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She Sings of Old, Unhappy, Far-off Things
Margaret Braithwaite was a rising Regency scholar and an acclaimed author. Thirty years later, she’s a one-book wonder, a fifty-something college professor with the dubious distinction of being an expert on Jane Austen, hidden in the shadow of her famous husband and his Civil War novels. “Too young to retire, and too old to start over,” Margaret feels as dried up and dead as the neglected gardens her husband took such pride in before he became ill.
Wyck Fitzsimmons is the Asheville landscape architect Gavin Braithwaite hires to restore his precious gardens to their former glory. She learned a long time ago that plants and trees are safer and more reliable companions than other people.
Under Wyck’s care, the gardens begin to come back to life, but the flowers aren’t the only thing blossoming. For the first time in decades, Margaret feels the stirrings of love, but those long-buried feelings frighten her more than the prospect of withering away alone in her ivory tower of academia.
Gavin, more observant than most people give him credit for, sees the attraction developing between his wife and his gardener. Using every means at his disposal, he arranges things so that Margaret has no choice but to remain faithful to him, even after death.
Margaret, confused and faced with losing everything that offers her any kind of security, flees to England – to Austen and Wordsworth country – where she tries to forget Wyck and all the feelings she has awakened.
Back in North Carolina, Wyck must come to terms with her own past and somehow find a way to forgive before it’s too late to make amends.
Love, it seems, can take root in even the most barren hearts, if only Margaret and Wyck can find the courage to let it grow.
Wyck Fitzsimmons is the Asheville landscape architect Gavin Braithwaite hires to restore his precious gardens to their former glory. She learned a long time ago that plants and trees are safer and more reliable companions than other people.
Under Wyck’s care, the gardens begin to come back to life, but the flowers aren’t the only thing blossoming. For the first time in decades, Margaret feels the stirrings of love, but those long-buried feelings frighten her more than the prospect of withering away alone in her ivory tower of academia.
Gavin, more observant than most people give him credit for, sees the attraction developing between his wife and his gardener. Using every means at his disposal, he arranges things so that Margaret has no choice but to remain faithful to him, even after death.
Margaret, confused and faced with losing everything that offers her any kind of security, flees to England – to Austen and Wordsworth country – where she tries to forget Wyck and all the feelings she has awakened.
Back in North Carolina, Wyck must come to terms with her own past and somehow find a way to forgive before it’s too late to make amends.
Love, it seems, can take root in even the most barren hearts, if only Margaret and Wyck can find the courage to let it grow.
308 pages, Paperback
First published April 22, 2014
66 people are currently reading
555 people want to read
About the author
Caren J. Werlinger
22 books296 followersFrom the author's website: Bestselling author Caren Werlinger published her first award-winning novel, Looking Through Windows, in 2008. Since then, she has published fifteen more novels, winning several more awards. Influenced by a diverse array of authors, including Rumer Godden, J.R.R. Tolkein, Ursula LeGuin, Marion Zimmer Bradley, Willa Cather and the Brontë sisters, Caren writes literary fiction that features the struggles and joys of characters readers can identify with. Her stories cover a wide range of genres: historical fiction, contemporary drama, and fantasy, including the award-winning Dragonmage Saga, a fantasy trilogy set in ancient Ireland. Most recently, she created the magical setting of Little Sister Island (a place she and her readers wish were real) in When the Stars Sang and Face the Wind.
She lives in Virginia with her wife and their canine fur-children.
She lives in Virginia with her wife and their canine fur-children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
March 6, 2017
Charming book, filled with elegant and beautiful writing and multilayered characters (even the dog character is well drawn). Once again a full five stars for an excellent piece of fiction from an excellent storyteller.
December 30, 2014
The first thing I noticed about the book was the title. Coupled with the first paragraph of the book blurb, it turned me off instantly. :) Who wants to read about an old, unhappy (and probably cranky) woman who's "dried up and dead" like her neglected garden? If not for all the people who took time to leave reviews on GR, I'd have missed this little-promoted gem. Turns out the book title is a snippet from a beautiful but plaintive Wordsworth poem. And it isn't about the older character in the book, but the younger one.
This is a May-December romance, that much is obvious but it's not really the main focus of the book. Margaret Braithwaite has lived all her life in the shadow of her illustrious husband and fellow professor. Against his very successful string of serious Civil War tomes, she has produced one "paltry" romance novel, even though she is also a PHD. Margaret is something of a literary equivalent of Mrs. Stephen Hawking, so you can just imagine her predicament. In addition, Mr. Braithwaite is suffering from ill health due to his advanced years. Yep, Margaret is no stranger to May-December romances herself.
Wyck, a thirty-something, self-employed landscaper is hired to work in her husband's extensive garden. But Wyck is no ordinary gardener. Slowly, she and the professor bond over flowers, Jane Austen and Romantic lit. Their blossoming friendship lights up both women. But there is a reason Wyck prefers plants to people--they can't break her heart. Not only is Margaret very married, she is also married to the most esteemed professor in her university.
This is a traditional romance where the arrival of an enigmatic person--young, well-spoken, sexy--and as different as can be, opens up the eyes of a tired and worn soul whose spark had been almost snuffed out by decades of conformity, duty and submission. They are both kindred spirits, viciously wounded but surviving, though not thriving. Nice enough plot, but what makes this book feel special is the author's grasp and understanding of her characters. I love how she depicts their thoughts and their actions--lots of hesitation and second-guessing, the occasional impulsive move. It all feels so natural and realistic. The push-pull of emotions and actions is meticulously drawn, as two people who are unavoidably attracted to one another feel but at the same time, know that it's not possible or right. The author throws up more hurdles than an obstacle course, so it got rather frustrating at one point. :)
There is a subplot about prejudice, violence and the effects it has on people. It might seem a little out of place in a sweet romance novel but I think it added to the overall realism and edginess of this book.
5 stars
This is a May-December romance, that much is obvious but it's not really the main focus of the book. Margaret Braithwaite has lived all her life in the shadow of her illustrious husband and fellow professor. Against his very successful string of serious Civil War tomes, she has produced one "paltry" romance novel, even though she is also a PHD. Margaret is something of a literary equivalent of Mrs. Stephen Hawking, so you can just imagine her predicament. In addition, Mr. Braithwaite is suffering from ill health due to his advanced years. Yep, Margaret is no stranger to May-December romances herself.
Wyck, a thirty-something, self-employed landscaper is hired to work in her husband's extensive garden. But Wyck is no ordinary gardener. Slowly, she and the professor bond over flowers, Jane Austen and Romantic lit. Their blossoming friendship lights up both women. But there is a reason Wyck prefers plants to people--they can't break her heart. Not only is Margaret very married, she is also married to the most esteemed professor in her university.
