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Mariana
From the winner of the Catherine Cookson Fiction Prize, this mesmerizing, suspenseful, and richly atmospheric tale of time travel draws us into the heart of a heroine we won't soon forget...
The first time Julia Beckett saw Greywethers she was only five, but she knew that it was her house. And now that she’s at last become its owner, she suspects that she was drawn there for a reason.
As if Greywethers were a portal between worlds, she finds herself transported into seventeenth-century England, becoming Mariana, a young woman struggling against danger and treachery, and battling a forbidden love.
Each time Julia travels back, she becomes more enthralled with the past...until she realizes Mariana’s life is threatening to eclipse her own, and she must find a way to lay the past to rest or lose the chance for happiness in her own time.
The first time Julia Beckett saw Greywethers she was only five, but she knew that it was her house. And now that she’s at last become its owner, she suspects that she was drawn there for a reason.
As if Greywethers were a portal between worlds, she finds herself transported into seventeenth-century England, becoming Mariana, a young woman struggling against danger and treachery, and battling a forbidden love.
Each time Julia travels back, she becomes more enthralled with the past...until she realizes Mariana’s life is threatening to eclipse her own, and she must find a way to lay the past to rest or lose the chance for happiness in her own time.
352 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 1994
1,004 people are currently reading
18.2k people want to read
About the author
Susanna Kearsley
29books8,701followersNew York Times, USA Today, and Globe and Mail bestselling author Susanna Kearsley is a former museum curator who loves restoring the lost voices of real people to the page, interweaving romance and historical intrigue with modern adventure.
Her books, published in translation in more than 20 countries, have won the Catherine Cookson Fiction Prize, RT Reviewers� Choice Awards, a RITA Award, and National Readers� Choice Awards, and have finaled for the UK’s Romantic Novel of the Year and the Crime Writers of Canada's Arthur Ellis Award for Best Novel.
She lives near Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
(Aka Emma Cole, a pseudonym she used for one novel, Every Secret Thing, a thriller which at the time was intended to be the first of a trilogy featuring heroine Kate Murray, and which may yet be finished, some day. Meantime, Every Secret Thing has been reissued under Kearsley's name, and the Emma Cole pseudonym is no longer in use.)
Her books, published in translation in more than 20 countries, have won the Catherine Cookson Fiction Prize, RT Reviewers� Choice Awards, a RITA Award, and National Readers� Choice Awards, and have finaled for the UK’s Romantic Novel of the Year and the Crime Writers of Canada's Arthur Ellis Award for Best Novel.
She lives near Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
(Aka Emma Cole, a pseudonym she used for one novel, Every Secret Thing, a thriller which at the time was intended to be the first of a trilogy featuring heroine Kate Murray, and which may yet be finished, some day. Meantime, Every Secret Thing has been reissued under Kearsley's name, and the Emma Cole pseudonym is no longer in use.)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,756 reviews
November 1, 2016
If I could write, I would have written this book....
There are some books that come through your reading world that touch you in ways you can't really explain. They're not always classics, or particularly well known, but for some reason you're so caught up in them that after you're through reading the final page, you close the book and think to yourself, "now that's a keeper".
Such was the case of Mariana, a book about the redemptive power of reincarnation, lost love, found love, going backward to go forward, and (the cherry on my sundae) a old beloved house.
Book illustrator Julia Beckett first sees the 16th century house, Greywethers, on a family jaunt when she's only 5, and promptly pronounces it "her house". She finds it again at age 22 and again at age 30, and this time (due to an inheritance) she buys it without even touring the inside. Upon moving in, she meets her neighbors Iain Sumner, a not-so-dour-Scots-Cambridge-read-executive-turned-sheep-farmer, and Geoffrey de Mornay, the handsome, wealthy owner of the local manor. In addition, Julia begins a strange foray into the 17th century, where she lives the life of Mariana Farr for hours at a time before returning to the present. Little by little, Mariana's life begins to effect Julia's own present day life, and the lives of Mariana and her lover Richard de Mornay must come full circle before Julia can move forward with her own conflicting feelings for Geoffrey.
Kearsley did a fantastic job blending the time travel so seemlessly throughout the book. I never felt jolted as I have with other time travel books, trying to figure out what's what and when/where the characters are. In addition, the ending was so bittersweet, yet satisfying, that I admit to being a bit weepy by the last pages.
Anyone who enjoyed Jude Deveraux's, , should enjoy Mariana even more so. This is a sweet time travel romance with a satisfying ending. And once again, my love for beautiful old houses, ghosts, hidden objects and the serene English countryside is satisfied as well
There are some books that come through your reading world that touch you in ways you can't really explain. They're not always classics, or particularly well known, but for some reason you're so caught up in them that after you're through reading the final page, you close the book and think to yourself, "now that's a keeper".
Such was the case of Mariana, a book about the redemptive power of reincarnation, lost love, found love, going backward to go forward, and (the cherry on my sundae) a old beloved house.
