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The Daughter of the Fens
AD 61
Brittania is in the hands of the Romans but when the conquering army betray the dead King Prasutagus by defiling his daughters, his Queen, Boudicca, is determined to regain her land.
Iceni slave Brea remembers little of the time before the Romans, and has grown used to their louche and indulgent customs. She diligently goes about her duties looking after the artless Aurelia, wife-to-be of the handsome war hero Marcellus, but her longing for freedom and her desire to find her lost father, are never far from her mind.
Present Day
When Hanna returns to Norfolk from years working abroad, the strange dreams of her adolescence return: indistinct figures in tunics, mighty soldiers in armour, gladiators, temples, an Iceni warrior woman leading her people. Gradually Hanna’s dreams begin to slip into the present as visions in the famous mists rolling across the fens, and as shocks of recognition when a new face moves to her childhood home.
As Hanna realises that she has a connection with a tragedy that occurred many years before, so Brea has to understand that her fate is bound up with her Roman master. And as the drumbeat of rebellion gets ever closer Brea must make the fatal choice between love and loyalty while Hanna has to find a way to make peace with the past.
Brittania is in the hands of the Romans but when the conquering army betray the dead King Prasutagus by defiling his daughters, his Queen, Boudicca, is determined to regain her land.
Iceni slave Brea remembers little of the time before the Romans, and has grown used to their louche and indulgent customs. She diligently goes about her duties looking after the artless Aurelia, wife-to-be of the handsome war hero Marcellus, but her longing for freedom and her desire to find her lost father, are never far from her mind.
Present Day
When Hanna returns to Norfolk from years working abroad, the strange dreams of her adolescence return: indistinct figures in tunics, mighty soldiers in armour, gladiators, temples, an Iceni warrior woman leading her people. Gradually Hanna’s dreams begin to slip into the present as visions in the famous mists rolling across the fens, and as shocks of recognition when a new face moves to her childhood home.
As Hanna realises that she has a connection with a tragedy that occurred many years before, so Brea has to understand that her fate is bound up with her Roman master. And as the drumbeat of rebellion gets ever closer Brea must make the fatal choice between love and loyalty while Hanna has to find a way to make peace with the past.
442 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
782 people are currently reading
553 people want to read
About the author
Elena Collins
29 books205 followersElena Collins is a pseudonym of author Judy Leigh.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
October 2, 2023
While I’ve recently rediscovered my love of historical fiction, and unfailingly enjoy any book where there’s a thin veil between past and present, I’ll admit I was less than comfortable about slipping back two centuries to the time of the Roman occupation of Britain. But that feeling was dispelled within the first few pages – an intriguing introduction to a younger Hanna with the accident that began her visions of the past, the violence that saw Brea torn from her Fenland Iceni tribe into a life of slavery, and I was more than happy to embrace whatever followed.
Plagued by unsettling dreams of another time that she doesn’t fully understand, Hanna is back from abroad at her childhood home in Norfolk, beginning to realise that her life is inextricably entangled with that of the girl whose experiences she regularly revisits. When shadows from the past begin to appear in daylight hours too, she knows that she won’t be able to move on until she uncovers the full story – helped by the discovery of some remnants from the past that, with support from others with knowledge of the period and an understanding of the links between past and present, begin her process of healing and allowing the restless spirits of the past to rest.
In the Fenlands of the past, we follow the life of Brea, dreaming of being able to rejoin her Iceni tribe, but living as a slave in a Roman household. Tasked to support Marcellus’ new wife, a love story unfolds – an attraction to the master who shows her rare kindness, with a forbidden love that resonates across the years. While the romance is quite beautifully handled, so is the recreation of the time in which they lived – with a wealth of detail, we equally experience the life of duty of Roman women of that time, forced and confined into marriages arranged by their families, torn from their homes in a similar way to Brea herself. The history entirely comes to life – the very real individuals and their experiences, the backdrop absolutely and convincingly real.
The characterisation is just superb – we share Brea’s thoughts, live her experiences, feel her longing for freedom, and certainly share her inner conflict as her emotions become increasingly turbulent and her life fraught with danger. And, in Roman times, the supporting cast fascinates too – Marcellus himself a true hero in so many ways, his sister with her self-obsession and edge of cruelty, his new wife Aurelia struggling following her arrival. But I very much enjoyed the present day characters too – there’s a lovely focus on family with Hanna’s mother and father-to-be and his son who Hanna hopes will be a friend, the team who assist her in making sense of her links with the past, and an intriguing touch of romance that begins with a frisson of attraction that’s easy to recognise.
It’s a tremendous story, and perfectly told – one of those where you slip between the pages and happily live in the world of the author’s imagination. Those ties between past and present, the unsettling moments, the glimpses through the curtain – the atmospheric and beautifully drawn landscape, and that overwhelming love that touched me so deeply with moments that moved me to tears. My goodness, it was wonderful – I loved every moment, was captivated throughout, and couldn’t recommend it more highly.
Plagued by unsettling dreams of another time that she doesn’t fully understand, Hanna is back from abroad at her childhood home in Norfolk, beginning to realise that her life is inextricably entangled with that of the girl whose experiences she regularly revisits. When shadows from the past begin to appear in daylight hours too, she knows that she won’t be able to move on until she uncovers the full story – helped by the discovery of some remnants from the past that, with support from others with knowledge of the period and an understanding of the links between past and present, begin her process of healing and allowing the restless spirits of the past to rest.
In the Fenlands of the past, we follow the life of Brea, dreaming of being able to rejoin her Iceni tribe, but living as a slave in a Roman household. Tasked to support Marcellus’ new wife, a love story unfolds – an attraction to the master who shows her rare kindness, with a forbidden love that resonates across the years. While the romance is quite beautifully handled, so is the recreation of the time in which they lived – with a wealth of detail, we equally experience the life of duty of Roman women of that time, forced and confined into marriages arranged by their families, torn from their homes in a similar way to Brea herself. The history entirely comes to life – the very real individuals and their experiences, the backdrop absolutely and convincingly real.
The characterisation is just superb – we share Brea’s thoughts, live her experiences, feel her longing for freedom, and certainly share her inner conflict as her emotions become increasingly turbulent and her life fraught with danger. And, in Roman times, the supporting cast fascinates too – Marcellus himself a true hero in so many ways, his sister with her self-obsession and edge of cruelty, his new wife Aurelia struggling following her arrival. But I very much enjoyed the present day characters too – there’s a lovely focus on family with Hanna’s mother and father-to-be and his son who Hanna hopes will be a friend, the team who assist her in making sense of her links with the past, and an intriguing touch of romance that begins with a frisson of attraction that’s easy to recognise.
It’s a tremendous story, and perfectly told – one of those where you slip between the pages and happily live in the world of the author’s imagination. Those ties between past and present, the unsettling moments, the glimpses through the curtain – the atmospheric and beautifully drawn landscape, and that overwhelming love that touched me so deeply with moments that moved me to tears. My goodness, it was wonderful – I loved every moment, was captivated throughout, and couldn’t recommend it more highly.
November 26, 2023
This is my 3rd book by this author and I have totally fallen in love with her books.
