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"I enjoy her books. This one had me from the first chapter."
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Trouvé dans : ROMANS, General Fiction
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Trouvé dans : ROMANS, General Fiction
Overall rating: 4.5 / 5 from 54 reviews.
The Ghost Woods is a haunting and atmospheric novel praised for its gripping plot and exploration of themes like motherhood and memory. The book is described as thrilling and beautifully crafted, making it a compelling read for fans of gothic tales.
Review topics: ["connection","beauty","book","read","novel","author","abortion","dedication","history","characters","birth","mother","story","vibes","wood","tale","chapters","injustice","solidarity","britain","home","women","addition","layers","girl","written","thriller","experience","discussion","fascination"].
"I enjoy her books. This one had me from the first chapter."
— Rhonda (5/5)
"Starts off kind of a slow but ends up being a very good"
— Bookgirl123 (5/5)
"Very interesting book that kept me glued to my seat to read it in one sitting. Highly recommend."
— K. F. (5/5)
"C. J. Cooke is an absolutely fantastic writing. I cannot put her books down until i finish them."
— Leah (5/5)
"C. J. Cooke is an absolutely fantastic writing. I cannot put her books down until i finish them."
— Leah (5/5)
"The Ghost Woods is an excellent dual-timeline book with two girls arriving at Lichen Hall. Mabel in 1959 and the Pearl in 1965 and both are pregnant. They have been sent away to give birth and then to give up their babies. However, there are strange things going on at Lichen Hall. . . . what is really going on there? I really liked this book, it was engrossing and I found myself drawn into the story and the lives of Pearl and Mabel. I quite like the paranormal angle of the story and I did guess right what was going on towards the end, not that hard to figure it out. The ending made me wish that it would be a sequel."
— Cece (4/5)
"The Ghost Woods is an excellent dual-timeline book with two girls arriving at Lichen Hall. Mabel in 1959 and the Pearl in 1965 and both are pregnant. They have been sent away to give birth and then to give up their babies. However, there are strange things going on at Lichen Hall. . . . what is really going on there? I really liked this book, it was engrossing and I found myself drawn into the story and the lives of Pearl and Mabel. I quite like the paranormal angle of the story and I did guess right what was going on towards the end, not that hard to figure it out. The ending made me wish that it would be a sequel."
— Cece (4/5)
"This was a pretty interesting book! I loved the premise of it, but ultimately felt like the scare factor was lacking. The whole book builds tension, but that tension is so quickly dashed im a page and a half that it felt like too big of a build up for too short of a let down. But i would reccommend!"
— Emily (3/5)
"About the Novel Nestled deep within the forest lies Lichen Hall, a mysterious house steeped in centuries-old tales of ghosts, witches, and an enigmatic child. In 1965, Pearl Gorham arrives at Lichen Hall, joining a line of young women sent there to give birth. Suspicion brews within her as she senses the proprietors concealing secrets. However, her encounter with a secretive mother and her son residing on the estate sparks a journey to unravel the truth behind Lichen Hall's mysteries. As hidden truths emerge and darkness encroaches, Pearl must confront her beliefs and jeopardize all she holds dear to uncover the chilling secrets lurking within the halls of Lichen Hall. Setting the Stage: Navigating Themes and Social Issues in the Author's Note: The Author's Note showcases C. J. Cooke's exceptional writing prowess and her adept guidance through the thematic complexities of the novel. In this introductory piece, Cooke eloquently discusses the relevance of the gothic genre in addressing pressing social issues and sets the stage for a rich exploration of themes such as motherhood, LGBTQ+ rights, and gender inequality. With clarity and insight, Cooke navigates the intricacies of the genre and offers heartfelt dedication to marginalized communities, laying a solid foundation for further analysis in the following sections. Exploring Motherhood: Marginality and Identity in The Ghost Woods: ""To me, motherhood is an experience characterized by marginality. In this book, I wanted to re-explore the experience pregnancy in terms of the ways in which it positions the expectant mother in between, in the margins of profound physical emotional transitions, and perhaps in terms of her identity, too. "" The exploration of the harrowing truths behind the Magdalene Laundries in Tuam, Ireland prompted Cooke to delve deeper into the history of mother and baby homes, discovering their widespread existence across the UK, Europe, and North America. This revelation struck a personal chord for me, particularly as I reside near Nova Scotia's own Mother and Baby home, The Ideal Maternity Home, which operated from 1928 to 1947 in Chester, Nova Scotia. This proximity added a poignant layer of connection to the narrative, emphasizing the universality of the experiences and tragedies endured by countless women and children in such institutions. These homes were centres of abuse and exploitation, where vulnerable mothers and their children suffered neglect, malnutrition, and illegal adoptions. Many birth mothers were coerced into relinquishing their children without their full consent, perpetuating a cycle of trauma and injustice. In ""The Ghost Woods,"" the author vividly portrays this heartbreaking reality as we witness young girls arriving at Lichen Hall, only to tragically lose their children without consent. Through poignant storytelling, the novel sheds light on the systemic abuses endured by countless women and children in such institutions, urging us to confront the dark legacy of this hidden chapter in history. Navigating