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SelfSame
A stillborn child revived. The past and the future intertwined. One girl lives two very different lives.
By all appearances, Sorcha Sloane is a typical small-town teen taking twenty-first century life for granted. While two centuries in the past, Enid Thompson is a poor farmer’s daughter in colonial New England. But Enid and Sorcha are the selfsame girl – one soul split between two bodies in a link that stretches across time. Every night while Enid’s body is sleeping, she wakes in the future as Sorcha, just as the old medicine man prophesied at her birth. And every night when Sorcha sleeps, she wakes in the past as Enid, in a frontier world on the brink of war. She only trusts a chosen few with the truth, until Ben Webster comes into Sorcha’s life and tells her his family has been desperately searching for her for over two hundred years…
By all appearances, Sorcha Sloane is a typical small-town teen taking twenty-first century life for granted. While two centuries in the past, Enid Thompson is a poor farmer’s daughter in colonial New England. But Enid and Sorcha are the selfsame girl – one soul split between two bodies in a link that stretches across time. Every night while Enid’s body is sleeping, she wakes in the future as Sorcha, just as the old medicine man prophesied at her birth. And every night when Sorcha sleeps, she wakes in the past as Enid, in a frontier world on the brink of war. She only trusts a chosen few with the truth, until Ben Webster comes into Sorcha’s life and tells her his family has been desperately searching for her for over two hundred years…
153 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2012
4 people are currently reading
500 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Conway
12 books58 followersAuthor and digital artist. Sunflower seed addict. Gym rat. I love my children, laughter, and that whole 'happily ever after' concept.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
June 24, 2017
SelfSame is an enjoyable, well-written YA fantasy, with a very unusual twist. Sorcha is a teenage girl whose soul is "split in two": she spends half her time as "Enid" in colonial America and the other half as Sorcha in modern times. She sleeps 12 hours a day in each life, during which time she's living her other life. Each life is equally real to her.
It's a unique type of time-travel story, with a little romantic interest in both of her lives and some difficult life-changing decisions to make. Other than the basic premise, this story is told in a very realistic fashion.
A great Kindle deal for 99 cents if you like YA fantasy, and one of the better self-published YA novels I've read.
It's a unique type of time-travel story, with a little romantic interest in both of her lives and some difficult life-changing decisions to make. Other than the basic premise, this story is told in a very realistic fashion.
A great Kindle deal for 99 cents if you like YA fantasy, and one of the better self-published YA novels I've read.
March 30, 2012
What can I share about this book? I can't say that I don't often give 5 stars to a book I've read, but I can honestly say this is the first time I've wished there was an option for a sixth--maybe a seventh. It is the rare book that can take me away from my other obligations, but this one did. I found myself sitting in odd places with my Kindle, reading. Time passed and I had no recollection of it. Nothing else seemed as important. I couldn't wait to see what would happen next, and kept on reading, though I had many other things to do. I've never read anything remotely like this story. There's this girl, see? But she's no ordinary girl. She's Enid, who lives during the Revolutionary War, and she's Sorcha, who lives in the present. When Enid falls asleep at night, Sorcha wakes. And vice versa. Very, very different lives do they lead.
One of the first questions that came to my mind was "What happens to Sorcha if Enid is injured or dies? (And vice versa?) I also quickly wondered what "The Bens" had to do with Enid, and/or Sorcha, and who "The Bens" are. And how they became involved with this extraordinary girl. She is extraordinary. Intelligent, caring, and sympathetic. A truly courageous young woman.
Naturally, it's a Native American tribe who figures out there is something special about Enid/Sorcha. And so the reader is introduced to Ben and Joseph: Ben in the present day, Joseph in the past. Both are unforgettable, mesmerizing young men.
For most of this book, the reader is kept in the dark as concerns "The Bens." Sorcha, too, doesn't understand why this tribe is so interested in her, why they dog her steps, or why there is someone who wants her dead. Just an added layer of mystery woven into the incredible romance that literally had me in tears on at least three different occasions. It simply broke my heart once or twice. I can't say more, as it would enter into the realm of spoilers, but I will say this is the kind of romance that transcends any book and will live on, and on, and on, in my memory, and, I have no doubt, many others.
Selfsame reminded me of the first time I read The Narnia Chronicles. I was only eleven, and C.S. Lewis's books took me away from my dreary life into another world of magic and amazement, of color and delight. The thrill of the Narnia Chronicles has never left me: Selfsame had a similar effect upon my psyche.
Highly recommended for lovers of the paranormal. Of time travel. Of romance. Of historical fiction. Of mystery. I'm not quite sure what genre I would place Selfsame in. Maybe all of the above? A guaranteed good read.
One of the first questions that came to my mind was "What happens to Sorcha if Enid is injured or dies? (And vice versa?) I also quickly wondered what "The Bens" had to do with Enid, and/or Sorcha, and who "The Bens" are. And how they became involved with this extraordinary girl. She is extraordinary. Intelligent, caring, and sympathetic. A truly courageous young woman.
Naturally, it's a Native American tribe who figures out there is something special about Enid/Sorcha. And so the reader is introduced to Ben and Joseph: Ben in the present day, Joseph in the past. Both are unforgettable, mesmerizing young men.
For most of this book, the reader is kept in the dark as concerns "The Bens." Sorcha, too, doesn't understand why this tribe is so interested in her, why they dog her steps, or why there is someone who wants her dead. Just an added layer of mystery woven into the incredible romance that literally had me in tears on at least three different occasions. It simply broke my heart once or twice. I can't say more, as it would enter into the realm of spoilers, but I will say this is the kind of romance that transcends any book and will live on, and on, and on, in my memory, and, I have no doubt, many others.