I read this in large print via my local library so was nearly 600 pages long but I did not want it to end.
I read this in large print via my local library so was nearly 600 pages long but I did not want it to end.
August 31, 2023
I highly recommend this wonderful dual timeline novel telling the story of Brea a young girl from an Iceni tribe captured by the romans and Hanna in present day who is haunted by visions of a young girl.
It was such a captivating read and very emotive. I really didn't want it to end. Felt bereft when I got to the end. Perfect for fans of Barbara Erskine.
It was such a captivating read and very emotive. I really didn't want it to end. Felt bereft when I got to the end. Perfect for fans of Barbara Erskine.
October 2, 2024
Time slip
Oh I do love a good time slip and this book absolutely did not disappoint!!! It is very well written and flows nicely.
Oh I do love a good time slip and this book absolutely did not disappoint!!! It is very well written and flows nicely.
October 8, 2023
“Norwich, 2006. The instant her head hit the floor, something changed forever. Seconds passed. It took moments for Hanna to open her eyes again and when she did, she had no recollection of what had happened. Another life flashed before her eyes, a life she didn’t recognise as her own, but one that would never leave her.” - Prologue.
My thanks to Boldwood Books for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘The Daughter of the Fens’ by Elena Collins.
This is a fascinating time-slip novel set amongst the Norfolk fens.
When she was thirteen Hanna fell and hit her head during a gymnastics tournament. She found herself standing in a village, dressed in a tunic and surrounded by fighting men. A sword is thrust into her hands and she is addressed by an unfamiliar name. Then a soldier grabs her arm and suddenly she is back in the gym, anxious faces gathered all around her. She continues to have dreams of a different time and place.
In the present day Hanna is returning to England after four years teaching abroad. Her strange dreams had faded though when she arrives back in Norfolk, they return along with glimpses of a solitary figure that seems to be haunting the fens as if seeking something.
The narrative is split between the two timelines. In the present day Hanna is helping her mother prepare for her upcoming marriage to a local farmer. She is also considering her own future. When she meets a newcomer to the village there is an immediate shock of recognition. Yet from where? Or when?
In AD 60 Brittania is occupied by the Romans. Brea, an Iceni slave, remembers little of the time before the Romans. She diligently goes about her duties though longs for her freedom and to be reunited with her family. Despite herself, she is drawn to Marcellus, the son of her master Publius Julius. Marcellus is a legate in the Roman army and is about to wed Aurelia, a young woman who has travelled from Rome. Brea is assigned as her personal slave.
In the past Queen Boudicca leads the Iceni and other tribes in rebellion against the Romans and Brea is faced with a choice between love and loyalty while Hanna must discover how to make peace with the past.
Elena Collins addresses the question of whether Hanna’s link to Brea is due to reincarnation or is she just sensitive to a restless spirit?
I felt that Elena Collins had clearly undertaken a great deal of research into Roman Britain and integrated this into her story. At first I did find the dialogue used by the characters in Britannia rather modern though I decided that these interactions were likely being filtered through Hanna’s consciousness.
Overall, I enjoyed ‘The Daughter of the Fens’ finding it a satisfying time-slip novel with engaging storylines and relatable characters. After this positive experience, I plan to read her two earlier time-slip novels.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
My thanks to Boldwood Books for an eARC via NetGalley of ‘The Daughter of the Fens’ by Elena Collins.
This is a fascinating time-slip novel set amongst the Norfolk fens.
When she was thirteen Hanna fell and hit her head during a gymnastics tournament. She found herself standing in a village, dressed in a tunic and surrounded by fighting men. A sword is thrust into her hands and she is addressed by an unfamiliar name. Then a soldier grabs her arm and suddenly she is back in the gym, anxious faces gathered all around her. She continues to have dreams of a different time and place.
In the present day Hanna is returning to England after four years teaching abroad. Her strange dreams had faded though when she arrives back in Norfolk, they return along with glimpses of a solitary figure that seems to be haunting the fens as if seeking something.
The narrative is split between the two timelines. In the present day Hanna is helping her mother prepare for her upcoming marriage to a local farmer. She is also considering her own future. When she meets a newcomer to the village there is an immediate shock of recognition. Yet from where? Or when?
In AD 60 Brittania is occupied by the Romans. Brea, an Iceni slave, remembers little of the time before the Romans. She diligently goes about her duties though longs for her freedom and to be reunited with her family. Despite herself, she is drawn to Marcellus, the son of her master Publius Julius. Marcellus is a legate in the Roman army and is about to wed Aurelia, a young woman who has travelled from Rome. Brea is assigned as her personal slave.
In the past Queen Boudicca leads the Iceni and other tribes in rebellion against the Romans and Brea is faced with a choice between love and loyalty while Hanna must discover how to make peace with the past.
Elena Collins addresses the question of whether Hanna’s link to Brea is due to reincarnation or is she just sensitive to a restless spirit?
I felt that Elena Collins had clearly undertaken a great deal of research into Roman Britain and integrated this into her story. At first I did find the dialogue used by the characters in Britannia rather modern though I decided that these interactions were likely being filtered through Hanna’s consciousness.
Overall, I enjoyed ‘The Daughter of the Fens’ finding it a satisfying time-slip novel with engaging storylines and relatable characters. After this positive experience, I plan to read her two earlier time-slip novels.
4.5 stars rounded up to 5.
October 2, 2023
When Hannah was 10 and being raised by a single mother Stephanie her passion was gymnastics at one competition she had an accident and became unconscious and even came to speaking a different language. From that day forward with the exception of the six years she taught in China she was plagued with the feeling that she lived in another time as another person a girl name Bree. While on the plane returning to England she met a woman named Luna who told her she would meet another woman and everything would come clear. As soon as she steps off the train and Palmer to go to her mom‘s new residence with her fiancé Patty she sees a woman sitting on the bench who looks sad but that’s right when her mom pulls up and when she looks back the girl is gone. She will see this woman time and time again in the feels off the farm that’s going to be her new home with her mom and mom‘s fiancé Patty. That will not be the only thing different in England she continuously runs into a man who she feels a strong overwhelming electric attraction for who she will eventually find to be Luke a local veterinarian from London. Throughout the book it bounces from modern day to eons ago when the Romans occupied the fins we also get to learn the different meanings of being trapped Bree is a servant girl and although she works for what is considered a kind master white beard he has a very evil daughter but his son is very kind and Bree will eventually build a friendship with him but in the meantime he makes her place there better by letting her be a sort of ladies maid to his new fiancé who has come from Rome to the land of the fins and is very miserable. I thought this was a beautiful story and I believe it is based off the Buddhist belief that we are reincarnated and each time we will be certain people that will always play a part in our life this was like a romance on steroids and it is a book I haghly recommend to any romance fan and especially those who love historical romance. I want to thank Boldwood books in Net Galley for my free Ark copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
October 5, 2023
Thank you Boldwood Books for providing me with a copy via Netgalley to review.
I was drawn to this book mainly for it's stunning cover but also it's written about the county where I live. When I read the synopsis I knew it was for me as its written about the Iceni which is part of British history I've always been fascinated by and time slip novels are usually so good.