This is a traditional romance where the arrival of an enigmatic person--young, well-spoken, sexy--and as different as can be, opens up the eyes of a tired and worn soul whose spark had been almost snuffed out by decades of conformity, duty and submission. They are both kindred spirits, viciously wounded but surviving, though not thriving. Nice enough plot, but what makes this book feel special is the author's grasp and understanding of her characters. I love how she depicts their thoughts and their actions--lots of hesitation and second-guessing, the occasional impulsive move. It all feels so natural and realistic. The push-pull of emotions and actions is meticulously drawn, as two people who are unavoidably attracted to one another feel but at the same time, know that it's not possible or right. The author throws up more hurdles than an obstacle course, so it got rather frustrating at one point. :)
There is a subplot about prejudice, violence and the effects it has on people. It might seem a little out of place in a sweet romance novel but I think it added to the overall realism and edginess of this book.
5 stars
October 30, 2015
2.5, rounded to 3 for good writing.
I guess I expected more from this because of all the wonderful reviews.
I thought the story was very long, slow, really boring at times. I didn't like the characters much. One "dried up" 52 year old woman married to a horrible 80 year old insensitive homophobic guy with cancer. How did this happen? What kind of person would make such a decision as to spend their life with this kind of man? This was one really unattractive trait. And one 30 something butch gardener whose personality is hard to peg.
The women hardly know each other before they admit to being in love with one another. The reader hardly knows them either. I can't really understand why they would fall in love with each other.
Then it's chapters after chapters of nothing happening.
I expected a lot more feelings from this story, but I guess the unrealism of certain things happening and the dull protagonists left be cold.
I wouldn't even call this a romance. It really focuses more on Meggie trying to be comfortable with her sexuality. I just didn't feel like reading a coming out story. I did not care for the social aspect of the story either.
I guess I expected more from this because of all the wonderful reviews.
I thought the story was very long, slow, really boring at times. I didn't like the characters much. One "dried up" 52 year old woman married to a horrible 80 year old insensitive homophobic guy with cancer. How did this happen? What kind of person would make such a decision as to spend their life with this kind of man? This was one really unattractive trait. And one 30 something butch gardener whose personality is hard to peg.
The women hardly know each other before they admit to being in love with one another. The reader hardly knows them either. I can't really understand why they would fall in love with each other.
Then it's chapters after chapters of nothing happening.
I expected a lot more feelings from this story, but I guess the unrealism of certain things happening and the dull protagonists left be cold.
I wouldn't even call this a romance. It really focuses more on Meggie trying to be comfortable with her sexuality. I just didn't feel like reading a coming out story. I did not care for the social aspect of the story either.
November 19, 2014
I finished She Sings of Old, Unhappy, Far-off Things a few days ago, but needed some time to think about it. The writing is most definitely lovely and the story compelling. There is a lot going on in the novel and the author's style makes you want to savor every single word. The characters talk to themselves way more than I'm used to in fiction, but don't many of us do that in real life?
She Sings can dig down deep and pull at the reader's heartstrings. Though nothing like this has ever happened in my life, I relate all too well to Wyck when she says: "I don't want this, damn it."
You can find yourself feeling things you never wanted in your heart, things that are better left outside of it. Wyck has a philosophy that speaks to anyone who finds humanity a bit too much sometimes: “Plants and animals – give them enough time and attention and love, and they’ll never let you down." But, telling yourself you won't fall for somebody doesn't actually keep that from happening, would it be that it could.
The distinct differences between Wyck and the woman she grows to adore, Margaret, drive this novel, making it both oddly endearing and exasperating. Margaret, supposedly older and wiser, had me putting down my Kindle a few times to blow off some steam. I get how hard it is for her to give up the life she has known for decades for a love that her own relatives find hard to accept. I do get that. Homophobia hurts most when it comes from family.
But I also understand Wyck's disillusionment with Margaret's reluctance to come out: “When was the last time your life was threatened because you were a lesbian, Margaret? Oh, that’s right. It would never happen to you because you’ll never acknowledge the truth of who you are, right? You’ll lie and deny and get married so no one will know."
It's these heartache and struggles swirling through the story that make it both believable and less sappy when Margaret finally (and genuinely) finds others' attitudes about love bewildering: “What scandal? I’m a fifty-three-year-old widow who fell in love with someone else after my husband died. Where is the scandal in that?”
I will definitely keep this on my Kindle to be reread someday soon. :)
She Sings can dig down deep and pull at the reader's heartstrings. Though nothing like this has ever happened in my life, I relate all too well to Wyck when she says: "I don't want this, damn it."
You can find yourself feeling things you never wanted in your heart, things that are better left outside of it. Wyck has a philosophy that speaks to anyone who finds humanity a bit too much sometimes: “Plants and animals – give them enough time and attention and love, and they’ll never let you down." But, telling yourself you won't fall for somebody doesn't actually keep that from happening, would it be that it could.
The distinct differences between Wyck and the woman she grows to adore, Margaret, drive this novel, making it both oddly endearing and exasperating. Margaret, supposedly older and wiser, had me putting down my Kindle a few times to blow off some steam. I get how hard it is for her to give up the life she has known for decades for a love that her own relatives find hard to accept. I do get that. Homophobia hurts most when it comes from family.
But I also understand Wyck's disillusionment with Margaret's reluctance to come out: “When was the last time your life was threatened because you were a lesbian, Margaret? Oh, that’s right. It would never happen to you because you’ll never acknowledge the truth of who you are, right? You’ll lie and deny and get married so no one will know."
It's these heartache and struggles swirling through the story that make it both believable and less sappy when Margaret finally (and genuinely) finds others' attitudes about love bewildering: “What scandal? I’m a fifty-three-year-old widow who fell in love with someone else after my husband died. Where is the scandal in that?”
I will definitely keep this on my Kindle to be reread someday soon. :)
May 28, 2023
Satisfactory plot? (Check.)
Good writing? (Check.)
Not too many typos? (Check.)
Not a lot of fanfic smirking and quirking? (Check.)
The author's heart is in the right place. It just came across a bit flat. It didn’t have that spark.
As Goodreads reviewer @Megzz put it, shelving it under “why is it rated so high”:
“The women hardly know each other before they admit to being in love with one another. The reader hardly knows them either. I can't really understand why they would fall in love with each other. Then it's chapters after chapters of nothing happening.”
(As an aside, I did appreciate the side plot about the convicted sex offender, and what such men go through after they’ve been convicted and done their time and are trying to reintegrate into society. Well done.)
Good writing? (Check.)
Not too many typos? (Check.)
Not a lot of fanfic smirking and quirking? (Check.)
The author's heart is in the right place. It just came across a bit flat. It didn’t have that spark.
As Goodreads reviewer @Megzz put it, shelving it under “why is it rated so high”:
“The women hardly know each other before they admit to being in love with one another. The reader hardly knows them either. I can't really understand why they would fall in love with each other. Then it's chapters after chapters of nothing happening.”
(As an aside, I did appreciate the side plot about the convicted sex offender, and what such men go through after they’ve been convicted and done their time and are trying to reintegrate into society. Well done.)
April 30, 2022
Touches on serious topics. Beautifully written.
June 28, 2022
Wow. I loved this novel. So much so that I went ahead and ordered it in paperback, too, for my keeper shelf.
