The Tale of Hawthorn House: The Cottage Tales of Beatrix Potter

by: Susan Wittig Albert

Published by: Berkley Books

Reviewed by Kathy Johnson

During the time of the Summer Fete, deep and riveting descriptions abound related to the community and countryside in the cozy English Lake District village of Sawrey. Someone must account for romance, mystery, gypsies, a haunted manor house, the Thorn Folk, animals, and a baby. None does it better than Beatrix Potter, who is cast into the roll of amateur sleuth when the aforesaid baby Flora is left on her doorstep.

The basket left on Beatrix’s doorstep includes not only Flora, but a note, a sprig of hawthorn, and a scarab ring. These clues indeed lead Beatrix on a formidable chase to uncover the identity of the mother and help settle the baby into a loving home.

Beatrix seeks the assistance of Dimity Woodcock, who is taking care of Flora. Dimity soon falls in love with the baby. Her brother and Justice of the Peace, Captain Miles Woodcock, is seeking the mother of the infant to bring her to justice, while also seeking a suitable husband for his sister. Conflict is rampant in the Woodcock household over what justice will be brought to bear on Flora’s mother–and who Dimity will marry.

Theories flourish amongst the not-so-tight-lipped villagers and in the animal kingdom. These side stories between the humans and animals are skillfully interwoven throughout the story.

For those who have loved Beatrix Potter and her stories, Susan Wittig Albert continues to captivate the reader with the adventures of Beatrix Potter.

Armchair Interviews says: Delight your imagination and challenge your wit as you trip down fantasy lane with Beatrix and friends.

Author’s Web site: http://www.MysteryPartners.com