The Blythes Are Quoted

As a devoted fan of L.M. Montgomery's work, I found much to appreciate in this volume (the ever-present wit, the attention to beauty and emotional nuance) but was occasionally startled at the shadows appearing in the corners. Loss, regret and unforgiveness are reappearing themes. The writing is excellent, though if you've read many of Montgomery's works you may find yourself recognizing plot devices and character archetypes. The poetry alone makes the book worthwhile. But little of the book is in the same tone as the Anne of Green Gables series (besides, perhaps, Rilla of Ingleside.). I picked up the book with a decent idea of the altered tone, but it still caught me off guard in places. Happy endings don't always come, the constant ellipses in dialogue maddingly hint at some unguessed dark secrets and, I, at least, sensed an atmosphere of sarcasm, even bitterness in most stories. Solemnity pervades. For any fan, this is a fascinating glimpse at the inhabitants of Glen St. Mary, but be prepared. The sunny, sea-scented Arcadia may prove to be harsher than you expect.