Mid-Twentieth Century Britain: The Perils of Contraceptive Restrictions and Illegal Abortions: ""Until 1974 contraception in the UK was available only to married couples, and abortion was illegal until 1967 (or 2019 in Northern Ireland). So, without access to contraception or safe abortion, women in the mid-twentieth century had their lives mapped out by a long list of fierce social restrictions. If they had sex outside wedlock, it was likely without contracep-tion. If they fell pregnant, they were disgraced, and often thrown out of the family home. "" The backdrop of the lack of contraception in the UK during the era in which this novel unfolds adds a poignant layer to the diverse experiences of the young women who find themselves pregnant. From instances of rape to one-night stands, and even intentional pregnancies to escape arranged marriages, the characters hail from varied cultural backgrounds and economic statuses. Yet, despite their differences, they share a common predicament upon arriving at Lichen Hall. What struck me most was the author's nuanced exploration of the multifaceted reasons behind their pregnancies, revealing the complex intersections of gender, power, and societal expectations. Through the diverse narratives of these women, ""The Ghost Woods"" offers a compelling glimpse into the complexities of womanhood and the shared struggles faced by individuals from all walks of life during this tumultuous period in history. Policing Bodies, Policing Sexuality: Unraveling the Harrowing History of LGBTQIA+ Rights ""Equal or 'same-sex' marriage only became legal in Northern Ireland in 2020. While it has never been illegal to be lesbian, I wanted to address the criminalization and rights violations faced by lesbians and bisexual women, and to imagine motherhood in this context. In The Ghost Woods, I address this symbolically. My intention, particularly in imagining the fates of Mabel, Morven, Aretta, and Rahmi, was to reflect what history tells us about the treatment of queer folk: the stigma, brutalities, and injustices they have experienced, and continue to experience. "" The author skillfully intertwines the history of policing women's bodies with the policing of sexuality, shedding light on the distressing criminalization of queer individuals throughout the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. While being lesbian has never been illegal, the narrative delves into the discrimination and rights violations faced by lesbians and bisexual women. Through exploring motherhood within this context, the author invites readers to contemplate the societal stigma, brutalities, and ongoing injustices endured by the LGBTQIA+ community. It's a poignant reminder of the importance of understanding and addressing the historical mistreatment of queer individuals, while also envisioning a more inclusive and equitable future. Embracing the Shadows: A Call to Remember and Reflect ""To those who have walked in that shadow, who have never belonged in the mainstream or the status quo, or who have simply felt at home in the strange - this book is for you. "" The final paragraph of the Author's Note in The Ghost Woods resonates powerfully, serving as a poignant reflection on the novel's thematic depth and its relevance to pressing social issues. As the author acknowledges the gothic nature of the book and its exploration of themes such as nature, motherhood, memory, and trauma, they pose a crucial question about the inclusivity of topics like motherhood, LGBTQ+ rights, reproductive rights, and gender inequality within the genre. Yet, they passionately argue that the gothic provides the perfect canvas to delve into the darkness of any kind, including the practice of othering, which has plagued human history. This acknowledgment feels deeply empowering, as the author extends a heartfelt dedication to those who have felt marginalized or excluded, affirming that the novel serves as a beacon for those who have walked in the shadows or found solace in the strange. This declaration resonates with a profound sense of solidarity and recognition, making the book not just a literary journey but a deeply personal and empowering experience for readers who have felt the weight of societal norms and expectations. MY THOUGHTS: The Ghost Woods by C. J. Cooke captured my heart from the very beginning, and there are several reasons why I absolutely adored this book. First and foremost, let's talk about that cover! It's a masterpiece in itself, earning a perfect 10/10 from me. The colour palette, the whimsical yet mysterious vibe—it immediately drew me in and set the tone for the enchanting journey that awaited within the pages. I'm a self-confessed enthusiast for stories set in old European estates. There's just something about the rich history, the hidden secrets, and the atmospheric settings that never fail to captivate me. So, discovering that The Ghost Woods unfolds in such a setting had me hooked right from the start. As a devoted fan of Outlander, I'm always on the lookout for tales set in Scotland. Learning that this novel takes place in the Scottish Borders only heightened my excitement. The rugged beauty, the haunting landscapes—it's the perfect backdrop for a story filled with mystery and intrigue. But what truly sealed the deal for me was the infusion of Scottish folklore and mythology into the narrative. Having studied Greek mythology lightly in university, I've always held a deep fascination for folklore from around the world. So, encountering Nicnevin, the witch or fairy queen from Scottish folklore, was an absolute delight. It added a layer of depth and authenticity to the story, weaving together elements of the supernatural with the rich tapestry of Scottish heritage. In essence, The Ghost Woods had all the ingredients I love in a novel—a captivating setting, rich history, and a sprinkling of folklore and mythology. It's a book that whisked me away on an enchanting journey, leaving me utterly spellbound from start to finish."