Book illustrator Julia Beckett first sees the 16th century house, Greywethers, on a family jaunt when she's only 5, and promptly pronounces it "her house". She finds it again at age 22 and again at age 30, and this time (due to an inheritance) she buys it without even touring the inside. Upon moving in, she meets her neighbors Iain Sumner, a not-so-dour-Scots-Cambridge-read-executive-turned-sheep-farmer, and Geoffrey de Mornay, the handsome, wealthy owner of the local manor. In addition, Julia begins a strange foray into the 17th century, where she lives the life of Mariana Farr for hours at a time before returning to the present. Little by little, Mariana's life begins to effect Julia's own present day life, and the lives of Mariana and her lover Richard de Mornay must come full circle before Julia can move forward with her own conflicting feelings for Geoffrey.
Kearsley did a fantastic job blending the time travel so seemlessly throughout the book. I never felt jolted as I have with other time travel books, trying to figure out what's what and when/where the characters are. In addition, the ending was so bittersweet, yet satisfying, that I admit to being a bit weepy by the last pages.
Anyone who enjoyed Jude Deveraux's, , should enjoy Mariana even more so. This is a sweet time travel romance with a satisfying ending. And once again, my love for beautiful old houses, ghosts, hidden objects and the serene English countryside is satisfied as well
February 28, 2025
4.5 Stars! MARIANA by SUSANNA KEARSLEY was an absolutely beautiful and enchanting tale that swept me away into a fascinating journey of past and present through time travel and reincarnation.
SUSANNA KEARSLEY delivers a well-written and intriguing historical romance novel that was easy to follow along with all the characters and the time travel aspects of this book which I found flowed very smoothly throughout this story. I was extremely intrigued with the premise of this book.
THE ENDING was surprising, romantic, and bittersweet but yet very satisfying for another enjoyable read! Would recommend!
This book was chosen to be read on the recommendation of my ŷ friend, Frances. Whom I wish to personally thank for introducing me to another great read! Thank you, Frances!
SUSANNA KEARSLEY delivers a well-written and intriguing historical romance novel that was easy to follow along with all the characters and the time travel aspects of this book which I found flowed very smoothly throughout this story. I was extremely intrigued with the premise of this book.
THE ENDING was surprising, romantic, and bittersweet but yet very satisfying for another enjoyable read! Would recommend!
This book was chosen to be read on the recommendation of my ŷ friend, Frances. Whom I wish to personally thank for introducing me to another great read! Thank you, Frances!
March 27, 2017
This was so beautifully written!! I think I may have found another favourite author. I read this book on the recommendation of a friend. I'm so glad I did! Thank-you Frances :)
This book has bits of everything I enjoy...an old English country house (with a history all of it's own,) a story in the past and present (time travel), and some romance.
A definite 5 star plus!
This book has bits of everything I enjoy...an old English country house (with a history all of it's own,) a story in the past and present (time travel), and some romance.
A definite 5 star plus!
January 11, 2015
An astounding tale that is so well written you become completely lost in the story. As it is one of my favourite books I gave it as a gift recently. I was surprised but pleased at how much my friend enjoyed it by informing me that she read it in one sitting and has since read it an additional two more times. This book is definitely a keeper and is highly recommended. Well done Ms. Kearsley.
March 20, 2013
The inspiration behind Greyweathers in Avebury, Wiltshire
Ohhh, you guys. I really don't know what I'm going to do when I run out of Susanna Kearsley's books to read. After finishing a few days ago, I told myself to wait at least a few weeks to read this one - you know, to stretch it out, so I wouldn't go through withdrawal or anything. I picked up as I'd heard Kate Morton's stuff was similar, but even after 100 pages, it failed to grab me because all I wanted was more Kearsley. So I gave in and started .
The Red Lion pub in Avebury, Wiltshire
Kearsley's stories are pure comfort, perfect for a stormy day, a warm blanket, and a cup of tea. Her characters are brave, kind, real, and always strive to do the right thing. Her leading men are solid, dependable types - romantic and passionate, yes, but always good and respectful. You'd want a man like that in real life, not someone who's pushy, arrogant, and makes your decisions for you.
The west wing of Avebury Manor, the real Crofton Hall
If I had one complaint about , it was that it wasn't longer. I wanted more time to get to know these characters, and I felt that certain relationships could have been a bit more developed. As it was, I loved the book and finished it with an enormous grin on my face. This one's a keeper.
December 1, 2021
3.5 stars. I've read most of Susanna Kearsley's recent books, but I've bought a lot of her older ones on Kindle sales over the years that I still need to read. This is one of those and, while I really liked parts of it, in other ways it shows its age (written about 30 years ago). Kearsley's definitely grown as an author since then.
The main character, 29 year old Julia Beckett, has been inexplicably and powerfully drawn to a historic home, called Greywethers, in an English village since she first saw it as a child. When it goes up for sale years later, she snaps it up. And immediately starts experiencing these odd events where she's reliving events in the life of Mariana, a young woman who lived in 1665, the plague year in England.
Mariana is forced to leave London when her mother's death from the plague leaves her as an orphan, and she moves into Greywethers with her self-righteous, abusive uncle, his downtrodden wife, their baby, and the wife's younger sister, who becomes Mariana's friend and confidante. Mariana also meets the local lord, Richard de Mornay, who is violently hated by her uncle, but Richard is clearly very interested in Mariana. Meanwhile, back in the present, a descendant of Richard's family is also very interested in Julia.
