Description

From the acclaimed style praised as gothic-infused and immersive by Publishers Weekly, comes a captivating tale perfect for fans of authors like Sarah Penner and readers who loved The Foundling. The Undoing of Violet Claybourne is a slow-building Gothic mystery centered on a young girl named Gillian, who becomes fascinated by the mysterious Claybourne sisters, their sprawling home of Thornleigh Hall, and the haunting secrets that keep the family bound together forever.

To become one of the Claybourne sisters’ inner circle, Gillian must first commit a profound betrayal.

In 1938, Gillian Larking is quiet, lonely, and accustomed to being overlooked while away at boarding school. Her life changes dramatically, however, when she meets Violet Claybourne, her lively new roommate, who takes Gilly under her glamorous wing. Violet charms her immediately with vivid stories of her wealthy family, their imposing mansion of Thornleigh Hall, and the allure of her two elegant sisters. Entranced and captivated, Gilly eagerly accepts when Violet invites her home for a visit, filled with anticipation at finally experiencing the grandeur and kinship she has longed for.

But Thornleigh Hall holds dangerous secrets underneath its impressive exterior.

As Gilly becomes enchanted by the deteriorating grandeur of the estate and drawn into companionship with Violet’s beguiling sisters, tragedy strikes in a shocking incident. Suddenly caught up in the tangled webs spun by the Claybourne women, Gilly must make an impossible decision—one that promises to shatter life as she knows it. The Claybourne sisters keep their secrets fiercely guarded, even when their loyalty costs them dearly.

Richly atmospheric, emotionally compelling, and beautifully crafted, The Undoing of Violet Claybourne explores friendship, privilege, mental health, and loyalty, making it an unforgettable and thought-provoking choice perfect for book clubs and lovers of suspenseful, character-driven fiction.