“Be careful what you wish for, I guess.”
Isobel Malone
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book in return for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
If you enjoy slow-paced dual-time stories, this one is worth checking out. It was too slow for me, but the characters drew me back after my attention started to wander.
At the novel’s beginning, the past haunts Isobel, Nick, and Gina. Even though time has moved on, they have yet to grow past events from eighteen years ago. As Isobel and Nick reconnect and slowly open up to the future, Isobel’s hidden family history comes to light. Flashbacks give a glimpse into that history.
The haunting atmosphere and history between the characters make for a gloomy start to the book. Nick and Isobel are drifting through life and constantly look back to eighteen years ago with rose-colored glasses. While this usually frustrates me, I came to like Isobel and Nick as a couple. Of course, Spencer cheering them on in the background was a bonus. Unfortunately, Vivian and Max didn’t fare as well. Multiple characters mention the times and norms were different in the 1950s. Even so, I never came to truly like Vivian.
Silverton Hall and Little Clarion feel like members of the cast. They are refreshed and refurbished as the past comes to light and the air clears. Even Silverton Bay offers another link between the past and present generations. Vivian and Isobel both love swimming in its waters to relax and relieve stress.
Fans of slow-paced, character-driven novels will enjoy this book. While it did not resonate with me, it is still a worthwhile read.
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