In Mariana Kearsley uses her patented dual-timeline approach, with one plotline set in our modern times and the other in a historical period (usually the late 1600's/early 1700's, which really seems to draw Kearsley). There's usually a paranormal element tying the two time periods together, and here it's **possibly a spoiler if you're particularly sensitive about these things, though it's disclosed pretty early in the book** . At least for me, that didn't work as well as the various other methods Kearsley has used in other books. There's also a lot of smoking by one of the main characters, which doesn't read so well for me in a 90's era romantic novel. Also: VERY abrupt ending. It's not terrible, but I would've liked a little more detail on how everything worked out.
YMMV. I thought this was a reasonably good book, but not one of Kearsley's best. I'd recommend , and over this one. But if you're a Kearsley fan, it's worth a read.
The main character, 29 year old Julia Beckett, has been inexplicably and powerfully drawn to a historic home, called Greywethers, in an English village since she first saw it as a child. When it goes up for sale years later, she snaps it up. And immediately starts experiencing these odd events where she's reliving events in the life of Mariana, a young woman who lived in 1665, the plague year in England.
Mariana is forced to leave London when her mother's death from the plague leaves her as an orphan, and she moves into Greywethers with her self-righteous, abusive uncle, his downtrodden wife, their baby, and the wife's younger sister, who becomes Mariana's friend and confidante. Mariana also meets the local lord, Richard de Mornay, who is violently hated by her uncle, but Richard is clearly very interested in Mariana. Meanwhile, back in the present, a descendant of Richard's family is also very interested in Julia.
In Mariana Kearsley uses her patented dual-timeline approach, with one plotline set in our modern times and the other in a historical period (usually the late 1600's/early 1700's, which really seems to draw Kearsley). There's usually a paranormal element tying the two time periods together, and here it's **possibly a spoiler if you're particularly sensitive about these things, though it's disclosed pretty early in the book** . At least for me, that didn't work as well as the various other methods Kearsley has used in other books. There's also a lot of smoking by one of the main characters, which doesn't read so well for me in a 90's era romantic novel. Also: VERY abrupt ending. It's not terrible, but I would've liked a little more detail on how everything worked out.
YMMV. I thought this was a reasonably good book, but not one of Kearsley's best. I'd recommend , and over this one. But if you're a Kearsley fan, it's worth a read.
May 21, 2023
Mariana by Susanna Kearsley is an intriguing blend of historical romance and contemporary mystery. Although the book has some redeeming qualities, it fails to fully satisfy in several aspects, leaving a sense of unfulfilled potential.
Firstly, the writing style is engaging and fluid, making it easy to immerse oneself in the story. Kearsley has a talent for vivid descriptions that transport readers to different time periods, creating a sense of nostalgia and enchantment. The way she weaves together the past and the present is commendable, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected lives. The characters, particularly the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and the exploration of her connection to the past is intriguing and keeps me invested. The historical backdrop of the rebellion adds an interesting layer to the narrative, shedding light on a lesser-known period of history.
However, the pacing of the story felt uneven at times. While the past segments were filled with suspense and intrigue, the present-day plotline occasionally dragged. Additionally, the romantic aspect of the story felt underdeveloped. The potential for a captivating love story was present, but it never fully blossomed. The romance felt rushed and lacked depth, leaving me somewhat unsatisfied.
Another aspect that could have been improved is the resolution of certain plot threads. Some storylines felt unresolved or were wrapped up too neatly, leaving me with a sense of dissatisfaction. It would have been gratifying to see certain characters' arcs fully explored and tied up in a more satisfying manner.
In general, I found this book quite enjoyable, particularly because I have a fondness for the reincarnation trope. However, I had higher expectations, hoping it would measure up to the author's previous work, "The Rose Garden," which captivated me a few years ago. Sad to say, the pacing issues, underdeveloped romance, and unsatisfying resolutions prevent this one from reaching its full potential. So after careful consideration, I have decided to give it a moderate rating of 3 stars.
Firstly, the writing style is engaging and fluid, making it easy to immerse oneself in the story. Kearsley has a talent for vivid descriptions that transport readers to different time periods, creating a sense of nostalgia and enchantment. The way she weaves together the past and the present is commendable, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected lives. The characters, particularly the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and the exploration of her connection to the past is intriguing and keeps me invested. The historical backdrop of the rebellion adds an interesting layer to the narrative, shedding light on a lesser-known period of history.
However, the pacing of the story felt uneven at times. While the past segments were filled with suspense and intrigue, the present-day plotline occasionally dragged. Additionally, the romantic aspect of the story felt underdeveloped. The potential for a captivating love story was present, but it never fully blossomed. The romance felt rushed and lacked depth, leaving me somewhat unsatisfied.
Another aspect that could have been improved is the resolution of certain plot threads. Some storylines felt unresolved or were wrapped up too neatly, leaving me with a sense of dissatisfaction. It would have been gratifying to see certain characters' arcs fully explored and tied up in a more satisfying manner.
In general, I found this book quite enjoyable, particularly because I have a fondness for the reincarnation trope. However, I had higher expectations, hoping it would measure up to the author's previous work, "The Rose Garden," which captivated me a few years ago. Sad to say, the pacing issues, underdeveloped romance, and unsatisfying resolutions prevent this one from reaching its full potential. So after careful consideration, I have decided to give it a moderate rating of 3 stars.
