Time’s Convert by Deborah Harkness is the fourth novel in the All Souls series. This is Marcus’s story, the young man who Matthew turned. An addictive tale filled with mystery, romance, history and the supernatural. A must for fans of the All Souls Trilogy that began it all.

Time’s Convert
by Deborah Harkness
Series: All Souls #4
Narrator: Saskia Maarleveld
Length: 15 hours and 46 minutes
Genres: Fantasy
Source: Purchase
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:
Narration: 5 cups Speed: 1.5x

On the battlefields of the American Revolution, Matthew de Clermont meets Marcus MacNeil, a young surgeon from Massachusetts, during a moment of political awakening when it seems that the world is on the brink of a brighter future. When Matthew offers him a chance at immortality and a new life free from the restraints of his puritanical upbringing, Marcus seizes the opportunity to become a vampire. But his transformation is not an easy one and the ancient traditions and responsibilities of the de Clermont family clash with Marcus’s deeply held beliefs in liberty, equality, and brotherhood.

Fast-forward to contemporary Paris, where Phoebe Taylor–the young employee at Sotheby’s whom Marcus has fallen for–is about to embark on her own journey to immortality. Though the modernized version of the process at first seems uncomplicated, the couple discovers that the challenges facing a human who wishes to be a vampire are no less formidable than they were in the eighteenth century. The shadows that Marcus believed he’d escaped centuries ago may return to haunt them both–forever.

A passionate love story and a fascinating exploration of the power of tradition and the possibilities not just for change but for revolution, Time’s Convert, the fourth books in the All Souls Series channels the supernatural world-building and slow-burning romance that made the previous books instant bestsellers to illuminate a new and vital moment in history, and a love affair that will bridge centuries.

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I absolutely loved the All Souls trilogy. I own the hardcovers and listened to the audiobooks and devoured the television series. Naturally, I pre-ordered the hardcover of Time’s Convert and then did what so many of us do….. let it sit on my bookshelf. When I saw Harkness was releasing book five, The Black Bird Oracle, in 2024, I knew it was time to read this. I scooped up the audiobook and dove in. I was not disappointed. (and kicked myself for waiting so long)

Phoebe Taylor, the young employee at Sotheby’s whom Marcus has fell for, has accepted to be turned. The two will be separated while the transformation is performed. The story told from three different perspectives with distinct storylines. We have Phoebe’s transformation to a vampire. Marcus’s own story of rebirth and troubles that still follow him. Then we have Matthew and Diana’s life as they raise their bright-born children and the dangers and challenges they face.

The story is brilliantly told and perfectly formatted for the audiobook experience. Harkness is brilliant as she transports us to the past, sharing the intimate struggles of a newly born vampire and the challenges of parenthood. She pulls the reader in and allows us to experience the emotions, fear, joy, love and dangers these characters face.

We travel with Marcus during the American Revolution and his chance meeting with Matthew, who offers him a choice. We get a taste of his bleak homelife and his yearning for more. Phoebe’s transformation is aided by Matthew’s sister, Freya, and his colleague, Miriam. It was fascinating to see what was involved and to spend time with these women. I absolutely adored time spent with Diana and Matthew. I worried at first that after the trilogy I might be disappointed as I envisioned their happily ever after, but Harkness shared the trials, joys, and surprises of raising these bright-born children and I found myself swept up in the telling.

We see hints of what could becoming in the next book, but the tale wrapped up nicely. Saskia Maarleveld narrates and brilliantly gave voice to these characters capturing their personalities, emotions, and tone of the story.

Amazon | Audible

Source

Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/03/times-convert-by-deborah-harkness.html

Wiser Now: Lessons Learned from an Ill-advised Relationship by Gayle G. Curtin is a candid memoir that delves into the complexities of a turbulent romantic relationship. Curtin begins by sharing her deep-seated loneliness, which led her to a series of disappointing dates. This emotional backdrop sets the stage for her eventual response to a seemingly charming newspaper dating advertisement. Despite an initial lack of attraction and numerous red flags, Curtin decides to pursue a relationship with Jake, leading to a troubled courtship and a tumultuous marriage characterized by fleeting moments of happiness.

