It felt so complete as a short story that I am in awe, but equally left wanting to know more about the characters. Perhaps the baby is touched by her time in the other world?! I would love to read other stories by Alison.
I liked the incorporation of the magpies, which reminded me of the Death of Mrs. Westaway. It makes sense that someone who sees visions of fairies would make money painting them. I would have let Thomas retain his personality, which might explain why the Fairy Queen enjoyed his company. A mesmerized slave doesn't seem very entertaining or, if it is entertaining then Thomas' life is a living hell considering the things fairies could do to him as a part of their games.
I did notice that Diedre's bravery didn't really matter in terms of the plot. The Fairy Queen didn't evidence wanting Gwen or Kate so holding on to a bear didn't accomplish anything which seems to cheapen Diedre's courage. I would have probably given her three challenges and had her pass two, therefore needing to choose 2 of the 3 people and being forced to leave Thomas behind.
What a beautiful read! I would love to read a novel about Dierde and her world.
I agree! Wouldn't that be wonderful?!
I was just thinking the same thing! Wonderful!
It felt so complete as a short story that I am in awe, but equally left wanting to know more about the characters. Perhaps the baby is touched by her time in the other world?! I would love to read other stories by Alison.
Beautiful, bittersweet and wise.
I liked the incorporation of the magpies, which reminded me of the Death of Mrs. Westaway. It makes sense that someone who sees visions of fairies would make money painting them. I would have let Thomas retain his personality, which might explain why the Fairy Queen enjoyed his company. A mesmerized slave doesn't seem very entertaining or, if it is entertaining then Thomas' life is a living hell considering the things fairies could do to him as a part of their games.
I did notice that Diedre's bravery didn't really matter in terms of the plot. The Fairy Queen didn't evidence wanting Gwen or Kate so holding on to a bear didn't accomplish anything which seems to cheapen Diedre's courage. I would have probably given her three challenges and had her pass two, therefore needing to choose 2 of the 3 people and being forced to leave Thomas behind.