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The Charter
Sarah Morton hopes discovering the truth about the 1859 shipwreck of the Royal Charter will silence the demons of her past.
But, tormented by visions and threats on her life, Sarah fears the ship may claim her as its final victim.
Set along the dramatic and dangerous Anglesey coastline, The Charter is a story of greed and forgiveness - when the treasures of the past evoke the crimes of today.
But, tormented by visions and threats on her life, Sarah fears the ship may claim her as its final victim.
Set along the dramatic and dangerous Anglesey coastline, The Charter is a story of greed and forgiveness - when the treasures of the past evoke the crimes of today.
270 pages, Paperback
First published May 3, 2012
22 people are currently reading
732 people want to read
About the author
Gillian Hamer
10 books66 followersCrime and thriller writer, founder member of author's collective Triskele Books, and regular contributor to Words with Jam Magazine.
For blog updates see -http://triskelebooks.blogspot.co.uk/
For blog updates see -http://triskelebooks.blogspot.co.uk/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
December 13, 2018
Gillian Hamer’s THE CHARTER is steeped in history, the timeless pain of loss, the treachery of deceit and the eternal forces of greed, but will the dark events from the past and present come together to give one woman the enlightenment she needs to forgive?
Sarah Morton came home to bury her estranged father, his will will lead her on a treasure hunt for her legacy, but will it be in the gold taken from a sunken ship or will it prove far more valuable?
The Royal Charter sank off the shores of the Anglesey coast in the nineteenth century, hundreds of souls were lost and it was said that some still haunted the small coastal village. Is the young girl a figment of Sarah’s overwrought imagination or is she trying to help her uncover truths long hidden, as well as crimes being perpetuated now?
Murder takes a front row seat as Sarah’s life comes crushing in on her, but the desire for answers cryptically hidden in her father’s “treasure hunt” will keep her moving forward until she discovers who she can trust and who means her harm, but by then, it may be too late…is the history of the greed for gold repeating itself once again?
Gillian Hamer has penned a haunting mystery, with an atmosphere shrouded in secrets while adding a ghostly paranormal twist that merely peppers the fringes of this taut and suspenseful tale. Mystery lovers will be mesmerized by each page! I was!
Publisher: G.E. Hamer (December 8, 2013)
Publication Date: December 8, 2013
Genre: Mystery | Suspense
Print Length: 396 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Sarah Morton came home to bury her estranged father, his will will lead her on a treasure hunt for her legacy, but will it be in the gold taken from a sunken ship or will it prove far more valuable?
The Royal Charter sank off the shores of the Anglesey coast in the nineteenth century, hundreds of souls were lost and it was said that some still haunted the small coastal village. Is the young girl a figment of Sarah’s overwrought imagination or is she trying to help her uncover truths long hidden, as well as crimes being perpetuated now?
Murder takes a front row seat as Sarah’s life comes crushing in on her, but the desire for answers cryptically hidden in her father’s “treasure hunt” will keep her moving forward until she discovers who she can trust and who means her harm, but by then, it may be too late…is the history of the greed for gold repeating itself once again?
Gillian Hamer has penned a haunting mystery, with an atmosphere shrouded in secrets while adding a ghostly paranormal twist that merely peppers the fringes of this taut and suspenseful tale. Mystery lovers will be mesmerized by each page! I was!
Publisher: G.E. Hamer (December 8, 2013)
Publication Date: December 8, 2013
Genre: Mystery | Suspense
Print Length: 396 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
July 29, 2013
This is a magnificently woven tale. Take a treasure hunt, add in a little murder, a little mayhem, and, oh yes, a ghost, and you get a nail-biting adventure. I am more than a little impressed with how this author blends so many components into a cohesive unit. I don’t want to stop reading and know that, in the end, she will surprise but not disappoint me.
The characters in this book are interesting, complex, and likable. I appreciated how Hamer incorporated the story and POV of Angelina, the ghost. In fact, it was the prologue that immediately pulled me into this story. She is used effectively throughout the book to add atmosphere and context to the overall story. It is obvious Hamer has extensive knowledge of and a deep connection with this area of North Wales. Her descriptions make the landscape as much a part of the story as the characters.
I highly recommend reading this book. It is a great blend of several genres and would be appealing to a wide audience. This is the second book by this author I have read and I fully intend to read more.
The characters in this book are interesting, complex, and likable. I appreciated how Hamer incorporated the story and POV of Angelina, the ghost. In fact, it was the prologue that immediately pulled me into this story. She is used effectively throughout the book to add atmosphere and context to the overall story. It is obvious Hamer has extensive knowledge of and a deep connection with this area of North Wales. Her descriptions make the landscape as much a part of the story as the characters.
I highly recommend reading this book. It is a great blend of several genres and would be appealing to a wide audience. This is the second book by this author I have read and I fully intend to read more.
April 8, 2015
The Charter by Gillian E. Hamer. Narrated by Catherine O’Brien. 12 hours, 59 minutes. Published May 4th, 2012. Smashwords edition.
This book opens up in October of 1859. A strong storm has taken down a ship called the Royal Charter, along the dramatic and dangerous Anglesey coastline. Townsfolk come out trying to save as many as they can from the sinking ship. In the background a young girl, Angelina is speaking and waiting for the rescuers to save her. Speaks as if she is writing this all down in a diary. Then she comes to the realization she is dead. Still wanting for someone to hear her. Oh, please! Where was her mom and dad?