Drop by drop it reveals how Margaret Braithwaite has drowned in a stifling heterosexual marriage that not only went against her nature, but eroded her creativity.
Snip by snip follows how landscape architect Wyck Fitzsimmons helps her prune out the deadwood that allows the sunshine back into her life.
Best for me, it does so while concentrating on the unfolding romantic relationship between the two women, so you get what you came for: a lesbian love story.
This novel contains everything I like in a good love story: maturity, insights, complexity, lots of touching emotional moments, and a strong story line.
This is a skilled writer. Five stars, and not one of them grudgingly given.
Now … off to catch up on my sleep.
Drop by drop it reveals how Margaret Braithwaite has drowned in a stifling heterosexual marriage that not only went against her nature, but eroded her creativity.
Snip by snip follows how landscape architect Wyck Fitzsimmons helps her prune out the deadwood that allows the sunshine back into her life.
Best for me, it does so while concentrating on the unfolding romantic relationship between the two women, so you get what you came for: a lesbian love story.
This novel contains everything I like in a good love story: maturity, insights, complexity, lots of touching emotional moments, and a strong story line.
This is a skilled writer. Five stars, and not one of them grudgingly given.
Now … off to catch up on my sleep.
October 29, 2015
This novel was a really pleasant surprise for me. I'm tired of the lesbian novel where the two meet, get together, jump into bed and then mostly stay there.
In Werlinger's novel the two meet but there's so much happening before they even get to bed.
One has a highly interesting job doing gardens and I really loved to sweat there with her carrying stones and digging.
The other one is a teacher of English literature, and I wish they'd talked more about Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters. And I loved the pieces of poetry!
But the thing that runs through the whole story is something, should I say evil? Won't tell you what it is. You have to read it yourself and I promise it's worth every minute.
This was my second Caren J Werlinger novel, but definitely the the last!!!
In Werlinger's novel the two meet but there's so much happening before they even get to bed.
One has a highly interesting job doing gardens and I really loved to sweat there with her carrying stones and digging.
The other one is a teacher of English literature, and I wish they'd talked more about Jane Austen and the Bronte sisters. And I loved the pieces of poetry!
But the thing that runs through the whole story is something, should I say evil? Won't tell you what it is. You have to read it yourself and I promise it's worth every minute.
This was my second Caren J Werlinger novel, but definitely the the last!!!
June 2, 2014
Margaret Braithwaite was an up and coming Regency scholar, as well as a published author. All that changed for her when she married Gavin, a college professor almost thirty years her senior. After her marriage, Margaret’s talents were overshadowed by her famous husband until over the years, they were virtually non existent. As the years go past, Margaret becomes a shadow of her former self, just floating along in Gavin’s wake.
Asheville landscape architect, Wyck Fitzsimmons, is hired by Gavin to restore his neglected gardens to their once pristine condition. Wyck is more at home with plants and animals than with people. They are much safer than women anyway.
Gavin’s gardens are once again blooming due to Wyck’s expertise. The gardens aren’t the only thing to be blooming, Margaret is feeling the bloom of love for the first time in over thirty years. The feelings scare her more than being alone forever after Gavin’s impending death.
Gavin can see the attraction and love between his wife and Wyck sparking. With this knowledge, he takes steps to ensure that Margaret will remain forever tied to him and the university where they both work after his death.
Faced with the choice of love or destitution, Margaret runs away to England to immerse herself in Jane Austen and Wordsworth country, two of her all time favorite writers and to distance herself from her inner turmoil. She has to forget all about love and Wyck. Even though Gavin is dead, she’s still his wife, isn’t she?
Wyck is alone in North Carolina. She has her own demons from the past to overcome. They say lightening never strikes twice in the same place. But it has for her and she’s devastated. How could she have let this happen?
Will Margaret and Wyck look to the love growing within their hearts and find the courage to overcome all odds to be together? Or will a dying, bitter old man and his awful legacy after his death, forever tear them apart?
Another masterpiece from Master Storyteller Caren J Werlinger. Each of her books is so vastly different from the last. I never know what to expect. But the one thing I’ve come to expect and have never been disappointed in is, her writing is consistently good, her stories diverse and they are page turners from start to finish.
There are some authors I’d buy without reading any synopsis or knowing anything about the story. This is one such author. An author I trust will entertain me with a book I can’t put down.
This story is emotionally charged and a page turner from the outset. The fact that the fully developed, multi-faceted main characters are so vastly different on the outside, yet on the inside, not so different, adds fuel to the slow burn throughout, until it’s final combustion at the end.
The story is full of twists and turns all the way through. There is angst and tears followed by laughter and mirth. It’s not all doom and gloom. The path the reader is taken on is one I eagerly followed and was very sorry to see end.
Added in to the turmoil of love, are the feelings Margaret suffers of inadequacy due to the eighteen year age difference between her and Wyck. But, does age matter when you meet your soul mate? After all, it’s only a number.
I’m not going to add in any spoilers, but suffice it to say, that this is a story that will stay with me for a long time. There are people like Margaret and Wyck. People who try so hard to please others that it is at the expense of their own happiness. People who are simply too nice for their own self preservation.This story takes us on the long winding journey down the path to real love and to accept that it is deserved.
Will Margaret choose to leave her comfort zone and give up everything to be with Wyck? Will Wyck even want Margaret after everything that’s happened? Read this book and find out. You won’t be disappointed.
Asheville landscape architect, Wyck Fitzsimmons, is hired by Gavin to restore his neglected gardens to their once pristine condition. Wyck is more at home with plants and animals than with people. They are much safer than women anyway.
Gavin’s gardens are once again blooming due to Wyck’s expertise. The gardens aren’t the only thing to be blooming, Margaret is feeling the bloom of love for the first time in over thirty years. The feelings scare her more than being alone forever after Gavin’s impending death.
Gavin can see the attraction and love between his wife and Wyck sparking. With this knowledge, he takes steps to ensure that Margaret will remain forever tied to him and the university where they both work after his death.
Faced with the choice of love or destitution, Margaret runs away to England to immerse herself in Jane Austen and Wordsworth country, two of her all time favorite writers and to distance herself from her inner turmoil. She has to forget all about love and Wyck. Even though Gavin is dead, she’s still his wife, isn’t she?
Wyck is alone in North Carolina. She has her own demons from the past to overcome. They say lightening never strikes twice in the same place. But it has for her and she’s devastated. How could she have let this happen?
Will Margaret and Wyck look to the love growing within their hearts and find the courage to overcome all odds to be together? Or will a dying, bitter old man and his awful legacy after his death, forever tear them apart?
Another masterpiece from Master Storyteller Caren J Werlinger. Each of her books is so vastly different from the last. I never know what to expect. But the one thing I’ve come to expect and have never been disappointed in is, her writing is consistently good, her stories diverse and they are page turners from start to finish.
There are some authors I’d buy without reading any synopsis or knowing anything about the story. This is one such author. An author I trust will entertain me with a book I can’t put down.
This story is emotionally charged and a page turner from the outset. The fact that the fully developed, multi-faceted main characters are so vastly different on the outside, yet on the inside, not so different, adds fuel to the slow burn throughout, until it’s final combustion at the end.
