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Mr. Wicker
Alicia Baum is missing a deadly childhood memory. Located beyond life, The Library of Lost Childhood Memories holds the answer. The Librarian is Mr. Wicker—a seductive yet sinister creature with an unthinkable past and an agenda just as lethal. After committing suicide, Alicia finds herself before the Librarian, who informs her that her lost memory is not only the reason she took her life, but the cause of every bad thing that has happened to her.
Alicia spurns Mr. Wicker and attempts to enter the hereafter without the Book that would make her spirit whole. But instead of the oblivion she craves, she finds herself in a psychiatric hold at Bayford Hospital, where the staff is more pernicious than its patients.
Child psychiatrist Dr. James Farron is researching an unusual phenomenon: traumatized children whisper to a mysterious figure in their sleep. When they awaken, they forget both the traumatic event and the character that kept them company in their dreams—someone they call "Mr. Wicker."
During an emergency room shift, Dr. Farron hears an unconscious Alicia talking to Mr. Wicker—the first time he's heard of an adult speaking to the presence. Drawn to the mystery, and then to each other, they team up to find the memory before it annihilates Alicia for good. To do so they must struggle not only against Mr. Wicker's passions, but also a powerful attraction that threatens to derail her search, ruin Dr. Farron’s career, and inflame the Librarian’s fury.
After all, Mr. Wicker wants Alicia to himself, and will destroy anyone to get what he wants. Even Alicia herself.
Alicia spurns Mr. Wicker and attempts to enter the hereafter without the Book that would make her spirit whole. But instead of the oblivion she craves, she finds herself in a psychiatric hold at Bayford Hospital, where the staff is more pernicious than its patients.
Child psychiatrist Dr. James Farron is researching an unusual phenomenon: traumatized children whisper to a mysterious figure in their sleep. When they awaken, they forget both the traumatic event and the character that kept them company in their dreams—someone they call "Mr. Wicker."
During an emergency room shift, Dr. Farron hears an unconscious Alicia talking to Mr. Wicker—the first time he's heard of an adult speaking to the presence. Drawn to the mystery, and then to each other, they team up to find the memory before it annihilates Alicia for good. To do so they must struggle not only against Mr. Wicker's passions, but also a powerful attraction that threatens to derail her search, ruin Dr. Farron’s career, and inflame the Librarian’s fury.
After all, Mr. Wicker wants Alicia to himself, and will destroy anyone to get what he wants. Even Alicia herself.
236 pages, Paperback
First published September 16, 2014
42 people are currently reading
1286 people want to read
About the author
Maria Alexander
34 books129 followersMaria Alexander is an award-winning author of YA and adult fiction. Her debut novel, MR. WICKER, won the 2014 Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in a First Novel. Her debut YA novel, SNOWED, both won the 2016 Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in a Young Adult Novel and was nominated for the 2017 Anthony Award for Best Children's/Young Adult Novel. Her latest novel, BRIMSTONE & BLADES, won three 1st place awards at The BookFest in Fall 2025, including YA Fantasy, YA Fiction, and LGBTQIA+ Fiction.
When she’s not stabbing people with her foil, she’s being outrageously spooky or writing Doctor Who filk. She lives in Los Angeles with two ungrateful cats, a Jewish Christmas caroler, and a purse called Trog.
When she’s not stabbing people with her foil, she’s being outrageously spooky or writing Doctor Who filk. She lives in Los Angeles with two ungrateful cats, a Jewish Christmas caroler, and a purse called Trog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
June 8, 2015
This book contains a multitude of clunky, awkward, or just plain bad similes, like bacteria in an unpopped pimple. The plot wanders and roams alarmingly, like a Honda being driven by an armadillo on the beltway. I only finished out of sheer stubbornness, like a lugnut smeared with Superglue. In fact, I found it absolutely undigestible, like a Twinkee that's been in the cupboard since 1966. I understand it started life as a screenplay. Gee, I can't fathom why it wasn't picked up - it's as light and fresh as Don Draper after a 3-week bender. Be afraid of its badness - be very afraid.
February 28, 2015
DISCLAIMER: The author and I share a publisher. However, I purchased this novel for full price.
Whenever I read a book, my husband often asks me how I liked it. Usually I answer something along the lines of “It was okay. Not totally my cup of tea, but I enjoyed it.” His response: “Oh, so that means you’ll give it 5 stars.”
Here’s the thing I’ve noticed. Writer/English major types don’t tend to rate books the way “normal” people do. A history of trained literary criticism means that we are more easily able to separate our personal opinion of the book from the quality of the writing and storytelling.
MR WICKER is a perfect example of that. If it hadn’t been for Women in Horror Month, this book probably wouldn’t have made it to the top of the “to be read” pile for MONTHS, because this generally isn’t what I go for. I read a few chapters a day and got distracted halfway through by chain-watching AN IDIOT ABROAD on Netflix. I didn’t immediately connect with any of the characters (until Drunos), and like previously mentioned, it’s harder for me to engross myself in horror than in, say, fantasy or science-fiction. But that’s a personal preference, not a commentary on the quality of this book. Don’t get me wrong, it was far from a chore to read, but it wasn’t really “my cup of tea.”
However, it’s also a fucking amazing book. Well-crafted, completely unpredictable, secondary characters as well developed as the primary characters, and a plot woven just right. The author mentions at the end that this was originally developed to be a film. This could have led to stilted atmosphere and half-assed descriptions, but the exact opposite is true. When I was reading this novel, I was IN this novel. I feel bad for the people in a parallel universe where this was made into a movie, because they seriously missed out!
At the time of this writing, this book has been nominated for a Stoker Award for best first novel. It absolutely deserves to win, and my fingers are crossed!
Whenever I read a book, my husband often asks me how I liked it. Usually I answer something along the lines of “It was okay. Not totally my cup of tea, but I enjoyed it.” His response: “Oh, so that means you’ll give it 5 stars.”
Here’s the thing I’ve noticed. Writer/English major types don’t tend to rate books the way “normal” people do. A history of trained literary criticism means that we are more easily able to separate our personal opinion of the book from the quality of the writing and storytelling.
MR WICKER is a perfect example of that. If it hadn’t been for Women in Horror Month, this book probably wouldn’t have made it to the top of the “to be read” pile for MONTHS, because this generally isn’t what I go for. I read a few chapters a day and got distracted halfway through by chain-watching AN IDIOT ABROAD on Netflix. I didn’t immediately connect with any of the characters (until Drunos), and like previously mentioned, it’s harder for me to engross myself in horror than in, say, fantasy or science-fiction. But that’s a personal preference, not a commentary on the quality of this book. Don’t get me wrong, it was far from a chore to read, but it wasn’t really “my cup of tea.”