Selfsame reminded me of the first time I read The Narnia Chronicles. I was only eleven, and C.S. Lewis's books took me away from my dreary life into another world of magic and amazement, of color and delight. The thrill of the Narnia Chronicles has never left me: Selfsame had a similar effect upon my psyche.
Highly recommended for lovers of the paranormal. Of time travel. Of romance. Of historical fiction. Of mystery. I'm not quite sure what genre I would place Selfsame in. Maybe all of the above? A guaranteed good read.
April 18, 2012
To get the technical stuff out of the way, I’m required to state that I am acquainted with Melissa Conway through social networking. This is not an admission that my review is biased in any way. I read a pre-publication copy of this book (although I ended up purchasing a copy for my niece to read!).
I have read several books written by Melissa Conway. I feel this is one of her best—or maybe a close second to Xenofreak Nation. If I had to categorize it, I would call it a YA paranormal romance with a hint of historical fiction.
Selfsame is an apt title for this novel; it is about a girl whose soul has been split in two. At birth, Enid’s skin turns “the color o’twilight.” Her grandmother calls on Bear Talker, a Moheconneok (Mohawk) medicine man, to try and save the child. He succeeds, but not entirely. He claims that half of her spirit was left in another place and time. Enid would be forever “nesche—two” and she would have two lives to live.
When Enid goes to sleep in colonial America, the other half of her soul, Sorcha, wakes up two centuries in the future. Each girl is affected by what happens to her counterpart in the other world. Each feels, and remembers, what the other experienced while she was asleep. Sorcha hates the hardships and discrimination Enid must face every day, and Enid is frustrated by knowing what advances there will be in the centuries to come and not yet available in her world. She does use what knowledge she can to help those around her.
With all the danger that Enid encounters, the reader wonders what would become of Sorcha if something happened to Enid. Would her soul survive? Just when things become increasingly dangerous in Enid’s world, Sorcha meets Ben Webster in hers. He tells Sorcha that his family has been desperately searching for her for over two hundred years. What is the connection? Why is the Webster family so interested in Sorcha? They know something that they won’t—or can’t—tell Sorcha.
The author does a superb job of building the tension by alternating chapters between each of the girls’ stories. There are some heartbreaking, as well as tender, moments. Even though this story is classified as “paranormal,” Conway makes it all seem very believable.
I found myself eagerly turning the pages, anxious to know what was going to happen next. This book will appeal to young adults as well as older readers.
I don't read a lot of YA, but I really enjoyed reading this.
I have read several books written by Melissa Conway. I feel this is one of her best—or maybe a close second to Xenofreak Nation. If I had to categorize it, I would call it a YA paranormal romance with a hint of historical fiction.
Selfsame is an apt title for this novel; it is about a girl whose soul has been split in two. At birth, Enid’s skin turns “the color o’twilight.” Her grandmother calls on Bear Talker, a Moheconneok (Mohawk) medicine man, to try and save the child. He succeeds, but not entirely. He claims that half of her spirit was left in another place and time. Enid would be forever “nesche—two” and she would have two lives to live.
When Enid goes to sleep in colonial America, the other half of her soul, Sorcha, wakes up two centuries in the future. Each girl is affected by what happens to her counterpart in the other world. Each feels, and remembers, what the other experienced while she was asleep. Sorcha hates the hardships and discrimination Enid must face every day, and Enid is frustrated by knowing what advances there will be in the centuries to come and not yet available in her world. She does use what knowledge she can to help those around her.
With all the danger that Enid encounters, the reader wonders what would become of Sorcha if something happened to Enid. Would her soul survive? Just when things become increasingly dangerous in Enid’s world, Sorcha meets Ben Webster in hers. He tells Sorcha that his family has been desperately searching for her for over two hundred years. What is the connection? Why is the Webster family so interested in Sorcha? They know something that they won’t—or can’t—tell Sorcha.
The author does a superb job of building the tension by alternating chapters between each of the girls’ stories. There are some heartbreaking, as well as tender, moments. Even though this story is classified as “paranormal,” Conway makes it all seem very believable.
I found myself eagerly turning the pages, anxious to know what was going to happen next. This book will appeal to young adults as well as older readers.
I don't read a lot of YA, but I really enjoyed reading this.
September 11, 2012
Consisting of just about a hundred pages, SelfSame by Melissa Conway is a short book, with an amazing story. Conway does an amazing job of both writing and imagination. Her characters are solid, well-grounded and her mythology is fabulous! I was particularly impressed with how she handled 18th century Enid.
Being a poor woman of virtually no social standing couldn't have been easy for Enid. Add to that the fact that she had grown up with ideas and ideals from modern-world where feminism and equality of all are preached, and you can tell it will be a tumultous ride.
Same goes for future-self Sorcha, who had to live in the present, never knowing how the past could affect her. But, somehow, both managed. I just loved how both girls (I will call them girls, because 'halves' sounds ridiculous!) kept referencing to the other-world for various things...be it knowledge, history or medicine.
The mysterious aspects, the lovers and all the minor characters were beautifully done. It wasn't a Jason Bourne-worthy mystery, but, at the same time it felt real. The lack of excessive drama was very fitting to the mold of the story.
To summarize, Conway knew what she wanted to do with the story and she executed it perfectly. What some others do in two or three books, keeping readers in the dark, whetting their appetite before finally giving answers, she managed do in just a short book. And she did it beautifully. I loved the last line..hell the last scene!