Modern day, November, 2012, Sarah Morton returns home for her father’s funeral with her husband Dominic. A place she never wanted to return to. Right from the start her father’s solicitor arrives at the cemetery with a request for her to arrive at his office the next day. From the start and throughout the book is the complete secrecy of her father life after she left her home. Her father’s research into the sinking of the Royal Charter. For which there house is named after “The Charter House”. She always thought her father was a bit ectrentic, especially after her mom past away. He had an obsession she thought of tracing the lineage of her family back to the island that they lived on.
Coming to find items in her father’s safe and not telling her husband Dominic at to what the solicitor gave her or what she found. She was not sure that he would understand causing them to fight. Sarah telling him to just go back home and let her sort out her father’s estate. Waking in the morning Sarah thought he did just that. Went back home when he was not there upon her waking. Seeing his car there she thought he must have went for a run to cool off. That’s what he did she thought. After, many hours passing she went out to look for him. Maybe he was lost? However, Dominic was the first one to die. Was it an accident? Now Sarah wonders when the police stop by to pay their condolences for her father. Why would they do that? They mention death threats and other things that her father called and complained about. Now her mind starts spinning. Awe, book spoiler I think not!
Sarah is sent on a treasure hunt that begins at the solicitor’s. Thinking she was there for the Will reading. Only to be sent back from a letter she was given to go to her father’s safe. Thinking the Will was there. Nothing there but another clue. As the story proceeds Sarah meets up with Isabel, her father’s assistant. Other characters within the story is an assistant detective, her childhood friend Luke, and her grandmother. Along, with a cast of other characters that are there to help her or try to stop or gain access to the information she has found. A true treasure hunt mystery. There is more than just Sarah and Isabel wanting to know where the gold that is hidden as indicated by some of the clues each step they found.
I really feel that the book and the events in it do justify the long audio of nearly 13 hrs. Gillian really draws an attention to the details of the characters and keep track of the mystery itself. Intertwining the past as Angelina tells of events that are occurring during the early 1860’s. How she appears to Sarah throughout the book. A helper in a way. Sarah does not tell no one so they do not think her crazy until she does met Isabel.
I can’t say that the scenes are all predictable but, most are. When you think you have it figured out, you don’t. I was kind of surprised by the ending. I love in the epilogue that Gillian give that “I knew that was going to happen!” She gives what I want to call a soft touch to the ending.
The Charter narrated by Catherine O’Brien was well acted throughout the book. Catherine did change up from her own voice ever so slightly between the cast of characters. For some reason just the way she narrated the book in a melodic and even tones throughout the book was hypnotic. Don’t get me wrong it is not that I did not enjoy her reading but, quite the opposite. It kept me listening and finished it in 2 days. It fit the books tone throughout. When there was a scene of immense urgency she relay that tone. If the character (which was Sarah most of the time) angry, frustrated, crying or solemn she hit the tone of her voice dead on. Even threw in some singing. Very pretty voice.
If you are into treasure hunts mystery, I feel that you will not be disappointed. This book to me is like a sleeper movie. Once the word is out more and more will pass this book along.
This book was provided to me by the Author Gillian Hamer. Gillian or no one else has affected the outcome of my review. This is solely my own opinion. Please comment and like my review. Please refer this book to others.
This book opens up in October of 1859. A strong storm has taken down a ship called the Royal Charter, along the dramatic and dangerous Anglesey coastline. Townsfolk come out trying to save as many as they can from the sinking ship. In the background a young girl, Angelina is speaking and waiting for the rescuers to save her. Speaks as if she is writing this all down in a diary. Then she comes to the realization she is dead. Still wanting for someone to hear her. Oh, please! Where was her mom and dad?
Modern day, November, 2012, Sarah Morton returns home for her father’s funeral with her husband Dominic. A place she never wanted to return to. Right from the start her father’s solicitor arrives at the cemetery with a request for her to arrive at his office the next day. From the start and throughout the book is the complete secrecy of her father life after she left her home. Her father’s research into the sinking of the Royal Charter. For which there house is named after “The Charter House”. She always thought her father was a bit ectrentic, especially after her mom past away. He had an obsession she thought of tracing the lineage of her family back to the island that they lived on.
Coming to find items in her father’s safe and not telling her husband Dominic at to what the solicitor gave her or what she found. She was not sure that he would understand causing them to fight. Sarah telling him to just go back home and let her sort out her father’s estate. Waking in the morning Sarah thought he did just that. Went back home when he was not there upon her waking. Seeing his car there she thought he must have went for a run to cool off. That’s what he did she thought. After, many hours passing she went out to look for him. Maybe he was lost? However, Dominic was the first one to die. Was it an accident? Now Sarah wonders when the police stop by to pay their condolences for her father. Why would they do that? They mention death threats and other things that her father called and complained about. Now her mind starts spinning. Awe, book spoiler I think not!
Sarah is sent on a treasure hunt that begins at the solicitor’s. Thinking she was there for the Will reading. Only to be sent back from a letter she was given to go to her father’s safe. Thinking the Will was there. Nothing there but another clue. As the story proceeds Sarah meets up with Isabel, her father’s assistant. Other characters within the story is an assistant detective, her childhood friend Luke, and her grandmother. Along, with a cast of other characters that are there to help her or try to stop or gain access to the information she has found. A true treasure hunt mystery. There is more than just Sarah and Isabel wanting to know where the gold that is hidden as indicated by some of the clues each step they found.
I really feel that the book and the events in it do justify the long audio of nearly 13 hrs. Gillian really draws an attention to the details of the characters and keep track of the mystery itself. Intertwining the past as Angelina tells of events that are occurring during the early 1860’s. How she appears to Sarah throughout the book. A helper in a way. Sarah does not tell no one so they do not think her crazy until she does met Isabel.