However, it’s also a fucking amazing book. Well-crafted, completely unpredictable, secondary characters as well developed as the primary characters, and a plot woven just right. The author mentions at the end that this was originally developed to be a film. This could have led to stilted atmosphere and half-assed descriptions, but the exact opposite is true. When I was reading this novel, I was IN this novel. I feel bad for the people in a parallel universe where this was made into a movie, because they seriously missed out!
At the time of this writing, this book has been nominated for a Stoker Award for best first novel. It absolutely deserves to win, and my fingers are crossed!
February 18, 2023
There were things I enjoyed about this book but I guess I just didn’t connect with it as others did. The story is good about the main character Alicia, but I had a hard time getting interested in the backstory of Mr. Wicker himself. The long flashback to his story really bogged down the overall story for me. I didn’t really connect with the relationships between Alicia and Mr. Wicker and her therapist. I pushed through to finish because I was interested in what would happen to Alicia, but it was a struggle for me.
August 13, 2014
Full review at http://thebookshelfgargoyle.wordpress... (Aug 15)
I received a digital copy of this book for review from the publisher.
Ten Second Synopsis:
When Alicia commits suicide, she thinks that her problems are behind her. Alicia soon learns that most depressing law of the universe: things can always get worse.
Mr Wicker was a lot more graphic in its horror and violence than the books that I usually read, but I suspect it will greatly appeal to those who regularly enjoy this genre. Graphic descriptions aside though, the author manages to deliver a pretty complex storyline without losing control of any of the multiple plot threads. Throughout the book, there’s a palpable sense of danger to Alicia and the feeling that things aren’t what they seem.
Dr Farron is an instantly likeable, if somewhat stereotypical character, fulfilling the role of Alicia’s protector and champion when all around her seem to discount her experiences as the ravings of a madwoman. The author manages to throw any stereotypes out the window with the introduction of a new and entirely unexpected plotline right in the middle of the book that sheds light on the character of Mr Wicker and the reasons why he is so interested in Alicia herself.
Underlying all of this is Alicia’s missing memory and how this has contributed to her unraveling life. This mystery is played out slowly, as Alicia dips into her family history in sessions with Dr Farron, but can’t quite grasp the memory that Mr Wicker guards so closely. The inclusion of this personal psychological mystery as one of the major plotlines gives a nice break from all the other strangeness going on in the book and allows for a change of pace that I appreciated when it popped up every now and then.
Overall, I’d say that this book has a satisfying blend of fantasy themes, anticipated romance, family secrets, horror and mystery and will appeal to those who are looking for a complex story with a lot of twists and turns. And large, flapping birds appearing in odd places.
I received a digital copy of this book for review from the publisher.
Ten Second Synopsis:
When Alicia commits suicide, she thinks that her problems are behind her. Alicia soon learns that most depressing law of the universe: things can always get worse.
Mr Wicker was a lot more graphic in its horror and violence than the books that I usually read, but I suspect it will greatly appeal to those who regularly enjoy this genre. Graphic descriptions aside though, the author manages to deliver a pretty complex storyline without losing control of any of the multiple plot threads. Throughout the book, there’s a palpable sense of danger to Alicia and the feeling that things aren’t what they seem.
Dr Farron is an instantly likeable, if somewhat stereotypical character, fulfilling the role of Alicia’s protector and champion when all around her seem to discount her experiences as the ravings of a madwoman. The author manages to throw any stereotypes out the window with the introduction of a new and entirely unexpected plotline right in the middle of the book that sheds light on the character of Mr Wicker and the reasons why he is so interested in Alicia herself.
Underlying all of this is Alicia’s missing memory and how this has contributed to her unraveling life. This mystery is played out slowly, as Alicia dips into her family history in sessions with Dr Farron, but can’t quite grasp the memory that Mr Wicker guards so closely. The inclusion of this personal psychological mystery as one of the major plotlines gives a nice break from all the other strangeness going on in the book and allows for a change of pace that I appreciated when it popped up every now and then.
Overall, I’d say that this book has a satisfying blend of fantasy themes, anticipated romance, family secrets, horror and mystery and will appeal to those who are looking for a complex story with a lot of twists and turns. And large, flapping birds appearing in odd places.
January 27, 2015
This book started off strong and did not pull any punches. From the opening scene when the protagonist commits suicide, to some of her encounters in a mental institution, the author does not hold back. I really enjoyed the main character of Alicia Baum; she is strong in that she has opinions and looks out for herself, but she's also vulnerable and that makes her interesting. There are some really creepy characters and scenes in this book, totally delivers on the horror and tension. The end of the story was weighty and satisfying, and even somewhat heartwarming. I'm definitely interested in reading more of Ms. Alexander's work.
abandoned
July 31, 2015Too dense and grim a start
March 16, 2015
In her debut novel, Alexander draws from mythological sources, particularly Celtic, to form a richly imaginative story that combines elements of fantasy, horror, romance, and historical novels.
In the throes of depression and instability horror writer Alicia Baum succumbs to suicide. Rather than offering any release, she finds herself in a timeworn library before a strange man who speaks of lost memories and a desire born from destiny to have her stay beside him, Mr. Wicker, in this mysterious realm beyond life where he can reunite her with all she has lost. Alicia, despite recognizing this sense of incompleteness within herself that has fueled her mental instability, chooses instead to flee from the uncertain strangeness of Mr. Wicker and his abode. Eternal rest ever elusive, Alicia awakens back to the reality of life, placed in a psychiatric ward under the care of doctors who would never accept her odd experiences.
But, Dr. James Farron has heard child patients in his care whisper in their dreams about the uncanny Mr. Wicker, and overhearing Alicia do the same draws him into serving as her advocate and protector, from her own mind and the corruption of hospital staff. In return he hopes to finally discover the secret to the Mr Wicker phenomena and save his patients.
A synopsis of Mr. Wicker‘s plot simply can not do its intricacies and many layers justice, and too much information can spoil the fun. In a way, Alexander has constructed the novel like a puzzle, and some pieces can be found outside of the novel proper on her website to uncover new secrets and connections. This construction fits well conceptually with the intermixing of genres that Mr. Wicker for the most part manages to handle rather well. She handles the balance between horror, fantasy, and romance rather well, particularly for a first novel. The story was originally envisioned as a film script and the fluidity of events amid the intertwined structure of character-history-reveal shows the marks of this.