No even that doesn't cover it. I loved the book!
Being a poor woman of virtually no social standing couldn't have been easy for Enid. Add to that the fact that she had grown up with ideas and ideals from modern-world where feminism and equality of all are preached, and you can tell it will be a tumultous ride.
Same goes for future-self Sorcha, who had to live in the present, never knowing how the past could affect her. But, somehow, both managed. I just loved how both girls (I will call them girls, because 'halves' sounds ridiculous!) kept referencing to the other-world for various things...be it knowledge, history or medicine.
The mysterious aspects, the lovers and all the minor characters were beautifully done. It wasn't a Jason Bourne-worthy mystery, but, at the same time it felt real. The lack of excessive drama was very fitting to the mold of the story.
To summarize, Conway knew what she wanted to do with the story and she executed it perfectly. What some others do in two or three books, keeping readers in the dark, whetting their appetite before finally giving answers, she managed do in just a short book. And she did it beautifully. I loved the last line..hell the last scene!
No even that doesn't cover it. I loved the book!
May 23, 2012
I was given the book SelfSame to read through Goodreads’ Making Connections ARR: Paranormal (YA) group, thank you. I decided to read this book because I hadn’t read a book with the topic of split souls residing in different times before and this one sounded good.
June 23, 2012
I’ve been rather swamped with reviews and books to read lately, and I put myself on a strict Netgalley/library diet…and then I saw Melissa’s review request in my inbox. I read the little blurb and just knew that despite not having time I was going to read it, I promptly put my other books aside and agreed to review it. I’m very happy to say that it was just a good as I had hoped it was going to be.
The concept behind the plot was the primary thing that caught my attention and I knew that if the author could pull it off it would make for a really interesting read. I would definitely say that she did more than just pull it off and she blew me away with the attention to details. The whole experience of reading about these two girls’ lives was just fantastic and I was hooked. I loved how they were set in two time periods so drastically different and I loved seeing how Enid/Sorcha dealt with it. There is a lot that can go wrong with stories revolving around time travel like the introduction of paradoxes or loosing characters’ voices in the transition, however Conway handles it rather expertly and makes sure to cover all of her bases. Enid’s voice is distinct and different from Sorcha’s though they borrow from each other a bit as far as knowledge goes, which I thought was excellent. I mean honestly who would pass up the opportunity to use practical and useful knowledge in the past, like plants that can help pain? I also really liked seeing how Sorcha reacted to the things Enid had to do and endure during her time period (1700′s), and it pained me to see her struggle with not being able to do anything about it. The inclusion of Enid’s importance was also a fantastic touch and I found it to be rather humbling to think about in an overall sense. They go through so much and yet they still have the will to carry on despite how heavy it all gets at times.
The main character(s) Sorcha and Enid are wonderful and I was behind them 100%. Their personalities are nearly the same however their time periods really determine how that personality it displayed. Enid is forced to be a quiet individual who does as she’s told because it is her place but she is also forced to be more adult than her age. Sorcha is an independent teenager who can speak how she feels and will stand up for herself, but being in the present time means she is still in a teenagers place. It’s wonderful to see the difference side by side, and to see how one person can handle both. Joseph held my heart from the moment he was first introduced, I loved his strong willpower and determination. Ben and John made excellent side characters for Sorcha’s world, and I can honestly say I hate John. I’m pretty sure I’d never want to met him, especially if it involved getting in his way.
Overall is a great read about love and sacrifice, and I was really impressed with how well it was executed. I recommend this wholeheartedly and I plan on checking out Conway’s other books as soon as I can.
The concept behind the plot was the primary thing that caught my attention and I knew that if the author could pull it off it would make for a really interesting read. I would definitely say that she did more than just pull it off and she blew me away with the attention to details. The whole experience of reading about these two girls’ lives was just fantastic and I was hooked. I loved how they were set in two time periods so drastically different and I loved seeing how Enid/Sorcha dealt with it. There is a lot that can go wrong with stories revolving around time travel like the introduction of paradoxes or loosing characters’ voices in the transition, however Conway handles it rather expertly and makes sure to cover all of her bases. Enid’s voice is distinct and different from Sorcha’s though they borrow from each other a bit as far as knowledge goes, which I thought was excellent. I mean honestly who would pass up the opportunity to use practical and useful knowledge in the past, like plants that can help pain? I also really liked seeing how Sorcha reacted to the things Enid had to do and endure during her time period (1700′s), and it pained me to see her struggle with not being able to do anything about it. The inclusion of Enid’s importance was also a fantastic touch and I found it to be rather humbling to think about in an overall sense. They go through so much and yet they still have the will to carry on despite how heavy it all gets at times.
The main character(s) Sorcha and Enid are wonderful and I was behind them 100%. Their personalities are nearly the same however their time periods really determine how that personality it displayed. Enid is forced to be a quiet individual who does as she’s told because it is her place but she is also forced to be more adult than her age. Sorcha is an independent teenager who can speak how she feels and will stand up for herself, but being in the present time means she is still in a teenagers place. It’s wonderful to see the difference side by side, and to see how one person can handle both. Joseph held my heart from the moment he was first introduced, I loved his strong willpower and determination. Ben and John made excellent side characters for Sorcha’s world, and I can honestly say I hate John. I’m pretty sure I’d never want to met him, especially if it involved getting in his way.
Overall is a great read about love and sacrifice, and I was really impressed with how well it was executed. I recommend this wholeheartedly and I plan on checking out Conway’s other books as soon as I can.
June 27, 2012
This review can also be found on my blog.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. Getting this book for free has not affected my opinion on this book.
