The Shadow Year

"Richell's highly charged and effortless writing draws readers in from page one. . . . Literary in style, but not stuffy or arrogant, THE SHADOW YEAR is entertaining and sometimes heartwrenching. It is a smart page-turner, a bit scary and quite atmospheric, exploring the depths of sadness, loneliness, loss and hope, as well as the meaning of family."

"An absorbing, deeply satisfying novel examining the relationships that make up our lives and what happens when the best intentions go deeply astray. Beautifully written and skillfully woven, this is a compelling tale of tragedy and forgiveness."

"Richell's story grips the reader from the very beginning and doesn't let go until the last page. The richly depicted characters draw the reader into their hearts and lives. The intricately woven plots drive this page-turner to the very end. Four stars."

"An engrossing and clever tale."

"A slow-burning drama, with several mysteries furled tightly inside one another... [Richell]'s an astute storyteller and knows exactly how to reel in readers and keep them hooked."

"Hannah Richell instantly draws you into her story. Powerful, real and memorable."

"Hannah Richell is undoubtedly skilled at creating characters that are so believable your heart aches for them."

"[I] had to fight the desire to devour it in one indulgent sitting. The past and present story lines are deftly woven and equally engrossing, while the atmosphere of unease builds and builds, and lingers way beyond the last page. Brilliant."

"I whiled away a few joyous hours with Hannah Richell's debut novel . . . this is a 'family story' at its stirring best, a page-turner for sure. It's the perfect novel for a sunny day at the beach, or a rainy one, indoors on the windowseat."

"An engaging family drama with a well-crafted story line and spirited characters."

"Exactly the kind of book I adore. An idyllic English house, a broken family, past and present, threaded by piercing secrecy. The House of Tides propels us forward with hope, even as our hearts break. Tragically beautiful, achingly authentic, Richell's debut will resonate across generations."

"Four and a half stars (a Top Pick). Palpable tension and intriguing characters make this novel tough to put down. . . this story will delight readers with its mood-evoking setting and sense of mystery."