My only major quibble is with the extended interlude toward the novel’s end that makes up the more ‘historical’ genre aspect of the novel. Revealing Mr. Wicker’s past, this section is actually one of my favorite portions of the novel in terms of the language and development on its own. But within the whole it ends up breaking the flow of everything around it, not fully integrated into the whole. Personally I can see this historical interlude working well on the screen, but within the book it felt almost a disruptive info-dump of revelation that may have felt more natural interwoven as all other elements of the novel are.
Rather than being the clear-cut villain as I expected, Mr. Wicker is in fact far more complex, full of bittersweet tragedy. The significance of his name will be familiar to anyone who’s seen either of the Wicker Man films or knows that aspect of Celtic history. I particularly enjoyed Mr. Wicker’s corvoid companions. While I knew of their place in Norse mythology, I hadn’t realized that the raven had similar counterparts in Celtic.
Alicia’s allure as a character arises from her opposing dualities. She is drawn alternatively between life and death, between the influence of Mr. Wicker and Dr. Farron, fear of her present mind and desire to reclaim past memories. Alicia has moments of strong independence and making clear decisions, but then also times where she foolishly blunders or shows utter dependence on a male character. Mr. Wicker and Dr. Farron are (selfishly in one case, more altruistically in the other) each intent on claiming her, either as a sort of property or as a case for care, respectively. For much of the novel Alicia permits herself to be defined in this way, but she ultimately reaches her own self discovery and road to follow, so I’d encourage any readers at first put off by this to stay with the story.
While extremely likable as a character, Dr. Farron is rather predictable and one dimensional, as are the secondary characters of the novel, particularly another doctor who serves as the moral opposite of Farron. To be fair, the unique development of Alicia and Mr. Wicker could also arise from this story’s origin as screenplay, where development of more than a couple characters is simply not recommended.
Ultimately fans of dark fantasy who enjoy a touch of mystery and romance will find Mr. Wicker worth a look, an intricate Celtic knot that Alexander has woven quite well for a debut. I think a tale destined from the start for the page rather than the screen will even more deeply reveal her magic and talent for storytelling.
Disclaimer: I received a free advanced reading copy of this from Raw Dog Screaming Press in exchange for an honest review that originally appeared at www.Reading1000Lives.com
In the throes of depression and instability horror writer Alicia Baum succumbs to suicide. Rather than offering any release, she finds herself in a timeworn library before a strange man who speaks of lost memories and a desire born from destiny to have her stay beside him, Mr. Wicker, in this mysterious realm beyond life where he can reunite her with all she has lost. Alicia, despite recognizing this sense of incompleteness within herself that has fueled her mental instability, chooses instead to flee from the uncertain strangeness of Mr. Wicker and his abode. Eternal rest ever elusive, Alicia awakens back to the reality of life, placed in a psychiatric ward under the care of doctors who would never accept her odd experiences.
But, Dr. James Farron has heard child patients in his care whisper in their dreams about the uncanny Mr. Wicker, and overhearing Alicia do the same draws him into serving as her advocate and protector, from her own mind and the corruption of hospital staff. In return he hopes to finally discover the secret to the Mr Wicker phenomena and save his patients.
A synopsis of Mr. Wicker‘s plot simply can not do its intricacies and many layers justice, and too much information can spoil the fun. In a way, Alexander has constructed the novel like a puzzle, and some pieces can be found outside of the novel proper on her website to uncover new secrets and connections. This construction fits well conceptually with the intermixing of genres that Mr. Wicker for the most part manages to handle rather well. She handles the balance between horror, fantasy, and romance rather well, particularly for a first novel. The story was originally envisioned as a film script and the fluidity of events amid the intertwined structure of character-history-reveal shows the marks of this.
My only major quibble is with the extended interlude toward the novel’s end that makes up the more ‘historical’ genre aspect of the novel. Revealing Mr. Wicker’s past, this section is actually one of my favorite portions of the novel in terms of the language and development on its own. But within the whole it ends up breaking the flow of everything around it, not fully integrated into the whole. Personally I can see this historical interlude working well on the screen, but within the book it felt almost a disruptive info-dump of revelation that may have felt more natural interwoven as all other elements of the novel are.
Rather than being the clear-cut villain as I expected, Mr. Wicker is in fact far more complex, full of bittersweet tragedy. The significance of his name will be familiar to anyone who’s seen either of the Wicker Man films or knows that aspect of Celtic history. I particularly enjoyed Mr. Wicker’s corvoid companions. While I knew of their place in Norse mythology, I hadn’t realized that the raven had similar counterparts in Celtic.
Alicia’s allure as a character arises from her opposing dualities. She is drawn alternatively between life and death, between the influence of Mr. Wicker and Dr. Farron, fear of her present mind and desire to reclaim past memories. Alicia has moments of strong independence and making clear decisions, but then also times where she foolishly blunders or shows utter dependence on a male character. Mr. Wicker and Dr. Farron are (selfishly in one case, more altruistically in the other) each intent on claiming her, either as a sort of property or as a case for care, respectively. For much of the novel Alicia permits herself to be defined in this way, but she ultimately reaches her own self discovery and road to follow, so I’d encourage any readers at first put off by this to stay with the story.
While extremely likable as a character, Dr. Farron is rather predictable and one dimensional, as are the secondary characters of the novel, particularly another doctor who serves as the moral opposite of Farron. To be fair, the unique development of Alicia and Mr. Wicker could also arise from this story’s origin as screenplay, where development of more than a couple characters is simply not recommended.
Ultimately fans of dark fantasy who enjoy a touch of mystery and romance will find Mr. Wicker worth a look, an intricate Celtic knot that Alexander has woven quite well for a debut. I think a tale destined from the start for the page rather than the screen will even more deeply reveal her magic and talent for storytelling.
Disclaimer: I received a free advanced reading copy of this from Raw Dog Screaming Press in exchange for an honest review that originally appeared at www.Reading1000Lives.com
October 12, 2014
Alicia Baum is a horror writer who thinks she has successfully committed suicide only to end up across from a demon called Mr. Wicker. He wants to subject her to all kinds of vile things and she ends up more confused to have ended up from being with him to being in a psych ward, which would be jarring for anyone.
