The Mill River Recluse

The engrossing story “The Mill River Recluse” by Darcie Chan takes place in the quaint Vermont village of Mill River. Mary McAllister, a reclusive widow, has been living alone in her mansion made of white marble with a view of the town for almost sixty years. The mail, an elderly priest who has a fondness for stealing spoons, and a bedroom window with a view of the village below are Mary’s only ties to the outside world after her abusive husband disfigured her and she struggled with severe social anxiety disorder.

But when three newcomers—a police officer, his daughter, and a fourth-grade teacher—arrive, their inquisitiveness about the mysterious elderly woman starts a chain of events that will change their lives forever. This endearing book examines overcoming adversity, the importance of friendship, and the surprising ways in which love can arise.