When I first saw the cover of this book, I thought that I wouldn’t stop to read the description at all if I’d seen the cover first, but I’m glad I read the description on “Shut Up & Read“ (a goodreads group) first and got the chance to read this amazing book. While I didn’t enjoy “The Heart’s Discovery“ that much, it was a totally different case with this one. Not a dull moment during the whole book!
I liked both – Sorcha and Enid – they were strong, compassionate, brilliant and funny. I loved how Enid helped everyone and how she did everything in her power to take advantage of her knowledge she’d obtained while living as Sorcha. Sorcha was pretty cool, too, and I really, really liked them both.
What’s more, I liked Ben and I thought that Jonathan was pretty amazing, too. Once again it shows that love interests do not need to be some bad-ass-soul-searchers-waiting-to-be-saved kind of guys (who, don’t get me wrong, I love, but they get tiresome after awhile), they can be sweet, protecting, honorable instead.
Moreover, the plot was not stretched to its limits or over the limit. It was action-packed spiced up with some very sweet romance. The writing style was great and ugh.. I don’t think I can say anything bad about this book even if I tried. Okay, I have something: I really, really hate the cover, but what can you do? She's a self-published author, so let's look pass this horrible cover.
I cannot say anything about the plot, otherwise I’ll just give everything away (I mean, it felt like even the little things in this book held a big meaning in themselves) and there wouldn’t be any point in reading this book then. What I can say is that I absolutely, wholeheartedly recommend this book since I really liked it! Do not let the cover fool you, it certainly isn’t anything that would capture my attention at first sight, but what’s really important is what’s inside the book and it was great!
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. Getting this book for free has not affected my opinion on this book.
When I first saw the cover of this book, I thought that I wouldn’t stop to read the description at all if I’d seen the cover first, but I’m glad I read the description on “Shut Up & Read“ (a goodreads group) first and got the chance to read this amazing book. While I didn’t enjoy “The Heart’s Discovery“ that much, it was a totally different case with this one. Not a dull moment during the whole book!
I liked both – Sorcha and Enid – they were strong, compassionate, brilliant and funny. I loved how Enid helped everyone and how she did everything in her power to take advantage of her knowledge she’d obtained while living as Sorcha. Sorcha was pretty cool, too, and I really, really liked them both.
What’s more, I liked Ben and I thought that Jonathan was pretty amazing, too. Once again it shows that love interests do not need to be some bad-ass-soul-searchers-waiting-to-be-saved kind of guys (who, don’t get me wrong, I love, but they get tiresome after awhile), they can be sweet, protecting, honorable instead.
Moreover, the plot was not stretched to its limits or over the limit. It was action-packed spiced up with some very sweet romance. The writing style was great and ugh.. I don’t think I can say anything bad about this book even if I tried. Okay, I have something: I really, really hate the cover, but what can you do? She's a self-published author, so let's look pass this horrible cover.
I cannot say anything about the plot, otherwise I’ll just give everything away (I mean, it felt like even the little things in this book held a big meaning in themselves) and there wouldn’t be any point in reading this book then. What I can say is that I absolutely, wholeheartedly recommend this book since I really liked it! Do not let the cover fool you, it certainly isn’t anything that would capture my attention at first sight, but what’s really important is what’s inside the book and it was great!
June 21, 2012
This was probably a 3.5 for me but I wanted to round up because I truly did enjoy the story!
When I read the summary to this story I was immediately intrigued. The premise itself was so incredibly original and different than anything I've read recently.
One girl living two separate lives 230+ years apart... hell yes count me in! Sorcha lives in a small town in the 21st century while two centuries in the past, Enid lives in a time where she is basically a possession . When Enid was born, she was stillborn. She was saved but her soul was split into two. Each night, while Enid sleeps in the past, Sorcha lives her life in the present time and vice versa.
Without giving too much away, Ben Webster enters her life, and the things that are happening in Enid's life are having an effect on Sorcha's life. But not only that, decisions and choices in the past could have a devastating effect on those in her life now. The biggest question is should something happen to one half of her soul, or Enid... what does that mean for Sorcha. The reader, like Sorcha is kept in the dark as to the mystery, Ben and his family hide. They don't want their words to influence what happens for Enid and so the history is unraveled for Sorcha and Enid at the same time we as the reader learn about it.
It took a little bit for me to get into the book, but once the story started moving along, I was hooked and it moved along quick. I wanted to know more and more ... Conway does an incredible job of building the story from the alternating point of views. The mix between the past and the present was really unique and I enjoyed it a lot.
It's hard to categorize this book under one genre... paranormal, ya, historical, mystery and even some romance is here... a little bit of something for everyone! I couldn't help the smile that was on my face when I got to the last page either!
Definitely check this book out for something new and different!
When I read the summary to this story I was immediately intrigued. The premise itself was so incredibly original and different than anything I've read recently.
One girl living two separate lives 230+ years apart... hell yes count me in! Sorcha lives in a small town in the 21st century while two centuries in the past, Enid lives in a time where she is basically a possession . When Enid was born, she was stillborn. She was saved but her soul was split into two. Each night, while Enid sleeps in the past, Sorcha lives her life in the present time and vice versa.
Without giving too much away, Ben Webster enters her life, and the things that are happening in Enid's life are having an effect on Sorcha's life. But not only that, decisions and choices in the past could have a devastating effect on those in her life now. The biggest question is should something happen to one half of her soul, or Enid... what does that mean for Sorcha. The reader, like Sorcha is kept in the dark as to the mystery, Ben and his family hide. They don't want their words to influence what happens for Enid and so the history is unraveled for Sorcha and Enid at the same time we as the reader learn about it.
