This book feels as though it might actually have been written in the year it is set - 1919. It feels very authentic to that era but is still easy to read. It weaves well-known fables into the main story very skilfully and at times feels like an old fairy tale itself. Henry (short for Henrietta) and her family are grieving the loss of her brother, Robert, who died just before her baby sister, Piglet, was born. Her mother has become mentally unwell as a result and is preyed upon by Doctor Hardy, who is keen to test new barbaric treatment methods on her. With her father away, and the nanny easily pressured by the vile doctor, only Henry can save her mother and Piglet.Henry is isolated but for the visions she sees of Robert and a strange woman called Moth, who she discovers living in the woods. I'd have liked to have seen more of Nightingale Wood and more of Moth - especially as the title refers to this plot strand. Moth lost her wonderful witchiness too soon for my personal liking! But she's still a great character who brings an extra magical element to the story.
This would be a great book for anyone who is grieving - the issue is dealt with beautifully and sensitively. The plot moves slowly at times, but that is in no way a bad thing as the book weaves a kind of spell around the reader and binds you to its entrancing world. Definitely one to curl up with and get lost in!