The story is full of twists and turns all the way through. There is angst and tears followed by laughter and mirth. It’s not all doom and gloom. The path the reader is taken on is one I eagerly followed and was very sorry to see end.
Added in to the turmoil of love, are the feelings Margaret suffers of inadequacy due to the eighteen year age difference between her and Wyck. But, does age matter when you meet your soul mate? After all, it’s only a number.
I’m not going to add in any spoilers, but suffice it to say, that this is a story that will stay with me for a long time. There are people like Margaret and Wyck. People who try so hard to please others that it is at the expense of their own happiness. People who are simply too nice for their own self preservation.This story takes us on the long winding journey down the path to real love and to accept that it is deserved.
Will Margaret choose to leave her comfort zone and give up everything to be with Wyck? Will Wyck even want Margaret after everything that’s happened? Read this book and find out. You won’t be disappointed.
April 16, 2015
This book is a keeper.
January 2, 2018
She Sings of Old, Unhappy, Far-off Things was my first Caren J. Werlinger novel and I was pleasantly surprised. This slow burn May-December romance was exactly what I was in the mood for.
Expect a well written romance with a considerable portion of angst and pining, a few road blocks, moral dilemmas, some very loveable characters and some you really would like to smack upside the head. Don’t expect our heroines to falling into insta-lust together or having extensive explicit sex scenes, because it’s not that kind of story.
Did I have a good time? Yes, I read until deep into the night so that will tell you enough. Do I want to read more from this author? Absolutely! I already added some more titles to my groaning to-read pile.
4.5 stars
Expect a well written romance with a considerable portion of angst and pining, a few road blocks, moral dilemmas, some very loveable characters and some you really would like to smack upside the head. Don’t expect our heroines to falling into insta-lust together or having extensive explicit sex scenes, because it’s not that kind of story.
Did I have a good time? Yes, I read until deep into the night so that will tell you enough. Do I want to read more from this author? Absolutely! I already added some more titles to my groaning to-read pile.
4.5 stars
March 16, 2020
“The music in my heart I bore,
Long after it was heard no more.”
Margaret’s former life, before Wyck, reminded me of someone I know in this realm, whose love for a man many decades her senior was complicated and inhibiting on multiple levels. Now, after the demise of her husband, much like Margaret’s Gavin, she is able to love and live the life that she always desired. In a world where acceptance for all (types of love) is still miles away from accepting, I read novels like these and pondered upon a similar such future for myself: one of toiling, comprising sacrifice before the true, desired reward is had. While the future, for me, reeks of forebodings, I read novels like these and glean hope from the happiness and freedom that persons like Margaret, Wyck, and even Taylor, found in the after all.
Long after it was heard no more.”
Margaret’s former life, before Wyck, reminded me of someone I know in this realm, whose love for a man many decades her senior was complicated and inhibiting on multiple levels. Now, after the demise of her husband, much like Margaret’s Gavin, she is able to love and live the life that she always desired. In a world where acceptance for all (types of love) is still miles away from accepting, I read novels like these and pondered upon a similar such future for myself: one of toiling, comprising sacrifice before the true, desired reward is had. While the future, for me, reeks of forebodings, I read novels like these and glean hope from the happiness and freedom that persons like Margaret, Wyck, and even Taylor, found in the after all.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 13, 2016
Like some other reviewers, I put off reading this book because of the title. This was clearly a mistake - as bad as judging a book by its cover - and I'm glad that I finally took the plunge. And once I got past the title, I was immediately drawn into the story.
Ms. Werlinger is a talented storyteller and this is a great read. I finished it in two days and the only reason it took that long was because I had to sleep and do a few other things.
Now it looks like I've got a wonderful back catalogue of Caren J Werlinger books to delve into and I'm looking forward to that.
Ms. Werlinger is a talented storyteller and this is a great read. I finished it in two days and the only reason it took that long was because I had to sleep and do a few other things.
Now it looks like I've got a wonderful back catalogue of Caren J Werlinger books to delve into and I'm looking forward to that.
June 11, 2015
A book I would never have came across nor read if not for the reviews here, which I am very grateful for since I would have missed out on this little gem of a book. Simply lovely writing that evokes wispy touches of longing, ache and tenderness, all tied up in a sweet May-December romance that made me believe in simple love and happily ever afters. Lovely. :)
June 27, 2015
Margaret and Wyck are secondary characters compared to Mandy. She is a keeper along with this wonderful story of not settling. I have really enjoyed stories written by this author, Caren J. Werlinger. So much depth and interesting characters.
December 29, 2019
Slow-paced, reflective story about love and life choices, often beautifully and compassionately written, with enough tension to keep me reading for the majority of the novel. I started glancing down at the remaining percentage around 80%, so I did lose patience for the ending I knew was coming to actually come.
I was occasionally annoyed at the repeated validation of the one character’s intelligence and therefore value: “she may be a gardener, but she was a Rhodes scholar! She choose to garden!” The author dismantled the very points she was trying to bring up about the harmful restrictions of society and the cruel judgements on love. So that was a bit off-putting.
The author rehashes similar conflicts in different scenarios, with different people in the two main characters’ lives. While successfully creating the believable effect of being immersed in two people’s lives for two years, it doesn’t work well at creating a continuously engaging story.
I was occasionally annoyed at the repeated validation of the one character’s intelligence and therefore value: “she may be a gardener, but she was a Rhodes scholar! She choose to garden!” The author dismantled the very points she was trying to bring up about the harmful restrictions of society and the cruel judgements on love. So that was a bit off-putting.
The author rehashes similar conflicts in different scenarios, with different people in the two main characters’ lives. While successfully creating the believable effect of being immersed in two people’s lives for two years, it doesn’t work well at creating a continuously engaging story.
February 10, 2018
It's a well written book but all the trials and tribulations got a bit old after a while. Also, towards the end I wanted to slap both MCs silly. Margaret because she is such a wimp and Wyck because her sense of self-preservation is that of a lemming. Yes, I know, it's Twue Wove and all but it was kind of painful to watch both of them being yanked around by outside forces - Margaret by just about everything and everyone around her and Wyck by Margaret.
But they got their HEA, even if was really hard won.
But they got their HEA, even if was really hard won.
May 14, 2018
now, i don't read romance novels. the writing style doesn't appeal to me, and i like a little more action. so this is the first i've read!
it was sweet. i got attached to Wyck very quickly. it's a romance novel, so you know everything is going to turn out alright - not really my cup of tea, but it was sure relaxing reading a book where they weren't threatened by death the whole time.
it was sweet. i got attached to Wyck very quickly. it's a romance novel, so you know everything is going to turn out alright - not really my cup of tea, but it was sure relaxing reading a book where they weren't threatened by death the whole time.
October 22, 2018
Ho boy, where do I even begin with this.
