’s governess.
As I considered Melinda’s request, especially after the dire warnings she’s just received, I can’t help but thinking of a quote by the American writer Minna Antrim:
“A beautiful woman delights the eye, a wise woman, the understanding; a pure one, the soul.”
At this stage of the story Phyllis Whitney offers no clues as to Melinda’s physical attractiveness, but based on how she responds, I did get the indication that she’s wise and I was looking forward to reading how she would find a way to understand young Master Jeremy. What a fantastic story start this was turning out to be!
Coming back to the plot, it is just before Melinda makes her way up to the nursery that an agreement is struck between her and Brandon that it would be best if Jeremy was under the impression that Melinda is joining the household in the role of dressmaker, designing frocks for Miss Selina. This guise would allow Melinda the benefit of observing Jeremy “at a distance” and would also allow him to get used to her presence in a non-invasive way.
She arrives in the nursery where she is met by Selina and governess Garth. Jeremy is sitting alone in the corner, sullenly reading his book. Whitney’s description of how Melinda “sees” Jeremy is excellent:
“An angel, a dark, sullen angel.”
“Wide dark eyes.”
I was able to visualize this troubled boy immediately. I also thought that the boy’s opening remark to Melinda was unexpected:
“Someone has died in your family” He states, perhaps noticing the black mourning dress Melinda is wearing.
In the fleeting few minutes Melinda spends in the nursery she already gains clues as to some of the problems in this environment. Selina, for example, accuses Jeremy of something that turns out to be untrue, the response of the governess making it plain that she favors Selina. This is perhaps partly forgivable considering the monstrous deeds Jeremy was said to have done, but still too far where Melinda is concerned.
Melinda measures Selina, then leaves the nursery. She is completely unsure if she can help Jeremy in any way, and is even afraid of trying. But by the time she reaches the library she is asking herself, “If I do not try to help that boy, who would?”
Much to Brandon’s relief, Melinda greets him with the following statement:
“I don’t know if there’s anything I can do” she begins, “But I see the need. I would like to try, for a time at least. I will not stay if I find myself failing.”
And that’s where the story really began. I was eager to read on.
It’s only a short time after she’s hired that Megan learns a disturbing fact that is that young Jeremy has been accused of murdering his late father in cold blood. The story was that in a fit of rage he’d shot his father with a pistol. The hard evidence was circumstantial, therefore the police gave the boy the benefit of the doubt, but the rumors continued, which only fueled the fire of belief that Jeremy did in fact murder his father. As far as Jeremy’s uncle Brandon and mother Leslie are concerned, he is guilty, but given the circumstances, they are best to simply help the boy forget the past and find his way forward in life.
It is the boy’s uncle, Brandon, who is willing to give Megan a chance to make a positive difference in Jeremy’s life, and since he is the new master of the house, his orders are carried out.
Megan, for her part, is now fully aware of the general consensus of Jeremy’s guilt, furthermore, she understands that the boy’s sullen, withdrawn temperament and sudden aggressive outbursts only solidify many people’s conviction of his guilt.
But Megan can never really bring herself to believe that Jeremy is guilty and early on decides to have faith in his innocence. For me, the fact that almost everyone else assumes the boy is guilty makes Megan’s belief in him so wonderful and special. I found it heartwarming to read that Megan doesn’t just believe he is innocent, but acts in bold and daring ways to try to break through to him while at the same time affirming his innocence.
There is one part in the story where Mr. and Mrs. Reid leave on a short vacation with Jeremy’s sister Selina. This leaves Megan, Jeremy and the governess Miss Garth alone on the upper floors of the mansion. The house is much emptier at this point, since the serving staff are far away on the floors below. It is during this short space of time in the story that two of my favorite scenes happen.
The first one happens right after a terrible scene in which the governess, Miss Garth accuses Jeremy of stealing something. She shakes the boy violently, and drags him to another room. It turns out he admits to guilt in the end, but the rough handling and caustic words of the governess are far more severe than is called for. Young Jeremy is so upset that he begs Megan to lock him in his room for the night. Megan is concerned for Jeremy and her heart breaks at the idea of locking him away, alone and afraid with his own unhealthy thoughts, so she suggests a different idea. Here’s the scene:
“’I’ve a better plan than that’ I told him. ‘Come and help me and I’ll show you.’
He followed me doubtfully into his own room and waited while I stripped his bed.
