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You may be familiar with the Restoration and Charles II. Or maybe not. Regardless, Rose Tremain gives this historical period double-meaning in her novel, “Restoration��.

“Restoration�� is a novel which can’t be ignored as it is simply “alive�� with sounds, emotions, and colors immediately jumping from Tremain’s pages the second the reader opens the book. Saying that “Restoration�� has a heartbeat is putting it mildly. This lively novel is supplemented by the main character of Robert Merivel who has disgusting flaws and yet is so relatable, that he is an extremely likable character.

Tremain successfully turns a character which would be hated in any other novel into a lovable one. “Restoration�� is not a typical novel but is more of a character study following Merivel. At times, the reader may think that there is no real plot and yet “Restoration�� continues to be a page turner as it feels like one is actually living the story while reading it. Furthermore, Merivel’s character arc is perfect: not too fast, not too slow, and yet subtle enough to be realistic.

Tremain’s prose and literary language in “Restoration�� is also top-notch. “Restoration�� features all of the star qualities of classic literature along with historical accuracy and character dialogue which feels of the times. The reader will have to be reminded that Tremain was not actually alive during Charles II’s reign.

All of the characters in “Restoration�� have such magnetic chemistry with each other that the story becomes riveting and yet the ratio of coverage each character portrays in relation to others is never overdone. “Restoration�� also features unique storytelling where Merivel speaks almost directly to the reader. Although this can be perceived as “cheesy��; it works in “Restoration�� (as everything seems to).

Tremain doesn’t focus too much attention on describing the setting of the scenes and yet each creates a vivid picture. Simply put: “Restoration�� has a unique draw while being written exceptionally well. Also noteworthy are the multi-layered events. Instead of merely being a part of the plot-line; each occurrence in the story signifies a deeper lesson/meaning, adding substance to the novel and thought-provoking philosophical ideas. Additionally moving (and compelling) is Merivel being a protagonist and his own antagonist. There is nothing more relatable than being your own worst enemy.

The second half of “Restoration�� is much different from the first with Tremain focusing more on the story than of the deeper character study of the first half. Although this doesn’t significantly decrease the merit of “Restoration��; it does somewhat change the impact of the writing.

Although subjective, I found the descriptions of Merivel’s dreams/nightmares to be tedious and not necessary to the plot. Not only do these not add depth, but Tremain over utilizes the tactic.

Part two brings about a slackening of pace within the novel and a less inviting plot (although Merivel is still likable). However, the views and angles of historical events such as the Plague and the Great Fire of London are notably different than other historical fiction novels (in a good way). The conclusion is weaker than expected but “Restoration�� does come full circle and Tremain answers open-ended questions.

“Restoration�� is unique, well-written, and incorporates a compelling story with a terrific literary character. Tremain’s work is suggested for those readers interested in historical fiction or specifically of seventeenth-century England.