Book Review: My Brother Michael (1959) by Mary Stewart
Living in a country where English isn’t the primary language means that finding English books at the local library or secondhand shops is quite a challenge. The selection is often small, but every now and then, I stumble upon a hidden gem. Mary Stewart’s “My Brother Michael” is one such discovery, and I’m thrilled that I chose to read it despite its unassuming title.
I recognized Mary Stewart as an author my mother used to read, known for her books about Camelot and King Arthur. However, I only recently discovered that she was also a prolific writer of romantic suspense and detective romances. This genre, which includes gothic elements, courageous heroines, charming love interests, and intriguing puzzles, is right up my alley.
When Something Happens
“My Brother Michael” narrates the unexpected adventure of Miss Camilla Haven during her vacation in Greece. While sitting in a café in Athens, writing a letter to her friend back in England, Camilla notes that “nothing ever happens to me.” Ironically, at that moment, she is mistaken for someone else by a man delivering a car with an urgent message. The car needs to be taken to Delphi immediately for Mr. Simon, as it’s a matter of life and death. Despite her attempts to refuse, her poor Greek lands her with the car keys. Coincidentally, Delphi is the final destination on her trip.
After waiting in vain for the real recipient to show up, Camilla makes an uncharacteristic decision to drive the car to Delphi herself. Her lack of driving skills makes for a series of hilarious mishaps along the way, making it one of the most humorous books I’ve read in a long time.
Upon reaching Delphi, Camilla meets a Simon who initially appears clueless about the situation. Mr. Simon Lester, like Camilla, is a Classics teacher in Greece on a personal mission. He is visiting the place where his brother Michael died fourteen years earlier during WWII. Simon is on a quest to uncover the mystery behind a peculiar letter sent by Michael, hinting at something valuable found on Mount Parnassus.
Evocatively Good Stuff
The story follows these two Classics teachers as they journey through the Greek countryside, treading paths once walked by ancient Oracle-seekers and followers of Apollo. WWII betrayals come to the surface, ancient myths may hold truths, and malevolent individuals with sinister plans emerge, making it indeed a matter of life and death. Camilla and Simon navigate these challenges while a subtle romance blossoms, with Simon seeing Camilla in a way she has never seen herself.
This novel is like an adult version of The Three Investigators or Nancy Drew, infused with a slow-burning romance. Mary Stewart’s writing is vividly evocative, full of self-irony, and a masterclass in “show, don’t tell.” She allows readers to connect the dots and immerse themselves in the story, making it an incredibly captivating read.
Having thoroughly enjoyed “My Brother Michael,” I am eager to explore more of Mary Stewart’s work. The story’s charm and depth would also make it an excellent candidate for a BBC period drama adaptation.
Content Note:
There are no graphic descriptions or swearing, but considerable smoking, as the story is set in the 1950s. Some descriptions may feel dated by today’s standards.
Have you read “My Brother Michael” or other works by Mary Stewart? Do you have any favorites to recommend?