‘Now then,’ I said when the covers were off, ‘You can help me with the mattress. It’s too heavy for me to manage alone.’
‘What are you going to do with it?’ He asked.
‘Help me and you’ll see,’ I said with as lighthearted a smile as I could manage.
He took one end of the mattress, and I led the way, backing, as we carried it into my room. With a little rearranging of the furniture, we were able to spread it out on the floor near my bed.
‘There!’ I said. “This is where you may sleep tonight. ‘We’ll keep each other company, since there’s no one else upstairs in the house.”
He did not answer of come with me when I ran back for the bedclothes, but stayed where he was, staring at the mattress.
‘You won’t mind sleeping on the floor, will you?’ I asked. ‘It will be like something from a story – like camping out. We’ll put and extra quilt over you to keep away the drafts, and you’ll be cozy warm.’”
Even as I read this small scene, I couldn’t help sensing that Megan’s gesture of inviting Jeremy to sleep her room when he was afraid was a powerful demonstration of her trust in him as well as her desire to connect with the boy in a most forthright genuine way. I just had the feeling this would be a turning point for the positive in their relationship.
The scene also struck a nostalgic chord in me as I used to allow my two younger brothers to “camp out” in my room, especially on the evenings when my parents were out of town, the house was empty, and they were naturally anxious to sleep alone in their own rooms. I would tell stories to them and before we knew it everyone was asleep. In hindsight, thought as the eldest brother I would not have admitted it, I also took comfort from having my two brothers stay in my room on those long dark winter evenings.
The second scene also featured Megan and Jeremy, taking place when Brandon, Leslie and Selina were away on their trip. Megan decides that since the house is so empty and since things have been cheerless in the house for quite some time that she would suggest a special occasion to brighten things up for her and Jeremy.
“That afternoon, when Andrew had gone and we had done our lesson on Egypt, the idea came to me that before his mother and uncle returned, I ought to arrange some sort of festive occasion for Jeremy. Often I regretted his lack of friends, but there was nothing I could do about it for the time being.
When we came into the downstairs hall after our walk, I made my announcement. ‘By the way,’ I said elaborately polite, ‘I am giving a little dinner party this evening, Master Jeremy, and I would like the pleasure of your company. Though perhaps I shouldn’t invite you formally, since you must be the host in your uncle’s absence.’
He looked at me in amazement.
‘I really mean it Jeremy. Come along and let’s see what can be managed.’
We went into the dining room together, and I rang for Henry and braced myself against the butler’s opposition. We would, I informed him, not daring to look straight into that haughty face, omit our early supper tonight. Instead, we would dine at eight, with candlelight and the best linen and silver. And Jeremy should have the privilege of choosing the menu.
Henry surprised me. He did not so much as blink an eye. His haughty mien did not soften, but he made a suitable bow of acquiescence.
‘Yes, miss,’ he said. ‘I will see that everything is properly prepared. May I suggest that Master Jeremy consult with Cook concerning the menu?’
I warned Jeremy that he was to wear his best suit that evening, with the round, starched collar and the soft tie, and I spent as much time with my own dressing, as though I had been going to a real dinner party.
I took out my gown, one I’d seldom worn. It was not altogether in style, but Jeremy was hardly likely to notice. The faille was a soft wisteria color, with black velvet banding for a trim. The fitted bodice was cut with a square neck, and the sleeves came just above my elbows. The tight draping over the hips was edged with accordion pleating, repeated again at the hem and in the fullness that fell away in a small train.
‘This isn’t our grand entrance,’ I said. ‘This time we’ll just run down and check to see that everything is right. Then a little before eight you can knock at my door and escort me downstairs.’”
I adored everything about this part of the story. The thoughtfulness of Megan to think of this wonderful idea, the unique and special opportunity I was for young Jeremy, the idea of a grown woman meticulously getting ready for a dinner with a nine-year-old boy, the dining room table with all it’s finery. And all of this for a boy who, before Megan arrived was largely ignored and barely tolerated.
I was moved by these two scenes and I thought the story was so much better for them!
Neil Gaiman said, “A book is a dream you hold in your hand.” Such a wonderful thing to say…one that applied to “Window on the Square” in so many ways!
I won’t forget this one anytime soon. You should read it!