I can’t say that the scenes are all predictable but, most are. When you think you have it figured out, you don’t. I was kind of surprised by the ending. I love in the epilogue that Gillian give that “I knew that was going to happen!” She gives what I want to call a soft touch to the ending.
The Charter narrated by Catherine O’Brien was well acted throughout the book. Catherine did change up from her own voice ever so slightly between the cast of characters. For some reason just the way she narrated the book in a melodic and even tones throughout the book was hypnotic. Don’t get me wrong it is not that I did not enjoy her reading but, quite the opposite. It kept me listening and finished it in 2 days. It fit the books tone throughout. When there was a scene of immense urgency she relay that tone. If the character (which was Sarah most of the time) angry, frustrated, crying or solemn she hit the tone of her voice dead on. Even threw in some singing. Very pretty voice.
If you are into treasure hunts mystery, I feel that you will not be disappointed. This book to me is like a sleeper movie. Once the word is out more and more will pass this book along.
This book was provided to me by the Author Gillian Hamer. Gillian or no one else has affected the outcome of my review. This is solely my own opinion. Please comment and like my review. Please refer this book to others.
September 30, 2012
Sarah Morton returns to the Anglesey village of Moelfre to attend her father’s funeral, and as she goes back to the brooding house on the edge of the cliffs, she begins to realise that long buried secrets threaten, not just the present, but also the past. Beautifully written, this story literally bounds along at top speed, there is never a lull in the narrative as with expert skill the author combines historical legend, with a modern day murder mystery. The Charter works so well on all levels, the historic legend of the Royal Charter forms the basis of the story, but the present day murder mystery is equally compelling, and just as absorbing. The rapport with the characters is instantaneous, they are so finely drawn you can almost imagine them as people you know, and as the gradual layering of the present and the past combine, the stark truth begins to emerge of lives ruined by grief and despair.
With the author’s fine attention to detail, the stark coastal beauty of Anglesey comes gloriously alive. The legacy of the shipwreck lives on, and as the story unfolds, you can easily imagine that you are standing on the edge of the cliff path looking out over Dulas Bay, with the tang of salt and seaweed in the air, and the beleaguered ship, The Royal Charter, being tossed like a puppet in the churning waters of the Irish Sea.
It’s not often that a book comes along which covers all your favourite genres in one fell swoop, but, for me, The Charter is definitely one such book. Gillian Hamer writes with the passion of one who knows Anglesey well, and with great skill and imagination has turned this passion into a cracking good story.
I look forward to reading more novels from this talented author.
With the author’s fine attention to detail, the stark coastal beauty of Anglesey comes gloriously alive. The legacy of the shipwreck lives on, and as the story unfolds, you can easily imagine that you are standing on the edge of the cliff path looking out over Dulas Bay, with the tang of salt and seaweed in the air, and the beleaguered ship, The Royal Charter, being tossed like a puppet in the churning waters of the Irish Sea.
It’s not often that a book comes along which covers all your favourite genres in one fell swoop, but, for me, The Charter is definitely one such book. Gillian Hamer writes with the passion of one who knows Anglesey well, and with great skill and imagination has turned this passion into a cracking good story.
I look forward to reading more novels from this talented author.
June 12, 2012
This is an excellent, extremely faced paced story of greed and intrigue. Sarah Morton returns to her birthplace to bury her father and without any delay is immersed into a heart-breaking, series of events. Sarah’s father who on first introduction is a slightly eccentric old professor with a bit of drink problem and a penchant for the dramatic has not left anything as simple as a will and Sarah must stumble through a myriad of cryptic clues. With the warning ‘Trust No-one’ ringing in her ears and the death of more than her father to cope with. Sarah has to make some decisions. Can she rely on anyone?
The rugged beauty of the Welsh coast setting adds to the sense of urgency and drama in the writing. The descriptions of the intense weather leave you feeling a tad out of breath and wide-eyed. I enjoyed how much the characters instilled emotion in me. The sympathy for Sarah, how much misery can one individual endure? The impatience with Luke, give her time man! The affection for Grandma Ruth. But my feelings formed and then reformed for Owen.
If I was one of these obsessive types who orders my library in genre order. I would not know where to put this one. Crime novel? Ghost Story? Historic Account? Adventure Story? It doesn’t matter. It all works beautifully together. The elements as diverse as they seem sometimes just fit, which of course is down to old fashioned, damn good story telling.
The author has done a fabulous job, she doesn’t leave any loose ends or questions unanswered. Which is no easy task given the intricacies of the tale. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and will be recommending it to anyone that will listen.
The rugged beauty of the Welsh coast setting adds to the sense of urgency and drama in the writing. The descriptions of the intense weather leave you feeling a tad out of breath and wide-eyed. I enjoyed how much the characters instilled emotion in me. The sympathy for Sarah, how much misery can one individual endure? The impatience with Luke, give her time man! The affection for Grandma Ruth. But my feelings formed and then reformed for Owen.
If I was one of these obsessive types who orders my library in genre order. I would not know where to put this one. Crime novel? Ghost Story? Historic Account? Adventure Story? It doesn’t matter. It all works beautifully together. The elements as diverse as they seem sometimes just fit, which of course is down to old fashioned, damn good story telling.
The author has done a fabulous job, she doesn’t leave any loose ends or questions unanswered. Which is no easy task given the intricacies of the tale. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and will be recommending it to anyone that will listen.
March 22, 2014
I want to visit Anglesey!