One of the praise quotes compares the author to an angrier Neil Gaiman, but after reading "Mr. Wicker," I sensed more of a Clive Barker feel to it. One of the aspects that most resonated with me was that Alicia seemed to have "lost it" as in her writing mojo to the point that she felt she wasn't a writer anymore. Another aspect I liked was Alicia's simultaneous revulsion of--and desire for--Mr. Wicker. As the book went on, the story became more intriguing.
Though some of Alicia's behaviour was erratic, violent and unstable, I sympathized with her and the struggles she'd gone through. The tension between Alicia and Dr. Farron also added to the narrative, making things more complex and interesting. What stood out to me most was the attention to characterization from the most major players to the ravens associated with Mr. Wicker, which brought back shades of the "Sandman" graphic novel series from Neil Gaiman.
One of my quibbles was that I didn't enjoy the sections involving the history of Mr. Wicker and the past lives coming full circle to the present day, which, although it was vital to the overall story felt like it dragged for me at times. Still, Mr. Wicker was as much a tragic figure as Alicia, a tormented antagonist with his own nuances and complexities. Although I initially didn't care for the forays into the past, by the end, Alexander did tie up the loose ends and everything made sense as things began to click into place for Alicia.
"Mr. Wicker" doesn't follow the usual trajectory of "bad guy threatens to get in good guy's way, good guy fights bad guy, good guy wins, happily ever after," which made it that much more of an impactful tale. If you're looking for cookie cutter fantasy, look somewhere else. This book is dark urban fantasy that's a breath of fresh air.
One of the praise quotes compares the author to an angrier Neil Gaiman, but after reading "Mr. Wicker," I sensed more of a Clive Barker feel to it. One of the aspects that most resonated with me was that Alicia seemed to have "lost it" as in her writing mojo to the point that she felt she wasn't a writer anymore. Another aspect I liked was Alicia's simultaneous revulsion of--and desire for--Mr. Wicker. As the book went on, the story became more intriguing.
Though some of Alicia's behaviour was erratic, violent and unstable, I sympathized with her and the struggles she'd gone through. The tension between Alicia and Dr. Farron also added to the narrative, making things more complex and interesting. What stood out to me most was the attention to characterization from the most major players to the ravens associated with Mr. Wicker, which brought back shades of the "Sandman" graphic novel series from Neil Gaiman.
One of my quibbles was that I didn't enjoy the sections involving the history of Mr. Wicker and the past lives coming full circle to the present day, which, although it was vital to the overall story felt like it dragged for me at times. Still, Mr. Wicker was as much a tragic figure as Alicia, a tormented antagonist with his own nuances and complexities. Although I initially didn't care for the forays into the past, by the end, Alexander did tie up the loose ends and everything made sense as things began to click into place for Alicia.
"Mr. Wicker" doesn't follow the usual trajectory of "bad guy threatens to get in good guy's way, good guy fights bad guy, good guy wins, happily ever after," which made it that much more of an impactful tale. If you're looking for cookie cutter fantasy, look somewhere else. This book is dark urban fantasy that's a breath of fresh air.
December 2, 2015
I registered a book at BookCrossing.com!
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/13372451
I was a tad disappointed that the ravens weren't more anthropomorphic and that they weren't given more "air time." It's a Furry thing. :-)
But it's really hard to be disappointed by anything else in this book. The plotting seemed very Neil Gaiman and the dialogue reminded me of the best voices of Richard Matheson. In fact, most of this book with it's pacing and structure reminded me of The Shrinking Man, Hell House, and Bid Time Return (Somewhere in Time) in turns with its skill of marking the fantastic while all the time keeping much of the world grounded and realistic.
I loved all the train tunnel scenes, but its the dance numbers I'll remember for a long time.
http://www.BookCrossing.com/journal/13372451
I was a tad disappointed that the ravens weren't more anthropomorphic and that they weren't given more "air time." It's a Furry thing. :-)
But it's really hard to be disappointed by anything else in this book. The plotting seemed very Neil Gaiman and the dialogue reminded me of the best voices of Richard Matheson. In fact, most of this book with it's pacing and structure reminded me of The Shrinking Man, Hell House, and Bid Time Return (Somewhere in Time) in turns with its skill of marking the fantastic while all the time keeping much of the world grounded and realistic.
I loved all the train tunnel scenes, but its the dance numbers I'll remember for a long time.
November 8, 2014
This was a lot of fun because even though it has horror elements it was a mystery that had to unravel in its own time. And time is the mystery here. What is going on now? What happened back then? What about WAY BACK then? Ancient rites and forgotten memories are weapons and learning the truth may be the greatest torture of all. But what are we without knowing where we came from?
April 17, 2015
Mr. Wicker by Maria Alexander was a dark fantasy written with such visuals that I can still see Mr. Wicker waltzing around the candle lit library with Alicia in his arms smudging her with his ash. This story is packed full of twists and turns and characters that we cringe away from because of her attention to the sinister details.
November 29, 2014
A fabulous exploration of the causes and consequences of suppressed memories. I really enjoyed this.
May 6, 2015
Maria Alexander has been around for awhile and I've long been a huge fan of her work. It was shocking, therefore, when I discovered that MR. WICKER was her debut novel. That an author with her talents and track-record doesn't have a dozen or more books out there is a damned shame.
Let me start with a disclaimer or sorts: There is absolutely nothing about MR. WICKER that would ordinarily appeal to me. It's not my kind of book and, to be frank, had it not been written by Alexander I would probably have skipped it. That being said, the book was nominated for the Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in a First Novel. If it doesn't win, there is no God!
Alexander's prose is, in a word, gorgeous. No, to describe it takes two words: spectacularly gorgeous. Or three: exquisitely spectacularly gorgeous. She has a mastery of language that is both elegant and penetrating and which never, ever risks becoming pretentious.
There are very few writers who can captivate me with a throw-away descriptive paragraph, yet Alexander does so effortlessly. Nor does she make the mistake of lesser authors who write beautifully for beauty's sake. In MR. WICKER, the language is used to a purpose, either to elicit an organic emotional response from the reader or slamming us with Alexander's dramatic intent. And "organic" is a good word to use to describe the experience of reading this book. No matter how "heightened" the language, it never becomes self-aware or contrived. To do THAT takes true talent.
I don't normally quote from books I review but,in this case, I'll make an exception. The following is a brief excerpt from a paragraph which introduces a rose garden that figures in the story:
"Two blanching roses hung their blighted heads, Gog and Magog, as they ached across the arena's entry. Their bowed stems crossed like pikes, thorns murderously cuspate. Like a fairy woods, the roses entwined above and below, a mass of commingling vegetation that faintly reeked of perfume. Throughout, the hiss of an unattended needle rode the dead grooves of an antique photograph, dipping with a crackle into a deep scratch."