— Katie R. (5/5)
"About the Novel Nestled deep within the forest lies Lichen Hall, a mysterious house steeped in centuries-old tales of ghosts, witches, and an enigmatic child. In 1965, Pearl Gorham arrives at Lichen Hall, joining a line of young women sent there to give birth. Suspicion brews within her as she senses the proprietors concealing secrets. However, her encounter with a secretive mother and her son residing on the estate sparks a journey to unravel the truth behind Lichen Hall's mysteries. As hidden truths emerge and darkness encroaches, Pearl must confront her beliefs and jeopardize all she holds dear to uncover the chilling secrets lurking within the halls of Lichen Hall. Setting the Stage: Navigating Themes and Social Issues in the Author's Note: The Author's Note showcases C. J. Cooke's exceptional writing prowess and her adept guidance through the thematic complexities of the novel. In this introductory piece, Cooke eloquently discusses the relevance of the gothic genre in addressing pressing social issues and sets the stage for a rich exploration of themes such as motherhood, LGBTQ+ rights, and gender inequality. With clarity and insight, Cooke navigates the intricacies of the genre and offers heartfelt dedication to marginalized communities, laying a solid foundation for further analysis in the following sections. Exploring Motherhood: Marginality and Identity in The Ghost Woods: ""To me, motherhood is an experience characterized by marginality. In this book, I wanted to re-explore the experience pregnancy in terms of the ways in which it positions the expectant mother in between, in the margins of profound physical emotional transitions, and perhaps in terms of her identity, too. "" The exploration of the harrowing truths behind the Magdalene Laundries in Tuam, Ireland prompted Cooke to delve deeper into the history of mother and baby homes, discovering their widespread existence across the UK, Europe, and North America. This revelation struck a personal chord for me, particularly as I reside near Nova Scotia's own Mother and Baby home, The Ideal Maternity Home, which operated from 1928 to 1947 in Chester, Nova Scotia. This proximity added a poignant layer of connection to the narrative, emphasizing the universality of the experiences and tragedies endured by countless women and children in such institutions. These homes were centres of abuse and exploitation, where vulnerable mothers and their children suffered neglect, malnutrition, and illegal adoptions. Many birth mothers were coerced into relinquishing their children without their full consent, perpetuating a cycle of trauma and injustice. In ""The Ghost Woods,"" the author vividly portrays this heartbreaking reality as we witness young girls arriving at Lichen Hall, only to tragically lose their children without consent. Through poignant storytelling, the novel sheds light on the systemic abuses endured by countless women and children in such institutions, urging us to confront the dark legacy of this hidden chapter in history. Navigating Mid-Twentieth Century Britain: The Perils of Contraceptive Restrictions and Illegal Abortions: ""Until 1974 contraception in the UK was available only to married couples, and abortion was illegal until 1967 (or 2019 in Northern Ireland). So, without access to contraception or safe abortion, women in the mid-twentieth century had their lives mapped out by a long list of fierce social restrictions. If they had sex outside wedlock, it was likely without contracep-tion. If they fell pregnant, they were disgraced, and often thrown out of the family home. "" The backdrop of the lack of contraception in the UK during the era in which this novel unfolds adds a poignant layer to the diverse experiences of the young women who find themselves pregnant. From instances of rape to one-night stands, and even intentional pregnancies to escape arranged marriages, the characters hail from varied cultural backgrounds and economic statuses. Yet, despite their differences, they share a common predicament upon arriving at Lichen Hall. What struck me most was the author's nuanced exploration of the multifaceted reasons behind their pregnancies, revealing the complex intersections of gender, power, and societal expectations. Through the diverse narratives of these women, ""The Ghost Woods"" offers a compelling glimpse into the complexities of womanhood and the shared struggles faced by individuals from all walks of life during this tumultuous period in history. Policing Bodies, Policing Sexuality: Unraveling the