This book has been sitting on my to-be-read-list for a long time. I do love books where historical events like the shipwreck of the Royal Charter are interwoven with a modern mystery. And I do hate books where mysteries have some supernatural elements. Am I a person who loves her prejudices? You bet! So, after a long time I eventually read the book and got capitvated in a story of history, suspense, tragic, a complicated history of a family, friendship and a couragous heroine. I did love all the beautifully interwoven references to Anglesey, its history, archeology and landscape. A place I would love to visit. The author also manages to portray the father of the main protagonist very vividly, though he is dead when the book starts. There is a lot of suspense, some very bad guys, some very supportive characters and a real treasure hunt! Enjoy - like I did! ... About the supernatural? Oh, who wouldn't love such a sweet, sad ghost of a small girl. Whenever she has had enough of Wales she will be more than welcome to haunt me in southern Germany.
This book has been sitting on my to-be-read-list for a long time. I do love books where historical events like the shipwreck of the Royal Charter are interwoven with a modern mystery. And I do hate books where mysteries have some supernatural elements. Am I a person who loves her prejudices? You bet! So, after a long time I eventually read the book and got capitvated in a story of history, suspense, tragic, a complicated history of a family, friendship and a couragous heroine. I did love all the beautifully interwoven references to Anglesey, its history, archeology and landscape. A place I would love to visit. The author also manages to portray the father of the main protagonist very vividly, though he is dead when the book starts. There is a lot of suspense, some very bad guys, some very supportive characters and a real treasure hunt! Enjoy - like I did! ... About the supernatural? Oh, who wouldn't love such a sweet, sad ghost of a small girl. Whenever she has had enough of Wales she will be more than welcome to haunt me in southern Germany.
May 24, 2012
I'd like to give this book 12 stars!
I totally loved this book and was enraptured by it. There is not a single loose thread or dropped stitch anyway in this wonderful interweaving of contemporary, historical, murder-mystery, treasure-hunt, Supernatural haunting, and the deep, deep characterizations, both of characters present and past. “The Charter” is a charmer! With an excellent reader’s hook, by the last sentence of the prologue I was captivated. I melded with the character of the deceased Owen-so much like me in so many ways, in other ways so divergent-and found empathy easy with all the other characters too. The author does suspense with a gentle but deft hand, building it carefully so that the reader is surprised to find new discoveries and revelations. I remain amazed at the quality of this book, recommend it most highly to readers of all stripes, and await the next novel from this very accomplished author.
I totally loved this book and was enraptured by it. There is not a single loose thread or dropped stitch anyway in this wonderful interweaving of contemporary, historical, murder-mystery, treasure-hunt, Supernatural haunting, and the deep, deep characterizations, both of characters present and past. “The Charter” is a charmer! With an excellent reader’s hook, by the last sentence of the prologue I was captivated. I melded with the character of the deceased Owen-so much like me in so many ways, in other ways so divergent-and found empathy easy with all the other characters too. The author does suspense with a gentle but deft hand, building it carefully so that the reader is surprised to find new discoveries and revelations. I remain amazed at the quality of this book, recommend it most highly to readers of all stripes, and await the next novel from this very accomplished author.
June 3, 2013
OH MY! This book had it all. There is history, there is paranormal, there is a bit of romance, there is betrayal, there is loyalty, there is ... Well, I think that you get the idea here.
This is the story of Sarah going back home to bury her father. Once she is home, lots and lots of stuff happens. I don't want to say much because I certainly do not want to give any of the story away. This is a thriller, for sure. You won't know who is good and who is not so good until it is all revealed by Ms Hamer's very skilled hand at weaving this tale.
I loved this book and will be reading more from Gillian E. Hamer!
This is the story of Sarah going back home to bury her father. Once she is home, lots and lots of stuff happens. I don't want to say much because I certainly do not want to give any of the story away. This is a thriller, for sure. You won't know who is good and who is not so good until it is all revealed by Ms Hamer's very skilled hand at weaving this tale.
I loved this book and will be reading more from Gillian E. Hamer!
November 16, 2013
I love modern-day mysteries with roots tangled deep in the past—family secrets, century-old tragedies, trails of clues that force me to think yet still surprise me in the end. This beautifully written story fulfills all those requirements and tosses in a set of interesting characters and stunning descriptions of the Welsh countryside. I read half the story in one evening and still wanted to know what would happen next to Sarah and Danny. You can find my full review at http://blog.cplesley.com/2013/11/long....
I would give this 4.5 stars if we had half-stars.
As mentioned in the blog post, the author sent me a free e-book copy for my honest review.
I would give this 4.5 stars if we had half-stars.
As mentioned in the blog post, the author sent me a free e-book copy for my honest review.
December 19, 2013
It was good. Maybe not as enticing as Closure was for me but it kept my attention and I wanted to finish it and that's what counts!
May 7, 2015
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
This is an intriguing thriller. I loved it!
Sarah Morton is a wonderful character. I liked her almost instantly. She is a normal woman, struggling with the death of her father. She is drawn, however, into a mystery when his death turns out to be murder. Can she solve his murder and figure out what his cryptic clues to a treasure mean before the murderer strikes again?
I am sad to say that it has taken me quite a while to get to read this book due to my large reading list. However, once I started to read the story, I struggled to put the book down! I was completely engrossed in this book from beginning to end, although the story started slow but quickly built up speed as it unfolded.There are some very likable characters that join Sarah on her journey. I liked both Detective Sergeant Daniel Buchanan (AKA Danny) and his partner DS Lewis. They are the police officers called in to investigate Sarah's father's murder. I also liked Luke Evan's, Sarah's childhood friend. I also liked Angelina Stewart, an eleven year old who also happens to be a ghost.