A quick overview
The dreams started after Hannah suffered a head injury when she fell during a gymnastic tournament. She dreams of the past, of an Iceni slave girl called Brea, who is serving in a Roman Villa but desperate to find the family she was taken from. When Hannah returns to Norfolk for her mother's wedding the dreams become stronger and spill into her waking life. It's then in becomes apparent Hannah and Brea have a connection.
My thoughts
This was a new author to me but I quickly fell in love with her vivid and immersive writing style. The research put in to writing this book is impeccable and made it an extremely compelling read. Research not only with the Romans and the Iceni during the 1st Century but also present day Norfolk. While reading I assumed the author lived locally as the county is so well described.
The characters are so well written and relatable, especially Brea. She possessed such depth and complexity that I really connected with and found myself rooting for her. She is fierce and loyal to her family and those that treated her well. A character that I think will stay with me for quite some time.
The time slip style gave this novel a mystical feel but staying believable at the same time. It reminded me very much of Barbara Erskine novels so if you are a fan then give this author a try.
I was drawn to this book mainly for it's stunning cover but also it's written about the county where I live. When I read the synopsis I knew it was for me as its written about the Iceni which is part of British history I've always been fascinated by and time slip novels are usually so good.
A quick overview
The dreams started after Hannah suffered a head injury when she fell during a gymnastic tournament. She dreams of the past, of an Iceni slave girl called Brea, who is serving in a Roman Villa but desperate to find the family she was taken from. When Hannah returns to Norfolk for her mother's wedding the dreams become stronger and spill into her waking life. It's then in becomes apparent Hannah and Brea have a connection.
My thoughts
This was a new author to me but I quickly fell in love with her vivid and immersive writing style. The research put in to writing this book is impeccable and made it an extremely compelling read. Research not only with the Romans and the Iceni during the 1st Century but also present day Norfolk. While reading I assumed the author lived locally as the county is so well described.
The characters are so well written and relatable, especially Brea. She possessed such depth and complexity that I really connected with and found myself rooting for her. She is fierce and loyal to her family and those that treated her well. A character that I think will stay with me for quite some time.
The time slip style gave this novel a mystical feel but staying believable at the same time. It reminded me very much of Barbara Erskine novels so if you are a fan then give this author a try.
October 2, 2023
The Daughter of the Fens is the third book I have read by Elena Collins. This is my favorite book so far as I love Roman history, and Roman British history and the rebellion of Boudica is a fascinating subject,
Hanna Frampton had an accident when she was 13 years old, ever since she has had strange dreams about a Roman era woman that has both fascinated and disturbed her. After 4 years teaching in China she is going back home to Norfolk to attend her mother’s wedding to a local farmer and figure out what her next step in life will be. While she was in China the dreams mostly stopped, but now that is back home, the dreams have returned with a vengeance. She dreams of a young Iceni woman whose life is caught up with the Romans and the Iceni rebellion led by Boudica. Hanna sees the ghost of the young woman and wonders why she in particular is being haunted. Then she finds a Roman necklace on her step=father’s farm and the dreams and hauntings become more intense. Pulling in her family, friends and an archeology team from Cambridge university including a psychic archeologist. Hanna hopes to find out what happened to the woman and why she was picked to learn her story.
AD 60 Brea is a young slave in the household of Publius Julius Silvanus, taken hostage and sold into slavery when she was 13 after her Iceni village was attacked by the Romans, she is determined to win her freedom and return to her family if they are still alive. Her master’s son Marcellus, a Roman Legate has come home from helping in the subjugation of Boudica and the Iceni people in order to wed his Roman bride Aurelia. Brea is chosen to be Aurelia’s personal slave and this puts her in the path of Marcellus. Brea is wary of Marcellus as she knows he participated in the attack on her village, her Queen and her tribe. However Marcellus showers her with kindness and they fall in love, but can there be love between a Roman Legate and an Iceni slave? Can there be a happy ending?
I really enjoyed this book with the history of the Roman households and the Iceni rebellion. I recommend this book for fans of Barbara Erskine and Susanna Kearsley for an interesting time-slip novel with a supernatural twist.
Thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood books and the author for the chance to read and review this book.
Hanna Frampton had an accident when she was 13 years old, ever since she has had strange dreams about a Roman era woman that has both fascinated and disturbed her. After 4 years teaching in China she is going back home to Norfolk to attend her mother’s wedding to a local farmer and figure out what her next step in life will be. While she was in China the dreams mostly stopped, but now that is back home, the dreams have returned with a vengeance. She dreams of a young Iceni woman whose life is caught up with the Romans and the Iceni rebellion led by Boudica. Hanna sees the ghost of the young woman and wonders why she in particular is being haunted. Then she finds a Roman necklace on her step=father’s farm and the dreams and hauntings become more intense. Pulling in her family, friends and an archeology team from Cambridge university including a psychic archeologist. Hanna hopes to find out what happened to the woman and why she was picked to learn her story.
AD 60 Brea is a young slave in the household of Publius Julius Silvanus, taken hostage and sold into slavery when she was 13 after her Iceni village was attacked by the Romans, she is determined to win her freedom and return to her family if they are still alive. Her master’s son Marcellus, a Roman Legate has come home from helping in the subjugation of Boudica and the Iceni people in order to wed his Roman bride Aurelia. Brea is chosen to be Aurelia’s personal slave and this puts her in the path of Marcellus. Brea is wary of Marcellus as she knows he participated in the attack on her village, her Queen and her tribe. However Marcellus showers her with kindness and they fall in love, but can there be love between a Roman Legate and an Iceni slave? Can there be a happy ending?
I really enjoyed this book with the history of the Roman households and the Iceni rebellion. I recommend this book for fans of Barbara Erskine and Susanna Kearsley for an interesting time-slip novel with a supernatural twist.
Thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood books and the author for the chance to read and review this book.
October 3, 2023
Elena Collins - The Daughter Of The Fens.
#TheDaughterOfTheFens is the third book released by Judy Leigh writing as Elena Collins.
If I’m honest, historical fiction isn’t always my thing. That said, I absolutely devour anything by Elena Collins.
The balance and connections that she writes between the past and the present is simply superb.
I adored both of her previous books, #TheWitchsTree and #TheLadyOfTheLoch so I was super excited to read what she had next for us.
This is a dual timeline story. Both threads have their own tale to tell, but as always in an Elena Collins book, the past and the present overlap and smoothly merge into one another.
Both time lines have great characters.
In AD 61, Brea is a strong young woman. Captured into slavery, she keeps her head down and works hard. But she never forgets her own family and the tribe who she was torn away from.
In the present day, Hanna has just returned from working abroad, when the past comes calling to her, just as it had years before.
I liked Hanna. Despite being somewhat spoked by what is happening to her, she takes on the task of solving the mystery of what connects her to the past with a Scooby-Doo like determination.
#TheDaughterOfTheFens is breathtaking and utterly spellbinding. It’s atmospheric and certainly gave me the shivers a few times.