It took a little bit for me to get into the book, but once the story started moving along, I was hooked and it moved along quick. I wanted to know more and more ... Conway does an incredible job of building the story from the alternating point of views. The mix between the past and the present was really unique and I enjoyed it a lot.
It's hard to categorize this book under one genre... paranormal, ya, historical, mystery and even some romance is here... a little bit of something for everyone! I couldn't help the smile that was on my face when I got to the last page either!
Definitely check this book out for something new and different!
June 14, 2012
This is such an excellent story...I am sure where to begin...
Things i might say/write...might spoil the book...so only read my comments if you have finished the story...
It is such an amazing love story...
The characters...Sorcha, Paula, Ben, Luanne, John, etc...were characters that I fell in love with...and hated...lol
The author did an amazing job of bringing those characters to life...even though the story itself is a simple read...the author made sure with the use of the write words to truly bring this story to life.
I was hooked from beginning to end!!!
I recommend this story to everyone!!! I am a teacher and am thinking I may read this book out loud to my students...I think they would love it!
When it comes to my reviews I am not like many on here...not sure yet exactly what I need to write, but I just want to say that I have never seen this type of story plot done before...and that is excellent! So many times authors seem to copy each other in order to get people to read their stories.
The plot about a split soul...being lived in both past and present...is so very interesting. I have always wondered what it would be like to live back in the seventeenth or eighteenth century...or what it would be like to have been reincarnated and to know about one's other past lives...
This story brings a new twist to those thoughts...and held me entranced to the very last word...and even more so, because I wish there was more of the story!!!
If anyone reads my review...all I can say is READ IT!!!!
Things i might say/write...might spoil the book...so only read my comments if you have finished the story...
It is such an amazing love story...
The characters...Sorcha, Paula, Ben, Luanne, John, etc...were characters that I fell in love with...and hated...lol
The author did an amazing job of bringing those characters to life...even though the story itself is a simple read...the author made sure with the use of the write words to truly bring this story to life.
I was hooked from beginning to end!!!
I recommend this story to everyone!!! I am a teacher and am thinking I may read this book out loud to my students...I think they would love it!
When it comes to my reviews I am not like many on here...not sure yet exactly what I need to write, but I just want to say that I have never seen this type of story plot done before...and that is excellent! So many times authors seem to copy each other in order to get people to read their stories.
The plot about a split soul...being lived in both past and present...is so very interesting. I have always wondered what it would be like to live back in the seventeenth or eighteenth century...or what it would be like to have been reincarnated and to know about one's other past lives...
This story brings a new twist to those thoughts...and held me entranced to the very last word...and even more so, because I wish there was more of the story!!!
If anyone reads my review...all I can say is READ IT!!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 1, 2014
Every now and then I come across a book that is simply breathtaking. This little number took my breath away. Sorcha and Edin are one person living two lives in two very different times. Sounds complicated, right? SelfSame tells it perfectly, the change between here and then is seamless, at no point do you feel as though you are reading about two different lives, you really are just reading one very complicated one. Edin benefits so much from Sorcha's modern day education and living but I think it is Sorcha who actually learns a lot about the hardships of living from Eden. Although the idea of being fated for one person due to a paradox of her own making did seem a little fast paced it was easy to fall in love with Joseph and to understand how love could happen so quickly in such a time. It was harder to love Ben because he was always living under the shadow of what was fated. This will prove to be one of those quick reads you come back to again and again and again.
October 9, 2012
This book was pretty close to perfection. Well-drawn characters whom I really cared about and an original, clever and cohesive plot. So many times, co-heroines would be unequally drawn, but Sorcha and Enid are both dynamic, intelligent young women who become important to the reader. This is my second read of a Melissa Conway book, and I can't wait to read more.
April 24, 2012
This book was so fantastic!
When Melissa Conway contacted me to see if I would be interested in reading her book Selfsame, I was interested because the description was very interesting and not like any book I had every read before, but for that exact reason I really had no idea what to expect when I did start reading it!
So when I started reading it, I was so happy that I had decided to give it a shot! The story flips back and forth between Sorcha and Enid, and it does so seamlessly! The two girls are both so fantastic! Enid for her bravery and in the end her love, and Sorcha, for not letting go, and trying to help Enid even though there are centuries separating them.
I also totally loved Ben! He was such a sweetie, once he realized who Sorcha was he was always trying to protect her, and it came through in the story that he really did not want to keep all the secrets from her but he had no choice.
The book had just about everything, and the end even got me a little teary eyed because it was just such a happy moment.
Overall it was a GREAT book and one that I would definitely recommend people to try, there is no real paranormal aspects, other then the split soul, but it is still a good story and the way it flips between past and present is amazing! I wish there could be another book to make it a series, but there is really nothing else I think that can be done with this story, but that’s ok I will definitely be on the lookout for future books written by Melissa because she is a fantastic writer!
When Melissa Conway contacted me to see if I would be interested in reading her book Selfsame, I was interested because the description was very interesting and not like any book I had every read before, but for that exact reason I really had no idea what to expect when I did start reading it!
So when I started reading it, I was so happy that I had decided to give it a shot! The story flips back and forth between Sorcha and Enid, and it does so seamlessly! The two girls are both so fantastic! Enid for her bravery and in the end her love, and Sorcha, for not letting go, and trying to help Enid even though there are centuries separating them.
I also totally loved Ben! He was such a sweetie, once he realized who Sorcha was he was always trying to protect her, and it came through in the story that he really did not want to keep all the secrets from her but he had no choice.