Lyric yet ominous. Sweet perfume that "reeks". Language that takes the reader exactly where Alexander wants them taken, so subtly that we don't even realize we've been led. Sheer delightful brilliance.
As for the story itself, it is certainly engaging enough though, to be honest, I had difficulty relating to some aspects. This had nothing to do with the writing, but rather was a factor of my own particular tastes in genre fiction. I also disagreed, again on a personal level, with some of Alexander's plot choices. But it it is, of course, HER book, not mine, and that is mere niggling on my part.
Alexander's experience also shows in her ability to seamlessly create realistic characters. We may not always understand completely why a character in MR. WICKER does what they do, but we absolutely believable that they would do so. Again, on a personal level, it was difficult for me to relate to some of the characters herein, particularly to the female protagonist, but I did not for one second feel that she was anything other than a three dimensional person who could easily have, as the cliche goes, stepped off the page.
I started and stopped this book several times, for reasons having nothing to do with my feelings about it. (Mostly due to Kindle SNAFUs) After one of my earlier partial readings, I was a bit put-off by Alexander's digression, halfway through the book, into events that occurred in the distant past. I initially thought the transition into what is essentially exposition hindered the flow of the book. With later readings, however, I changed my mind. In fact, one of my few actual criticisms of MR. WICKER is that we don't find out enough about those ancient events. There is an underlying love story, for example, which propels the motivations of the three main characters, and Alexander merely comments on it briefly. I would much prefer to have seen it fleshed out more fully.
Minor quibbles aside, perhaps MR. WICKER best succeeds in the author's ability to create a pervasive creepiness that lurks just under the surface from beginning to end. There is the sense, while reading, that you should look over your shoulder from time to time and, yet, you have no idea what you expect to see lurking in the corner! There is an eldritch quality to this piece, a disconcerting aura which seems to shift amorphously and is impossible to pin down. Even in the most innocent of scenes, it is there and I have no idea how Alexander does it.
In sum, the story Alexander chose to tell was simply not my "cuppa tea." Thus the 4 star, as opposed to 5 star review. BUT, insofar as Maria Alexander's work is concerned, my liking the story or not is largely irrelevant. I truly believe that this author could rewrite the telephone book and hold me transfixed. She is, quite simply, THAT good.
Easily the best first novel of this year -- and perhaps even of the past several years -- MR. WICKER is a marvelously stunning journey of a read. You do yourself a serious disservice if you do not RUN to read this book!
Let me start with a disclaimer or sorts: There is absolutely nothing about MR. WICKER that would ordinarily appeal to me. It's not my kind of book and, to be frank, had it not been written by Alexander I would probably have skipped it. That being said, the book was nominated for the Bram Stoker Award for Superior Achievement in a First Novel. If it doesn't win, there is no God!
Alexander's prose is, in a word, gorgeous. No, to describe it takes two words: spectacularly gorgeous. Or three: exquisitely spectacularly gorgeous. She has a mastery of language that is both elegant and penetrating and which never, ever risks becoming pretentious.
There are very few writers who can captivate me with a throw-away descriptive paragraph, yet Alexander does so effortlessly. Nor does she make the mistake of lesser authors who write beautifully for beauty's sake. In MR. WICKER, the language is used to a purpose, either to elicit an organic emotional response from the reader or slamming us with Alexander's dramatic intent. And "organic" is a good word to use to describe the experience of reading this book. No matter how "heightened" the language, it never becomes self-aware or contrived. To do THAT takes true talent.
I don't normally quote from books I review but,in this case, I'll make an exception. The following is a brief excerpt from a paragraph which introduces a rose garden that figures in the story:
"Two blanching roses hung their blighted heads, Gog and Magog, as they ached across the arena's entry. Their bowed stems crossed like pikes, thorns murderously cuspate. Like a fairy woods, the roses entwined above and below, a mass of commingling vegetation that faintly reeked of perfume. Throughout, the hiss of an unattended needle rode the dead grooves of an antique photograph, dipping with a crackle into a deep scratch."
Lyric yet ominous. Sweet perfume that "reeks". Language that takes the reader exactly where Alexander wants them taken, so subtly that we don't even realize we've been led. Sheer delightful brilliance.
As for the story itself, it is certainly engaging enough though, to be honest, I had difficulty relating to some aspects. This had nothing to do with the writing, but rather was a factor of my own particular tastes in genre fiction. I also disagreed, again on a personal level, with some of Alexander's plot choices. But it it is, of course, HER book, not mine, and that is mere niggling on my part.
Alexander's experience also shows in her ability to seamlessly create realistic characters. We may not always understand completely why a character in MR. WICKER does what they do, but we absolutely believable that they would do so. Again, on a personal level, it was difficult for me to relate to some of the characters herein, particularly to the female protagonist, but I did not for one second feel that she was anything other than a three dimensional person who could easily have, as the cliche goes, stepped off the page.
I started and stopped this book several times, for reasons having nothing to do with my feelings about it. (Mostly due to Kindle SNAFUs) After one of my earlier partial readings, I was a bit put-off by Alexander's digression, halfway through the book, into events that occurred in the distant past. I initially thought the transition into what is essentially exposition hindered the flow of the book. With later readings, however, I changed my mind. In fact, one of my few actual criticisms of MR. WICKER is that we don't find out enough about those ancient events. There is an underlying love story, for example, which propels the motivations of the three main characters, and Alexander merely comments on it briefly. I would much prefer to have seen it fleshed out more fully.
Minor quibbles aside, perhaps MR. WICKER best succeeds in the author's ability to create a pervasive creepiness that lurks just under the surface from beginning to end. There is the sense, while reading, that you should look over your shoulder from time to time and, yet, you have no idea what you expect to see lurking in the corner! There is an eldritch quality to this piece, a disconcerting aura which seems to shift amorphously and is impossible to pin down. Even in the most innocent of scenes, it is there and I have no idea how Alexander does it.
In sum, the story Alexander chose to tell was simply not my "cuppa tea." Thus the 4 star, as opposed to 5 star review. BUT, insofar as Maria Alexander's work is concerned, my liking the story or not is largely irrelevant. I truly believe that this author could rewrite the telephone book and hold me transfixed. She is, quite simply, THAT good.
