Mosaic, by Catherine McCarthy

I never used to read novellas much - they seemed so short and undeveloped, compared to the long-term commitment of a nice chunky full-length novel.

There’s so many good novellas appearing these days, though, I’ve definitely had to change my mind.

‘Mosaic’ is a comparatively quick read, which I inhaled in a day. That’s not just due to its page-count, mind you. It’s absolutely gripping.

We follow Robin, a glass-worker who has been commissioned to work on an old, run-down church window. In an out-of-the-way village, in the dark woods, with a single crow keeping an eye on her. Oh, and some very odd residents.

This is folk horror, absolutely, but it’s also very real. I grew up in a small village (even smaller than this one!), but know the vibe of old churches and graveyards. It’s such a small step from urban life to a timeless chill as you walk through such quiet spaces, and that atmosphere is a huge part of this story.

Robin has baggage, we quickly learn, and it’s also real and sympathetic, informing what she does and how. She’s determined, creative and passionate about her art, but also carrying an undercurrent of fear and social anxiety brought on by trauma. I could easily understand why she didn’t run a mile from such a suspicious job (and place) - she does her best, right the way through to the end.

The minor characters, when they appear, also help with that atmosphere. A little touch of laughter, some slang and honest opinion contrasts harshly with the uncanny world of the church and its surroundings, as we realize that we’re held there too. We have to see this through to the end, just like Robin. Would we run or stay?

I kept trying to put this book down in order to go about my day, but it kept drawing me back until I was done. It zips along, with no filler or padding - everything subtly moves forward until you realize how much it’s ramped up and is hurtling towards an inevitable conclusion. There is no escape.

My only niggle was that ending, in fact - it seemed a little abrupt, but then leaving the audience wanting more is a definite option. I found myself imagining what would come next, and without giving away any spoilers, that seemed equally as horrifying as that escalating drama continued past the last page.

I definitely recommend this for a quiet afternoon on a dark, rainy day!