February 25, 2016
When her mother dies, Megan Kincaid is left all alone in the world. Unable to continue her mother's business as a seamstress because she lacks her skills in dressmaking, Megan is suddenly offered a job (and a fine salary) by Mr. Reid to look after his 9-year-old son-in-law Jeremey, whom he describes as a troubled and unbalanced boy. Two years earlier, Jeremy had killed his father by accident, and ever since then his mental condition has only gotten worse.
Against her better judgement, Megan moves in with the Reids and finds herself facing not only the unstable boy but his sick mother, her frightening husband and a jealous and creepy housekeeper. Slowly Megan begins so unravel what really happened that night two years ago…
This is a solid romantic suspense novel that started as a 4-star-book and then lost its steam somewhere around the middle and dwindled down to 3 stars. It is mostly the character of Jeremey that made me read on. I felt so sorry for this little boy who seemed to only inspire fear and disgust in his mother, father-in-law and the staff of the house, and who was clearly just longing for someone to hug him.
The romance is typical for this genre - the heroine falls for a brooding, cold but handsome man and they find love in the end (of course!). There are some threads left dangling so I can't rate it higher, but overall it was a pleasant story to spend some grey January evenings with.
Against her better judgement, Megan moves in with the Reids and finds herself facing not only the unstable boy but his sick mother, her frightening husband and a jealous and creepy housekeeper. Slowly Megan begins so unravel what really happened that night two years ago…
This is a solid romantic suspense novel that started as a 4-star-book and then lost its steam somewhere around the middle and dwindled down to 3 stars. It is mostly the character of Jeremey that made me read on. I felt so sorry for this little boy who seemed to only inspire fear and disgust in his mother, father-in-law and the staff of the house, and who was clearly just longing for someone to hug him.
The romance is typical for this genre - the heroine falls for a brooding, cold but handsome man and they find love in the end (of course!). There are some threads left dangling so I can't rate it higher, but overall it was a pleasant story to spend some grey January evenings with.
August 22, 2012
This was one of the first 'adult' books I'd ever read, one of my mothers favorites. I love the story, even though it's not my usual fare. Ms. Whitney does a brilliant job of writing characters that come alive - from the prim and proper Megan, to the mercurial Brandon, and the dark and forbidding Garth. I've read this story again and again over the years, wearing out the paperback until it is in pieces and held together with a rubber band. I upgraded to the hardcover version so I can keep on re-reading this book - it stands up very well over time.
If you like a 'dark' (kind of gothic) cozy, I think you'll enjoy reading this oldie but goodie.
If you like a 'dark' (kind of gothic) cozy, I think you'll enjoy reading this oldie but goodie.
Read
July 17, 2016I ordinarily love a good Gothic novel , but this is simply sad and depressing . Not sure if I even want to pick it back up....it's not eerie , it's not suspenseful, it's just sad.
May 21, 2013
I read this book after looking for ones similar to Nine Coaches Waiting, by Mary Stewart.
23 year old Megan Kincaid is trying to move on after the different deaths of her family, by keeping her late-mother's dressmaking business alive, though Megan is no amazing seamstress herself. After being summoned to the wealthy Reid household for a dress fitting (on the recommendation of a loyal friend of her late mother's), and coming for an interview, she is asked to stay there on pretense of a seamstress, but to try and help the young 9 year old Jeremy Reid - who after a series of tragedies, is unstable and unbalanced - and seemingly violent. Jeremy's father had been murdered, his mother (Leslie Reid) is withdrawn and mourning, but yet married Jeremy's uncle quickly after (Brandon Reid) - who is now the master of the house and hires Megan on. Mixed with other servants of the house, Megan is in for a suspenseful, haunting stay at the house, and finds love herself.
I debated between 2 and 3 stars with this book. This book held my attention and made me interested and looking forward to continue reading. There was Suspense, and mystery, and a surprising ending. I liked Megan's character - her courage, her perceptive nature, her discipline and willpower, but didn't quite understand her emotional attachment to a certain character she had in the book. I thought the plot was good and had a lot of promise. And in some aspects it met those expectations, and in others fell a little short for me. For that reason, I rated this book 2.75 stars ;) It was an enjoyable read, but I liked Nine Coaches Waiting more.
