Review

At the Bottom of the Garden is a compelling gothic tale that follows two young girls who go to stay with their estranged aunt following the death of their parents. Aunt Clara has little interest in raising children but she does have an interest in the large fortune left to Lily and Violet. Clara has plenty of secrets that she plans to keep buried but when the girls arrive with their mysterious gifts (such as seeing the dead), Clara soon realises that she might have bitten off more than she can chew.

This is my first time reading a book from Camilla Bruce and it was a really entertaining read. The writing is very accessible and this supernatural YA story is very easy to get absorbed in. The story was very intriguing and I found myself captivated very early on. I did think the latter half of the book was a little slower paced compared with the start of the book, but overall this was a hugely enjoyable read.

The story is told in multiple POVs, alternating between Lily, Violet and Clara. I enjoyed all three POVs but Clara had to be my favourite. She’s determined to get what she wants, she will even kill for it. I loved the complete lack of remorse she shows and I thought Bruce did a terrific job of crafting such a fascinating villain. Lily and Violet are really likable characters and I thought the explorations of grief and family were well executed in this supernatural tale.

At the Bottom of the Garden is an entertaining gripping read, full of gothic mystery and mayhem. If you’re looking for a psychological tale that’s packed full of ghosts, supernatural powers and a hint of murder, this should definitely be your next read.