I had a massive love/hate relationship with this book for a variety of reasons. I picked it up for I believe under a dollar during some sale and the summary of two ladies falling in love enticed me, plus the reviews looked good. I hated this book initially. It wasn't until the halfway point in the story that I gained interest again, only to have the abrupt, rushed ending tick me off. So let me focus on the bits I did like before I start yelling at clouds.
I really enjoyed Wyck as a character. I related with most of her sentiments and I was more or less rooting for her well-being the entire story. The scene with her in the forest at night was hands down the best part in the whole book. Sadly, I didn't feel like she had much in terms of character development. Sure, after one particular incident in the book, she has some trauma, but once she gets over that, she's back to how she usually is.
I also loved the narrative once Wyck and Margaret were separated by distance. They both were able to focus on themselves and heal, Margaret way more so than Wyck. I had a hard time putting this book down during that part of the story due to how engaging it was. Muriel was also stellar, as was Michaela. Both of them stole the show each time they appeared.
...and that's kind of it in terms of what I enjoyed.
The first half of this story is torture. And not like a good torture that you'd get out of a slow burn romance, but just painful to read. It would be awesome if there could be a LGBTQ+ romance without all the angst and Tragic Backstory tied to one's sexual identity. It makes more sense from Margaret's end, considering she's older and grew up with not that open-minded of a family (though her bad ass mom did come around, so kudos to her), but Wyck's from New England? And in her 30s? And this book isn't that old timeline wise? I had a really hard time believing that as someone who is also from New England, queer, and in their 30s. And I get it. That shit happens, unfortunately and it's awful, but it felt way less about a romance and more about the two of them (ok, again, Margaret more so than Wyck) coming to terms with who they are than being cute and romantic together. I didn't come here for the sap story of why's it is So Hard to like women; I came here for the ladies to smooch and be lovey-dovey together and... yeah, didn't get that. Hell, I was even game for most of the story being about how they can't be together due to Gavin being around, but then he dies halfway through and then... they don't... get together??? Margaret is too damn worried about, oh no, the house, and oh no, my job... and it's like, bitch, just shut up and move in with your cute new girlfriend? Fuck the horrible place you work at that has never appreciated your work? Fuck your even shittier "family" for pulling all that crazy bullshit? WHY IS THIS SO HARD TO COMPREHEND YOU'RE THE ADULTIER ADULT IN THIS SCENARIO WOW.
And Tragic Backstories aside, I just... didn't care for them as a couple. Like I just wanted Wyck to flip off Margaret and go do her own thing, maybe with finding someone else along the way. Wyck deserved better. Like SO MUCH BETTER. Every time they kissed, I was going, "But why?" Even when they banged before Margaret headed out, I was just sighing and rolling my eyes.
Also, WOW, how hard is it to write a LGBTQ+ story without making said queer characters out to be Bad People. Legit, the two gay guys are 1) an absolute asshole (who semi redeems himself, but the transition into that was bumpy at best) who is a shitty friend to Margaret until the plot requires him to come out of nowhere and save her and also is forced out of his job for getting arrested for having sex with a dude in a public bathroom and 2) an actual pedophile who was released from jail and is violently attacked when Dickbag McDickface tips of a local newspaper that he's out and about. Aside from the fact I had zero sympathy for either of them the entire story, it would have been nice, for a change of pace, if the only gay guys in the book weren't painted as such disgusting individuals. Geez, even when Wyck was trying to reason with herself that David couldn't have been that bad because he had a consensual relationship with one of his teenage students just... nope. Tried not to vomit in my mouth. I don't even care if these two characters exist, but at least let another gay guy exist in the story who isn't abhorrent so it comes across less like The Gays Be Evil. Hell, even with Muriel's friend, who had her lady lover die without anyone knowing they were together... like really? REALLY??? And don't even get me started on Gavin's backstory (cool story bro, you're still a homophobic asshole, and fuck you Margaret for trying to convince Wyck otherwise). The shit with Margaret and Wyck is already enough of a dose of woe is me. We really didn't need the bonus round of melodrama.
And it's hard, because I understand a lot of this is sadly still present in the LGBTQ+ community. I understand wanting to capture the raw truth of that. But wow, it does not do this story or others any favors when it ends up painting a picture that makes you wonder if the author even gives a shit about queer individuals.
The only thing worse than that was the writing style. So many people have written reviews stating how lovely the writing was and I can't help but think if I even read the same book as everyone else. Everything felt so stale and stiff and bleh. The pacing is horrible, constantly jumping from place to place without so much as a hint. One chapter could be one month and then it skips to the next season in the following chapter. And half the time I didn't know where the characters were until the next page or so. Everything is going by so fast and I wish the author just SLOWED DOWN and basked in a couple of moments. It felt like there were so many ideas for scenes that needed to be shoved in quickly. The inner monologues were so jarring with how they were implemented. Sometimes thoughts are just italics and makes sense, while other times it's an actual in quotes conversation WHILE ALSO IN THE MIDDLE OF ACTUAL DIALOGUE. Literally every chapter has at least one (1) case of, "*insert snarky thing here*," was what she wanted to say, but didn't. Why... why can't that be in italics. She didn't say it. Stop making it look like she said it.
And the telling... dear freaking lord, the telling.... A vast majority of the time, the descriptions are just telling you what someone sees or does or feels. So few times I'm shown how the rain is washing over a window or how the flowers smell in spring or how the characters just want to scream or whatever. It was boring to read. I didn't feel engaged with the characters or the setting or the anything. It came off like sloppy, lazy writing than anything I could lose myself in.
I started this off as three stars, only to realize halfway through my review that I had way too many issues with this book. I did enjoy it, though only for a portion of the book. Even then, the poor writing made it less enjoyable than I wanted it to be. I guess on the plus side, if it wasn't for the bits I honestly enjoyed, this would have been a one star rating. And even then, I would never recommend this book, especially not to my fellow queer friends.
I had a massive love/hate relationship with this book for a variety of reasons. I picked it up for I believe under a dollar during some sale and the summary of two ladies falling in love enticed me, plus the reviews looked good. I hated this book initially. It wasn't until the halfway point in the story that I gained interest again, only to have the abrupt, rushed ending tick me off. So let me focus on the bits I did like before I start yelling at clouds.
I really enjoyed Wyck as a character. I related with most of her sentiments and I was more or less rooting for her well-being the entire story. The scene with her in the forest at night was hands down the best part in the whole book. Sadly, I didn't feel like she had much in terms of character development. Sure, after one particular incident in the book, she has some trauma, but once she gets over that, she's back to how she usually is.
I also loved the narrative once Wyck and Margaret were separated by distance. They both were able to focus on themselves and heal, Margaret way more so than Wyck. I had a hard time putting this book down during that part of the story due to how engaging it was. Muriel was also stellar, as was Michaela. Both of them stole the show each time they appeared.
...and that's kind of it in terms of what I enjoyed.
