Content levels
Positive tags
Hero archetypes
Heroine archetypes
Synopsis
Jennifer Hale, orphaned and destitute after the Civil War, arrives at Darkwater full of hope, only to be alarmed by her cold reception. More frightening are the screams of Alicia, the dying mistress of the plantation. Jennifer becomes attracted to Walter Dere, her employer, and then Alicia's death frees Walter to propose to her. However, Jennifer develops the symptoms Alicia suffered and remembers Alicia's ravings about witchcraft. Will she suffer a fate worse than death?
Is Darkwater appropriate for my child?
Suitable for most readers 13 and up.
A gothic mystery set after the Civil War featuring supernatural threats, a dying woman's ravings about witchcraft, and implied psychological manipulation. Contains themes of possession and illness but no graphic content.
What to know going in
This book has mild violence, mild sexual content, and clean language. Content notes include death, death of a loved one, and chronic illness (see the full list above).
Who'll love this
Teens who love atmospheric gothic mysteries with supernatural elements and a vulnerable heroine facing dark secrets will find this compelling.