Harrowing History of LGBTQIA+ Rights ""Equal or 'same-sex' marriage only became legal in Northern Ireland in 2020. While it has never been illegal to be lesbian, I wanted to address the criminalization and rights violations faced by lesbians and bisexual women, and to imagine motherhood in this context. In The Ghost Woods, I address this symbolically. My intention, particularly in imagining the fates of Mabel, Morven, Aretta, and Rahmi, was to reflect what history tells us about the treatment of queer folk: the stigma, brutalities, and injustices they have experienced, and continue to experience. "" The author skillfully intertwines the history of policing women's bodies with the policing of sexuality, shedding light on the distressing criminalization of queer individuals throughout the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. While being lesbian has never been illegal, the narrative delves into the discrimination and rights violations faced by lesbians and bisexual women. Through exploring motherhood within this context, the author invites readers to contemplate the societal stigma, brutalities, and ongoing injustices endured by the LGBTQIA+ community. It's a poignant reminder of the importance of understanding and addressing the historical mistreatment of queer individuals, while also envisioning a more inclusive and equitable future. Embracing the Shadows: A Call to Remember and Reflect ""To those who have walked in that shadow, who have never belonged in the mainstream or the status quo, or who have simply felt at home in the strange - this book is for you. "" The final paragraph of the Author's Note in The Ghost Woods resonates powerfully, serving as a poignant reflection on the novel's thematic depth and its relevance to pressing social issues. As the author acknowledges the gothic nature of the book and its exploration of themes such as nature, motherhood, memory, and trauma, they pose a crucial question about the inclusivity of topics like motherhood, LGBTQ+ rights, reproductive rights, and gender inequality within the genre. Yet, they passionately argue that the gothic provides the perfect canvas to delve into the darkness of any kind, including the practice of othering, which has plagued human history. This acknowledgment feels deeply empowering, as the author extends a heartfelt dedication to those who have felt marginalized or excluded, affirming that the novel serves as a beacon for those who have walked in the shadows or found solace in the strange. This declaration resonates with a profound sense of solidarity and recognition, making the book not just a literary journey but a deeply personal and empowering experience for readers who have felt the weight of societal norms and expectations. MY THOUGHTS: The Ghost Woods by C. J. Cooke captured my heart from the very beginning, and there are several reasons why I absolutely adored this book. First and foremost, let's talk about that cover! It's a masterpiece in itself, earning a perfect 10/10 from me. The colour palette, the whimsical yet mysterious vibe—it immediately drew me in and set the tone for the enchanting journey that awaited within the pages. I'm a self-confessed enthusiast for stories set in old European estates. There's just something about the rich history, the hidden secrets, and the atmospheric settings that never fail to captivate me. So, discovering that The Ghost Woods unfolds in such a setting had me hooked right from the start. As a devoted fan of Outlander, I'm always on the lookout for tales set in Scotland. Learning that this novel takes place in the Scottish Borders only heightened my excitement. The rugged beauty, the haunting landscapes—it's the perfect backdrop for a story filled with mystery and intrigue. But what truly sealed the deal for me was the infusion of Scottish folklore and mythology into the narrative. Having studied Greek mythology lightly in university, I've always held a deep fascination for folklore from around the world. So, encountering Nicnevin, the witch or fairy queen from Scottish folklore, was an absolute delight. It added a layer of depth and authenticity to the story, weaving together elements of the supernatural with the rich tapestry of Scottish heritage. In essence, The Ghost Woods had all the ingredients I love in a novel—a captivating setting, rich history, and a sprinkling of folklore and mythology. It's a book that whisked me away on an enchanting journey, leaving me utterly spellbound from start to finish."
— Katie R. (5/5)
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