The amount of historical research that has gone into this book is outstanding. Elena Collins has included so much factual information, and cleverly woven it into the story. By the end of the book, I’d probably learned more than I did in a two year history gcse. It was also far more enjoyable.
#TheDaughterOfTheFens is a powerful read. It’s poignant and thought provoking. it’s harsh and cruel. Yet still so full of love.
Beautifully written with such emotional intelligence and historical knowledge.
Compelling, haunting and simply unforgettable.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources, Netgalley and Boldwood Books for a digital arc of this title.
#TheDaughterOfTheFens is the third book released by Judy Leigh writing as Elena Collins.
If I’m honest, historical fiction isn’t always my thing. That said, I absolutely devour anything by Elena Collins.
The balance and connections that she writes between the past and the present is simply superb.
I adored both of her previous books, #TheWitchsTree and #TheLadyOfTheLoch so I was super excited to read what she had next for us.
This is a dual timeline story. Both threads have their own tale to tell, but as always in an Elena Collins book, the past and the present overlap and smoothly merge into one another.
Both time lines have great characters.
In AD 61, Brea is a strong young woman. Captured into slavery, she keeps her head down and works hard. But she never forgets her own family and the tribe who she was torn away from.
In the present day, Hanna has just returned from working abroad, when the past comes calling to her, just as it had years before.
I liked Hanna. Despite being somewhat spoked by what is happening to her, she takes on the task of solving the mystery of what connects her to the past with a Scooby-Doo like determination.
#TheDaughterOfTheFens is breathtaking and utterly spellbinding. It’s atmospheric and certainly gave me the shivers a few times.
The amount of historical research that has gone into this book is outstanding. Elena Collins has included so much factual information, and cleverly woven it into the story. By the end of the book, I’d probably learned more than I did in a two year history gcse. It was also far more enjoyable.
#TheDaughterOfTheFens is a powerful read. It’s poignant and thought provoking. it’s harsh and cruel. Yet still so full of love.
Beautifully written with such emotional intelligence and historical knowledge.
Compelling, haunting and simply unforgettable.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to Rachel’s Random Resources, Netgalley and Boldwood Books for a digital arc of this title.
October 4, 2023
I love escaping back into the past with a clever timeslip novel which gives the best of both worlds. The Daughter of the Fens takes us right back to Roman Britannia in AD 60 and the challenges between the Romans and the Iceni and then moves us forward into present day Norfolk.
Hannah’s life is at a crossroads, returning to her childhood home in Norfolk, Hanna is once again, troubled by disturbing dreams which she has had since a teenager. The dreams bring back memories of a time long ago and there is a definite link to a mysterious figure who appears to be seeking Hanna’s help. Cleverly combining the past with the present an intricate timeslip mystery starts to evolve. Beautifully imagined, the past is just as vivid as the present and I enjoyed following the story of Brea, the Iceni slave, alongside that of Hanna and her family and friends who, in the modern day, have the opportunity to put right the wrongs of the past.
Daughter of the Fens had everything I wanted in a timeslip novel. Historical accuracy, which is so important, was wonderfully recreated and I really felt as though I was experiencing life in AD60 in the Roman town of Camulodunum and sharing time with Brea as she manages her life as an Iceni slave in a Roman world. Moving forward to the present, I was just as intrigued, and enjoyed, getting to know Hanna and her lovely family, alongside being fascinated by Hanna’s strong connection to the past. The eerie appearances were so well imagined that, on more than one occasion, I felt the hairs stand up on the back of my neck. I raced through the story in a couple of sittings and have thoroughly enjoyed my foray into the past whilst hoping for resolution in the present.
I’ve now enjoyed several of this author’s timeslip novels and each one leaves me with a real sense of a good story, well told, with perhaps, Daughter of the Fens, being my favourite timeslip so far.
Hannah’s life is at a crossroads, returning to her childhood home in Norfolk, Hanna is once again, troubled by disturbing dreams which she has had since a teenager. The dreams bring back memories of a time long ago and there is a definite link to a mysterious figure who appears to be seeking Hanna’s help. Cleverly combining the past with the present an intricate timeslip mystery starts to evolve. Beautifully imagined, the past is just as vivid as the present and I enjoyed following the story of Brea, the Iceni slave, alongside that of Hanna and her family and friends who, in the modern day, have the opportunity to put right the wrongs of the past.
Daughter of the Fens had everything I wanted in a timeslip novel. Historical accuracy, which is so important, was wonderfully recreated and I really felt as though I was experiencing life in AD60 in the Roman town of Camulodunum and sharing time with Brea as she manages her life as an Iceni slave in a Roman world. Moving forward to the present, I was just as intrigued, and enjoyed, getting to know Hanna and her lovely family, alongside being fascinated by Hanna’s strong connection to the past. The eerie appearances were so well imagined that, on more than one occasion, I felt the hairs stand up on the back of my neck. I raced through the story in a couple of sittings and have thoroughly enjoyed my foray into the past whilst hoping for resolution in the present.
I’ve now enjoyed several of this author’s timeslip novels and each one leaves me with a real sense of a good story, well told, with perhaps, Daughter of the Fens, being my favourite timeslip so far.
October 5, 2023
Ever since I read her first book, Elena Collins has been an auto-read author for me, and Daughter of the Fens did not disappoint. I love her blend of history, mysticism and contemporary writing. Every story keeps me turning the pages with a combination of easy reading, fabulous research and immersive writing.
Like Elena’s other books, Daughter of the Fens is a duel timeline novel, with a historical story set in Norfolk during the Roman occupation of England, and a modern day narrative in the same location.
Brea is an Iceni slave to a Roman nobleman following the destruction of her village by Roman forces. She is biding her time, waiting for the opportunity to avenge her family. But when her master’s son comes back for an arranged marriage, and he begins to confide in her as an equal, as well as appointing her as personal slave for his bride to be, her loyalties begin to shift.
In the modern day, Hanna has been troubled by vivid dreams that put her deep in the past, ever since falling during a gymnastics tournament. Coming back from China for her mother’s wedding to a local farmer in Norfolk, she finds the dreams escalate and they seem to correspond with ghostly sightings around her new home. When Hanna finds an ancient necklace in a nearby field, the artefact leads her on a journey of discovery that is both personal and historical.
Daughter of the Fens is a love story. It’s a story of losing agency in your own life and of rediscovering who you are through the people around you. It’s a beautiful book full of joy, sadness and a wonderful sense of place. This is a ghost story that isn’t about frights and jump scares. Instead it’s about the past lingering and overlapping with life in modern times. I loved reading Daughter of the Fens and can’t wait for Elena Collins next book!
Like Elena’s other books, Daughter of the Fens is a duel timeline novel, with a historical story set in Norfolk during the Roman occupation of England, and a modern day narrative in the same location.
Brea is an Iceni slave to a Roman nobleman following the destruction of her village by Roman forces. She is biding her time, waiting for the opportunity to avenge her family. But when her master’s son comes back for an arranged marriage, and he begins to confide in her as an equal, as well as appointing her as personal slave for his bride to be, her loyalties begin to shift.