Easily the best first novel of this year -- and perhaps even of the past several years -- MR. WICKER is a marvelously stunning journey of a read. You do yourself a serious disservice if you do not RUN to read this book!
March 13, 2016
I am writing this review in hopes of saving at least one person from making the same mistake that I did by being sucked in by the cover and the blurb on the back-cover. Before I go further, I will say that I am a heterosexual male in my early 30s so maybe I am not the best reviewer to listen to on this particular book.
Mr. Wicker started out strong, but I quickly realized that it was something I could lump in with the typical fluff written by and written for sex- and relationship-starved frumpy middle-aged women such as Twilight, 50 Shades of Grey, and the Dead Until Dark series. I've never read those, but can't imagine them being much different - high on passion and irrationality while low on substance and plot.
I just couldn't get into the characters - they were so one-dimensional and stereotypical: Alicia- the mentally unstable female lead who attempts suicide, Dr. Farron - the kind male doctor who becomes infatuated with this 'damaged' (and sexually attractive) patient, the mysterious Mr. Wicker who is imprisoned -apparently by choice - in a library (in the afterlife?) where he dedicates himself to transcribing painful memories of children in books. There were a few other characters, but none I feel worth mentioning.
The book is set over a span of only a few days, but feels much longer than that especially with these ridiculous feelings Alicia and Dr. Farron feel towards each other. I found myself becoming increasingly impatient to find out what Alicia's repressed childhood memory was...and was extremely disappointed when it was finally revealed in the last few pages. In order to finish the book, I resorted to skimming and blowing through it even though it was only a meager 229 pages. I was relieved when it came to an abrupt and unsatisfying end just because I was so sick of reading a few pages here and there.
Oh yeah - I just loved the ultra-liberal overtones in there. The doctor drives through a lower-class black neighborhood in his Lexus and black guys throw rocks at his car. Maria Alexander writes: "Even though every bit of prejudice had been schooled out of him by life and literature, everything he knew was eclipsed by the reality that he had entered an economic and cultural war zone. He, the privileged white man in a Lexus" (199). Wow... Yes, the privileged white man who EARNED his job and money by going to 6+ years of medical school to become a psychiatrist. But I guess Ms. Alexander thinks that white men are just given their titles in life. This book is utter rubbish and I hope I never have the misfortune of being duped into similar books.
Mr. Wicker started out strong, but I quickly realized that it was something I could lump in with the typical fluff written by and written for sex- and relationship-starved frumpy middle-aged women such as Twilight, 50 Shades of Grey, and the Dead Until Dark series. I've never read those, but can't imagine them being much different - high on passion and irrationality while low on substance and plot.
I just couldn't get into the characters - they were so one-dimensional and stereotypical: Alicia- the mentally unstable female lead who attempts suicide, Dr. Farron - the kind male doctor who becomes infatuated with this 'damaged' (and sexually attractive) patient, the mysterious Mr. Wicker who is imprisoned -apparently by choice - in a library (in the afterlife?) where he dedicates himself to transcribing painful memories of children in books. There were a few other characters, but none I feel worth mentioning.
The book is set over a span of only a few days, but feels much longer than that especially with these ridiculous feelings Alicia and Dr. Farron feel towards each other. I found myself becoming increasingly impatient to find out what Alicia's repressed childhood memory was...and was extremely disappointed when it was finally revealed in the last few pages. In order to finish the book, I resorted to skimming and blowing through it even though it was only a meager 229 pages. I was relieved when it came to an abrupt and unsatisfying end just because I was so sick of reading a few pages here and there.
Oh yeah - I just loved the ultra-liberal overtones in there. The doctor drives through a lower-class black neighborhood in his Lexus and black guys throw rocks at his car. Maria Alexander writes: "Even though every bit of prejudice had been schooled out of him by life and literature, everything he knew was eclipsed by the reality that he had entered an economic and cultural war zone. He, the privileged white man in a Lexus" (199). Wow... Yes, the privileged white man who EARNED his job and money by going to 6+ years of medical school to become a psychiatrist. But I guess Ms. Alexander thinks that white men are just given their titles in life. This book is utter rubbish and I hope I never have the misfortune of being duped into similar books.
December 29, 2014
If you're tired of the usual "strong" female characters you're going to love Alicia Baum. Is she tough? Hell yes. Does she have emotions, faults, make bad choices and sometimes falter. Also, hell yes! But even though she's been through a lot she doesn't stop fighting until she finds the truth.
This book is full of surprises and mysteries both great and small. There are the powerful images of ravens and libraries to discover as well as a large chunk of historical fiction to explore. There's a touch of sweetness and the dark bloom of secrets that will keep you hooked to the last discovery.
Note: I was involved in editing this book and read it before publication
This book is full of surprises and mysteries both great and small. There are the powerful images of ravens and libraries to discover as well as a large chunk of historical fiction to explore. There's a touch of sweetness and the dark bloom of secrets that will keep you hooked to the last discovery.
Note: I was involved in editing this book and read it before publication
March 11, 2018
The book begins with Alicia committing suicide by slitting her wrists while lying in her tub. She had been a successful horror writer, but hadn’t written a good book for a while. Her husband left her when her depression really held her down and then her car was repossessed and her house was being foreclosed. Since everything had been taken from her, she decided to take herself. Fade to black.
Alicia suddenly finds herself in a train tunnel with a light rapidly approaching. Instead of the grinding screech of metal wheels, she is enveloped by wisps of laughing children’s voices that quickly dissipate. As she turns to find the children, she sees a warm white light. She reaches for the light and finds herself stepping into a Library. As she explores the aisles she meets Mr. Wicker, who is big and darkly covered in ash; his lips “flake obsidian” as he speaks. He explains that she has entered The Library of Lost Childhood Memories where each book holds a child’s tragic and terrifying memories; those that they cannot handle in life.
Mr. Wicker, though frightening, has a seductive pull on Alicia, until he tells her he needs her skin so he can live again. Alicia cannot allow anything else to be taken from her so she runs back into the light.
Dr. James Fallon is working ER when Alicia is brought in. He is a child psychiatrist with a grant to discover why some of his physically abused and damaged young patients seem to be having whispered conversations with someone called Mr. Wicker while they sleep at night. As he helps to save Alicia’s life, she partially awakens and says “Mr. Wicker.” Never having heard this from an adult, Dr. Fallon assigns himself as Alicia’s therapist to help her recover and find out what she knows about Mr. Wicker.