The first half of this story is torture. And not like a good torture that you'd get out of a slow burn romance, but just painful to read. It would be awesome if there could be a LGBTQ+ romance without all the angst and Tragic Backstory tied to one's sexual identity. It makes more sense from Margaret's end, considering she's older and grew up with not that open-minded of a family (though her bad ass mom did come around, so kudos to her), but Wyck's from New England? And in her 30s? And this book isn't that old timeline wise? I had a really hard time believing that as someone who is also from New England, queer, and in their 30s. And I get it. That shit happens, unfortunately and it's awful, but it felt way less about a romance and more about the two of them (ok, again, Margaret more so than Wyck) coming to terms with who they are than being cute and romantic together. I didn't come here for the sap story of why's it is So Hard to like women; I came here for the ladies to smooch and be lovey-dovey together and... yeah, didn't get that. Hell, I was even game for most of the story being about how they can't be together due to Gavin being around, but then he dies halfway through and then... they don't... get together??? Margaret is too damn worried about, oh no, the house, and oh no, my job... and it's like, bitch, just shut up and move in with your cute new girlfriend? Fuck the horrible place you work at that has never appreciated your work? Fuck your even shittier "family" for pulling all that crazy bullshit? WHY IS THIS SO HARD TO COMPREHEND YOU'RE THE ADULTIER ADULT IN THIS SCENARIO WOW.
And Tragic Backstories aside, I just... didn't care for them as a couple. Like I just wanted Wyck to flip off Margaret and go do her own thing, maybe with finding someone else along the way. Wyck deserved better. Like SO MUCH BETTER. Every time they kissed, I was going, "But why?" Even when they banged before Margaret headed out, I was just sighing and rolling my eyes.
Also, WOW, how hard is it to write a LGBTQ+ story without making said queer characters out to be Bad People. Legit, the two gay guys are 1) an absolute asshole (who semi redeems himself, but the transition into that was bumpy at best) who is a shitty friend to Margaret until the plot requires him to come out of nowhere and save her and also is forced out of his job for getting arrested for having sex with a dude in a public bathroom and 2) an actual pedophile who was released from jail and is violently attacked when Dickbag McDickface tips of a local newspaper that he's out and about. Aside from the fact I had zero sympathy for either of them the entire story, it would have been nice, for a change of pace, if the only gay guys in the book weren't painted as such disgusting individuals. Geez, even when Wyck was trying to reason with herself that David couldn't have been that bad because he had a consensual relationship with one of his teenage students just... nope. Tried not to vomit in my mouth. I don't even care if these two characters exist, but at least let another gay guy exist in the story who isn't abhorrent so it comes across less like The Gays Be Evil. Hell, even with Muriel's friend, who had her lady lover die without anyone knowing they were together... like really? REALLY??? And don't even get me started on Gavin's backstory (cool story bro, you're still a homophobic asshole, and fuck you Margaret for trying to convince Wyck otherwise). The shit with Margaret and Wyck is already enough of a dose of woe is me. We really didn't need the bonus round of melodrama.
And it's hard, because I understand a lot of this is sadly still present in the LGBTQ+ community. I understand wanting to capture the raw truth of that. But wow, it does not do this story or others any favors when it ends up painting a picture that makes you wonder if the author even gives a shit about queer individuals.
The only thing worse than that was the writing style. So many people have written reviews stating how lovely the writing was and I can't help but think if I even read the same book as everyone else. Everything felt so stale and stiff and bleh. The pacing is horrible, constantly jumping from place to place without so much as a hint. One chapter could be one month and then it skips to the next season in the following chapter. And half the time I didn't know where the characters were until the next page or so. Everything is going by so fast and I wish the author just SLOWED DOWN and basked in a couple of moments. It felt like there were so many ideas for scenes that needed to be shoved in quickly. The inner monologues were so jarring with how they were implemented. Sometimes thoughts are just italics and makes sense, while other times it's an actual in quotes conversation WHILE ALSO IN THE MIDDLE OF ACTUAL DIALOGUE. Literally every chapter has at least one (1) case of, "*insert snarky thing here*," was what she wanted to say, but didn't. Why... why can't that be in italics. She didn't say it. Stop making it look like she said it.
And the telling... dear freaking lord, the telling.... A vast majority of the time, the descriptions are just telling you what someone sees or does or feels. So few times I'm shown how the rain is washing over a window or how the flowers smell in spring or how the characters just want to scream or whatever. It was boring to read. I didn't feel engaged with the characters or the setting or the anything. It came off like sloppy, lazy writing than anything I could lose myself in.
I started this off as three stars, only to realize halfway through my review that I had way too many issues with this book. I did enjoy it, though only for a portion of the book. Even then, the poor writing made it less enjoyable than I wanted it to be. I guess on the plus side, if it wasn't for the bits I honestly enjoyed, this would have been a one star rating. And even then, I would never recommend this book, especially not to my fellow queer friends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 17, 2018
Everybody has a perfect book, and of course, for each of us it is likely to be a different one from someone else's. From the first page of SHE SINGS OF OLD, UNHAPPY, FAR-OFF THINGS, I knew I was going to love this book. I couldn't stop reading and finished one half before I went to sleep and the other half after I woke up the next morning. It was funny at times, touching at times, and a beautiful love story fleshed out with twists and turns, supporting characters who contributed to conflicts, and set in beautiful Asheville, N.C. The story was filled with angst, as needing, wanting, and loving were balanced against, fear, guilt, shame, societal and family pressures. I loved the ending and came away satisfied after investing in this book. Very visual, very sensual, very rewarding. I was reminded of why Caren J. Werlinger is one of my favorite lesbian fiction writers.
February 10, 2017
There were things I loved about this book and things that most definitely bothered me.
Romance isn't my go-to genre, but when I choose to indulge I'm a sucker for a love story with characters so wrapped up in the intensity of their feelings that all practicality is thrust aside. Love shouldn't be cerebral; particularly in works of fiction where the complications can be wrapped up nicely in the final chapter.
Reckless abandon. That's what makes a great love story.
Romance isn't my go-to genre, but when I choose to indulge I'm a sucker for a love story with characters so wrapped up in the intensity of their feelings that all practicality is thrust aside. Love shouldn't be cerebral; particularly in works of fiction where the complications can be wrapped up nicely in the final chapter.
Reckless abandon. That's what makes a great love story.
May 29, 2018
I bought this to read on Kindle when I wanted something escapist - this fitted the bill in that it didn't demand much effort to read but I can't say that it really grabbed me.
As other readers have commented, I got very impatient with Meggy a.ka. Margaret a.k.a Peggy who was willing to be manipulated by her husband, including after his death, his children, her employer and seemingly everyone else too. Good on her mother for her support, but obviously this wasn't there all those years ago when she allowed herself to give up her first woman lover and marry an older domineering academic - and I didn't really understand why she had done this. Trying to pass is all very well, but why the awful Gavin?
And I didn't really understand how and why she fell so quickly for Wyck - when Margaret told the ghastly head of her college that Wyck was a Rhodes Scholar, there was nothing which had set this scenario up beforehand. Wyck was obviously intended to be seen as a highly intelligent and educated woman, but there was no background to make this apparent.
