The Twisted Tree
Author: Rachel Burge
Publisher: Hot Key Books
Details: 180pp, paperback, £4.95
ISBN:978-1471407765

Rachel Burge has crafted an intriguing Norwegian Gothic horror tale, interlaced with magical realism, in the guise of Norse mythology. There is an ominous undercurrent from the beginning as our female protagonist, Martha, travels to the house of her grandmother, Mormor, in Norway. Martha fell from Mormor’s tree during her previous visit, leaving her blind in one eye. Following her accident, she discovered at first to her horror and later fascination that she could feel memories and emotions of others just by touching their clothing. Convinced that Mormor can help her to understand her new extrasensory ability, she sets off on a quest for answers.

On arrival at Mormor’s house, she discovers that she has died and she missed the funeral. Adding to her confusion, she discovers a strange boy called Stig squatting in the house. Together with a dog called Gandalf, they set out to discover why the twisted tree was so important to Mormor and, along the way, Martha learns about her own matriarchal family history and the importance of friendship, bravery and sacrifice.

A perfect Gothic thriller for fans of Neil Gaiman and Isabel Allende.

Liz Dickinson is a higher level teaching assistant at Rawlins Academy, Leicestershire.

Although I liked the concept of The Twisted Tree, I found it confusing in places. The book has two aspects, the mysterious ghost story, and a bit of romance, meaning it could appeal to a variety of readers. I think the fact it is a Nordic thriller adds interest, because there is lots of descriptive language featured throughout the book. Overall, I thought the book was good but slightly slow in places and would be more suited to an age group a bit younger than 14.

Megan Hayman, aged 14

This book had me hooked from the first page. It’s a chilling ghost story great for anyone looking for a book that will make you think. I was gripped by the storyline, with protagonist Martha’s search for answers. Following her accident, she finds out she can read people’s thoughts and emotions through simply touching their clothing. On a search for answers, she travels alone to her grandmother’s cabin in the woods, only to find that her grandmother has passed  away and she has been lied to by her mother. She finds a boy, around her age, living in the cabin. They quickly form an unlikely bond and stay together in the cabin. Together, they try to find out the history of the twisted tree. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a romantic yet Gothic thriller that you won’t be able to put down.

Georgia Breed, aged 14

Looking at the front cover of this book, it doesn’t grab my attention and doesn’t seem like one of the normal books I would pick up and read. However, as soon as I opened this book it had me hooked. The story of Martha’s family’s past life grips the reader and makes you want to read more. I love all of the Norse mythology added throughout the book and how this book educates you on different subjects whilst you’re reading it. I think it’s beautifully written and the author has included a range of interesting vocabulary, which enhances many situations throughout the novel.

Freya Burgess, aged 14

The book tackles some interesting topics such as Nordic mythology and disability, and has a touch of romance. A continual, strong theme throughout is the paranormal, which is, unquestionably, entertaining. Although there was a lot of fantasy in the novel, there was also an element of realism woven through, which I think is important in any fantasy story. Also, I thought that the plot followed a typically chronological storyline that I found to be a little less complex than I would have liked, but I still enjoyed it. I would recommend this to tween/teen readers and lovers of mythology. It has the same kind of abnormality that the film Coraline does, so anybody who liked that should give it a go. Overall, I think that this was an entertaining read.

Erin Deevey, aged 13.

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