The Mill River Recluse

A Novel

By: Darcie Chan

Narrated by: Amy Rubinate

The sensational New York Times bestseller The Mill River Recluse reminds us that friendship, family, and love can come from the most unexpected places. Perfect for fans of Maeve Binchy.

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From the outside, Mill River looks like any sleepy little Vermont town where everyone knows everyone and people never need to lock their doors. There are newcomers for whom this appeals, from police officer Kyle Hansen and his daughter Rowen, who are starting over after heartache, to Claudia Simon, the schoolteacher who is determined to reinvent herself.

But on closer inspection, there are those in Mill River—including a stealthy arsonist, a covetous nurse, and a pilfering priest—who have things they wish to hide. None more than the widow Mary McAllister, who for the past sixty years has secluded herself in her marble mansion overlooking the town. Most of the residents have never even seen the peculiar woman. Only the priest, Father O’Brien, knows the deep secrets that keep Mary isolated—and that, once revealed, will forever change the community.

Praise for The Mill River Recluse

“A heartwarming story.”—Examiner

“[Darcie] Chan’s sweet novel displays her talent. . . . A comforting book about the random acts of kindness that hold communities together.”—Kirkus Reviews

“A real page-turner.”—IndieReader

“Chan does an amazing job with pacing while maintaining continuity and weaving universal themes such as friendship, love, new beginnings and overcoming adversities into small town life.”—RT Book Reviews

“This debut novel is a genre-breaking thriller with romantic overtones that should appeal to both men and women.”—Huntington News

“Chan’s compassionate novel . . . blends elements of mystery, suspense and romance . . . [and] culminates in a beautifully rendered denouement that rekindles hope for a troubled world.”—Shelf Awareness

Critic reviews

“A heartwarming story.”—Examiner

“[Darcie] Chan’s sweet novel displays her talent. . . . A comforting book about the random acts of kindness that hold communities together.”—Kirkus Reviews

“A real page-turner.”—IndieReader

“Chan does an amazing job with pacing while maintaining continuity and weaving universal themes such as friendship, love, new beginnings and overcoming adversities into small town life.”—RT Book Reviews

“This debut novel is a genre-breaking thriller with romantic overtones that should appeal to both men and women.”—Huntington News

“Chan’s compassionate novel . . . blends elements of mystery, suspense and romance . . . [and] culminates in a beautifully rendered denouement that rekindles hope for a troubled world.”—Shelf Awareness

Author had problems with math

Any additional comments?

This was a sweet, enjoyable book, but there were some odd discrepancies which distracted from the story. The biggest problem I had was with the ages, the mother was 17 when her daughter was born but then they are about 50 years apart in ages at the end of the book. The author needs to spend more time in Rutland, Vermont if she is going to write in detail about the area, there were odd tidbits that didn't add up. I was not unhappy I spent my time listening to this book, but I don't feel the need to read another by this author.

thoroughly enjoyed this book

This was a great book . I never expected the twists at the end. I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys a solid story.

Intriguing

Narration was well done. Great story. Kept my attention. Surprise twist near the end. Very much enjoyed it.

Wonderful story

Ups and downs - definitely not all rainbows & unicorns, but an excellently told story. Highly recommend.

Lovely story with great narration

Would you listen to The Mill River Recluse again? Why?

Yes. It is a lovely, sweet story.

What was one of the most memorable moments of The Mill River Recluse?

There were several scenes between Mary and Father O'Brian, especially during Mary's illness that are extremely touching.

Which character – as performed by Amy Rubinate – was your favorite?

Claudia is my favorite character, even though she isn't the main character. Ms. Rubinate really captures Claudia.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

When Father O'Brian realizes that Mary is not going to be around much longer.