I am very used to reading American novels, particularly lesbian romances, and make allowances for the fact that the authors do not usually seem to know much about every-day life in Britain (I still remember reading one some years ago in which a character was going for an evening meal with friends who just happened to live about fifty miles away, and she was driving back home afterwards - sorry, doesn't usually happen like that here!) In this novel, the cottage Margaret rented when spending a few months in Britain supposedly had no electric light or power, except in the kitchen where there was a fridge and cooker. Well, if there was power for these things, then there is no way that there would not have been lights and power in the rest of the house, and I cannot imagine any way that a cottage without basic amenities would have been available to rent for a longish period to an American academic. Also as the nearest town was around three miles away (nearest shop too?) I could not believe that all her shopping was done by her walking there and back each time - surely she would have rented a car? I assume this part of the book was made to make us aware of Margaret having a complete break from her normal life in a supposed 'romantic hideaway' (without anyone to share it with) but I do wish American authors would find out a bit more about life in Britain before conjuring up an entirely unlikely scenario. Don't they, their editors, friends, publishers know anyone here that they could ask??
In general I'm not a great fan of lesbian romances unless they are like the late great Jane Rule's 'Desert of the Heart' with some real complexity into the relationships, and I've read worse than this, but apart from filling a few hours in a mildly enjoyable way, it was not a great read.
As other readers have commented, I got very impatient with Meggy a.ka. Margaret a.k.a Peggy who was willing to be manipulated by her husband, including after his death, his children, her employer and seemingly everyone else too. Good on her mother for her support, but obviously this wasn't there all those years ago when she allowed herself to give up her first woman lover and marry an older domineering academic - and I didn't really understand why she had done this. Trying to pass is all very well, but why the awful Gavin?
And I didn't really understand how and why she fell so quickly for Wyck - when Margaret told the ghastly head of her college that Wyck was a Rhodes Scholar, there was nothing which had set this scenario up beforehand. Wyck was obviously intended to be seen as a highly intelligent and educated woman, but there was no background to make this apparent.
I am very used to reading American novels, particularly lesbian romances, and make allowances for the fact that the authors do not usually seem to know much about every-day life in Britain (I still remember reading one some years ago in which a character was going for an evening meal with friends who just happened to live about fifty miles away, and she was driving back home afterwards - sorry, doesn't usually happen like that here!) In this novel, the cottage Margaret rented when spending a few months in Britain supposedly had no electric light or power, except in the kitchen where there was a fridge and cooker. Well, if there was power for these things, then there is no way that there would not have been lights and power in the rest of the house, and I cannot imagine any way that a cottage without basic amenities would have been available to rent for a longish period to an American academic. Also as the nearest town was around three miles away (nearest shop too?) I could not believe that all her shopping was done by her walking there and back each time - surely she would have rented a car? I assume this part of the book was made to make us aware of Margaret having a complete break from her normal life in a supposed 'romantic hideaway' (without anyone to share it with) but I do wish American authors would find out a bit more about life in Britain before conjuring up an entirely unlikely scenario. Don't they, their editors, friends, publishers know anyone here that they could ask??
In general I'm not a great fan of lesbian romances unless they are like the late great Jane Rule's 'Desert of the Heart' with some real complexity into the relationships, and I've read worse than this, but apart from filling a few hours in a mildly enjoyable way, it was not a great read.
December 13, 2019
It was.... okay. I took longer than usual to finish this book because I wasn't pulled in enough like other books that I can tune everything out for a couple hours.
There was way too much including the dog Mandy. It was almost as if she was a central character to the storyline, which felt ridiculous. Without inner monologue or dialog of their own, pets don't contribute to the story unless it's a plot device. I just got annoyed with all the descriptions of what the dog was doing and her luxurious silky coat.
I also kind of feel like the story was drawn out. It was hard to place the timeline for the pace, some instances I think months went by, and some was the next day, etc. Some authors put the date/season whatever at the beginning of the chapters, which could've been helpful here.
The main character Margaret/Meggie yearned for a way to get out of her situation, and when an opportunity for another job comes up, she basically ignores it. I don't know why she's holding on to her life with her deceased spouse. There aren't any descriptors about fond memories or anything like that with him, the house or gardens. And she's made fully aware of what would happen if she didn't live in accordance with the school's moral code, so I don't get why she was so keen on bringing Wyck to the events if she wanted to keep the relationship under wraps.
Wyck, I don't get either. She's apparently an in-demand lesbian who clearly presents as butch. The character's name was annoying to me for some reason too. Her personality seems to reflect whatever was needed to drive the plot forward whether it's short tempered, independent, or magnanimously patient. I felt her character could've been developed a lot more.
While it is interesting to get the introspection of characters thoughts, pretty much every conversation had words that were implied but left unsaid. The author used quotes as if it was actual dialogue, but it could've been better served if all the unsaid words were in italics without quotes.
The story says that the two characters are falling for each other, but I didn't "feel" any of that. It seems like they are into each other just due to proximity?
The ending is abrupt. All these things that were so important to Margaret were wrapped up without any clarification or resolution for the reader. It could have been an example for some inner turmoil with Margaret, like walking throughout the house/gardens/whatever and emotionally letting go of it.
I had the Kindle edition. I don't remember why or how I got it, likely there was some 99c Amazon sale. The title is certainly depressing and doesn't seem relevant to the story. If I had seen the cover in a bookstore, I'd assume it was published in 1990 given the design and font choice.
All that said, I was invested enough that I wanted to know how the outcome would occur.
There was way too much including the dog Mandy. It was almost as if she was a central character to the storyline, which felt ridiculous. Without inner monologue or dialog of their own, pets don't contribute to the story unless it's a plot device. I just got annoyed with all the descriptions of what the dog was doing and her luxurious silky coat.
I also kind of feel like the story was drawn out. It was hard to place the timeline for the pace, some instances I think months went by, and some was the next day, etc. Some authors put the date/season whatever at the beginning of the chapters, which could've been helpful here.
The main character Margaret/Meggie yearned for a way to get out of her situation, and when an opportunity for another job comes up, she basically ignores it. I don't know why she's holding on to her life with her deceased spouse. There aren't any descriptors about fond memories or anything like that with him, the house or gardens. And she's made fully aware of what would happen if she didn't live in accordance with the school's moral code, so I don't get why she was so keen on bringing Wyck to the events if she wanted to keep the relationship under wraps.
Wyck, I don't get either. She's apparently an in-demand lesbian who clearly presents as butch. The character's name was annoying to me for some reason too. Her personality seems to reflect whatever was needed to drive the plot forward whether it's short tempered, independent, or magnanimously patient. I felt her character could've been developed a lot more.
While it is interesting to get the introspection of characters thoughts, pretty much every conversation had words that were implied but left unsaid. The author used quotes as if it was actual dialogue, but it could've been better served if all the unsaid words were in italics without quotes.
The story says that the two characters are falling for each other, but I didn't "feel" any of that. It seems like they are into each other just due to proximity?
The ending is abrupt. All these things that were so important to Margaret were wrapped up without any clarification or resolution for the reader. It could have been an example for some inner turmoil with Margaret, like walking throughout the house/gardens/whatever and emotionally letting go of it.