Set between 1986 and 1988, Curtin’s narrative serves as a poignant reflection on the perils of seeking companionship without heed to warning signs. Her honesty offers a powerful lesson in self-awareness and the dangers of entering relationships under the heavy cloud of loneliness. Curtin’s writing is vivid and immersive, effectively drawing readers into her world with clear descriptions and structured storytelling. The memoir is thoughtfully segmented, allowing readers to easily navigate through the various phases of her relationship. However, a notable omission in her recollection is the specific incident that catalyzed her decision to leave the relationship. While this could be attributed to the psychological mechanism of blocking out traumatic memories, its absence is felt in the narrative’s overall impact.

Wiser Now is a moving exploration of personal growth and the journey toward self-realization. Curtin’s story acts as a cautionary tale, emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s emotional needs and being mindful of the potential consequences of seeking companionship in a state of vulnerability.

Pages: 50

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/11/wiser-now/

Laurie Elizabeth Murphy’s novel Dream Me Home: A Story of Betrayal, Infidelity, and Love embarks on its narrative journey as a gripping murder mystery. The story opens with Peggy, the protagonist, grappling with her own demise and reflecting on the disintegration of her once-idyllic life and marriage. Set against the backdrop of Florida’s glitz, the plot thickens as Peggy’s husband, a prominent plastic surgeon, finds himself at the center of a high-profile investigation into her mysterious death.

The initial chapters promise an absorbing tale, with elements of betrayal and intrigue skillfully woven into the narrative. As the story unfolds, it embraces a dynamic narrative style. The author employs shifting perspectives and timelines, introducing a layer of complexity to the storyline. This approach offers a multifaceted view of the characters, notably seen in the portrayal of Rob, Peggy’s husband. His character is intriguingly depicted with varying traits, ranging from a spouse preoccupied with his public image to a dedicated partner. This nuanced portrayal adds depth, inviting readers to engage deeply as they uncover the characters’ true nature. Peggy, designed as a character to evoke empathy, reveals herself as multifaceted and intriguing. Her interactions with a diverse cast of characters, each uniquely portrayed, add layers to the narrative and enrich our understanding of her experiences. The introduction of new plot elements, such as the unforeseen effects of Peggy’s sleeping pills, heightens the story’s complexity, allowing readers to engage more deeply with the evolving storyline.

Dream Me Home boldly traverses multiple genres, blending murder mystery with supernatural romance and revenge elements. This creative amalgamation adds a unique flavor to the narrative. The character development, intriguing in its subtlety, invites readers to explore the characters’ motivations more deeply. While the resolution of Peggy’s death brings a measure of closure, the story leaves some questions and plot threads open, encouraging readers to ponder and imagine beyond the pages, adding to the novel’s lingering intrigue.

Murphy’s novel starts with a captivating premise, drawing the reader into its world. Throughout the book, the complexity and evolution of its characters and an adventurous blend of genres keep the reader’s curiosity piqued. Dream Me Home offers a journey that, while challenging in its narrative, provides a thought-provoking and multifaceted experience, inviting readers to explore its depths and nuances.

Pages: 290 | ASIN : B0CBQJVZX1

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/11/dream-me-home-a-story-of-betrayal-infidelity-and-love/

In It Was Her New York, C.O. Moed offers readers a tapestry of life in New York City, intricately woven through the lens of her relationship with her mother, Florence. This memoir is a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics, the complexities of identity, and the ceaseless evolution of a city that never sleeps.

Moed’s writing is both poignant and evocative. She blends humor with sorrow and paints a vivid picture of her mother—a spirited musician whose resilience and struggles are deeply moving. The book shines not just in its storytelling but in its ability to capture the essence of New York City. Moed’s New York is not just a backdrop but a living, breathing character that influences and shapes the lives of those who call it home.