November 5, 2009
"Mariana" is definitely not the type of book that I would normally read. Set in an English village, this is basically a romance story about two lovers who were separated by circumstances 300 yers ago and their love is so strong that they are reincarnated now to finally be together.
I personally prefer my books a little edgier: the mystery more mysterious, the romance more passionate. Therefore it is no surprise that I found "Mariana" a little old-fashioned in tone. You won't find anything offensive about this book - there is no sex or violence in it. And yet, there is a certain charm to this book. The descriptions of a slow and peaceful life in the English countryside are very vivid and you can't help but wish to be there - to own an old beautiful house, go for walks in the afternoons, tour nearby historical sites, drink pots of tea, and have peaceful conversations with your very few neighbors. All of this of course, if you have a sexy gardener and a lord of the manor nearby interested in you.
Overall, "Mariana" is a sweet and cozy little book about love, reincarnation and destiny that I surprisingly enjoyed much more than I thought I would.
Reading challenge: #1 - M
I personally prefer my books a little edgier: the mystery more mysterious, the romance more passionate. Therefore it is no surprise that I found "Mariana" a little old-fashioned in tone. You won't find anything offensive about this book - there is no sex or violence in it. And yet, there is a certain charm to this book. The descriptions of a slow and peaceful life in the English countryside are very vivid and you can't help but wish to be there - to own an old beautiful house, go for walks in the afternoons, tour nearby historical sites, drink pots of tea, and have peaceful conversations with your very few neighbors. All of this of course, if you have a sexy gardener and a lord of the manor nearby interested in you.
Overall, "Mariana" is a sweet and cozy little book about love, reincarnation and destiny that I surprisingly enjoyed much more than I thought I would.
Reading challenge: #1 - M
March 9, 2023
I love reading Susanna Kearsley because she transports me to another world, just as she does her time-traveling characters, and I spend my time there, forgetting this world of mine exists. Her books, like the philosophy of her characters, bring you full circle; they give you a sense that there is order and balance in the world and that what we do not achieve in this one, we might achieve in the next.
”It’s all rather like a circle, you know,� she went on, “Life is. You start off in one place and choose your path and when you finish up you find you’re right back where you started from.
I would not argue with anyone that this is light reading, nothing substantive that bends your mind or makes you twist in a knot for meaning–but don’t we need that too? And, I will confess, the past is a place I dearly love to go.
In the words of William Faulkner "The past is never dead. It's not even past." In the words of Susanna Kearsley, If you don’t go looking for the lessons of the past, then the past will come looking for you.
This is not my favorite of her books, and I have read enough of them to have figured out the twist long before it came, but that matters not a whit, because this was a break from life, from the unrelenting pressures of my days, and I could cry over someone else’s problems and not my own. In fact, it was uplifting to know this would have a happy ending, a happily-ever-after for someone, and a chance to fix the past, something the rest of us will never have. Then I find I have reached the last page, and I am back in my own world again, which is as it should be.
The past can teach us, nurture us, but it cannot sustain us. The essence of life is change, and we must move ever forward or the soul will wither and die.
”It’s all rather like a circle, you know,� she went on, “Life is. You start off in one place and choose your path and when you finish up you find you’re right back where you started from.
I would not argue with anyone that this is light reading, nothing substantive that bends your mind or makes you twist in a knot for meaning–but don’t we need that too? And, I will confess, the past is a place I dearly love to go.
In the words of William Faulkner "The past is never dead. It's not even past." In the words of Susanna Kearsley, If you don’t go looking for the lessons of the past, then the past will come looking for you.
This is not my favorite of her books, and I have read enough of them to have figured out the twist long before it came, but that matters not a whit, because this was a break from life, from the unrelenting pressures of my days, and I could cry over someone else’s problems and not my own. In fact, it was uplifting to know this would have a happy ending, a happily-ever-after for someone, and a chance to fix the past, something the rest of us will never have. Then I find I have reached the last page, and I am back in my own world again, which is as it should be.
The past can teach us, nurture us, but it cannot sustain us. The essence of life is change, and we must move ever forward or the soul will wither and die.
July 15, 2023
Įsupo tarsi šilta jauki antklodė..apgaubė ramybe, noru neskubėti, ir tiesiog pabūti istorijoje...
Nieko sudėtingo, nieko įmantraus ir nieko per daug. Kelionė laiku..meilė..netektys..suradimai.. Visa kas būdinga lengvam vasaros romanui.Tai papirko. Nelėkiau per puslapius, norėdama sužinoti pabaigą, mėgavausi autorės aprašoma atmosfera..persisunkusia Anglijos stilistika, gamtos skaniais potėpiais. Radau vietų, kuriomis ir nereikėjo apkrauti istorijos, o ir vietų, kur atitekėdavo nuobodulys. O buvo vietų, kur norėjosi gilesnio pakapstymo ir veiksmų ar jausmų suvešėjimo ar netgi logikos:)Keistai pagavau save galvojant, kad skirtingai skaitėsi "Svetimšalė" ir "Mariana". Vienur nebespėdavai su veiksmu ir tiesiog skendai nuo aistrų (bet tai vis dar viena mano mėgiamiausių istorijų!), kitur buvai apsuptas ramybės ir jausmų, kuriuos autorė pavaizdavo švelniai ir nebruko įmantriai įpakuodama.
