The Lantern

A Novel

By: Deborah Lawrenson

Narrated by: Kristine Ryan, Gerianne Raphael

Set in the lush countryside of Provence, Deborah Lawrenson’s The Lantern is an atmospheric modern gothic tale of love, suspicion, and murder, in the tradition of Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca. Drawn to a wealthy older man, Eve embarks on a whirlwind romance that soon offers a new life and a new home—Les Genévriers, a charming hamlet amid the fragrant lavender fields of Provence. But Eve finds it impossible to ignore the mysteries that haunt both her lover and the run-down old house. The more reluctant Dom is to tell her about his past, the more she is drawn to it—and to the mysterious disappearance of his beautiful ex-wife. An evocative tale of romantic and psychological suspense, The Lantern masterfully melds past and present, secrets and lies, appearances and disappearances—along with our age-old fear of the dark.

Good but something missing

Narrators Gerrianne Raphael, Kristine Ryan were new to me and did a good job though at times the French accents got a little thick.
This book started out a little slow for me and really didn’t grab me until half way in, I did like the gothic feel and the reveal of all the different secrets well most of the secrets I’m still confused how the murders of the young women in the present fit in with the story.

I liked this book however there was just something that didn’t quite click I can’t out my finger on it

Too much like Rebecca!

I realize that this book was supposed to be reminiscent of Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier, but the resemblance is too profound. The main story is almost identical. There is a secondary story that is interesting but it is too predictable.

delightful, intriguing

I was told this story was reminiscent of Rebecca, but I found it very rich in detail, characters were believable and well deveoped. I look forward to another novel from this author. narration was pleasing.

Enjoyed this gothic!!

The readers were awesome!!!! This was a good story that kept me glued. I really loved the readers!!

Average in Every Way

Is there anything you would change about this book?

I don't think the book jacket should compare this novel to Du Maurier's writing. Readers are simply reminded that they should stick with Rebecca.

What was your reaction to the ending? (No spoilers please!)

This book did not shock or interest me very much. Pretty predictable.

What three words best describe Kristine Ryan’s performance?

very solid interpretation.

If this book were a movie would you go see it?

Yes and I'd expect something pretty and middle-of-the-road like Water for Elephants.