In the modern day, Hanna has been troubled by vivid dreams that put her deep in the past, ever since falling during a gymnastics tournament. Coming back from China for her mother’s wedding to a local farmer in Norfolk, she finds the dreams escalate and they seem to correspond with ghostly sightings around her new home. When Hanna finds an ancient necklace in a nearby field, the artefact leads her on a journey of discovery that is both personal and historical.
Daughter of the Fens is a love story. It’s a story of losing agency in your own life and of rediscovering who you are through the people around you. It’s a beautiful book full of joy, sadness and a wonderful sense of place. This is a ghost story that isn’t about frights and jump scares. Instead it’s about the past lingering and overlapping with life in modern times. I loved reading Daughter of the Fens and can’t wait for Elena Collins next book!
October 1, 2023
I find this genre to be thoroughly engaging as it offers greater depth to the reader, requiring the ability to follow two separate stories. Although those stories are separate, the edges begin to blur as each timeline develops and the past starts to impact the present day.
I absolutely loved the spirit of Brea. Snatched from her home and family at a tender age, she had been forced to fight for her place in the Roman household. Hiding her Iceni spirit and toeing the proverbial line, she had blossomed into a kind and strong individual who was still able to recognise this good in people, even her enemies. Dreaming of freedom and being reunited with her family, she focussed on staying alive.
In the present day, Hanna is conflicted by her childhood memories and dreams as she once again starts to envisage a face from the distant past and remains confused by her connection to the girl in her dreams. Hanna didn’t seem to immediately match Brea’s bravery, but she certainly displayed the strength of character that forced her to examine the fields around her new home.
I was drawn to both characters but felt more invested in Brea’s story. Her struggle against slavery, misogyny, and her desire for freedom and vanquishing her foes created a complicated character. Her confusion and inner conflict captured my imagination and I found myself hoping for her happy ending.
Being swept up in this dual timeline treat once again showed me the depth of the author’s research. Of course, I had heard of the Romans and Boudicca (or Boadicea as she was known when I was at school), but I had only a vague knowledge of the people and their histories. This book brought the past to life and helped me to understand more about this particular part of history.
I absolutely loved the spirit of Brea. Snatched from her home and family at a tender age, she had been forced to fight for her place in the Roman household. Hiding her Iceni spirit and toeing the proverbial line, she had blossomed into a kind and strong individual who was still able to recognise this good in people, even her enemies. Dreaming of freedom and being reunited with her family, she focussed on staying alive.
In the present day, Hanna is conflicted by her childhood memories and dreams as she once again starts to envisage a face from the distant past and remains confused by her connection to the girl in her dreams. Hanna didn’t seem to immediately match Brea’s bravery, but she certainly displayed the strength of character that forced her to examine the fields around her new home.
I was drawn to both characters but felt more invested in Brea’s story. Her struggle against slavery, misogyny, and her desire for freedom and vanquishing her foes created a complicated character. Her confusion and inner conflict captured my imagination and I found myself hoping for her happy ending.
Being swept up in this dual timeline treat once again showed me the depth of the author’s research. Of course, I had heard of the Romans and Boudicca (or Boadicea as she was known when I was at school), but I had only a vague knowledge of the people and their histories. This book brought the past to life and helped me to understand more about this particular part of history.
September 29, 2023
The Daughter Of The Fens by Elena Collins is the most awe inspiring, beautiful timeslip novel that I could not get enough of. I read it in just two sittings, pausing only to sleep.
The action is set in the Fens in present day and also two millennia earlier under Roman occupation. It is an area of mystery where the past and present collide as the veil of time is thin.
This is a beautiful story about a forbidden love that will last a lifetime. A character is searching in the past, and her presence is linked to a soul in the present, through dreams and the landscape.
Alternating chapters reveal the parallels between the characters and the time periods.
Elena Collins brings the landscape of two millennia ago to life as we enter a Roman villa and follow the life of an Iceni servant girl. She is a good soul, loyal and true.
As we follow the servant girl, we see that her Roman mistress is more imprisoned than she is. Roman wives knew their duties. They knew their places. They were not free but had to do the bidding of their fathers and then their husbands.
In present day a character is returning home to her roots after time spent abroad. Her connection to the past is strong. She will not rest until she has answered the call.
All the characters were well drawn, springing to life under the artistic pen of Elena Collins.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Daughter Of The Fens. It was a beautiful tale that I ‘lived’. It’s beauty and love transcended time and space, radiating from the pages of the book and into my heart.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The action is set in the Fens in present day and also two millennia earlier under Roman occupation. It is an area of mystery where the past and present collide as the veil of time is thin.
This is a beautiful story about a forbidden love that will last a lifetime. A character is searching in the past, and her presence is linked to a soul in the present, through dreams and the landscape.
Alternating chapters reveal the parallels between the characters and the time periods.
Elena Collins brings the landscape of two millennia ago to life as we enter a Roman villa and follow the life of an Iceni servant girl. She is a good soul, loyal and true.
As we follow the servant girl, we see that her Roman mistress is more imprisoned than she is. Roman wives knew their duties. They knew their places. They were not free but had to do the bidding of their fathers and then their husbands.
In present day a character is returning home to her roots after time spent abroad. Her connection to the past is strong. She will not rest until she has answered the call.
All the characters were well drawn, springing to life under the artistic pen of Elena Collins.
I thoroughly enjoyed The Daughter Of The Fens. It was a beautiful tale that I ‘lived’. It’s beauty and love transcended time and space, radiating from the pages of the book and into my heart.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Random Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
November 3, 2024
I did enjoy this story, but it felt a bit detached and over-written in places for the first quarter or so. It took a while for the Roman part of the story to start to feel more tangible, and then the setting changed when Cumulodunun was burned. Brea was a strong character, highly loyal to the Iceni, mindful and yet fearless in following her heart. The present-day characters were likable but the story in the present day did not progress to any comparable extent, except with larger events such as the weddings happening concurrently. I expected more to come of this, such as the haunting becoming heightened, but in hindsight, in Brea's story, this was more of a formality. I found Hannah's sense of connection to Brea and Lucas interesting; Brea wanted to communicate how her story ended so that she could find peace, and the feeling of knowing Lucas from the past, although maybe not in the form of reincarnation. The introduction of Cynthia, the psychic-archaeologist, was effective, because she was able to bring a sense of more knowledge and understanding to bear on Hannah's experiences and help the reader maintain an open mind. The story maintained momentum until the ring was found near the end, and there were happy endings all around in the present day.
The story seemed well-researched and I gained insight into life in Roman Britain, the Iceni, and the battles Boudica fought. Perhaps, if I had visited the Fens, I would have more appreciation of the setting which would have enriched my reading experience. Although the story was fairly strong and well-written, there was a certain sense of detachment, which left an overall impression.
The story seemed well-researched and I gained insight into life in Roman Britain, the Iceni, and the battles Boudica fought. Perhaps, if I had visited the Fens, I would have more appreciation of the setting which would have enriched my reading experience. Although the story was fairly strong and well-written, there was a certain sense of detachment, which left an overall impression.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 8, 2023
I have always loved a book that has dual timelines. I had also read Lady of the Loch by this author so I knew that I would enjoy The Daughter of the Fens.