The story is set on the Welsh Anglesey coastline which, due to the vivid description given by the author, came to life on the page. There have been many shipwrecks on that coastline over the years. The Charter is a ship that was travelling from Australia to Southampton but, due to bad weather, was wrecked off the coast of Wales. I have been to Wales twice. Once to Brecon Beacons and once to Pwllheli. Both these places are beautiful in completely different ways, but this allowed me to picture the scenes, especially the ones on the cliffs with ease. I loved the mystery and intrigue that kept me guessing for quite a while. The story is told through several points of view, but Sarah, being the main character, has the most say. This book is part treasure hunt and part murder mystery. This is a type of book that I would love to be made into a TV movie. There are several twists and turns that surprised me, as well as a couple of shocking moments that made me gasp. The identity of the murderer was a complete shock, due to the excellent red herring dangled by the author. This book is more like a supernatural thriller, as there is a ghost, but there is a lot of action and danger involved to make this a fast paced read. I reached the end of the book and sat for a while afterwards, thinking about what I had just read. This story has been an emotional roller coaster ride from beginning to end.
Gillian Hamer has written a fantastic supernatural thriller. I love her writing style, her descriptions of the characters and the Welsh coast are very lifelike. The pace of the story is wonderful, even though it started off slowly. I am now looking forward to reading more books by this author in the future.
I highly recommend this book if you love supernatural, psychological or crime thrillers. - Lynn Worton
This is an intriguing thriller. I loved it!
Sarah Morton is a wonderful character. I liked her almost instantly. She is a normal woman, struggling with the death of her father. She is drawn, however, into a mystery when his death turns out to be murder. Can she solve his murder and figure out what his cryptic clues to a treasure mean before the murderer strikes again?
I am sad to say that it has taken me quite a while to get to read this book due to my large reading list. However, once I started to read the story, I struggled to put the book down! I was completely engrossed in this book from beginning to end, although the story started slow but quickly built up speed as it unfolded.There are some very likable characters that join Sarah on her journey. I liked both Detective Sergeant Daniel Buchanan (AKA Danny) and his partner DS Lewis. They are the police officers called in to investigate Sarah's father's murder. I also liked Luke Evan's, Sarah's childhood friend. I also liked Angelina Stewart, an eleven year old who also happens to be a ghost.
The story is set on the Welsh Anglesey coastline which, due to the vivid description given by the author, came to life on the page. There have been many shipwrecks on that coastline over the years. The Charter is a ship that was travelling from Australia to Southampton but, due to bad weather, was wrecked off the coast of Wales. I have been to Wales twice. Once to Brecon Beacons and once to Pwllheli. Both these places are beautiful in completely different ways, but this allowed me to picture the scenes, especially the ones on the cliffs with ease. I loved the mystery and intrigue that kept me guessing for quite a while. The story is told through several points of view, but Sarah, being the main character, has the most say. This book is part treasure hunt and part murder mystery. This is a type of book that I would love to be made into a TV movie. There are several twists and turns that surprised me, as well as a couple of shocking moments that made me gasp. The identity of the murderer was a complete shock, due to the excellent red herring dangled by the author. This book is more like a supernatural thriller, as there is a ghost, but there is a lot of action and danger involved to make this a fast paced read. I reached the end of the book and sat for a while afterwards, thinking about what I had just read. This story has been an emotional roller coaster ride from beginning to end.
Gillian Hamer has written a fantastic supernatural thriller. I love her writing style, her descriptions of the characters and the Welsh coast are very lifelike. The pace of the story is wonderful, even though it started off slowly. I am now looking forward to reading more books by this author in the future.
I highly recommend this book if you love supernatural, psychological or crime thrillers. - Lynn Worton
August 31, 2012
A Journey from Greed to Forgiveness: The Charter
The front cover shows a bleak view of a deserted shore, sprawling underneath underneath, until reaching a faint, moonlit horizon. I could imagine myself right there, looking out the window from a remote house called Charter House, perched on the cliffs of point Lynas. This rugged coastline is the perfect image for The Charter, written skillfully by Gillian Hamer. She cuts from one scene to another with the purpose and decisiveness of an experienced film director.
Haunted by family secrets, Sarah Morton comes back to her birthplace to bury her father, and to discover the truth about her father's hunt for a lost treasure, and about the circumstances of her mother's mysterious death. Sarah's story is punctuated with the stories of many other characters, introduced in such a way, and with as much red herring, as to make solving the mystery a suspenseful journey. Sarah is the main character in the 'here and now' but another presence--that of Angelina Stewart--has a compelling voice right from the beginning, perhaps because it is the only one told in first-person narrative. Angelina is, perhaps, the voice of the past: several generations back, she and other passengers aboard the Royal Charter drowned in the sea, pulled down by gold stuffed in their pockets. Angelina becomes a haunting identity in the mind of Sarah Morton, fixing herself as a symbol of the consequences of greed, and leading her in the journey to find forgiveness.
Gillian Hamer's descriptions awakened me to sense everything Sarah (and Angelina) saw, felt and touched. I could feel the invisible hands taking hold of her ankles, I struggled with her to rise from the murkiness of massive fronds of kelp, to break surface, and at last, suck a mouthful of air. Five stars.
The front cover shows a bleak view of a deserted shore, sprawling underneath underneath, until reaching a faint, moonlit horizon. I could imagine myself right there, looking out the window from a remote house called Charter House, perched on the cliffs of point Lynas. This rugged coastline is the perfect image for The Charter, written skillfully by Gillian Hamer. She cuts from one scene to another with the purpose and decisiveness of an experienced film director.