The book had just about everything, and the end even got me a little teary eyed because it was just such a happy moment.
Overall it was a GREAT book and one that I would definitely recommend people to try, there is no real paranormal aspects, other then the split soul, but it is still a good story and the way it flips between past and present is amazing! I wish there could be another book to make it a series, but there is really nothing else I think that can be done with this story, but that’s ok I will definitely be on the lookout for future books written by Melissa because she is a fantastic writer!
December 12, 2012
I received this book after reading another one by the author (Xenofreak Nation) and being wowed by it. Still, despite being enthralled by the author, I just wasn't quite sure that the premise was for me. I should have known better.
SelfSame is a wonderful, original book. The way she integrates Enid and Sorcha's lives, integrates the people in them, just the way she develops the characters, they're all just fantastically done. The realities of a Colonial life, the disparity between social norms, the way that Sorcha and Enid are the same girl, but different, they're all masterfully crafted. And in Conway's books, I'm finding that everything is connected.
There is a supreme subtlety to Conway's writing that just draws you effortlessly into her books, her world. She hints and alludes before delivering with the promised secrets (the great "ah" moments when everything makes perfect sense), but she walks a fine line that is delivering the payout without dwelling on it or beating the reader over the head with it.
Although the point-of-view changes between Enid and Sorcha, they are basically the same mind in different bodies. This means that although the setting changes, there isn't that jarring cut-off that is usually found in a changing POV. The transitions are virtually seamless. It makes for a quick and absorbing read.
I don't know why I waited so long to find time to read this one, but you shouldn't. It's an entirely immersing and satisfying read. And I anxiously look forward to more from this author.
SelfSame is a wonderful, original book. The way she integrates Enid and Sorcha's lives, integrates the people in them, just the way she develops the characters, they're all just fantastically done. The realities of a Colonial life, the disparity between social norms, the way that Sorcha and Enid are the same girl, but different, they're all masterfully crafted. And in Conway's books, I'm finding that everything is connected.
There is a supreme subtlety to Conway's writing that just draws you effortlessly into her books, her world. She hints and alludes before delivering with the promised secrets (the great "ah" moments when everything makes perfect sense), but she walks a fine line that is delivering the payout without dwelling on it or beating the reader over the head with it.
Although the point-of-view changes between Enid and Sorcha, they are basically the same mind in different bodies. This means that although the setting changes, there isn't that jarring cut-off that is usually found in a changing POV. The transitions are virtually seamless. It makes for a quick and absorbing read.
I don't know why I waited so long to find time to read this one, but you shouldn't. It's an entirely immersing and satisfying read. And I anxiously look forward to more from this author.
January 10, 2013
SelfSame offers the smooth transit of time travel through sleep so that one individual can become two — Sorcha from our time becomes Enid during the American revolution. Well-written and absorbing to read, author Melissa Conway's title offers up the much debated question: are we in charge of our own destiny, or is everything we do —everyone we meet— already part of some bigger plan?
It is, as the author writes: "A paradox wrapped in a conundrum."
Conway categorizes herself as a YA author (Young Adult) but I think this limits the book's depth and readership. It is a good read. Period.
Disclaimer: I became a fan of Melissa Conway's when her youtube video "The Indie-Author Lament" first hit my Facebook live feed and had the lyrics: "The only one who's read my book is a friend of a friend of my mother's..." In her case, it's not at all true. We are now acquainted via the internet's various social networks. After knowing of each other's existence for more than a year, I can say in 2013 I have read one of Melissa's books — and am glad I did.
Without bias, I can say SelfSame offers a tale that you will want to finish. Its characters have depth, the storyline is intriguing, and in the end — there are no loose threads. Kudos to you, Melissa. Thank you, too, for the new cover. The other one just could not get me to push the "buy" button.
It is, as the author writes: "A paradox wrapped in a conundrum."
Conway categorizes herself as a YA author (Young Adult) but I think this limits the book's depth and readership. It is a good read. Period.
Disclaimer: I became a fan of Melissa Conway's when her youtube video "The Indie-Author Lament" first hit my Facebook live feed and had the lyrics: "The only one who's read my book is a friend of a friend of my mother's..." In her case, it's not at all true. We are now acquainted via the internet's various social networks. After knowing of each other's existence for more than a year, I can say in 2013 I have read one of Melissa's books — and am glad I did.
Without bias, I can say SelfSame offers a tale that you will want to finish. Its characters have depth, the storyline is intriguing, and in the end — there are no loose threads. Kudos to you, Melissa. Thank you, too, for the new cover. The other one just could not get me to push the "buy" button.
May 20, 2012
“Selfsame” is an intriguing and convoluted novel with a unique premise: one spirit, separated into two bodies, nearly three centuries apart. While the 18th century girl, Enid, sleeps, her 21st century counterpart, Sorcha, is awake living her own life. Then Sorcha sleeps 12 hours so that Enid can wake. Each knows of the other, and has since earliest childhood; each has a grandmother who watches over the situation closely; each understands that she carries the spirit only half the time.
I’m very impressed with this novel, first because of the unique approach, and secondly, because the author has such a firm foundation in American colonial history, in character, and in plotting. There’s twice as many character sets to juggle here, because of Enid and Sorcha’s two separate lives, chronologically so far apart. What seems like it would be a major juggling job is written and interwoven very smoothly and completely, making the story a joy (and an education) for the reader.
Another poignant aspect is Enid’s recognition (through living Sorcha’s life) of “the butterfly effect,” so that both young ladies understand how important it is not to try to change either the future or the past, but that instead they each must just live life as best they can.