In the first century, the Romans pretty much ruled Britain. Brea is from the Iceni tribe, the Romans had killed King Prasutagus and defiled his wife Boudicea and their daughters. Brea's family was also killed and Brea and her father were taken as slaves and split up. She has not seen her father for many years.
Her duties consist of overseeing Aurelia, who is soon to be the wife of Marcellus, he is developing feelings for Brea instead. But she is determined to find her father with Marcellus's help. A battle ensues and Brea is able to escape She takes Aurelia with her.
Present day we see Hannah, who had just come home from China. As a 13 year old she had an accident while practicing her gymnastics. She hit her head and right after started to have dreams. Dreams where she sees a woman in the mist. As a result, she wants to find out what she can especially as there are some ancient artifacts that are being found on the fens.
Hannah feels that there is a connection between her and the woman she sees. This is very magical but tragic also. It is well written with attention to the detail of past and present.
I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading more by this author. The next book by her is The Witches Tree. If you love a dual timeline kind of story, then this one is for you.
I give this novel 5 stars.
In the first century, the Romans pretty much ruled Britain. Brea is from the Iceni tribe, the Romans had killed King Prasutagus and defiled his wife Boudicea and their daughters. Brea's family was also killed and Brea and her father were taken as slaves and split up. She has not seen her father for many years.
Her duties consist of overseeing Aurelia, who is soon to be the wife of Marcellus, he is developing feelings for Brea instead. But she is determined to find her father with Marcellus's help. A battle ensues and Brea is able to escape She takes Aurelia with her.
Present day we see Hannah, who had just come home from China. As a 13 year old she had an accident while practicing her gymnastics. She hit her head and right after started to have dreams. Dreams where she sees a woman in the mist. As a result, she wants to find out what she can especially as there are some ancient artifacts that are being found on the fens.
Hannah feels that there is a connection between her and the woman she sees. This is very magical but tragic also. It is well written with attention to the detail of past and present.
I really enjoyed it and look forward to reading more by this author. The next book by her is The Witches Tree. If you love a dual timeline kind of story, then this one is for you.
I give this novel 5 stars.
October 7, 2023
What can I say about this wonderful book? I absolutely loved it. It is beautifully written, vividly descriptive, with a cast of characters that I immediately engaged with. It has a dual timeline which I love, and is set in the present day and Roman Britain. The pages abound with ancient history, and the story itself is fascinating. Hanna is the modern-day girl, a gymnast who, after a childhood accident, finds herself being drawn behind the curtains of time and connecting with Brea, a young Iceni slave girl who has been captured by the Romans. In her dreams Hanna sees flashes of Brea’s story being played out before her, and finds herself compelled to discover the truth of what happened all those centuries ago. As her dreams become more real, Hanna realises that her life is entwined with Brea’s, and that the story must be told. Set in the mystical Fens, this is a powerful story of love, loss, brutality, tragedy, death, happiness and hope. I was completely immersed in this book, captivated by the story, and really enjoyed the tension racking up. It’s very atmospheric, making me feel uneasy at times, and the power of love that is portrayed in this fabulous book moved me to tears. I love Marcellus, he’s a wonderful character, and a very worthy hero, in my opinion. I honestly can’t recommend this wonderful book highly enough. This is a book that I will definitely go back to again and again. Superb.
December 6, 2023
When Hanna returns to Norfolk from years working abroad, the strange dreams of her adolescence return: indistinct figures in tunics, mighty soldiers in armour, gladiators, temples, an Iceni warrior woman leading her people. Gradually Hanna’s dreams begin to slip into the present as visions in the famous mists rolling across the fens, and as shocks of recognition when a new face moves to her childhood home.
My first book by this author, it won't be the last. There are few dual time stories I read but this one is on par with Barbara Erskine my favourite author of this genre. Not as scary thank goodness, but so well written and researched I couldn't put it down.
Brea is an Iceni slave in the service of a Roman family in first century Britain, through her eyes we experience the terrible lives of the slaves in this period. We feel her fear, pain and disillusionment.
Hanna feels an intense connection with Brea and has spent many years trying to find the meaning of her feelings and uncertainties. Returning from a teaching post in China, she comes home to Norfolk for her mother's wedding and the surrounding fens bring back dreams she thought were over.
Running between these two worlds is an exciting read, I couldn't wait to find out how the story ends. I am very glad I chose to review the Daughter of the Fens and would highly recommend it to anyone who loves historical fiction at it's very best.
My first book by this author, it won't be the last. There are few dual time stories I read but this one is on par with Barbara Erskine my favourite author of this genre. Not as scary thank goodness, but so well written and researched I couldn't put it down.
Brea is an Iceni slave in the service of a Roman family in first century Britain, through her eyes we experience the terrible lives of the slaves in this period. We feel her fear, pain and disillusionment.
Hanna feels an intense connection with Brea and has spent many years trying to find the meaning of her feelings and uncertainties. Returning from a teaching post in China, she comes home to Norfolk for her mother's wedding and the surrounding fens bring back dreams she thought were over.
Running between these two worlds is an exciting read, I couldn't wait to find out how the story ends. I am very glad I chose to review the Daughter of the Fens and would highly recommend it to anyone who loves historical fiction at it's very best.
October 8, 2023
So far I haven't met one of Elena's books that I haven't loved and this one was no different. I love how she flips from modern day back into the past so easily and there's no clunky feel to it.
I really enjoyed the small glimpses of Brea's life that we each time and that it gradually gives us this fuller picture of her and her life and how it changes.I loved stepping back to that time period, Roman britian is a rich time for Elena to have picked and I'm really pleased she picked the Iceni tribe, it's one of those names that instantly gives you an image in your head when you hear the name.
I could barely put the book down it just kept me hooked the whole time, Elena's brilliant descriptions made me feel like I was stepping into the story and time period, I pretty much read it in a day(housework can wait right?) and I think that's been the case for all of Elena's books I've read.
Hanna's story was interesting and enjoyed seeing how her life flowed and how being connected to Brea kind of helped her find her path in life, it was really good to see her find her passion at the end of the book.
I always knew that I'd love this book and Elena Collins is always an auto-buy author for me so I'm now eagerly looking forward to her next book and where in time it will take me!
I really enjoyed the small glimpses of Brea's life that we each time and that it gradually gives us this fuller picture of her and her life and how it changes.I loved stepping back to that time period, Roman britian is a rich time for Elena to have picked and I'm really pleased she picked the Iceni tribe, it's one of those names that instantly gives you an image in your head when you hear the name.
I could barely put the book down it just kept me hooked the whole time, Elena's brilliant descriptions made me feel like I was stepping into the story and time period, I pretty much read it in a day(housework can wait right?) and I think that's been the case for all of Elena's books I've read.
Hanna's story was interesting and enjoyed seeing how her life flowed and how being connected to Brea kind of helped her find her path in life, it was really good to see her find her passion at the end of the book.
I always knew that I'd love this book and Elena Collins is always an auto-buy author for me so I'm now eagerly looking forward to her next book and where in time it will take me!
