Kristina A. reviewed on 7/4/2016 + 1528 more book reviews

The Madwoman Upstairs is Catherine Lowell's debut novel. Samantha Wipple is the last living descendant of Patrick Bronte (and the Bronte family). There are many rumors stating that she inherited unique family items, but they are just rumors. In her father's (Tristan Whipple) odd will, Samantha receives a bookmark. Samantha heads off for a new life at Oxford University to get a degree in English Literature. Samantha is assigned a bedroom in an old tower (where normally students do not live and only tourists visit). There is an unusual portrait over the fireplace. They say that everything happens for a reason and it is very true for Samantha. When books from her childhood start showing up, they lead Samantha on a treasure hunt. Samantha gets help from Professor Orville (her instructor) in figuring out the clues (as well as providing a little romance). Someone else is after the prize. Will Samantha be able to figure out the puzzle before the competition?

I love the description of The Madwoman Upstairs, but the final product was not as enjoyable. I found Samantha to be a complicated and immature (as well as obtuse) person (hard to like her). The novel has long (pages) discussions on books especially books by the Bronte sisters (if you are suffering from insomnia this book will help). The author provided great clues to figure out the mystery, but Samantha had trouble with them (it took her forever to figure them out). I give The Madwoman Upstairs 2.5 out of 5 stars. As you can tell, I really did not enjoy this novel. I found it an odd book. The premise was good (had potential), but I just did not like the final product.

I received a complimentary copy of The Madwoman Upstairs from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review of the book.

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