Pabaiga sąlygojo grįžimą į pradžią! Dešimt balų už tai!!
Nieko sudėtingo, nieko įmantraus ir nieko per daug. Kelionė laiku..meilė..netektys..suradimai.. Visa kas būdinga lengvam vasaros romanui.Tai papirko. Nelėkiau per puslapius, norėdama sužinoti pabaigą, mėgavausi autorės aprašoma atmosfera..persisunkusia Anglijos stilistika, gamtos skaniais potėpiais. Radau vietų, kuriomis ir nereikėjo apkrauti istorijos, o ir vietų, kur atitekėdavo nuobodulys. O buvo vietų, kur norėjosi gilesnio pakapstymo ir veiksmų ar jausmų suvešėjimo ar netgi logikos:)Keistai pagavau save galvojant, kad skirtingai skaitėsi "Svetimšalė" ir "Mariana". Vienur nebespėdavai su veiksmu ir tiesiog skendai nuo aistrų (bet tai vis dar viena mano mėgiamiausių istorijų!), kitur buvai apsuptas ramybės ir jausmų, kuriuos autorė pavaizdavo švelniai ir nebruko įmantriai įpakuodama.
Pabaiga sąlygojo grįžimą į pradžią! Dešimt balų už tai!!
September 17, 2012
Eh. Just didn't work for me at all. Both heroines were so flat, I really didn't like either of them. Neither inspired an epic love for the ages, that's for sure. Mariana was a weirdly passive Mary Sue, and Julia was just lifeless. There was also a bit of misdirection that was just bizarre. The ending was good fun, but too late by then. I think I will just stick with The Winter Sea.
December 24, 2010
A Definate 5 stars...with 5 more....
I love Susanna Kearsley, her writing is intense, smart and almost poetic in style. The way she is able to weave the past within the present is nothing short of brilliant. Her characters are wholy loveable while remaining genuine with flaws.
This is the second book of Kearlsey's I have read, and loved it just as much (if not more) than the first.. So much so that I made quick work of ordering every book of hers in print to grace my ever growing libraries 'for keeps' shelves.
This book had me wishing, praying and hoping all while managing to keep me wondering. I thought I knew what was happening but I didn't.... Oh wait.. Yup I totally have this book pegged..... Oh? Uhm, maybe not... And then BAM!! Before you know it the ending has come and your still realing days later.
I literally had to let the full extent of the story and its affect on me work its way in to the crevaces of my wee brain before I could even attempt to articulate a review.
Ladies- No Sex... Which while getting to know these characters is a real bummer... However the story didn't need it.. Although I wouldn't have complained if there had been atleast one peek into their bedroom.. But I digress...
Amazing story.... Beautifully written....Brilliantly portrayed
I love Susanna Kearsley, her writing is intense, smart and almost poetic in style. The way she is able to weave the past within the present is nothing short of brilliant. Her characters are wholy loveable while remaining genuine with flaws.
This is the second book of Kearlsey's I have read, and loved it just as much (if not more) than the first.. So much so that I made quick work of ordering every book of hers in print to grace my ever growing libraries 'for keeps' shelves.
This book had me wishing, praying and hoping all while managing to keep me wondering. I thought I knew what was happening but I didn't.... Oh wait.. Yup I totally have this book pegged..... Oh? Uhm, maybe not... And then BAM!! Before you know it the ending has come and your still realing days later.
I literally had to let the full extent of the story and its affect on me work its way in to the crevaces of my wee brain before I could even attempt to articulate a review.
Ladies- No Sex... Which while getting to know these characters is a real bummer... However the story didn't need it.. Although I wouldn't have complained if there had been atleast one peek into their bedroom.. But I digress...
Amazing story.... Beautifully written....Brilliantly portrayed
December 30, 2011
Mariana is a new take on an old story. Strike that it is the same old take on a same old story. I admit I have a weakness for reincartion stories, even if they don't necessarily go under that pretense and Mariana had everything I was looking for. It is a pity that I would have enjoyed it more if I have not recently finished reading "The Winter Sea" by the same author which I found more enjoyable. The treatment is the same, with the main character having flashes of another life and the striking similarity between the characters in her present life and those in her past life. But Mariana lacked everything I found admirable in "Winter Sea".
The book follows the story of Julia Beckett a 29 year old artist and her inexplicable connection to a Victorian styled farm house called "Greywether". On a whim she decides to by the house and move in to the country side only to be caught up in the life of the house's previous inhabitant, a young girl named Mariana who lived and died years ago. Believing herself to be the reincarnation of Mariana, Julie tries to understand or live through her previous life when she is thrust in to the past without any warning only to lose a part of her present self each time. The closer she gets to the story of Mariana the harder she has to try to hold on to herself from completely turning in to her other self.
This story explains Julie's predicament as reincarnation rather than giving it any scientific explanation as in "Winter Sea". The ending was abrupt on Julie's end or atleast I felt like it whereas Mariana's was complete and sad. I know reincarnation stories are supposed to be sad otherwise there is no need for another reincarnation but you can't help wishingOne way to keep predictabiltiy at bay. In the end I felt bad for all the characters with the exception of some side characters. The ending really needed an "Epilogue" but the writing style is engaging as usual. There is never a dull moment and the story and the character pulls you in with an ease. Defintely worth a read.
