The Maker of Swans by Paraic O'Donnell

An old estate in the woods, a troubled butler who is trying his best to keep his employer on the right path and take care of a very special little girl and keep the bad guys away is the setting for this gothic tale. Eustace has a good heart and a horrible job. When the eccentric Mr. Crowe shoots someone he is the guy who arranges for disposal and when this same boss is about to be visited by some dangerous guests he is the guy who must keep all well even when it clearly isn't. Clara, the precocious mute ward of Mr. Crowe, is very attached to Eustace and less so to Mr. Crowe since he started showing off her talents like a parlor trick. There is an underlying current of the paranormal and gothic feel to this setting infused with witty banter and memorable characters in Eustace and Clara. The language and setting will appeal to classic Agatha Christie mystery lovers as well as those who loved THE HOUSE AT VESPER SANDS.  
​3 1/2 stars