The book’s narrative structure is somewhat unconventional, interspersing memories and anecdotes with cultural and social commentary, along with images. This approach works wonderfully in drawing the reader into the author’s world, offering a multifaceted view of her experiences and emotions. Moed’s reflections on the impact of Florence’s life and death are deeply personal, yet they resonate universally, touching on themes that many can relate to – loss, grief, and the passage of time.

The book’s strength is weaving personal tales with broader societal observations. At times, the transitions between personal anecdotes and cultural commentary felt abrupt, leaving me wishing for a smoother narrative flow. Nonetheless, this does not significantly detract from the book’s overall impact.

The exploration of Florence’s life as a musician and her determination in the face of adversity is particularly compelling. It highlights her character and serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit of New Yorkers. In this regard, Moed’s portrayal of her mother is not just a personal tribute but a nod to the resilience and complexity of all those who inhabit this ever-changing city.

It Was Her New York is a touching and insightful book that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the joys and tribulations of family relationships, the bittersweet nature of memory, and the profound impact of place on personal identity.

Pages: 289 | ASIN : B0CTNHK1N7

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/11/it-was-her-new-york-true-stories-snapshots/

Celebrating Women’s Day, one can hardly find a more fitting tribute than delving into stories that highlight women’s varied achievements, challenges, and victories. Tea and Toil at The Woman’s Club, penned by Bainy Cyrus, is an eloquent testament to this spirit. This book meticulously documents the revitalization efforts of the historic Martin estate. This site once thrived as the hub of The Woman’s Club in Norfolk, Virginia, but subsequently faced decline due to financial struggles. The narrative is richly interwoven with tales of committed individuals who tirelessly worked to restore the club’s splendor.

Cyrus’ book shines through Susanne Ott, Polly Jones, and Paige Rose’s journey to resurrect the estate. Their story is told with a remarkable finesse that combines vivid descriptions, engaging dialogues, and a cohesive flow documenting their restoration of the estate. The reader is drawn into the book from the outset and remains captivated throughout as they see the dreams of these women come to life. The book’s core, however, lies in its portrayal of women’s empowerment. The women who took on this monumental task show a remarkable blend of strength, resilience, and independence, creating a powerful and relevant message.

Tea and Toil at The Woman’s Club is more than just a historical recount; it’s a narrative that celebrates and empowers women, encapsulated in excellent writing and rich historical context. This book is a commendable read for those seeking an insightful and inspiring literary experience.

Pages: 362 | ASIN : B0CLL35M14

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/11/tea-and-toil-at-the-womans-club/

The Ghost in the Garden follows a girl from the city of Calgary who moves with her family to a country home, where she encounters a mysterious girl lurking in the family’s garden. What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?

I loved writing for Fitz. His sense of friendship and loyalty, as well as being someone who both loved and was frustrated with living in a smaller city, felt a lot like myself when I was younger. In order to direct my friends to my house growing up, my directions always ended with “just turn right at the sheep farm.” Take this, and throw in a dash of my own boys’ senses of humour, and you have Fitz in a nutshell.

In contrast, Tabitha, being so far removed from what kids are like these days, she presented more of a challenge. Tabitha is more of an ethereal presence in the story, but she still needed to feel grounded in reality; someone Sophie could actually talk to and see as a possible friend. It was a bit of a fine line to walk as a writer. 

How did the mystery develop for this story? Did you plan it before writing or did it develop organically?

For this story, I wrote it around a time when my own kids were dealing with a lot of change in their lives. Not only were the three of them all back in in person school, but we had moved twice in short succession, and they were starting a new school, with a whole new peer group. I wanted to look at these challenges, but, on top of that, my daughter asked if I could write her a good ghost story. So, I asked myself, what would it look like if a kid moved to a new town, and into a haunted house? The rest of the story grew organically from there.

Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out and what can your fans expect in the next story?

Sorry to tell you that, as of right now, Sophie’s story ends with this book. If you want to know how she fared once school starts in the fall, or where she and Fitz go next, maybe, if people ask nicely enough, I can tell you. But I do not have plans for a sequel.

Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Website

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/11/turn-at-the-sheep-farm/