The book follows the story of Julia Beckett a 29 year old artist and her inexplicable connection to a Victorian styled farm house called "Greywether". On a whim she decides to by the house and move in to the country side only to be caught up in the life of the house's previous inhabitant, a young girl named Mariana who lived and died years ago. Believing herself to be the reincarnation of Mariana, Julie tries to understand or live through her previous life when she is thrust in to the past without any warning only to lose a part of her present self each time. The closer she gets to the story of Mariana the harder she has to try to hold on to herself from completely turning in to her other self.
This story explains Julie's predicament as reincarnation rather than giving it any scientific explanation as in "Winter Sea". The ending was abrupt on Julie's end or atleast I felt like it whereas Mariana's was complete and sad. I know reincarnation stories are supposed to be sad otherwise there is no need for another reincarnation but you can't help wishing
June 21, 2020
This was lame. It had a lame romance, lame villain and a lame twist ending. The twist ending made the build-up throughout the book feel pointless. . The villain was laughable. He was the 'holier than thou' type of villain. You couldn't come up with a more stereotypical 17th century villain if you tried. The romance was bland and it made feel absolutely nothing. I'm not impressed.
July 17, 2012
I really wish this one wasn't over.
I don't even know what to write about it except it was marvelous. The twist at the end was phenomenal. It had been nagging me that perhaps Julia had it all wrong, and I ended up being right.
Honestly, this book has left me somewhat speechless. I do wish there had been a bit more with our final two, however. The ending seemed abrupt. Astoundingly romantic, but abrupt.
Well, this book made weepy and contemplative, sad and happy. I love books that do that, you know?
I don't even know what to write about it except it was marvelous. The twist at the end was phenomenal. It had been nagging me that perhaps Julia had it all wrong, and I ended up being right.
Honestly, this book has left me somewhat speechless. I do wish there had been a bit more with our final two, however. The ending seemed abrupt. Astoundingly romantic, but abrupt.
Well, this book made weepy and contemplative, sad and happy. I love books that do that, you know?
Read
April 24, 2019DNF
I got bored.
I got bored.
September 17, 2019
5 STARS
Bloody brilliant. I have now read several books by Susanna Kearsley and I'm always blown away by her writing. Every single time. And this book is no exception. Flawlessly written. I'm not going to be able to get this one out of my head for a while. I can definitely see myself reading this one again and again. Pure romantic genius.
"Remember that hawk, Mariana Farr," he told me gently, "and seek me not with your eyes, but with your soul. The soul sees what truly matters."
Bloody brilliant. I have now read several books by Susanna Kearsley and I'm always blown away by her writing. Every single time. And this book is no exception. Flawlessly written. I'm not going to be able to get this one out of my head for a while. I can definitely see myself reading this one again and again. Pure romantic genius.
“The past can teach us, nurture us, but it cannot sustain us. The essence of life is change, and we must move ever forward or the soul will wither and die.�
"These are your beautiful days, Julia Beckett," he promised me softly.
December 26, 2014
I do love a good historical romance novel, and, in , adding time travel with reincarnation added a nice twist to the usual fare.
When Julia becomes Mariana (in her former life) and after her journey back in time to 17th century England, she is forced to lodge with her Uncle Jabez, the horrible evil monster from hell, and meets the love of her life, the rich and handsome Richard De Mornay; and as she balances the past with the 20th century present, she finds hidden clues to help solve past secrets, sees a ghost or two and actually becomes friends with a pleasant, but not too helpful witch.
The ending in the past is a heartbreaker, but as Julia comes full circle, she finally discovers
February 4, 2013
This is one of those books that deserves an animated-gif-laden review, though I can't be bothered to build one. The characters were under developed, the romance barely there, and nonsensical besides, and the twist ending existed merely to enable the book to be categorized as 'twisty'.
The 'witch', the brother, and the bartending friend existed only as a way to provide a match for the earlier incarnations of characters, though their soul pairings seemed incidental and emotionally unfulfilling.
Well, at least it was an easy read: I finished it in a day. I did enjoy the potential of the book, but the author should've spent less time gratuitously twisting and more time on character building and emotion-injecting.
Conclusion: read this book if you are traveling and are in danger of having to lighten your load by tossing something in the bin.
The 'witch', the brother, and the bartending friend existed only as a way to provide a match for the earlier incarnations of characters, though their soul pairings seemed incidental and emotionally unfulfilling.
Well, at least it was an easy read: I finished it in a day. I did enjoy the potential of the book, but the author should've spent less time gratuitously twisting and more time on character building and emotion-injecting.
Conclusion: read this book if you are traveling and are in danger of having to lighten your load by tossing something in the bin.
February 6, 2020
This was a bit of a miss for me. I really enjoyed the beginning, but when the current time story faded and the historical one took center-stage, it became less interesting and harder to read. Also, the love story in the past didn't appeal nearly as much. Then there was a twist at the end which also didn't appeal.