23 year old Megan Kincaid is trying to move on after the different deaths of her family, by keeping her late-mother's dressmaking business alive, though Megan is no amazing seamstress herself. After being summoned to the wealthy Reid household for a dress fitting (on the recommendation of a loyal friend of her late mother's), and coming for an interview, she is asked to stay there on pretense of a seamstress, but to try and help the young 9 year old Jeremy Reid - who after a series of tragedies, is unstable and unbalanced - and seemingly violent. Jeremy's father had been murdered, his mother (Leslie Reid) is withdrawn and mourning, but yet married Jeremy's uncle quickly after (Brandon Reid) - who is now the master of the house and hires Megan on. Mixed with other servants of the house, Megan is in for a suspenseful, haunting stay at the house, and finds love herself.
I debated between 2 and 3 stars with this book. This book held my attention and made me interested and looking forward to continue reading. There was Suspense, and mystery, and a surprising ending. I liked Megan's character - her courage, her perceptive nature, her discipline and willpower, but didn't quite understand her emotional attachment to a certain character she had in the book. I thought the plot was good and had a lot of promise. And in some aspects it met those expectations, and in others fell a little short for me. For that reason, I rated this book 2.75 stars ;) It was an enjoyable read, but I liked Nine Coaches Waiting more.
October 8, 2012
I adored this book, absolutely devoured it, word for word. I automatically fell in love with Jeremy's character, without him this book may have been too boring to continue, but no, this was one of the most amazing books I've ever laid my eyes upon. The cover of mine is a bit "trudgy" but getting past that I became engrossed in the novel.
November 11, 2011
رواية نافذة على الميدان للمؤلف فليس ا. أوتيني
رواية شيقة جدا...مليئة بالحوادث المثيرة التي
تشد الأحساس وتؤثر في المشاعر فيها حب...حقد,وفيها
صراع وقتل وعنف مما يجعل القارىء في قراءة مستمرة
وذلك لغموضها وحبكتها الرائعة.
رواية شيقة جدا...مليئة بالحوادث المثيرة التي
تشد الأحساس وتؤثر في المشاعر فيها حب...حقد,وفيها
صراع وقتل وعنف مما يجعل القارىء في قراءة مستمرة
وذلك لغموضها وحبكتها الرائعة.
September 18, 2023
A Write to Review
Set in 1870s New York City, this story follows young Megan Kincaid, who receives a summons to the house on Washington Square. There, she meets Brandon Reid, the master of the house, who presents her with an unusual request. Megan is to devote herself to Jeremy, a moody and troubled child who is the son of Mrs. Reid from her previous marriage to Brandon's younger brother, Dwight. Dwight's promising career as New York District Attorney was cut short by a tragic accident involving a gun, allegedly at the hands of seven-year-old Jeremy.
Despite her reservations, Megan accepts the challenge. However, she quickly senses an unsettling atmosphere in the house, filled with lurking evil, hidden emotions, and complex relationships. Megan's trust wavers between Leslie Reid, the elegant yet melancholic beauty, and Brandon, the enigmatic master of the house, whose warm voice contradicts his cold demeanor. She finds herself irresistibly drawn to Brandon, sparking the interest of other household members who take note of their growing attraction.
As Megan grapples with her own deepening feelings, she faces a moral dilemma. She realizes that staying in the Reid home may compromise her integrity, yet leaving would abandon Jeremy to a world where he might be irreparably lost.
The mystery and suspense in this book had me absolutely riveted. Whitney's storytelling skills bring the characters to life in such a way that they practically leap off the pages. Megan Kincaid, in particular, emerges as a truly admirable heroine. Her unwavering sense of duty and her endearing stubbornness carry her through the challenging ordeals she faces while caring for Jeremy.
The pacing of the story is wonderful, making it a fast-paced read that keeps you guessing right up until the very end. Whitney skillfully weaves a tale of intrigue and emotion, and the book's intricate plot keeps you on the edge of your seat. If you're looking for a gripping read that combines mystery, suspense, and well-drawn characters, this is a book that won't disappoint.
Set in 1870s New York City, this story follows young Megan Kincaid, who receives a summons to the house on Washington Square. There, she meets Brandon Reid, the master of the house, who presents her with an unusual request. Megan is to devote herself to Jeremy, a moody and troubled child who is the son of Mrs. Reid from her previous marriage to Brandon's younger brother, Dwight. Dwight's promising career as New York District Attorney was cut short by a tragic accident involving a gun, allegedly at the hands of seven-year-old Jeremy.
