In a world of iPhones and Twitter, A Wreath of Snow is an old-fashioned novella that brings welcome relief from the tech tornado. Higgs's Victorian tale, like many of her previous novels, is set in Scotland; this exceptional story transports readers to a simpler time filled with warm shortbread, candles glowing in windows and church bells chiming on Christmas Day.
Nevertheless, complex problems arise after independent schoolteacher Meg meets journalist Gordon when their train derails. They are forced to spend Christmas back in their home town, which both were attempting to flee. Meg is heartbroken because her bitter, invalid brother can't seem to treat her with anything but anger and contempt. Gordon nurses the guilty regret of accidentally paralyzing a young boy during a curling match years ago. These kindred spirits are immediately drawn to one another until they both confront their respective pasts, realizing a horrifying connection that might forever keep them apart.
Higgs's delightful novella is like a time machine. She expertly captures the social mores of the Victorian era and her descriptions of the clothing, cuisine and furnishings are remarkable. The charming language of her quaint tale will make you long for a gentler time. This book is best enjoyed while sitting fireside in a parlor with a cup of tea and a tin of biscuits. --Natalie Papailiou, author of blog MILF: Mother I'd Like to Friend