Haunted by family secrets, Sarah Morton comes back to her birthplace to bury her father, and to discover the truth about her father's hunt for a lost treasure, and about the circumstances of her mother's mysterious death. Sarah's story is punctuated with the stories of many other characters, introduced in such a way, and with as much red herring, as to make solving the mystery a suspenseful journey. Sarah is the main character in the 'here and now' but another presence--that of Angelina Stewart--has a compelling voice right from the beginning, perhaps because it is the only one told in first-person narrative. Angelina is, perhaps, the voice of the past: several generations back, she and other passengers aboard the Royal Charter drowned in the sea, pulled down by gold stuffed in their pockets. Angelina becomes a haunting identity in the mind of Sarah Morton, fixing herself as a symbol of the consequences of greed, and leading her in the journey to find forgiveness.
Gillian Hamer's descriptions awakened me to sense everything Sarah (and Angelina) saw, felt and touched. I could feel the invisible hands taking hold of her ankles, I struggled with her to rise from the murkiness of massive fronds of kelp, to break surface, and at last, suck a mouthful of air. Five stars.
October 6, 2012
Gillian E Hamer writes an outstanding Chapter One in her historical novel, The Charter. It is typical for the first couple of paragraphs in a book to hook the reader; however, The Charter’s entire first chapter is extraordinary.
As a historical novel, the story is based on the Royal Charter’s shipwreck that occurred in 1859. It is a fascinating read; because it isn’t often I travel to the rocky Welsh coast and the Irish Sea.
The storm of the century claimed many lives on the Royal Charter. The survivors in the Irish Sea, who made it to shore, were happy to possess their gold from Australia. This is where Gillian E Hamer develops her plot.
Sarah, the main character, has a father who displays odd behavior during his life. After his death, Sarah receives clues to locate his gold, at the reading of his will. In her quest to find the treasure, Sarah has to decide whom to trust and whom not to trust. Is Sarah successful in locating the gold?
Hamer adds the paranormal, crime, mystery, and murder, to her historical novel. Are crimes and mysteries solved?
The characters are captivating, and the story reads at an ideal pace. I did predict the outcome of one character, however, that was the exception. The story is unique for a historical novel, and the ‘ghost’ twist Hamer integrated with amazing skill, was not exaggerated.
Gillian E Hamer sends a subtle message in her intriguing novel, The Charter: Greed can wreak havoc on you and your relationships over time.
I look forward to reading more from Gillian E Hamer; I enjoyed her unique style of writing historical fiction.
As a historical novel, the story is based on the Royal Charter’s shipwreck that occurred in 1859. It is a fascinating read; because it isn’t often I travel to the rocky Welsh coast and the Irish Sea.
The storm of the century claimed many lives on the Royal Charter. The survivors in the Irish Sea, who made it to shore, were happy to possess their gold from Australia. This is where Gillian E Hamer develops her plot.
Sarah, the main character, has a father who displays odd behavior during his life. After his death, Sarah receives clues to locate his gold, at the reading of his will. In her quest to find the treasure, Sarah has to decide whom to trust and whom not to trust. Is Sarah successful in locating the gold?
Hamer adds the paranormal, crime, mystery, and murder, to her historical novel. Are crimes and mysteries solved?
The characters are captivating, and the story reads at an ideal pace. I did predict the outcome of one character, however, that was the exception. The story is unique for a historical novel, and the ‘ghost’ twist Hamer integrated with amazing skill, was not exaggerated.
Gillian E Hamer sends a subtle message in her intriguing novel, The Charter: Greed can wreak havoc on you and your relationships over time.
I look forward to reading more from Gillian E Hamer; I enjoyed her unique style of writing historical fiction.
May 27, 2012
This is a debut novel by a very talented writer. I adored it. Set in Anglesea, the novel oozes atmosphere and the author's knowledge of, and love for, the landscape she's writing about is clear on every page. This is a compelling crime novel with ghostly overtones that will keep you reading until late into the night as, along with the protagonist, you try to solve the mystery of her father's death. Somehow, we know this is linked to a terrible shipwreck that happened off the coast of Port Lynas over a hundred years earlier.
The author moves easily between the contemporary world of Sarah Morton and the harrowing images and memories of the shipwreck from the perspective of one of its young victims.
The plot is a classic. Sarah comes home to bury her estranged father. This means returning to Port Lynas and the family home - a hulking mansion perched above the cliffs, at the scene of the famous shipwreck. It soons become clear that the death of Sarah's father isn't as clear cut as it seems and, as Sarah races to reveal the truth, her own life, and that of those close to her, becomes threatened.
It is an utterly gripping read. Compelling from start to finish, this accomplished novel is a real page turner. The ending is utterly satisfying and you will finish this novel wanting to know where you can get your hands on another book by this author. Let's hope we don't have to wait too long.
The author moves easily between the contemporary world of Sarah Morton and the harrowing images and memories of the shipwreck from the perspective of one of its young victims.
The plot is a classic. Sarah comes home to bury her estranged father. This means returning to Port Lynas and the family home - a hulking mansion perched above the cliffs, at the scene of the famous shipwreck. It soons become clear that the death of Sarah's father isn't as clear cut as it seems and, as Sarah races to reveal the truth, her own life, and that of those close to her, becomes threatened.
It is an utterly gripping read. Compelling from start to finish, this accomplished novel is a real page turner. The ending is utterly satisfying and you will finish this novel wanting to know where you can get your hands on another book by this author. Let's hope we don't have to wait too long.
June 18, 2012
Based on the true-life story of the shipwreck of the Royal Charter in 1859, The Charter opens with a chilling account told from the point of view of a child who dies in the disaster. The child’s tale comes back to haunt both reader and Sarah Morton, the modern-day main character, as we move with Sarah from the funeral of her estranged father through tragedy, intrigue and fear.