Despite her reservations, Megan accepts the challenge. However, she quickly senses an unsettling atmosphere in the house, filled with lurking evil, hidden emotions, and complex relationships. Megan's trust wavers between Leslie Reid, the elegant yet melancholic beauty, and Brandon, the enigmatic master of the house, whose warm voice contradicts his cold demeanor. She finds herself irresistibly drawn to Brandon, sparking the interest of other household members who take note of their growing attraction.
As Megan grapples with her own deepening feelings, she faces a moral dilemma. She realizes that staying in the Reid home may compromise her integrity, yet leaving would abandon Jeremy to a world where he might be irreparably lost.
The mystery and suspense in this book had me absolutely riveted. Whitney's storytelling skills bring the characters to life in such a way that they practically leap off the pages. Megan Kincaid, in particular, emerges as a truly admirable heroine. Her unwavering sense of duty and her endearing stubbornness carry her through the challenging ordeals she faces while caring for Jeremy.
The pacing of the story is wonderful, making it a fast-paced read that keeps you guessing right up until the very end. Whitney skillfully weaves a tale of intrigue and emotion, and the book's intricate plot keeps you on the edge of your seat. If you're looking for a gripping read that combines mystery, suspense, and well-drawn characters, this is a book that won't disappoint.
July 21, 2008
This was one of my favorite Phyllis A Whitney books.
May 31, 2019
Oh my God this was AMAZING
April 18, 2022
It's hard to buy into a romance when you can't understand what the heroine could possible see in the "hero."
Good atmosphere and enjoyable story otherwise.
Good atmosphere and enjoyable story otherwise.
November 6, 2015
How I love to read Gothic Romances. And I am happy to have discovered PAW, who was a wonderful author (and was born in Japan, nonetheless!). I have this book by mere luck; I purchased it by mistake but what a lucky mistake!
It is one of those books that you start reading it and cannot put it down. It reminded me to several books: The King of the Castle; Mistress of Mellyn and The Shivering Sands...
Megan is a young orphan who comes to this mansion to take care of Jeremy, a boy who has a terrible past. He murdered his father two years ago, so he is considered unstable and dangerous. His beautiful mother re-married, this time with her husband's brother, Brandon.
Most of the story takes place inside the mansion. It felt very British-Gothic, although it is American. I say it reminded me of these other novels because, just in in The King of the Castle, there is a scene where Leslie, mistress of the house, attempts to take Megan out of the house, but Brandon will not have it. As in Mistress of Mellyn, Jeremy adores his uncle, but Brandon is indifferent to the poor boy, till Megan's arrival. Only then Brandon realizes Jeremy's feelings and tries hard to be patient and loving to him. The Christmas present was also very similar. And Brandon is always amused when Megan scolds him, which is constantly.
And with The Shivering Sands because Brandon is unhappily married to a beautiful, sickly wife, and has a dark mood: when in anger, he is terrifying, when depressed, he is very gloomy.
The mystery is really a mystery; I had no idea what actually happened, or who was the culprit. There are moments full of tension, which I loved. Megan in in danger few times (she is not the real target), but the setting is dark and there are moments where Jeremy behaves so strangely it made me doubt his mental state.
I did not rate it higher for these reasons:
- Brandon: while I love when the master of the house falls for the proper governess (Megan is not a governess, but something similar), I did not fall for him. He seriously seemed dangerous most of the times; he has a temper where he gets a bit physical (i.e. when in anger, he bangs the table) and he even slaps his wife once! I kind of pity Megan, what kind of brute for a husband she will have. And I don't want to feel pity for the heroine once the book is over.
Also, there is a gossip going on that he had an affair with a certain actress. He never denies nor confirms this gossip (although it is pretty much obvious it is true) so there is never a closure to that issue. Did he end that affair while he was falling for Megan? I would have appreciate it if she questioned him about it; but no, she has her theories but she never claims anything.
- Changes in characters: like Andrew. Or Jeremy, who went from a taciturn, afraid little boy to a "hey, I remember there was a 2nd pistol and a scent of violets in the air", but for two years he has been telling himself and the world, that he pulled the trigger.
- The overuse of the word "boy". Every time Megan and Brandon discuss about Jeremy, they refer to him as "the boy". Err, his name is J-e-r-e-m-y.
- The ending. It was rushed, I hate that the kids were going to live with their grandma, and will Brandon honestly marry Megan in the future? Hmph, I guess his affair/not affair + his temper made me doubt everything about this guy...