October 5, 2023
A teen gymnast, Hanna, takes a nasty fall and hits her head
Then sees events from the past instead.
She's not sure what she's seeing or why
But through dreams and visions events from the past she can spy.
Hanna returns from working abroad to find
The dreams from the past fill her sleeping mind.
The life of Brea start to unfold
As the events from her past through dreams are told.
This dual timeline make this a fascinating read to explore
With insights into the Roman era, the Iceni and more.
Can Hanna discover secrets from the past?
Can Brea find peace at long last?
With links growing stronger between the two era
And folks roles in them becoming clearer
There's dilemmas, romance, discoveries and history
As Hanna searches for clues to this personal mystery.
I really enjoyed this timeslip adventure and romance
Such a different, powerful read, I hope you'll give it a chance.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
Then sees events from the past instead.
She's not sure what she's seeing or why
But through dreams and visions events from the past she can spy.
Hanna returns from working abroad to find
The dreams from the past fill her sleeping mind.
The life of Brea start to unfold
As the events from her past through dreams are told.
This dual timeline make this a fascinating read to explore
With insights into the Roman era, the Iceni and more.
Can Hanna discover secrets from the past?
Can Brea find peace at long last?
With links growing stronger between the two era
And folks roles in them becoming clearer
There's dilemmas, romance, discoveries and history
As Hanna searches for clues to this personal mystery.
I really enjoyed this timeslip adventure and romance
Such a different, powerful read, I hope you'll give it a chance.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
I throughly enjoyed reading it and this is my honest review.
September 17, 2023
Absolutely brilliant new book from Elena Collins!! Set in two timelines of now and in Roman times, in the Anglian area of England.
Brea is from the Iceni tribe in East Anglia who had been forced into being a slave at the age of thirteen when her village had been plundered by the Romans in the first century AD. Hanna had a successful gymnastics career at the age of thirteen when she had an accident that changed her life. As the two women connect over millennia both in search of something, so the magical story weaves into the heart!
The details are astonishing, so interesting!!
This beautifully written and recounted story is full of history, connections, family, loyalty and of course love. Totally fascinating and heart warming, heartbreaking and gripping in so many ways.
I completely loved reading this amazing book and can heartily recommend as a brilliant enjoyable read!!
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the early read, hugely appreciated!!
Brea is from the Iceni tribe in East Anglia who had been forced into being a slave at the age of thirteen when her village had been plundered by the Romans in the first century AD. Hanna had a successful gymnastics career at the age of thirteen when she had an accident that changed her life. As the two women connect over millennia both in search of something, so the magical story weaves into the heart!
The details are astonishing, so interesting!!
This beautifully written and recounted story is full of history, connections, family, loyalty and of course love. Totally fascinating and heart warming, heartbreaking and gripping in so many ways.
I completely loved reading this amazing book and can heartily recommend as a brilliant enjoyable read!!
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the early read, hugely appreciated!!
October 6, 2023
The Daughter of the Fens is an outstanding novel where the past and present meets in such a unique way.
To be honest historical fiction isn’t my favorite genre but I absolutely devoured this one! The characters were admirable, both timeline was incredible and interesting. I felt so connected to the story the entire time, the writing style was beautiful. This whole story was just so perfect, powerful, emotional and inspiring.
Now I’m so sad this unique adventure has come to and end. I need to pick up more books by the author!
This was my first time-slip novel and my first read by the author, but definitely won’t be my last.
I highly recommend reading this wonderful novel to anyone, even though if you don’t like historical fiction you need to give this book a chance! I’m sure you’ll fall in love with it!
Thank you so much @theboldbookclub @rachelsrandomresources and @netgalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
To be honest historical fiction isn’t my favorite genre but I absolutely devoured this one! The characters were admirable, both timeline was incredible and interesting. I felt so connected to the story the entire time, the writing style was beautiful. This whole story was just so perfect, powerful, emotional and inspiring.
Now I’m so sad this unique adventure has come to and end. I need to pick up more books by the author!
This was my first time-slip novel and my first read by the author, but definitely won’t be my last.
I highly recommend reading this wonderful novel to anyone, even though if you don’t like historical fiction you need to give this book a chance! I’m sure you’ll fall in love with it!
Thank you so much @theboldbookclub @rachelsrandomresources and @netgalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
March 1, 2024
Finding Meaning in life
Just the right combination of history and fiction. The Daughter of the Fens, the captivating story set in the bucolic British farmland of what was once the battlefield of a horrific battle between Roman soldiers and one of the original tribes of people they once subjugated. As our Heroine finds herself putting down roots in this same location we are told the parallel tale of a slave girl’s loss and love through Hannah’s dreams. Author Elena Collin’s paints an eerie backdrop of mysterious spirits lurking in the woods and haunting the misty forests and deserted back roads. Through Hannah’s experiences and the support of her family and friends the readers get to participate in a modern day treasure hunt and the revelations their discovery have in Hannah’s own life and those of the people who lived thousands of years I the past. Soon, it’s clear to all, Hannah’s future happiness is secured along with her destiny and her one true love.
Just the right combination of history and fiction. The Daughter of the Fens, the captivating story set in the bucolic British farmland of what was once the battlefield of a horrific battle between Roman soldiers and one of the original tribes of people they once subjugated. As our Heroine finds herself putting down roots in this same location we are told the parallel tale of a slave girl’s loss and love through Hannah’s dreams. Author Elena Collin’s paints an eerie backdrop of mysterious spirits lurking in the woods and haunting the misty forests and deserted back roads. Through Hannah’s experiences and the support of her family and friends the readers get to participate in a modern day treasure hunt and the revelations their discovery have in Hannah’s own life and those of the people who lived thousands of years I the past. Soon, it’s clear to all, Hannah’s future happiness is secured along with her destiny and her one true love.
September 25, 2023
Thankyou NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this eCopy to review
I really enjoyed The Daughter of the Fens, it is like a time-travelling novel but without the time travel. Hanna after bumping her head as a teenager starts to dream of a woman who was a Roman slave and is suddenly able to learn languages very easily. She struggles with her sleep for many years and only gets a respite from them when she works in China. On her return home the dreams start up again and Hanna also sees a ghost.
Many people help her and she is able to find out what happened to the Roman slave, Brea and find all her jewellery.
I liked how we get both Brea's and Hanna's story, whilst Brea has a sad ending Hanna's is ultimately a happy one. The settings, characters and plot are all beautiful described and suitably mystical, it is well paced after a slow start, definitely one worth carrying on with.
I really enjoyed The Daughter of the Fens, it is like a time-travelling novel but without the time travel. Hanna after bumping her head as a teenager starts to dream of a woman who was a Roman slave and is suddenly able to learn languages very easily. She struggles with her sleep for many years and only gets a respite from them when she works in China. On her return home the dreams start up again and Hanna also sees a ghost.
Many people help her and she is able to find out what happened to the Roman slave, Brea and find all her jewellery.
I liked how we get both Brea's and Hanna's story, whilst Brea has a sad ending Hanna's is ultimately a happy one. The settings, characters and plot are all beautiful described and suitably mystical, it is well paced after a slow start, definitely one worth carrying on with.
