This is a Gothic novel for young adults set in Bavaria at the beginning of the 20th century. Cassie and her parents live in what sounds like an eyrie in the mountains. The house has a steampunk feel about it which is always entertaining. And then a cherub flies through the window, as cherubs will, and we understand that the book will be about the reason for her visit. Cassie’ s only friend, Raphael is her sole confidante. The blurb indicates that he is not what he seems, and his name offers a none-too-subtle clue as to what he might be. I am obviously not the target audience so it’s not surprising that the novel didn’t entirely grab my attention - although I enjoyed the echoes of Neil Gaiman and a touch of Mervin Peake. Echoes only I am afraid as the writing is not as accomplished. There’s a sort of twist and it’s all a bit mawkish really. Not quite fantastical enough and not quite horrible enough