I had the Kindle edition. I don't remember why or how I got it, likely there was some 99c Amazon sale. The title is certainly depressing and doesn't seem relevant to the story. If I had seen the cover in a bookstore, I'd assume it was published in 1990 given the design and font choice.
All that said, I was invested enough that I wanted to know how the outcome would occur.
August 21, 2021
I always expect a worthwhile story and excellent writing from CJW. And I always get them—ALWAYS. And 'She Sings of Old, Unhappy, Far-off Things' lacks neither ♥️ However, it wasn't a light reading. Not my usual age-gap romance. Yet again.
Margaret, one of the main protagonists, left me reeling with frustration, sadness, and anger. I usually get more drawn to the older woman in an age gap romance, but this time, it was the other way around. Color me shocked. Really. Gosh, I wish to say more but spoilers are preventing me to do so...🤧 And nope, there was no infidelity involved, if that's what you're thinking.
But I think that is one of CJW's specialty—creating characters that will leave you an indelible mark, whether it's a pleasant one or not.
Nevertheless, I still highly recommend this especially to readers who love more than a dash of angst and a break from the usual romantic fluff.
Margaret, one of the main protagonists, left me reeling with frustration, sadness, and anger. I usually get more drawn to the older woman in an age gap romance, but this time, it was the other way around. Color me shocked. Really. Gosh, I wish to say more but spoilers are preventing me to do so...🤧 And nope, there was no infidelity involved, if that's what you're thinking.
But I think that is one of CJW's specialty—creating characters that will leave you an indelible mark, whether it's a pleasant one or not.
Nevertheless, I still highly recommend this especially to readers who love more than a dash of angst and a break from the usual romantic fluff.
January 7, 2022
She Sings of Old, Unhappy, Far-off Things — Caren J. Werlinger (34 chapters) Jan 4-6, 2022
Margaret Braithwaite is caring for her older, aging beloved academic husband, Gavin, when he hires a landscape architect to care for his garden. Wyck Fitzsimmons is nothing that either expected, and Margaret finds herself waking to feelings she thought were long gone. As her husband hangs on, he starts to notice the connection between the two and hatches a plan to pull her back in.
I have read several books by this author and even though I will rate this one nearly as high as the others, I felt it dragged along and I wasn’t as engaged in the story and characters until almost the very end.
Still, an overall good story with a nod to Jane Austin and writers of the generation. If you like that era and that book, I am certain you will like this one too.
Three stars.
Margaret Braithwaite is caring for her older, aging beloved academic husband, Gavin, when he hires a landscape architect to care for his garden. Wyck Fitzsimmons is nothing that either expected, and Margaret finds herself waking to feelings she thought were long gone. As her husband hangs on, he starts to notice the connection between the two and hatches a plan to pull her back in.
I have read several books by this author and even though I will rate this one nearly as high as the others, I felt it dragged along and I wasn’t as engaged in the story and characters until almost the very end.
Still, an overall good story with a nod to Jane Austin and writers of the generation. If you like that era and that book, I am certain you will like this one too.
Three stars.
March 4, 2018
I feel as if I am currently suffering a book hangover, I've finished the book and yet I am not quite ready to leave it. I'm still thinking about these characters whose journey of self discovery and love had me turning the pages quite late into the night. I cared for the characters, although at some points I wanted to give Margret a bit of a shake toward the end! I am a fan of Caren J. Werlinger's writing style, she never seems to hide away from difficult topics. As expected, this book was no different but these topics were treated delicately.
I would happily recommend this book to other readers.
I would happily recommend this book to other readers.
July 23, 2020
I'm sure there are people who will enjoy this but I'm not one of them. I was bored about 50% of the way through and had to fight to get through the rest before giving up at 90%
The writing is fine, I like some of the characters and find them all believable.
The main 2 points of view are Margaret and Wyck. Wyck is awesome, competent, intelligent, and she knows her own worth. Margaret is spineless and selfish and barely seems able to consider other points of view.
Margaret has just enough potential for me to have skimmed through to see if she grows a spine or not. But by the time she once again told Wyck to give her more time and understanding I just..couldn't. I've reached a point where the only acceptable outcome is for Wyck to tell her to piss off.
The writing is fine, I like some of the characters and find them all believable.
The main 2 points of view are Margaret and Wyck. Wyck is awesome, competent, intelligent, and she knows her own worth. Margaret is spineless and selfish and barely seems able to consider other points of view.
Margaret has just enough potential for me to have skimmed through to see if she grows a spine or not. But by the time she once again told Wyck to give her more time and understanding I just..couldn't. I've reached a point where the only acceptable outcome is for Wyck to tell her to piss off.
November 6, 2017
Could have been better.
How? Get rid of Margaret. Never have I read a book with such a completely self absorbed, selfish, self important, character. There was not one likable thing about this arrogant, unfeeling, woman. The end is no redemption for her. What she deserved was to be alone with her Jane Austen books and the memories of what a true coward she has been all her life. A real shame she didn't get that. Ruined the entire book for me. If the writer were not so good it would have been even worse. Only in her hands is it worth a read.
How? Get rid of Margaret. Never have I read a book with such a completely self absorbed, selfish, self important, character. There was not one likable thing about this arrogant, unfeeling, woman. The end is no redemption for her. What she deserved was to be alone with her Jane Austen books and the memories of what a true coward she has been all her life. A real shame she didn't get that. Ruined the entire book for me. If the writer were not so good it would have been even worse. Only in her hands is it worth a read.
July 29, 2017
Nice story
There were a lot of things that wanted or needed to be said that weren't. Margaret was so stifled by her life with her older husband that she had lost her sense of self. Wyck was so independent that it seemed almost impossible that she could allow someone into her life. The story seemed to take place in two worlds. One where everyone was involved in or at least open to a same sex relationship, and a very laced up conservative world where "those people" didn't deserve acknowledgement.
There were a lot of things that wanted or needed to be said that weren't. Margaret was so stifled by her life with her older husband that she had lost her sense of self. Wyck was so independent that it seemed almost impossible that she could allow someone into her life. The story seemed to take place in two worlds. One where everyone was involved in or at least open to a same sex relationship, and a very laced up conservative world where "those people" didn't deserve acknowledgement.
March 6, 2021
This read was a really nice surprise and a bit of a roller coaster.
Inspiring to be true to your heart and pretty much shows that sometimes the best thing to do is to let go of everything, ‘cause everything’s suffocating and preventing you from being who you truly are and want to be.
Excellent writing and characters (dog included).
“We can try to create a perfect world as has no troubles, but what joy is there in that? The happiness comes when it all works together, the good and the not so good, the waitin’ to see what will come.”
Inspiring to be true to your heart and pretty much shows that sometimes the best thing to do is to let go of everything, ‘cause everything’s suffocating and preventing you from being who you truly are and want to be.
Excellent writing and characters (dog included).
“We can try to create a perfect world as has no troubles, but what joy is there in that? The happiness comes when it all works together, the good and the not so good, the waitin’ to see what will come.”
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