In summary, the Gothic was 5/5 and the romance 4/5, although if I analyze it all over again, it would be 3/5. But it was a great reading, and I am dying to read more of her Gothic Romances.
It is one of those books that you start reading it and cannot put it down. It reminded me to several books: The King of the Castle; Mistress of Mellyn and The Shivering Sands...
Megan is a young orphan who comes to this mansion to take care of Jeremy, a boy who has a terrible past. He murdered his father two years ago, so he is considered unstable and dangerous. His beautiful mother re-married, this time with her husband's brother, Brandon.
Most of the story takes place inside the mansion. It felt very British-Gothic, although it is American. I say it reminded me of these other novels because, just in in The King of the Castle, there is a scene where Leslie, mistress of the house, attempts to take Megan out of the house, but Brandon will not have it. As in Mistress of Mellyn, Jeremy adores his uncle, but Brandon is indifferent to the poor boy, till Megan's arrival. Only then Brandon realizes Jeremy's feelings and tries hard to be patient and loving to him. The Christmas present was also very similar. And Brandon is always amused when Megan scolds him, which is constantly.
And with The Shivering Sands because Brandon is unhappily married to a beautiful, sickly wife, and has a dark mood: when in anger, he is terrifying, when depressed, he is very gloomy.
The mystery is really a mystery; I had no idea what actually happened, or who was the culprit. There are moments full of tension, which I loved. Megan in in danger few times (she is not the real target), but the setting is dark and there are moments where Jeremy behaves so strangely it made me doubt his mental state.
I did not rate it higher for these reasons:
- Brandon: while I love when the master of the house falls for the proper governess (Megan is not a governess, but something similar), I did not fall for him. He seriously seemed dangerous most of the times; he has a temper where he gets a bit physical (i.e. when in anger, he bangs the table) and he even slaps his wife once! I kind of pity Megan, what kind of brute for a husband she will have. And I don't want to feel pity for the heroine once the book is over.
Also, there is a gossip going on that he had an affair with a certain actress. He never denies nor confirms this gossip (although it is pretty much obvious it is true) so there is never a closure to that issue. Did he end that affair while he was falling for Megan? I would have appreciate it if she questioned him about it; but no, she has her theories but she never claims anything.
- Changes in characters: like Andrew. Or Jeremy, who went from a taciturn, afraid little boy to a "hey, I remember there was a 2nd pistol and a scent of violets in the air", but for two years he has been telling himself and the world, that he pulled the trigger.
- The overuse of the word "boy". Every time Megan and Brandon discuss about Jeremy, they refer to him as "the boy". Err, his name is J-e-r-e-m-y.
- The ending. It was rushed, I hate that the kids were going to live with their grandma, and will Brandon honestly marry Megan in the future? Hmph, I guess his affair/not affair + his temper made me doubt everything about this guy...
In summary, the Gothic was 5/5 and the romance 4/5, although if I analyze it all over again, it would be 3/5. But it was a great reading, and I am dying to read more of her Gothic Romances.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 1, 2016
A história se passa em Nova York, no ano de 1870, durante o Outono. A protagonista, Megan Kincaid, ainda sofre pela morte da mãe e do irmão mais novo, atropelados por uma carruagem descontrolada. A moça havia assumido os trabalhos de costura de sua mãe, mas era uma costureira medíocre e não acreditava conseguir manter as clientes da mãe por muito tempo.
É neste estado de espírito que Megan recebe uma mensagem da Sra. Brandon Reid, viúva de Dwight Reid, famoso advogado e benfeitor da cidade e agora esposa do antigo cunhado, Brandon Reid. A morte de Dwight havia gerado muitas especulações na época, especialmente por ter sido causada por um tiro acidental desferido por seu filho de sete anos, Jeremy.
Ao chegar na casa dos Reid, a moça fica surpresa ao ser entrevistada por Brandon Reid ao invés de sua esposa. O homem se desculpa por tê-la convocado sob falsos pretextos, pois na verdade ele gostaria que ela cuidasse de seu sobrinho Jeremy. Como o irmão da moça era deficiente e ela sempre se dedicara a ele, ensinando-o, protegendo-o e cuidando-o, ocorrera a Brandon que ela era a pessoa indicada para cuidar de seu sobrinho.