I’m very impressed with this novel, first because of the unique approach, and secondly, because the author has such a firm foundation in American colonial history, in character, and in plotting. There’s twice as many character sets to juggle here, because of Enid and Sorcha’s two separate lives, chronologically so far apart. What seems like it would be a major juggling job is written and interwoven very smoothly and completely, making the story a joy (and an education) for the reader.
Another poignant aspect is Enid’s recognition (through living Sorcha’s life) of “the butterfly effect,” so that both young ladies understand how important it is not to try to change either the future or the past, but that instead they each must just live life as best they can.
May 3, 2015
This Review was originally posted on my blog: http://bajanrosabooks.blogspot.com there is also an interview with the author posted there
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live two different lives? Well, Sorcha knows and so does Enid they are two vastly different personalities. One of them lives in the past, one of them in the present, both of them are the same person.
Melissa Conway's SelfSame is a story of a teenage girl who's worries are much more troubling than studying for finals and pinning after boys. When she goes to sleep at night, she wakes up in a different world either in the past or in the future, her soul divided between two bodies.
This mixture of modern and historical story telling, makes for an extremely entertaining read with action on every page and a new mystery to uncover in each chapter. Readers will enjoy the tale of Enid/Sorcha as she finds her way through her lives, romantic interests and problems galore.
This is truly a must read for any fan of good YA fiction and lovers of Fantasy.
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live two different lives? Well, Sorcha knows and so does Enid they are two vastly different personalities. One of them lives in the past, one of them in the present, both of them are the same person.
Melissa Conway's SelfSame is a story of a teenage girl who's worries are much more troubling than studying for finals and pinning after boys. When she goes to sleep at night, she wakes up in a different world either in the past or in the future, her soul divided between two bodies.
This mixture of modern and historical story telling, makes for an extremely entertaining read with action on every page and a new mystery to uncover in each chapter. Readers will enjoy the tale of Enid/Sorcha as she finds her way through her lives, romantic interests and problems galore.
This is truly a must read for any fan of good YA fiction and lovers of Fantasy.
May 17, 2012
As soon as I read the synopsis for this book, I was excited about reading it. My favorite aspect of this book was the unique plot! There were also some fun plot twists that made reading it more enjoyable.
This is definitely a young adult novel, as it is a very easy ready. However, there were occasionally some words that might stump a lower level reader. The writing was very good and effortless, I found it very interesting and I think that Ms. Conway is a very vivid writer. I wish the book developed the characters a little bit more so that I was more emotional attached to them, and therefore more interested in what happened to them. I did want to keep reading to find out what happened next in the plot, but I was not as invested in the characters as I would have liked to have been.
Overall, very good book - I would definitely recommend this for the middle school crowd and adults who enjoy young adult fiction.
This is definitely a young adult novel, as it is a very easy ready. However, there were occasionally some words that might stump a lower level reader. The writing was very good and effortless, I found it very interesting and I think that Ms. Conway is a very vivid writer. I wish the book developed the characters a little bit more so that I was more emotional attached to them, and therefore more interested in what happened to them. I did want to keep reading to find out what happened next in the plot, but I was not as invested in the characters as I would have liked to have been.
Overall, very good book - I would definitely recommend this for the middle school crowd and adults who enjoy young adult fiction.
September 26, 2012
The only word I can think of to describe this book is... magnificent. I was blown away by this book. The concept is something I have never read before, the characters were completely human and I felt connected to them instantly. Their decisions had solid reasons behind them, which I greatly appreciate. No love triangles (Thank you Melissa!), but a very interesting romantic dynamic. The story unfolded like a rose blooming. Every piece of information connected in the end and when I finished reading the last page I was crying and grinning at the same time. This book was refreshing, and completely satisfying. Please don't read any spoilers, just experience this masterpiece on your own! You will not regret it!
This is the first book by Melissa Conway that I have read, and if her other books are anywhere near the quality of SelfSame, I will be one happy reader. I can't wait to delve into her other novels.
This is the first book by Melissa Conway that I have read, and if her other books are anywhere near the quality of SelfSame, I will be one happy reader. I can't wait to delve into her other novels.
June 22, 2012
Wow. I'm not really sure what I can say beyond, I loved this book, but I will try to do a bit better than that. :)
I didn't really know what to expect when I was given this to read and review, but I thought the concept sounded interesting. I started reading it this evening, after putting my kids to bed, and read it in one sitting because I quickly became engrossed in the world Melissa Conway created. The world was vividly rendered and the characters all felt alive. I came to care deeply for Enid and Sorcha, and kept turning and turning the pages so I could find out what happened to them. I was completely swept away by this story, in a way that hasn't happened in a long time. I laughed, and I cried. I became angry, and so, so sad, and thrilled. Such a small book to elicit so many strong emotions. I'm still amazed.
I'm sure I will read this many times.
I didn't really know what to expect when I was given this to read and review, but I thought the concept sounded interesting. I started reading it this evening, after putting my kids to bed, and read it in one sitting because I quickly became engrossed in the world Melissa Conway created. The world was vividly rendered and the characters all felt alive. I came to care deeply for Enid and Sorcha, and kept turning and turning the pages so I could find out what happened to them. I was completely swept away by this story, in a way that hasn't happened in a long time. I laughed, and I cried. I became angry, and so, so sad, and thrilled. Such a small book to elicit so many strong emotions. I'm still amazed.
I'm sure I will read this many times.
