Thornberry Manor

The Emerald

By: Anne K. Hawkinson

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

Paisley Venne feels adrift and about to founder, like the fishing boats racing for the safety of the harbour near her home in Bonchurch. Her much-anticipated wedding will not come to pass after discovering her fiancé’s not-so-discreet indiscretion. Her future is uncertain, like trying to focus through heavy fog.

Clarity and purpose arrive in the form of a letter with news that Paisley’s mum has inherited Thornberry Manor in central England. Eager to begin restoration, Paisley begins the task of sorting and cleaning. In an antique wardrobe, she discovers a necklace, slips it on, and is transported to the year 1829. When she ventures downstairs, she finds herself in the midst of a gathering where her ancestors and invited guests are celebrating the birth of a son, Henry Hix.

Back in the present, the emerald in the necklace has been reduced to grainy crumbs in her pocket. There’s no reason to tell anyone; the damaged necklace can’t possibly transport her again, and a voice in her head warns her to remain silent. But the secret is too much to hold. Paisley confides in her mum and swears her to secrecy.

Paisley finds herself drawn to Finlay Brown, a local handyman helping to restore Thornberry. As their relationship grows, she is tempted to tell him what happened. She resists the impulse and takes the necklace to a jeweler in London, hoping to find a new stone to replace the emerald. Its power to transport may be gone, but it’s a family heirloom she wants to keep. After nearly losing the necklace when the jewelry store is robbed, she decides on a new stone - a ruby.

the awful AI voice narration

The virtual voice is just awful to listen to. The story is interesting enough and I like the old manor concept, but was disappointed there is no good wrap up of all the dangling story threads at the end. I figure they are setting up a sequel, but I won't listen if one does come out later if it is AI narrated. That just detracts from the story and any emotional elements.