Claire loves to read!

Published by: Matador (28 Feb. 2015)

ISBN-13: 978-1784622220

Source: Publisher, via Netgalley

Rating: 3.5*

Synopsis:

How can a memory so vivid be wrong?

In the summer of 1986 Robin and Izzie hold hands under The Faerie Tree and wish for a future together. Within hours tragedy rips their dreams apart.

In the winter of 2006, each carrying their own burden of grief, they stumble back into each other's lives and try to create a second chance. But why are their memories of 1986 so different? And which one of them is right?

With strong themes of paganism, love and grief, The Faerie Tree is a novel as gripping and unputdownable as Jane Cable's first book, The Cheesemaker's House, which won the Suspense & Crime category of The Alan Titchmarsh Show's People's Novelist competition. It is a story that will resonate with fans of romance, suspense, and folklore.

My Review:

I requested this book on Netgalley purely because of the title and front cover; it just seemed like my kind of read.

The Faerie Tree certainly starts out as a magical tale full of hope and dreams for Izzie and Robin, but quickly turns into something else when circumstances drive them apart. I have to admit, I was quite riveted by this point and liking the well written, complex characters of Robin and Izzie.

Following the couple's separation, I found the story didn't hold my interest quite as well and I was waiting for something to happen to arouse my interest as the start of the book had. When Izzie and Robin bump into each other again and the story continues by way of each person's recollection, I found my interest piqued again. I particularly wanted to find out Robin's story.

My favourite character is Claire, Izzie's daughter. She brings a welcome bit of light relief to the rather woeful proceedings and seems to be the only one with her head screwed on straight! Don't get me wrong, I'm not mocking the problems that Robin and Izzie have, but all the dram was just a bit much for me.

Having the introduction to the author's first book at the end of this one was a nice touch.

*Thanks to the publisher for the review copy I received via Netgalley*