Review of Mere by Danielle Giles

A dark story set in the dark ages, perfect for fans of folk tales. Danielle Giles has given us a glimpse into Medieval Norfolk where an order of sisters live under God and isolated by a vast mere. When strange and unusual happenings begin around the mysterious body of water and it steals away a young servant boy, some of the sisters begin to wonder if all is as holy as it seems. And when a new nun arrives and declares a curse is upon them, will devilry tear everything apart? What follows is an evocative tale of power and survival but also of love. 

If you’re thinking that you’re not usually into historical novels, let me tell you that Danielle Giles is ahead of her time in nun-fiction and I recommend you get on board now so you can say you read it before it was cool. This debut author has a rare talent for being able to transport the reader so immersively. I was captivated by a rich world of Pagan magic, new Christianity and a strong cast of female characters that deeply moved me. Dark but gorgeous, it’s a book that did what books should do, it made me feel like I was in another time and place whilst I was between the pages.

Reviewed by Abi

Published on 03/04/25 by Pan Macmillan

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