The weir;: A novel,

by Jane Gillespie

tale of mysterious undercurrents a governess experiences.

180 pages, Unknown Binding

First published January 1, 1953

Reviews

[Veronica B · Rating 3 out of 5]

Plot Overview
Dorothy Pugh arrives at the Morrey family home expecting a quiet life as the new governess to the adolescent Ursula Morrey and Martin Mathieson, the family's seven year-old ward. She soon discovers that family tensions run deep, and Ursula's souring relationship with her strict father impact the entire household.

My Thoughts
I enjoyed reading The Weir but I can't say it is my favorite book by Jane Gillespie. I liked the story overall, and the ending was very explosive, but I was expecting more tension to build as the novel progressed. There are undercurrents of domestic tension throughout, but they didn't simmer under the surface as effectively as I'd hoped. To be fair, I think part of my issue was that I wasn't in the right headspace for this sort of book, so I'm going to give it a reread when I'm more in the mood for it (and maybe when there's a thunderstorm that can add that little touch of atmosphere that I was looking for).

I'd give this 3.5 stars if I could.

[Alison · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this while awaiting Hurricane Helene to hit us. I picked up a first edition of this book from E. Quinn booksellers in downtown Blue Ridge, Georgia.

This gothic potboiler of domestic tension was perfect for a gloomy day awaiting a naturally disaster. Some Turn of the Screw vibes for sure.

[Rick · Rating 2 out of 5]

Well written but short on conflict, plot, suspense, tension, etc. It did NOT grab and hold my attention at all. I’m glad it was a short novel.

[Lonesome · Rating 3 out of 5]

interesting short novel about a governess and a weir .