Helen Bennett

Helen is the first person the Seeker meets in Darkwood. She works as the mayor's assistant and does everything she can to help the townspeople in these difficult times. 

Occupation: Secretary and right-hand woman to Mayor Smallcat

MBTI: ISFJ

Birthday: July 7

Pet: No

Favorite food: Cherry pie

Favorite book: Murder on the Darkwood Express

Random fact: To test a plot twist in a detective story, she once shot the minute hand of the city clock with an arrow

1. Tell us about your family. What was your childhood like?

We have a small but close-knit family. I'm an only daughter and received a lot of attention as a child. Now I feel my parents' support even in difficult moments.

2. Do you have any close friends? How do you spend your time?

I've had a close friend, Amelia, since childhood. We were inseparable at school and university. We can do everything together, but most of all we like reading detective stories. And I'm not bragging, of course, but sometimes we even guess who the murderer is!

3. How do you feel after your divorce from Richard Darlington? Do you have a new romantic interest? 

Richard and I turned out to be too different. And I'm glad I won't be involved in his shifty business ideas anymore! I've had a lot of emotional ups and downs lately, but now my heart is free. Being alone turns out to be very nice.

4. How did you become the mayor's secretary? 

I came to the Town Hall for an interview after seeing an announcement. Mayor Smallcat was very strict! He asked about the city's history, my education, and checked my handwriting. But he paid particular attention to how I answered the question about my favorite breed of cat.

5. What kind of boss is Mayor Smallcat?

He's a kind and responsible person who cares deeply about the city. But he has his weaknesses. Kitties, afternoon tea, forgetfulness when it comes to bonuses . . . Oh, best not to write about that!

6. Do you have a secret dream?

I dream of coming to work in the morning and seeing all the papers on my desk sorted out! Seriously, though, I guess I dream about Darkwood being freed from the Curse.

7. What would you take with you to a desert island? 

The complete collection of Mr. Word's detective stories, of course! 

8. If you could go back in time before the Curse, would you leave the city?

The first answer that came to mind was "yes." But, living among townspeople who, even after the onset of the Curse, haven't lost spirit, help each other, and always find a way out of even the most hopeless situations, thanks to their courage, support, and our Seeker . . . I'd choose to stay anyway, because I'm needed here. And because my heart belongs to Darkwood.