Mr. Wicker’s back story is revealed; he was a druid who was held hostage by Caesar in Gaul. When he was released, a rival druid from his tribe accused him of working with the enemy. The druid cursed him as he was burned alive. Historical and mythological themes weave through the story similarly to Neil Gaiman’s books, where immortal characters are still around, mucking about with the lives of humans.
A psych ward will always resemble One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest for many readers, but the scary staff member in this book is a doctor, not a nurse. As Alicia works with Dr. Fallon to explore her childhood memories and discuss Mr. Wicker, she runs afoul of the narcissistic and power hungry Dr. Sark. In many ways Dr. Sark is scarier than Mr. Wicker, esp. since he has the power to medicate and restrain patients like Alicia.
Mr. Wicker won the Bram Stoker Award in 2014 for Best First Novel. This is not a straight out horror novel, but has horror elements. I would recommend it for adults who don’t want gore, but want a more psychological thrill.
Alicia suddenly finds herself in a train tunnel with a light rapidly approaching. Instead of the grinding screech of metal wheels, she is enveloped by wisps of laughing children’s voices that quickly dissipate. As she turns to find the children, she sees a warm white light. She reaches for the light and finds herself stepping into a Library. As she explores the aisles she meets Mr. Wicker, who is big and darkly covered in ash; his lips “flake obsidian” as he speaks. He explains that she has entered The Library of Lost Childhood Memories where each book holds a child’s tragic and terrifying memories; those that they cannot handle in life.
Mr. Wicker, though frightening, has a seductive pull on Alicia, until he tells her he needs her skin so he can live again. Alicia cannot allow anything else to be taken from her so she runs back into the light.
Dr. James Fallon is working ER when Alicia is brought in. He is a child psychiatrist with a grant to discover why some of his physically abused and damaged young patients seem to be having whispered conversations with someone called Mr. Wicker while they sleep at night. As he helps to save Alicia’s life, she partially awakens and says “Mr. Wicker.” Never having heard this from an adult, Dr. Fallon assigns himself as Alicia’s therapist to help her recover and find out what she knows about Mr. Wicker.
Mr. Wicker’s back story is revealed; he was a druid who was held hostage by Caesar in Gaul. When he was released, a rival druid from his tribe accused him of working with the enemy. The druid cursed him as he was burned alive. Historical and mythological themes weave through the story similarly to Neil Gaiman’s books, where immortal characters are still around, mucking about with the lives of humans.
A psych ward will always resemble One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest for many readers, but the scary staff member in this book is a doctor, not a nurse. As Alicia works with Dr. Fallon to explore her childhood memories and discuss Mr. Wicker, she runs afoul of the narcissistic and power hungry Dr. Sark. In many ways Dr. Sark is scarier than Mr. Wicker, esp. since he has the power to medicate and restrain patients like Alicia.
Mr. Wicker won the Bram Stoker Award in 2014 for Best First Novel. This is not a straight out horror novel, but has horror elements. I would recommend it for adults who don’t want gore, but want a more psychological thrill.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 26, 2020
Descubrí la existencia de esta novela al tropezar con el blog de la autora y ver la serie de vídeos de YouTube en los que explicaba el origen de la historia. Al enterarme de que toda la secuencia de aparición de Mr. Wicker estaba tomada casi sin cambios de una visión que la propia Alexander tuvo mientras meditaba en un momento oscuro de su vida, TUVE que leerlo. Alucinante.
Es una novela entretenidísima, perfecta para leer en el verano, y me encanta lo que hace Alexander con la prosa, que es colorida y sensorial; casi puedes saborear las imágenes. Me gustó especialmente el erotismo soterrado en la trama y la manera en que se nos muestra a la protagonista, Alicia Baum, como un sujeto sexual pleno. Estoy un poco cansada de oír que tal o cual personaje femenino "está muy cómodo con su sexualidad", ir a leer el libro y que sea simplemente que la protagonista decide acostarse con su interés amoroso en una escena romántica. Punto. Alexander no sólo transmite con vividez los deseos de Alicia, si no también nos muestra a sus intereses sexuales masculinos DESDE SUS OJOS, como objetos de deseo. Y eso, amix, sí que lo encuentro rompedor.
Algo que me desconcertó un poco fue el ritmo, que era… raro. Hay explicaciones que se expanden durante capítulos y capítulos, y luego revelaciones y resoluciones que se despachan en un par de páginas. Y algunos personajes relevantes que desaparecen sin más. Pero creo recordar que esta era la novela debut de Alexander, así que quizás se pueda achacar a eso.
En general la disfruté mucho. La recomiendo, pero con advertencias, porque el tratamiento tanto de personas psiquiatrizadas como racializadas es… regular. No por maldad si no por ignorancia, pero aún así, es bueno saberlo de antemano.
Es una novela entretenidísima, perfecta para leer en el verano, y me encanta lo que hace Alexander con la prosa, que es colorida y sensorial; casi puedes saborear las imágenes. Me gustó especialmente el erotismo soterrado en la trama y la manera en que se nos muestra a la protagonista, Alicia Baum, como un sujeto sexual pleno. Estoy un poco cansada de oír que tal o cual personaje femenino "está muy cómodo con su sexualidad", ir a leer el libro y que sea simplemente que la protagonista decide acostarse con su interés amoroso en una escena romántica. Punto. Alexander no sólo transmite con vividez los deseos de Alicia, si no también nos muestra a sus intereses sexuales masculinos DESDE SUS OJOS, como objetos de deseo. Y eso, amix, sí que lo encuentro rompedor.
Algo que me desconcertó un poco fue el ritmo, que era… raro. Hay explicaciones que se expanden durante capítulos y capítulos, y luego revelaciones y resoluciones que se despachan en un par de páginas. Y algunos personajes relevantes que desaparecen sin más. Pero creo recordar que esta era la novela debut de Alexander, así que quizás se pueda achacar a eso.
En general la disfruté mucho. La recomiendo, pero con advertencias, porque el tratamiento tanto de personas psiquiatrizadas como racializadas es… regular. No por maldad si no por ignorancia, pero aún así, es bueno saberlo de antemano.
January 24, 2022
This book had several interesting ideas but the execution was just cringe worthy. It mostly takes place over several days in a psych ward and I spent the entire time thinking "this entire place would have its accredition removed!!", "JAIL, everyone would be in JAIL" and "NO THIS ISN'T HOW ANY OF THIS WORKS". The author even says she wishes she could've gotten feedback from more than one psychiatric professional and wow, does that make two of us lady. Also, even outside the initial setting, the romantic relationship is super gross. And don't get me started on the dialogue for the POC. My eyebrows were going so high, I think they ended up in the raftors. I guess what I'm trying to say is that this entire book pissed me off...which is is certainly something?
