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In Roses & Violets, Gry Kappel Jensen expertly weaves a spellbinding tale that is equal parts fantastical romance, murder mystery, and Norse mythology. Translated seamlessly by Sharon E. Rhodes, this novel transports readers into the enigmatic world of Rosenholm Boarding School, where magic is real and danger lurks in the shadows.
The story follows four girls—each from diverse backgrounds—who receive a mysterious invitation to apply to Rosenholm. This isn’t just any boarding school; it’s a place steeped in Nordic mythology, nature magic, and shamanism. The allure of a magical education draws them in, but the school harbors a dark secret. During the unique application tests, the girls encounter a restless spirit seeking justice for a murder that took place in the 1980s. As they unravel the mystery of the young girl’s unsolved death, they realize their lives are entwined with the past in ways they never imagined.
Jensen crafts each character with depth and individuality, allowing readers to connect with the girls as they navigate their newfound magical abilities and the school’s mysterious undercurrents. The atmospheric setting of Rosenholm, rich with Nordic lore and dark enchantments, adds a chilling yet captivating backdrop to the unfolding drama.
The novel’s pacing is meticulous, balancing the elements of romance, mystery, and fantasy without losing momentum. The tension rises as the girls delve deeper into the investigation, pursued by unseen forces that threaten their safety. The narrative’s twists and turns keep readers on edge, culminating in a climax that satisfies the heart as much as the mind.
Roses & Violets is a gripping read for fans of magic-infused thrillers and those fascinated by Norse mythology. Jensen’s ability to blend these genres results in a novel that is both imaginative and thrilling, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what lies beyond the last page.
Roses & Violets
By Gry Kappel Jensen
Four girls from very different backgrounds are making their way to the mysterious Rosenholm Boarding School from different corners of the country. The one thing they have in common is the strange offer they have received to apply for a place at what will turn out to be a school for magic, deeply embedded in Nordic mythology, nature magic and shamanism. The girls have been invited to apply for a reason that is as yet unknown to themselves, but already during the unorthodox application tests, it becomes apparent that a spirit is trying to establish contact with the girls. It turns out that a young girl was murdered under mysterious circumstances in the 1980s and the killer was never found. Her spirit is still haunting the place, and she is now urging the four girls to bring justice and find the killer. But someone is keeping an eye on them and it quickly becomes clear that their lives are in danger.
Article originally Published in the Fall 2024 Issue: Global Reads.