O menino, após o acidente, estava se afastando cada vez mais da família e pessoas em geral, vivendo em meio a morbidez do passado, cada vez mais agressivo. Tocada pelo problema da criança Megan aceita o emprego e se muda para a casa da família na Washington Square, sob o pretexto de costurar para a irmã de Jeremy.
Claro que as coisas não são exatamente o que pareciam vistas de fora. Fazendo parte do dia a dia da casa, Megan percebe que o relacionamento do casal Reid é muito complexo. O homem parece dedicado e ardentemente apaixonado pela esposa, que se mostra fria e distante. A criada pessoal da Sra. Reid cuida das crianças, favorecendo abertamente a menina, Selina, e maltratando o menino sempre que possível. Passa a fazer o mesmo com Megan, perseguindo-a e afrontando-a. O único que parece simpatizar com a moça é o professor das crianças, Sr. Beach, e mesmo ele acredita que a missão de Megan é uma causa perdida.
Megan não é nenhuma mocinha assustada, o que me deixou bem satisfeita. Ela decide ajudar o menino e se esforça por isso, mesmo com as reações negativas dele, mesmo com o ódio que demonstra. De quebra também se aproxima da menina e acaba por se afeiçoar pelas duas crianças. Quando a criada peste tenta interferir, prejudicando o menino, Megan se mostra firme, afastando a mulher e assumindo por completo os cuidados em relação a ele.
Em meio a tudo isso, a moça fica se questionando o que realmente aconteceu entre Jeremy e seu pai. Por que todos parecem ter medo do menino? Por que não a querem naquela casa? por que a Sra. reid passa a maior parte do tempo trancada em seu quarto e por que o professor quer que ela parta para que algo terrível (nas palavras dele) não aconteça?
Algumas respostas vão surgindo com o tempo, assim como o amor que ela passa a sentir por Brandon Reid. Eu realmente não gosto de histórias em que um dos protagonistas é casado com outra pessoa, mas a situação é tão bem resolvida, que fica totalmente aceitável.
Eu considero este um dos melhores livros de Phyllis A. Whitney e recomendo para quem gosta de um romance cheio de suspense, mistério, com uma mocinha que não para até descobrir a verdade e que luta para proteger os seus e que não recua frente a qualquer impedimento. Além disso tudo, Brandon Reid é um protagonista de peso. A melhor definição possível para "alto, sombrio, bonito e misterioso" hehehehehe.
É neste estado de espírito que Megan recebe uma mensagem da Sra. Brandon Reid, viúva de Dwight Reid, famoso advogado e benfeitor da cidade e agora esposa do antigo cunhado, Brandon Reid. A morte de Dwight havia gerado muitas especulações na época, especialmente por ter sido causada por um tiro acidental desferido por seu filho de sete anos, Jeremy.
Ao chegar na casa dos Reid, a moça fica surpresa ao ser entrevistada por Brandon Reid ao invés de sua esposa. O homem se desculpa por tê-la convocado sob falsos pretextos, pois na verdade ele gostaria que ela cuidasse de seu sobrinho Jeremy. Como o irmão da moça era deficiente e ela sempre se dedicara a ele, ensinando-o, protegendo-o e cuidando-o, ocorrera a Brandon que ela era a pessoa indicada para cuidar de seu sobrinho.
O menino, após o acidente, estava se afastando cada vez mais da família e pessoas em geral, vivendo em meio a morbidez do passado, cada vez mais agressivo. Tocada pelo problema da criança Megan aceita o emprego e se muda para a casa da família na Washington Square, sob o pretexto de costurar para a irmã de Jeremy.
Claro que as coisas não são exatamente o que pareciam vistas de fora. Fazendo parte do dia a dia da casa, Megan percebe que o relacionamento do casal Reid é muito complexo. O homem parece dedicado e ardentemente apaixonado pela esposa, que se mostra fria e distante. A criada pessoal da Sra. Reid cuida das crianças, favorecendo abertamente a menina, Selina, e maltratando o menino sempre que possível. Passa a fazer o mesmo com Megan, perseguindo-a e afrontando-a. O único que parece simpatizar com a moça é o professor das crianças, Sr. Beach, e mesmo ele acredita que a missão de Megan é uma causa perdida.
