The Tarot Spell

Willo Davis Roberts (1928-2004) was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Originally a paramedic, she transitioned into a career as a full-time novelist. Her first book, Murder at Grand Bay, was published in 1955. She authored 100 books in her lifetime, many of which were gothics and children's novels. She won Edgar awards in 1989, 1995, and 1997, and was awarded the Governor's Award for children's literature in Washington State. My first experience with Roberts is the 1970 Lancer gothic The Tarot Spell. 

Catherine is a young woman who just inherited two-million (obviously) from the uncle she cared for. Ironically, the fortune also brings her a new husband, a guy named Jason Ruart. Catherine and Jason are old acquaintances who struck up a relationship recently. Catherine's friends and sisters feel as though Jason is just cashing in on Catherine, marrying her for her money. But Jason's family is old money. They own the town's mill, and he's in charge of modernizing the facility. 

Jason moves Catherine into his family's robust mansion (obviously) where she nearly dies in “accidents” in and around the house (obviously). The “tarot” idea springs from Jason's mother, an eccentric drunk who plays with the cards and advises Catherine repeatedly that she's in danger. Is Jason planning to knock Catherine off? Does Jason's sister have an agenda? What's the story on Jason's prior wife? These are the threads that weave together The Tarot Spell. 

When it comes to gothics the effectiveness of the story is based on atmosphere and the protagonist – both have to be strongly detailed and positioned in a way that adds some depth and emotional charge. Catherine, while admirable as a devout caregiver, isn't particularly smart or engaging. She lacks independence and is consistently crying over her disenchanting relationship with Jason. Roberts doesn't add any real atmosphere to the novel, unwisely keeping the details of the sprawling mansion's interior in the reader's imagination. The family dynamic was mildly interesting and provided a small amount of mystery. Ultimately, I figured out the book's plot and ending by page 10. This made my reading experience less than enjoyable. The Tarot Spell didn't mesmerize me. Whether I'll read another Roberts book is debatable. 

Get The Tarot Spell HERE.