In the well-known style of Anne Rivers Siddons, Burnt Mountain begins in the slow, somewhat dreamy way that illustrates Southern life and traditions. I could almost feel the humidity and see the lush trees and old houses that typify Atlanta.
Childhood moments, trauma, and a devastating love affair carry Thayer Wentworth, our primary character, into a love match and marriage with Aengus O’Neill. What begins as a happy love connection turns suddenly, and almost inexplicably, into a dark and mystical horror tale. The magic (and the horror) center on a strange camp with a reputation for turning potential bad boys into well-behaved ones.
What secret events are going on at the camp? And what does any of it have to do with magic and mysticism?
In the beginning, I enjoyed this story and Thayer’s journey from the traditional childhood into independent young womanhood, but moments from the past continue to plague her until the day she learns about a terrible betrayal by her mother. One that changed the course of her life.
I would have enjoyed seeing Thayer confront her mother about what she did all those years ago. Further, I think the story needed a confrontation between Thayer and Aengus. Instead, we see an abrupt end, followed by an epilogue that seems totally too surreal to fit with this story.
I would have given this one four stars until I got to the ending. Therefore, I’m awarding three stars.
CURL UP AND READ 
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Argh .. I was loving the concept here (I’m into dark and creepy), but the ending would definitely put me off of it (and, like you, downgrade my rating by at least one star)
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I didn’t feel as though the mystical, creepy elements really fit with the rest of the story. Maybe if it had been that way all along….
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Hmmmm, I have a feeling I wouldn’t like this one. I don’t usually think of Anne Rivers Siddons as “dark, mystical and creepy!” My favorite books by her are those that have the great Southern feel. I’ll have to think on this one as to whether I wan to read it. Thanks for the terrific review!
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I loved the beginning of the book, which was “typical” lush Southern style. The ending didn’t seem to fit, IMO.
Thanks for stopping by, Wendy.
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That does seem like an unusually unsettling shift. I pondered getting this one as an ARC; glad I picked Silver Girl instead… (reviewed it today at http://whatsheread.blogspot.com)
Thanks for stopping by on Friday!
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I’ve been wanting to read Silver Girl. I’ll check out your review.
Thanks for stopping by, Laurie.
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