Megan não é nenhuma mocinha assustada, o que me deixou bem satisfeita. Ela decide ajudar o menino e se esforça por isso, mesmo com as reações negativas dele, mesmo com o ódio que demonstra. De quebra também se aproxima da menina e acaba por se afeiçoar pelas duas crianças. Quando a criada peste tenta interferir, prejudicando o menino, Megan se mostra firme, afastando a mulher e assumindo por completo os cuidados em relação a ele.
Em meio a tudo isso, a moça fica se questionando o que realmente aconteceu entre Jeremy e seu pai. Por que todos parecem ter medo do menino? Por que não a querem naquela casa? por que a Sra. reid passa a maior parte do tempo trancada em seu quarto e por que o professor quer que ela parta para que algo terrível (nas palavras dele) não aconteça?
Algumas respostas vão surgindo com o tempo, assim como o amor que ela passa a sentir por Brandon Reid. Eu realmente não gosto de histórias em que um dos protagonistas é casado com outra pessoa, mas a situação é tão bem resolvida, que fica totalmente aceitável.
Eu considero este um dos melhores livros de Phyllis A. Whitney e recomendo para quem gosta de um romance cheio de suspense, mistério, com uma mocinha que não para até descobrir a verdade e que luta para proteger os seus e que não recua frente a qualquer impedimento. Além disso tudo, Brandon Reid é um protagonista de peso. A melhor definição possível para "alto, sombrio, bonito e misterioso" hehehehehe.
December 7, 2017
Megan Kincaid, all alone after the deaths of her mother and younger brother in a tragic accident, is unsure of how she will make a living. She accepts a position as care taker for a troubled boy, in the home of the wealthy Reid family in late nineteenth-century New York City. The house and its occupants hold many secrets, including murder, and Megan must unravel all in order to help the little boy she comes to love.
There is nothing quite so good as a Phyllis A. Whitney book. I grew up reading them, and am so pleased Open Road Media has made them available in ebook format for the enjoyment of future generations.
There is nothing quite so good as a Phyllis A. Whitney book. I grew up reading them, and am so pleased Open Road Media has made them available in ebook format for the enjoyment of future generations.
May 31, 2016
I've lately been reading some gothic romances from the 1970s and I've been pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed them. Maybe it's because they are pretty much variations on Jane Eyre. This one, about a dressmaker who very quickly becomes a governess to a violent young boy, had me reading non-stop for hours. The last third is a bit crammed together, with plot twists on top of plot twists in a way that strains credibility. But on the whole, I enjoyed it. A good bit of fluff.
May 23, 2013
I adored this book, absolutely devoured it, word for word. I automatically fell in love with Jeremy's character, without him this book may have been too boring to continue, but no, this was one of the most amazing books I've ever laid my eyes upon. The cover of mine is a bit "trudgy" but getting past that I became engrossed in the novel.
September 9, 2013
A young woman is hired to rehabilitate a boy who has been accused of killing his own father. Of course, like all gothics, everything is not what it appears to be...
A traditional gothic romance with lots of suspense and creepy personalities. I enjoyed it immensely -- a nice break from reality. Whitney almost always satisfies.
A traditional gothic romance with lots of suspense and creepy personalities. I enjoyed it immensely -- a nice break from reality. Whitney almost always satisfies.
September 17, 2010
Hated that the romance was with the married man, even though his marriage had never been consumated. But the storyline was FANTASTIC! She portrays the children very well and it was truly scarey and mysterious. I LOVED this book!
July 5, 2023
My mother says this is the book from which she got my name. I really liked this book as a teenager/young woman, but I don't know how I'd feel about it now. I need to reread it and see.
Update 05/05/23:
Not a keeper. Quite irritating actually.
Update 05/05/23:
Not a keeper. Quite irritating actually.
July 9, 2011
It's a mystery romance that kept me guessing to the end. Even though this is my second read, first one was about 20 years ago (I feel old!) I appropriated it from my mother's shelf, I should probably give it back.
January 27, 2014
I used to devour her books as fast as I could find them (at the library, pre-Amazon and in a town without a great book store) and this is one I remember loving. Classic gothic suspense with a hero who is cold and brooding but never cruel or contemptuous.
July 14, 2008
Very good reading. . . keeps you going the whole time. Mystery and a little bit of romance. I couldn't put it down. Don't read the last few pages first or it will spoil everything!
May 31, 2010
See Quicksilver Pool.
August 22, 2012
Paperback version of the Hardcover I've already reviewed.
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February 22, 2013Revelaciones
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