July 6, 2012
When I read this author's Xenofreak Nation, I was struck by her ability to construct a parallel reality which feels as authentic as the one we live in. Then, it was a glimpse into a totally plausible future. And, with SelfSame, she's done it again, except that she now has me accepting the notion of time travel and the concept of a divided soul. Her technique is to alternate chapters to give us the pendulum sweep between the 18th and 21st centuries while keeping a tight narrative unity around the central character.
It's beautifully, carefully written, the arc is well-sustained and the pacing immaculate. It's intended for the YA market but its exploration of the links between past and present and the intimation of a spiritual world which binds them and makes them part of a single moment will attract all readers who appreciate good writing.
In short, it's an excellent, entertaining read.
It's beautifully, carefully written, the arc is well-sustained and the pacing immaculate. It's intended for the YA market but its exploration of the links between past and present and the intimation of a spiritual world which binds them and makes them part of a single moment will attract all readers who appreciate good writing.
In short, it's an excellent, entertaining read.
June 28, 2012
I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this book but I was very surprised by how much I enjoyed it. I love the concept and it was written in a way that really draws you in and has you experiencing the characters' emotions right along with them. I really appreciated how strong both girls were and how wonderfully their worlds intertwined. The twists and surprises were also great. It's been a long time since I've read a book that's kept me both guessing what's going to happen next and entertained at the same time. I also really appreciate that while it's not a super long book, it was a well written story that didn't feel rushed or leave me with any questions. Overall this was a fantastic, quick read that wouldn't mind reading again.
May 18, 2012
This simply a fabulous book. With a realistic idea of time travel, the story is compelling and gripping. Plot twists and turns being new challenges on every page. Sorcha and Enid, though the same person, have definite personalities that are both wonderful. She is an amazing character that I loved. Joseph is an awesome character and Ben's is fabulous. The romance is well created and the mystery of it all keeps you guessing and needing to know how it all turns out. Though somewhat heart-wrenching and romantic, it has one of the most satisfying endings to a time-travel book I've read in a long time. This is a great read and one you won't regret.
www.cleanromancereviews.com
www.cleanromancereviews.com
June 16, 2012
Well it's completely different to what I thought it was going to be, in a good way!!
A girl who leads two lives, a soul split between to people. To live named as a girl of the past- Enid and a girl of the present Sorcha.
Then enters Ben or a few Ben's (haha) and everything changes. She learns that she has a role to play and a task to carry out. But they can't tell her what it is she is expected to do.
It was quite enthral long and well written I often get confused with the change of POV's but it was so well written and set out I didn't have to go back or get confused once.
Good story with a good concept and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks for the book Melissa!!
A girl who leads two lives, a soul split between to people. To live named as a girl of the past- Enid and a girl of the present Sorcha.
Then enters Ben or a few Ben's (haha) and everything changes. She learns that she has a role to play and a task to carry out. But they can't tell her what it is she is expected to do.
It was quite enthral long and well written I often get confused with the change of POV's but it was so well written and set out I didn't have to go back or get confused once.
Good story with a good concept and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks for the book Melissa!!
December 26, 2012
Sorcha is one soul split between two bodies. She spends 12 hours in current time, as a high school student, and when she goes to sleep she spends the next 12 hours as Enid Thompson, 230 years in the past. Sorcha's parents believe only that she has a sleep disorder, and that she was making up a tale of being someplace else when she was younger. A new boy starts school, and Sorcha soon discovers there's a whole society that started over 200 years ago to protect her in the current day, and make sure she does something very important while she's in the past. I loved this book!
June 19, 2012
I really enjoyed this book. It was interesting to see how the two lives were blended over 200 years apart. Sorcha searches for any information she can find about Enid. Ben and Luanne know things they won't tell her. Sorcha doesn't understand their interest in her. Why do they insist on guarding her? Why are they so interested in what's happening in Enid's world?
The book was a quick easy read but it was hard to put down. I would recommend this book.
The book was a quick easy read but it was hard to put down. I would recommend this book.
September 13, 2012
I'm beginning to search for Melissa Conway's books. Every one I've read has been a great read.
In this one, there's a bit of reincarnation or is it time travel or is it something else entirely. One soul split between the past and present, Enid (18th C) and Sorcha (21st C) live there lives together, alternating between past and future.
Oh, shoot. It's hard to explain, but this is damn fine read. It's YA fantasy in case you're worried about genre.
In this one, there's a bit of reincarnation or is it time travel or is it something else entirely. One soul split between the past and present, Enid (18th C) and Sorcha (21st C) live there lives together, alternating between past and future.
Oh, shoot. It's hard to explain, but this is damn fine read. It's YA fantasy in case you're worried about genre.
May 6, 2012
When Enid goes to sleep in Colonial America she wakes up in the future as Sorcha, due to mysterious circumstances at Enid's birth. This book deals with the girl's struggles to adapt to their circumstances, their loves and family. I really liked this book. It's a really intriguing concept and Melissa Conway did a great job without making the plot confusing. A great read!
May 22, 2012
I received this novella ebook from the author, Melissa Conway, through a Goodreads group.
This book had such a great concept: paranormal time travel. While not a frequent reader of YA, I still enjoyed this book, wanting to find out the ending faster than I could read.
I definitely recommend this.
This book had such a great concept: paranormal time travel. While not a frequent reader of YA, I still enjoyed this book, wanting to find out the ending faster than I could read.
I definitely recommend this.
June 27, 2012
This book was fantastic! I really enjoyed the split story. I couldn't decide which side I liked better. What a great story!
June 21, 2012
This story is about a girl with two lives. Reading this book really had me thanking my lucky stars I life in this time.
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