November 12, 2018
Incredibly wonderful story for Halloween (All-Hallows Eve) or any time. Book Pub turned me on to this book and I thoroughly enjoyed reading each and every part of the story. So many different connections over time and over different religious and philosophical approaches, Many different characters were all able to succeed in each of their goals, even though each had been told they would never be able to be successful. Great writer. Definitely look forward to more of these books.
January 10, 2022
Was hoping for a unique, well written, keep you up at night story, but that's not what I got. Had great potential but totally missed the mark. Gripped me from page one but then, just as quickly, let me go. Turned into a cheesy love story with ridiculous, over the top, similes that were so bad I almost forgot what the point was.
I wish she had skipped the crazy attraction everyone seemed to have for each other and developed the horror aspect a little more deeply.
I wish she had skipped the crazy attraction everyone seemed to have for each other and developed the horror aspect a little more deeply.
April 14, 2020
Let’s say 3.5 stars. I enjoyed it overall. However it was a bit messy in places, particularly the long winded folklore—which should have been reserved for its own novella— that defines the titular character. The final revelation was abrupt and rather perfunctory.
June 24, 2020
I really wanted to like this more, but I think I loved the concept more than the writing. Still it's a thought provoking with an interesting twist.
May 15, 2022
I consider it a low grade miracle I made it even 35 pages into this. I can't imagine what this author's YA novels are like if this is considered adult fiction.
April 6, 2023
Not what I expected and yet I enjoyed it very much. Would have appreciated a different, much longer ending, but it was still good.
July 14, 2024
This book was amazing most of the way through. I was extremely invested in the outcome, but will admit I was a bit disappointed by it. Gripping premise
April 26, 2018
I actually wanted to give this book 3 stars, but felt it would be unfair of me to do so. Why? Because it's pretty well written and the story's interesting, fast paced, entertaining and has some lovely images. It's just that it isn't my style. One shouldn't start a book with unfounded expectations, but this one was a Bram Stoker's winner so for starters I was expecting horror. And it's not, I don't even know how to classify it. It's slightly gothic, but gothic in Harlequin's gothic style. Yes, what I probably disliked most of this book is that the best word to describe it is "romance", dark, but still, with all the common places I dislike of that genre. So I felt a bit cheated as I read it. I also felt it was a bit juvenile, even though the characters are supposed to be adults (or at least that's what I think) And I'm not a fan of YA fiction.
So, if you like romance, darker plots and YA fantasy, I'm sure you'll love this one. It just wasn't the right book for me.
So, if you like romance, darker plots and YA fantasy, I'm sure you'll love this one. It just wasn't the right book for me.
February 15, 2017
I am not a horror fan. At all. This is a book I would probably never have read if I didn't know the author personally. Thankfully this is not your typical blood-drenched gorefest (which I would never have been able to finish). Yes, plenty of horrific things happen--both natural and supernatural!--but horror is not the point of Mr. Wicker. This is a novel filled with imagery that in many places reads almost like poetry. There are multiple mysteries to unravel, populated with characters to root for and others to root against. All three (yes, three) main characters are compelling, despite being entirely different in virtually every respect. And to add to the book's unusual charm, it features a lengthy historical flashback I found utterly mesmerizing.
Even if I didn't know the author personally, I'd give Mr. Wicker five stars just for being a "horror" novel I could read all the way to the end.
Even if I didn't know the author personally, I'd give Mr. Wicker five stars just for being a "horror" novel I could read all the way to the end.
February 11, 2017
3.5 stars.
This book was weird.....like really weird. I read this for my Reader's Advisory group because this was an award winner (Bram Stoker award winner for first novel) and I likeshowing off reading lesser know awards.
To be completely honest the only reason I picked this up was because it has a creepy librarian in it (even though I dislike horror and don't like being scared. The whole plot of the book was great. Alicia dies and ends up in the Library of Lost Childhood Memories, where she meeting Mr Wicker. She can not move on to the afterlife because of missing memories from her childhood. But she does not stay dead for long, and is back to the real world where she is saved from death.
The whole concept was fascinating, but there was a romance subplot that I found extremely boring and Mr Wicker's obsession with Alicia was extremely creepy. All in all it was pretty good.
This book was weird.....like really weird. I read this for my Reader's Advisory group because this was an award winner (Bram Stoker award winner for first novel) and I like
To be completely honest the only reason I picked this up was because it has a creepy librarian in it (even though I dislike horror and don't like being scared. The whole plot of the book was great. Alicia dies and ends up in the Library of Lost Childhood Memories, where she meeting Mr Wicker. She can not move on to the afterlife because of missing memories from her childhood. But she does not stay dead for long, and is back to the real world where she is saved from death.
The whole concept was fascinating, but there was a romance subplot that I found extremely boring and Mr Wicker's obsession with Alicia was extremely creepy. All in all it was pretty good.
March 8, 2015
could not finish.
This book started of so promising. Alicia attempts suicide and finds her self in a library were she meets Mr Wicker. she then wakes up in a hospital in care of Dr Farron who mainly works with chrildren all who mention Mr Wicker. Thats the good bit but the more in to the story the more I was board. It seemed to stop with the mystery of Mr Wicker and deal with the relationships of doctors and patients and i found myself skimming chapters with the hope that something would happen.
I was expecting a horror novel what I got was a benial romance with hints of mystery.
This book started of so promising. Alicia attempts suicide and finds her self in a library were she meets Mr Wicker. she then wakes up in a hospital in care of Dr Farron who mainly works with chrildren all who mention Mr Wicker. Thats the good bit but the more in to the story the more I was board. It seemed to stop with the mystery of Mr Wicker and deal with the relationships of doctors and patients and i found myself skimming chapters with the hope that something would happen.
I was expecting a horror novel what I got was a benial romance with hints of mystery.
October 5, 2015
Slow to get my attention. The story behind what happened to Alicia in her youth was intriguing enough eventually to get me to want to finish the book. However, the story seemed disjointed, and I'm not sure what all of the different parts meant. It seemed like she had started with some good ideas, but didn't really know how to put them all together. I'm not sure how Mr. Wicker actually fit in with Alicia's back story, or what his story had to do with why he runs the library or why he got put there in the first place, or how Dr. Farron fit in with everything.
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