So although I enjoyed the audio performance very much and the present-day characters, and I love her writing which is v easy to fall into, this one wasn't up to snuff or what I've come to expect from the author. I'll read her again, absolutely, but I just didn't feel this one as much.
So although I enjoyed the audio performance very much and the present-day characters, and I love her writing which is v easy to fall into, this one wasn't up to snuff or what I've come to expect from the author. I'll read her again, absolutely, but I just didn't feel this one as much.
February 2, 2013
I didn't expect to enjoy this, but this was a surprising read. 1 star off for the ending, what the heck...
July 27, 2013
Read And More Like It !
This was very, very good. I was surprised by the level of my reaction to this: I was invested near immediately never wanted to put it down and was sad to finish reading the last page. I don't read a lot of "time slip" historical fiction (read: any before this), but if they're like Mariana that rule might need to change. ASAP. First up on that list: every other such book by this author. I was very impressed with both parts of the narrative and the strength of the voice shown throughout the novel. Though Mariana is a bit lengthy at near 375 pages, this suspenseful and affecting tale never bores. For a detailed, immersive read but not one that is exactly an action-packed historical, that is saying something indeed.
The strength of the book largely lies in the eponymous character Mariana - both in her 1660's body/life of Mariana and as more modern Julia Beckett. That's not to say that the rest of the characters aren't interesting and diverse; they are but it is Mariana herself who makes the novel special. Though the two POV's present are both first-person and both largely the same in tone and voice despite the centuries between them, both Julia and Mariana are fully dimensional, rounded characters who provide a rich, full narrative to dive into. She's charming and detailed as a narrator: Exbury, both past and present versions, definitely carried the feel of an old, full-of-history English village. Though there is quite a lot of focus on the romance angle of the novel, I wasn't turned off or frustrated; Mariana's and Richard's courtship is actually quite charming and I found myself rooting for de Mornay and the spirited commoner.
This paragraph might get a bit SPOILERy so be warned and stay away if you don't want to know! Seriously, people. There's a mystery at the heart of the novel, but it's not the most involving or mystifying. Even the secondary subplot of treason lacks the emotional pull of the characters themselves; this is truly a character-driven novel. Even some of the surprises lacked the oomph that could be expected - because I was so keyed in on the main characters of Mariana/Julia and Richard/?? themselves. I have to side with Julia in that the past has a lot of allure here in this version, and her attraction toRichard going back to it is very understandable. Love, destiny and fate all play a key parts in the meanderig plot, and the characters but it doesn't feel forced or hackneyed. Mariana comes off with a sweet but not saccharine aftertaste. I did think the camouflaging of Richard's soul was well done - .
Mariana is an engrossing and rewarding, lengthy read - fans of time-slip historicals will love and even new-to-the-subgrenre people will find a lot to enjoy about this alternate 1660's and modern of reincarnated love. Susanna Kearsley is an impressive and detailed storyteller - I look forward to reading more of her books very soon. This is one that went above and beyond any and all expectations I had before starting.
This was very, very good. I was surprised by the level of my reaction to this: I was invested near immediately never wanted to put it down and was sad to finish reading the last page. I don't read a lot of "time slip" historical fiction (read: any before this), but if they're like Mariana that rule might need to change. ASAP. First up on that list: every other such book by this author. I was very impressed with both parts of the narrative and the strength of the voice shown throughout the novel. Though Mariana is a bit lengthy at near 375 pages, this suspenseful and affecting tale never bores. For a detailed, immersive read but not one that is exactly an action-packed historical, that is saying something indeed.
The strength of the book largely lies in the eponymous character Mariana - both in her 1660's body/life of Mariana and as more modern Julia Beckett. That's not to say that the rest of the characters aren't interesting and diverse; they are but it is Mariana herself who makes the novel special. Though the two POV's present are both first-person and both largely the same in tone and voice despite the centuries between them, both Julia and Mariana are fully dimensional, rounded characters who provide a rich, full narrative to dive into. She's charming and detailed as a narrator: Exbury, both past and present versions, definitely carried the feel of an old, full-of-history English village. Though there is quite a lot of focus on the romance angle of the novel, I wasn't turned off or frustrated; Mariana's and Richard's courtship is actually quite charming and I found myself rooting for de Mornay and the spirited commoner.
This paragraph might get a bit SPOILERy so be warned and stay away if you don't want to know! Seriously, people. There's a mystery at the heart of the novel, but it's not the most involving or mystifying. Even the secondary subplot of treason lacks the emotional pull of the characters themselves; this is truly a character-driven novel. Even some of the surprises lacked the oomph that could be expected - because I was so keyed in on the main characters of Mariana/Julia and Richard/?? themselves. I have to side with Julia in that the past has a lot of allure here in this version, and her attraction to
Mariana is an engrossing and rewarding, lengthy read - fans of time-slip historicals will love and even new-to-the-subgrenre people will find a lot to enjoy about this alternate 1660's and modern of reincarnated love. Susanna Kearsley is an impressive and detailed storyteller - I look forward to reading more of her books very soon. This is one that went above and beyond any and all expectations I had before starting.
April 3, 2017
5++++ STARS!
Absolutely fantastic book, I loved it! An amazing mix of fantasy, past lives, magic, romance and suspense, this was an engrossing read I couldn't put down unless I had to.