Instead of a straightforward will, Sarah’s father leaves instructions which have her fearing even her childhood friends and questioning everyone’s motives and actions. The Royal Charter was carrying gold from Australia when it went down with tremendous loss of life. The descendants of both survivors and rescuers seem to have much to hide and Sarah is soon swept up in the history of the shipwreck, but nothing and no one is as it seems on the surface. In a race to find the missing gold, Sarah’s life and sanity is put in jeopardy again and again.
This well crafted story of greed and intrigue kept me absorbed from the first page to the last. I would have no hesitation in recommending The Charter.
Instead of a straightforward will, Sarah’s father leaves instructions which have her fearing even her childhood friends and questioning everyone’s motives and actions. The Royal Charter was carrying gold from Australia when it went down with tremendous loss of life. The descendants of both survivors and rescuers seem to have much to hide and Sarah is soon swept up in the history of the shipwreck, but nothing and no one is as it seems on the surface. In a race to find the missing gold, Sarah’s life and sanity is put in jeopardy again and again.
This well crafted story of greed and intrigue kept me absorbed from the first page to the last. I would have no hesitation in recommending The Charter.
May 19, 2012
I love stories that encompass history, legend, mystery and crime. I enjoy a fast-paced narrative and an intriguing plot. I also like to be transported to an unknown place. These are the reasons I devoured The Charter, set along the wild and dangerous Welsh coast. Based on the story of the 1859 shipwreck of the Royal Charter, on its fated voyage from the goldfields of Australia to Liverpool, the author has created a beguiling modern-day tale around the gold the survivors brought to shore in their pockets, as they battled the seas in the most severe Irish Sea storm of the century.
I am not generally drawn to anything paranormal, but the “otherworldly” elements in The Charter are dealt with so deftly, the author leaving the decision up to the reader as to whether these ghosts exist or not.
I will definitely be seeking out more enchanting crime thrillers from Gillian Hamer set along the beautiful and mysterious Anglesey coast.
I am not generally drawn to anything paranormal, but the “otherworldly” elements in The Charter are dealt with so deftly, the author leaving the decision up to the reader as to whether these ghosts exist or not.
I will definitely be seeking out more enchanting crime thrillers from Gillian Hamer set along the beautiful and mysterious Anglesey coast.
January 5, 2013
A debut novel from Hamer, and an example of very accomplished storytelling. She manages to pull off the difficult feat of combining the here and now (the story of Sarah, attempting to solve the riddle of her father's death) with the ghostly recollections of eleven year old Angelina Stewart who perished in the shipwreck of The Royal Charter off the Anglesey coast. Hamer doesn't go in for linguistic fireworks, but her language is supple enough to carry the emotion of a scene very effectively. Where she excels, though, is in the way she manages the different strands of her plot. Right in the middle of the book, her restrained description of Sarah's attendance at her own husband Dom's funeral melts into a recollection of childhood joy in her mother's company on the cliffs on a sublime summer's day. This golden memory is juxtaposed with her vision of the ghost child, Angelina, standing at the same spot on the day Dom died. And all in a few pages. Impressive stuff!
January 20, 2015
Having never read Gillian Hamer before, I did not know what to expect but the short description caught my attention. It is difficult writing about one small section of the world but Gillian does a fine job describing the Northern Anglican coastline without frivolous detail that bogs down a story. The setting is as much a character as the people, both past and present. She uses the Old House, far and away from neighbors and towns, setting on an oceanside point of the island, where a lonely ghost seeks redemption for her family.
The characters are well-written, however, the detectives are rather one-dimensional and a bit stuck in a detective almost a columbo-bungler in a way. Always too late to see anything, after the fact and people running through the scene but does add the element of authority. The plot is well-paced, nothing was rushed or left out, and nothing was added in as filler that I could read.
The Charter was an enjoyable read and I would give 4 1/2 stars.
The characters are well-written, however, the detectives are rather one-dimensional and a bit stuck in a detective almost a columbo-bungler in a way. Always too late to see anything, after the fact and people running through the scene but does add the element of authority. The plot is well-paced, nothing was rushed or left out, and nothing was added in as filler that I could read.
The Charter was an enjoyable read and I would give 4 1/2 stars.
July 6, 2012
A mystery story with elements of ghostly happenings set against a real historical background, The Charter, is a novel of many parts. The characterisations are excellent, in particular those of the detective, Danny, of Grandma Ruth, and of Owen, a man we never meet while he's alive. The descriptions of Anglesey and the coast are also a highlight of this unusual novel, being both dramatic enough to scare the reader and enticing enough to make her want to visit immediately.
The historical aspects are fascinating and well-researched but never overdone, giving us glimpses of a sad story that echoes down into the present.
As the protagonist, Sarah, untangles the strange web of clues left by her narcissistic father, she also unravels secrets of her own life and that of her mother. The ending was not quite what I expected but the writing is so good it kept me hooked to the last.
The historical aspects are fascinating and well-researched but never overdone, giving us glimpses of a sad story that echoes down into the present.
As the protagonist, Sarah, untangles the strange web of clues left by her narcissistic father, she also unravels secrets of her own life and that of her mother. The ending was not quite what I expected but the writing is so good it kept me hooked to the last.
June 13, 2012
Well done Ms Hamer. A very deep and dark story. I could almost feel I was on that cliff face (except that I was warm). Ms Hamer’s knowledge of Wales and the Welsh shines through and I immediately warmed to her larger than life local people.