October 2, 2023
As I knew this book would be, the storyline was fascinating, and full of history, some of the characters were friendly and warm for me very quickly, and I couldn't help but love it all. The Romans I certainly did not!. There's a lot to learn about the war between Iceni and Romans. It's fascinating.
As you'll read the synopsis, I don't have to tell you the story, but know this, Brea is a strong and independent spirit who I came to admire greatly in this story and as time progresses on, you'll be more and more invested!. The dual timeline flows so well that it doesn't hinder your reading of the story at all.
Also, there are gorgeous men who are main characters too!. I might be a little in love!.
I received this free arc book for an honest review.
#Netgalley, #boldwoodbooks, #judyrleigh.
As you'll read the synopsis, I don't have to tell you the story, but know this, Brea is a strong and independent spirit who I came to admire greatly in this story and as time progresses on, you'll be more and more invested!. The dual timeline flows so well that it doesn't hinder your reading of the story at all.
Also, there are gorgeous men who are main characters too!. I might be a little in love!.
I received this free arc book for an honest review.
#Netgalley, #boldwoodbooks, #judyrleigh.
May 21, 2024
I didn't think I was going to like this book and the first five-ish chapters were a bit rough for me to get through, but after that, I was hooked and couldn't put it down. I'm not sure how I feel about the supernatural meets historical fiction, that was the part that had me waffling on it from the start - but the level of detail and thoroughness of history woven in the story is everything I love about the historical fiction genre. I'm currently a bit fixated on this time frame and location and this book definitely scratched that itch. I also appreciated that while the mystery/story was tragic and bittersweet, it was accurate and authentic to what would have happened at the time. I'm so so so glad I stuck this one out and didn't DNF it.
April 2, 2025
Elena is phenomenal at weaving these interlocking dual time slips. I am utterly in awe of how well she connects the dots and weaves a story that has you on the tips of your toes. First let me say I am so glad Hanna was not crazy and her head injury wasn’t just justifying her losing it 😅 Second, Brea deserved better!!
This book was great in incorporating the investigation piece into the story line. I enjoyed them connecting the dots with artifacts and figuring out who she might have been so long ago. It’s also nice that there was a thin line they were walking and an air of mystery the whole journey. Boudicca and that time period is not often written about and that was very refreshing as well.
The relationship between Hanna and the love interest (vague on purpose my book friends 😉) was slow and steady to develop and I loved it! The relationship between Hanna and her mom was sweet and not overly annoying with her trying to figure her life out 😅 I had fun with the little breaks to the main plot with the wedding planning and hen night 😄
On Brea’s end goodness this girl deserved Marcellus and not the death she got 😫 I was so heart broken and even though I saw it coming it still made me so upset. They portrayed her as strong, clever and resilient despite her being a servant AND not subservient 👏🏼! I’m so glad they didn’t make her submissive to her master Marcellus and that it was a mutually respecting and deserving match in the end.
Honestly, I could go on and on about this book 🤩
This book was great in incorporating the investigation piece into the story line. I enjoyed them connecting the dots with artifacts and figuring out who she might have been so long ago. It’s also nice that there was a thin line they were walking and an air of mystery the whole journey. Boudicca and that time period is not often written about and that was very refreshing as well.
The relationship between Hanna and the love interest (vague on purpose my book friends 😉) was slow and steady to develop and I loved it! The relationship between Hanna and her mom was sweet and not overly annoying with her trying to figure her life out 😅 I had fun with the little breaks to the main plot with the wedding planning and hen night 😄
On Brea’s end goodness this girl deserved Marcellus and not the death she got 😫 I was so heart broken and even though I saw it coming it still made me so upset. They portrayed her as strong, clever and resilient despite her being a servant AND not subservient 👏🏼! I’m so glad they didn’t make her submissive to her master Marcellus and that it was a mutually respecting and deserving match in the end.
Honestly, I could go on and on about this book 🤩
May 18, 2024
Excellent bit of escapism.
I enjoyed everything about this book. It reminds me of Barbara Erskine’s stories but I always find her main characters rather weak and feeble. The characters are mostly very likeable and I really liked the main character, especially as she’s a linguist fascinated by history-just like me!!
I found the story of the Iceni woman very interesting, especially as we know next to nothing about that period and their lives, and the overlap between the past and the present is well executed.
It’s a great story that keeps moving along at a good pace.
Excellent escapism.
I enjoyed everything about this book. It reminds me of Barbara Erskine’s stories but I always find her main characters rather weak and feeble. The characters are mostly very likeable and I really liked the main character, especially as she’s a linguist fascinated by history-just like me!!
I found the story of the Iceni woman very interesting, especially as we know next to nothing about that period and their lives, and the overlap between the past and the present is well executed.
It’s a great story that keeps moving along at a good pace.
Excellent escapism.
July 28, 2024
Seamlessly Connected the Past and the Present
Do you believe in reincarnation or souls sharing a connection over a lifetime or more? Hanna isn't sure what she believes. As a young girl she sustained a head injury and began to experience strange dreams of a young girl named Brea enslaved in ancient Rome.
Not only does Hanna see Brea's life, she experiences her emotions as well. It seems that her spirit is unable to rest--that she is in search of something. Can Hanna make the connection and solve Brea's plight, and allow her spirit to finally rest after centuries ... read and see.
Do you believe in reincarnation or souls sharing a connection over a lifetime or more? Hanna isn't sure what she believes. As a young girl she sustained a head injury and began to experience strange dreams of a young girl named Brea enslaved in ancient Rome.
Not only does Hanna see Brea's life, she experiences her emotions as well. It seems that her spirit is unable to rest--that she is in search of something. Can Hanna make the connection and solve Brea's plight, and allow her spirit to finally rest after centuries ... read and see.
September 16, 2023
I love this author and I will probably read any any book with this author’s name!
I was not disappointed by this new book either. I love the combination of the past and the present, as well as that it isn’t about reincarnation. The ideas behind the book are quite esoteric, but not unbelievable and that is what I like a lot. The characters are loveable and their actions are fully acceptable to my mind. I love the historical knowledge I can learn here and I also like the relationships which are shown here (I am not really a fan of romantic novels).
So I can really recommend this book!
I was not disappointed by this new book either. I love the combination of the past and the present, as well as that it isn’t about reincarnation. The ideas behind the book are quite esoteric, but not unbelievable and that is what I like a lot. The characters are loveable and their actions are fully acceptable to my mind. I love the historical knowledge I can learn here and I also like the relationships which are shown here (I am not really a fan of romantic novels).
So I can really recommend this book!
October 7, 2023
A dual timeline story that is interwoven beautifully and the characterisation is magnificent . This one is unique because the timeline seems to be told through dreams. In the past we have Brea from the Iceni tribe who is captured by Romans and in the present is Hanna who has vivid dreams of a young girl. This magical story captured my attention throughout the book. I felt inspired by the strength of the characters and it made me feel giddy. The plot too me feels like a adult version of a children's fairytale and I really enjoyed reading.
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