I adored Julia, adored Freda, Viviene, Iain....I loved others too, but saying names would spoil things. I wish we had more of an ending, that's my only complaint. Just read it, it's so good, so, so good. definitely a favorites category, loved it.
Absolutely fantastic book, I loved it! An amazing mix of fantasy, past lives, magic, romance and suspense, this was an engrossing read I couldn't put down unless I had to.
I adored Julia, adored Freda, Viviene, Iain....I loved others too, but saying names would spoil things. I wish we had more of an ending, that's my only complaint. Just read it, it's so good, so, so good. definitely a favorites category, loved it.
November 19, 2024
Atmospheric, beautiful, and I didn't see everything coming.
July 11, 2020
I first saw the house in the summer of my fifth birthday.
drew me in from the first page. It was a captivating tale of a young woman, Julia Beckett/Marianna, who slipped back and forth through time: the 1990s and the mid-1600s.
Julia befriended several townspeople after purchasing her home. Her brother, a vicar, was her familial support. She found herself enmeshed in uncovering who and why drew her to the past.
Ms. Kearsley linked several characters, their shared memories and Julia/Mariana’s house as the gate way. The author blended historical loss with discovery in the here and now. Not necessarily a romance, the narrative had romantic moments. I thought of this story as a haunting immersion.
drew me in from the first page. It was a captivating tale of a young woman, Julia Beckett/Marianna, who slipped back and forth through time: the 1990s and the mid-1600s.
Julia befriended several townspeople after purchasing her home. Her brother, a vicar, was her familial support. She found herself enmeshed in uncovering who and why drew her to the past.
Ms. Kearsley linked several characters, their shared memories and Julia/Mariana’s house as the gate way. The author blended historical loss with discovery in the here and now. Not necessarily a romance, the narrative had romantic moments. I thought of this story as a haunting immersion.
October 22, 2016
Apparently this is the year of Susanna Kearsley. I've had her books on my TBR pile for years and I finally picked up as one of my first books of the year. And holy shit � amazing!
This one was my fourth Kearsley this year and again, holy shit. That ending just hit me...hard. The book had been a four up until the very end. It was just perfect.
To express my feelings I need to give away basically the entire book so DO NOT click the below spoilers button unless you want to have the book ruined for you.
This one was my fourth Kearsley this year and again, holy shit. That ending just hit me...hard. The book had been a four up until the very end. It was just perfect.
To express my feelings I need to give away basically the entire book so DO NOT click the below spoilers button unless you want to have the book ruined for you.
June 17, 2018
This book was entrancing from the very beginning. I was unable to put it down as it was richly descriptive and researched with historical accuracy. It included a plot line of romance, reincarnation, historical fiction and nonfiction, and even ghosts! I was thoroughly surprised to find that this book seemingly “had it all�, though felt tied together quite well and entertaining at every turn.
It is about a young lady name Julia who finds herself drawn to a home on three separate occasions of her life, and ultimately ends up owning it. Only then do the “regressions in time� begin to take place. Her adventures and characters weave together through two separate eras of time, and now that I understand this, I feel that reading it again would make me appreciate it it all the more.
It is a lovely, full read, and touching story. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves history, especially English.
It is about a young lady name Julia who finds herself drawn to a home on three separate occasions of her life, and ultimately ends up owning it. Only then do the “regressions in time� begin to take place. Her adventures and characters weave together through two separate eras of time, and now that I understand this, I feel that reading it again would make me appreciate it it all the more.
It is a lovely, full read, and touching story. I highly recommend it to anyone who loves history, especially English.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 24, 2012
As a history nerd, I have always wanted to go back and see history first hand. On my visit to London I would stand in certain castles, areas, etc and just wish I could go back in time. Well, in Mariana, Julia gets to do just that. She is drawn to a 16th century farmhouse, which she buys.
She starts having images and strange connections with the people of the town. Then suddenly she finds herself reliving her prior life in the 17th century. History fans will enjoy her experience. Her uncle is a Puritan who wants to bring back the Cromwell years, while the man she falls in love with supports the King. As she transports between both worlds, we hang on to every page. This is a wonderful read. Kearsley once again transported and moved me, like only she can. If you haven't picked up any of her books, Do!
She starts having images and strange connections with the people of the town. Then suddenly she finds herself reliving her prior life in the 17th century. History fans will enjoy her experience. Her uncle is a Puritan who wants to bring back the Cromwell years, while the man she falls in love with supports the King. As she transports between both worlds, we hang on to every page. This is a wonderful read. Kearsley once again transported and moved me, like only she can. If you haven't picked up any of her books, Do!
March 27, 2017
I loved reading this sweeping, romantic, enthralling, atmospheric love story that intertwines the present day with the 17th century. It reminded me of Kate Morton, sort of modern gothic, but much heavier on the romance. It was exactly the kind of book I was in the mood for! I loved the characters, I loved the historical setting and its modern day counterpart, I even loved the love story - it made my heart beat a little faster and gave me butterflies in my stomach (which is generally how I judge a good romance in books). It was a fun, escapist read and I can't *wait* to pick up more Susannah Kearsley!
October 30, 2015
One of the BEST romance books I have read in a long time! :D
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