You have to admire Sarah’s strength of character and tenacity. A tale with so many twists and turns, it is impossible to second guess. I was captivated from start to finish. A thoroughly good read, to be recommended. A story with an unusual plot and fascinating characters. It’s a ghost story, a history lesson and a staggering adventure and an ending I wasn’t expecting.
I know this will appeal to anyone who loves to read any of the above types of genres so to find a mix in such a well told story is both different and exciting.
You have to admire Sarah’s strength of character and tenacity. A tale with so many twists and turns, it is impossible to second guess. I was captivated from start to finish. A thoroughly good read, to be recommended. A story with an unusual plot and fascinating characters. It’s a ghost story, a history lesson and a staggering adventure and an ending I wasn’t expecting.
I know this will appeal to anyone who loves to read any of the above types of genres so to find a mix in such a well told story is both different and exciting.
January 10, 2015
I really enjoyed this audiobook version of The Charter.
Right from the start the story grabs your interest, and keeps it going throughout. Athriller mystery , with a touch of ghost story .
The main Character Sarah is taken on a historical treasure hunt by her dead father ,underway there are which then results in several murders , which then results in questions being asked about her father's death.
The book is narrated by Catherine O'Brien, she has a pleasent reading voice I found her narration little "iffy" at the beginning, but soon settled down as she got into the book . I don't know whether the pronunciation of the very difficult Welsh words is correct , but for a non Welsh person it sounded right.
Right from the start the story grabs your interest, and keeps it going throughout. Athriller mystery , with a touch of ghost story .
The main Character Sarah is taken on a historical treasure hunt by her dead father ,underway there are which then results in several murders , which then results in questions being asked about her father's death.
The book is narrated by Catherine O'Brien, she has a pleasent reading voice I found her narration little "iffy" at the beginning, but soon settled down as she got into the book . I don't know whether the pronunciation of the very difficult Welsh words is correct , but for a non Welsh person it sounded right.
September 30, 2012
So pleased I saw Jo's review of this one on Goodreads - I absolutely loved it. What first attracted me was the setting - Moelfre is one of my favourite places on Anglesey (I was brought up near Bangor), and my father has always told me stories about the sinking of the Royal Charter. But this book has a bit of everything - really vivid and well-drawn characters, a strong sense of place, good dialogue, a rattling good story, a murder mystery, a touch of the supernatural, a treasure hunt, a thriller and adventure story, and well researched history backing it all up. A wonderful read, and can't wait for her next in December - totally unputdownable.
May 31, 2013
This is a highly entertaining fast paced book that is reminiscent of Mary Stewart's Gothic thrillers. Sarah returns for her father's funeral in Wales and to the old estate, The Charter on the cliffs overlooking the site of a dramatic shipwreck in the 19th century. Immediately she finds herself embroiled in a murder mystery, a treasure hunt, and a ghost guide and protector. It's a page turner.
August 28, 2013
I absolutely love books with history and mystery set in a faraway place. The Charter fulfills all my wishes. The writing is perfect and the characters were full of life. Sarah started out being an angry daughter, brought home to deal with the death of her father. She experienced so many traumas and emotions that really amazed me. The story kept me reading from the start through to the end.
I will be reading much more from this author. This was an amazing read!
I will be reading much more from this author. This was an amazing read!
February 17, 2015
A present day mystery based on an actual historical event, the story sometimes as life is pretty hard on your feelings, but it kept the reader on the edge of the seat. The treasure hunt and paranormal aspect (not usually something this reader goes for), was interlaced well and added to the story. The narration was well done, and particularly liked the well pronounced Welsh locations. I heartily recommend to any mystery fan!
February 13, 2015
A present day mystery based on an actual historical event, the story sometimes as life is pretty hard on your feelings, but it kept the reader on the edge of the seat. The treasure hunt and paranormal aspect (not usually something this reader goes for), was interlaced well and added to the story. The narration was well done, and particularly liked the well pronounced Welsh locations. I heartily recommend to any mystery fan!
June 10, 2015
Review: THE CHARTER by GILLIAN HAMER. AUDIO EDITION narrated by CATHERINE O'BRIEN
I had read this novel in e-format just three years ago and enjoyed it immensely. When the audio edition's narrator, Catherine O'Brien, asked me to review that version, I happily concurred. Ms. O'Brien's talent is excellent. Her lovely British accent elucidates the overtones and subtle nuances of this wonderful novel. I know that many readers are quite fond of audiobooks, and I recommend THE CHARTER.
I had read this novel in e-format just three years ago and enjoyed it immensely. When the audio edition's narrator, Catherine O'Brien, asked me to review that version, I happily concurred. Ms. O'Brien's talent is excellent. Her lovely British accent elucidates the overtones and subtle nuances of this wonderful novel. I know that many readers are quite fond of audiobooks, and I recommend THE CHARTER.
February 28, 2014
I received this through First Reads. Entertaining, if a bit formulaic(not necessarily a bad thing). The way this book started with a supernatural aspect was promising, but I found that aspect of the story just faded out and there was really no resolution. Taking this simply as a good mystery book, it was a good read, though I was a bit disappointed by the ending.
December 31, 2014
I loved this book!The storyline was VERY interesting.The setting was perfect and the characters seemed real.The narrator,Catherine O'Brien did a great job with the voices making everyone a real person I cared about.I did get a bit confused with Louis vs Luke and Danny vs David toward the end.Maybe names with different beginning letters would help?Either way,I loved the story!
December 16, 2012
Such a well written and fast paced book full of twists and turns. It was even more intriguing to learn The Royal Charter was real; and I spent a great deal of time after, like Sarah, researching it. Now that makes for a fantastic book!!
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