The Tightrope Walker

Dorothy Gilman

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"The Tightrope Walker" by Dorothy Gilman is a mystery novel that follows the story of Amelia Jones, a shy young woman who discovers herself while solving a mystery. The book involves a note found in a hurdy-gurdy, a possible murder, and the uses of love, both good and bad. As Amelia delves deeper into the mystery, she finds strength she didn't know she possessed and learns about the power of love. The narrative weaves suspense, insight, and intrigue as Amelia becomes a crusader for justice, uncovering secrets and facing unexpected challenges. The story is rich, weird, and filled with unexpected coincidences that keep the reader engaged till the end.

Amelia's character development is a central theme in the book, as she evolves from a somewhat rootless girl to a courageous and determined individual. The plot is filled with twists and turns, leading to a climax that tests Amelia's character and resolve. As she grows and matures throughout the story, readers witness her transformation and root for her success in unraveling the mysteries that surround her.

Characters:

The characters are well-developed and distinct, with a relatable female protagonist who experiences significant growth throughout the story.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is engaging, featuring a first-person perspective that is descriptive yet concise, emphasizing character development.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot features metafictional elements centered around a determined female protagonist investigating a murder, with some cleverness and convenient resolutions.

Setting:

The setting is old-fashioned, focusing on an antique store and involving atmospheric details like a hurdy-gurdy music box.

Pacing:

The pacing is moderate with a warm buildup to the climax, though it can feel uneven at times.

Maybe everyone lives with terror every minute of every day and buries it, never stopping long enough to look. Or maybe it’s just me. I’m speaking here of your ordinary basic terrors, like the meaning ...

Notes:

The Tightrope Walker was first read by some at a young age, evoking mixed feelings about its metafictional elements.

The protagonist, Amelia Jones, is seen as insecure and neurotic, making her relatable to many readers.

The book cleverly includes references to another story by Gilman titled The Maze in the Heart of the Castle.

Several readers enjoyed the character development in Amelia, noting her growth throughout the story.

The ending of the book was criticized for being too convenient, resembling a TV movie.

Gilman's writing is described as distinct and detailed, avoiding excessive description common in cozy mysteries.

The story involves elements of suspense, romance, and a mystery about a possible murder.

Readers noted a gentleness in the narrative style, contrasting it with more intense mystery genres.

The use of a hurdy gurdy as a significant plot device adds an old-fashioned charm to the story.

Many readers expressed a desire to read more of Gilman's works after enjoying this book.

The narrative is written in the first person, making it feel more immediate and engaging.

Has Romance?

There is a moderate presence of romance in the narrative that complements the main plot.

From The Publisher:

"A superb book."

THE HOUSTON CHRONICLE

When quiet, shy Amelia Jones reads a desperate message that has fallen out of a barrel organ in the antique shop she just bought, she can't forget the words, "They're going to kill me soon…" Armed only with the woman's first name and the note written years before, Amelia begins a journey into the past, a search that takes her from the protective cocoon she's wrapped herself in to a precarious world where nothing is the way it seems, where fear is second nature, and dark secrets just might uncover murder-her own….

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About the Author:

Dorothy Gilman (1923-2012) was the author of 14 Mrs. Pollifax novels, including The Unexpected Mrs. Pollifax, the series debut; Mrs. Pollifax Pursued; Mrs. Pollifax and the Lion Killer; Mrs. Pollifax, Innocent Tourist; and Mrs. Pollifax Unveiled. She was also the author of many other novels, among them Thale's Folly.

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