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The Tapestry of Time
Love, heroism and the supernatural collide in the midst of war.
'Paranormal elements are expertly woven with real history to create a convincing and exciting tale' Guardian
'A darker take on Raiders of the Lost Ark … a fine piece of work' SFX
There's a tradition in the Sharp family that some possess the Second Sight. But is it superstition, or true psychic power?
Kit Sharp is in Paris, where she is involved in a love affair with the stunning Evelyn Larsen, and working as an archivist, having inherited her historian father's fascination with the Bayeux Tapestry. He believes that parts of the tapestry were made before 1066, and that it was a tool for prediction, not a simple record of events.
The Nazis are also obsessed with the convinced that not only did it predict the Norman Conquest of England, but that it will aid them in their invasion of Britain.
Ivy Sharp has joined the Special Operations Executive – the SOE – a secret unit set up to carry out espionage, sabotage and reconnaissance. Having demonstrated that she has extraordinary powers of perception, she is dropped into Northern France on a special mission.
With the war on a knife edge, the Sharp Sisters face certain death. Can their courage and extrasensory gifts prevent the enemy from using the tapestry to bring about a devastating victory against the Allied Forces?
'Paranormal elements are expertly woven with real history to create a convincing and exciting tale' Guardian
'A darker take on Raiders of the Lost Ark … a fine piece of work' SFX
There's a tradition in the Sharp family that some possess the Second Sight. But is it superstition, or true psychic power?
Kit Sharp is in Paris, where she is involved in a love affair with the stunning Evelyn Larsen, and working as an archivist, having inherited her historian father's fascination with the Bayeux Tapestry. He believes that parts of the tapestry were made before 1066, and that it was a tool for prediction, not a simple record of events.
The Nazis are also obsessed with the convinced that not only did it predict the Norman Conquest of England, but that it will aid them in their invasion of Britain.
Ivy Sharp has joined the Special Operations Executive – the SOE – a secret unit set up to carry out espionage, sabotage and reconnaissance. Having demonstrated that she has extraordinary powers of perception, she is dropped into Northern France on a special mission.
With the war on a knife edge, the Sharp Sisters face certain death. Can their courage and extrasensory gifts prevent the enemy from using the tapestry to bring about a devastating victory against the Allied Forces?
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First published October 29, 2024
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About the author
Kate Heartfield
36 books377 followersKate Heartfield is the author of The Embroidered Book, a Sunday Times bestselling historical fantasy novel published in 2022, which was shortlisted for the Ottawa Book Award. The Valkyrie, published in 2023, is a retelling of Norse and Germanic legends. The Tapestry of Time, published in 2024, is about four clairvoyant sisters fighting the Nazis for control of the Bayeux Tapestry in 1944. Her Alice Payne time travel novellas were published in 2018 and 2019. Her debut novel Armed in Her Fashion (2018) was re-published in a revised edition in 2023 as The Chatelaine. She also writes interactive fiction, including The Road to Canterbury, and The Magician's Workshop, published by Choice of Games. She has published two Assassin's Creed tie-in novels: The Magus Conspiracy and The Resurrection Plot. She has won the Aurora Award for Best Novel three times, and her short fiction has been shortlisted for the World Fantasy, Nebula, Locus, Aurora, Sunburst and Crawford awards, and her journalism for a National Newspaper Award. Her short stories have appeared in Strange Horizons, Lackington's, Podcastle and elsewhere. A former newspaper journalist, Kate lives near Ottawa, Canada.
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April 24, 2024Hi everyone! I just want to link here to the content note for The Tapestry of Time, and say thank you for reading this book.
September 25, 2024
I just finished! I didn’t feel it was a quick read as there was a lot of things happening as each of the Sharp sisters have a story to tell within the novel. It was interesting and informative but it didn’t grab my attention. Perhaps just bad timing for me to fully enjoy it. I love that the author comments that she doesn’t live far from where Camp X once stood. A place revered by the people of Durham Region, glad to have been a part of the war effort. This book was free from NetGalley and this review is given voluntarily.
June 6, 2025
This book was a new venture for me. I read a lot of historical fiction, but I’ve never read one with a paranormal edge to it. I was intrigued because clairvoyance sounded like it would add an interesting element to a World War II story.
The book follows four sisters, Kit, Ivy, Helen, and Rose. They all possess a gift of clairvoyance, which they figure traces back to their father, but hesitate to acknowledge their abilities. They end up in different roles throughout the war. I felt there was more of an emphasis on Kit and Ivy’s storylines, however.
I’m glad I gave this genre a try, but I can’t say it’s for me. Perhaps with a singular narration, I would have felt more immersed in the situation. It felt chaotic with so many storylines, characters, and relationships to track. I think in general, I also prefer more of an emphasis on history. A matter of preference entirely! The writing was beautiful, especially as the characters were being introduced.
A huge thanks to Harper360 for sending me an ARC of the book!
The book follows four sisters, Kit, Ivy, Helen, and Rose. They all possess a gift of clairvoyance, which they figure traces back to their father, but hesitate to acknowledge their abilities. They end up in different roles throughout the war. I felt there was more of an emphasis on Kit and Ivy’s storylines, however.
I’m glad I gave this genre a try, but I can’t say it’s for me. Perhaps with a singular narration, I would have felt more immersed in the situation. It felt chaotic with so many storylines, characters, and relationships to track. I think in general, I also prefer more of an emphasis on history. A matter of preference entirely! The writing was beautiful, especially as the characters were being introduced.
A huge thanks to Harper360 for sending me an ARC of the book!
May 30, 2025
Another fantastic Heartfield book, an extensively researched World War II novel following four gifted sisters with a fascinating tie to the Bayeux Tapestry. There is loads of action, but for me, the well written characters and the grittily realistic backdrop really propelled the story.
December 8, 2024
The Bayeux Tapestry, World War II, four sisters with clairvoyant powers, and the French Resistance. Sounds like a winning combination. And while it mainly delivers the goods, I had a few problems with it.
First, there are four sisters, and the POV flips constantly among them. Some are inevitably showcased (Ivy and Kit in France), others are downplayed (Helen at home and Rose at Bletchley Park). While they all (and their father who is obsessed with the tapestry) have clairvoyant powers, they don't want to admit it to themselves or each other.
That's part of my problem with the book. All of them spend so much time denying what is happening to them, they struggle to create their own normal reality. Denial is not just a river in Egypt, as they say, but through much of this 372 page book we get constant refusal by the sisters to acknowledge what's plainly happening to them. It got wearying to me. I get it already.
I also agreed with the German officer: It's barely conceivable that the British would take one of their few talented clairvoyants and parachute her into France, where the lifespan of an agent was usually measured in days or a few weeks. I know why it was essential to the plot, but I agreed with his logic.
I also thought the savior-of-Paris episode was a bit much. Without spoiling anything, you'll know it when you see it. As if Dietrich von Choltitz wasn't already thinking about how to survive the war while avoiding the inevitable retribution, as all the Nazis probably were thinking towards the end.
Anyhow, your mileage may vary. This hits all the right notes of a story about a tight family of sisters with powers, instrumental in WWII history, with the art of the Louvre and the Bayeux Tapestry at stake. You may love it more than I did.
First, there are four sisters, and the POV flips constantly among them. Some are inevitably showcased (Ivy and Kit in France), others are downplayed (Helen at home and Rose at Bletchley Park). While they all (and their father who is obsessed with the tapestry) have clairvoyant powers, they don't want to admit it to themselves or each other.
That's part of my problem with the book. All of them spend so much time denying what is happening to them, they struggle to create their own normal reality. Denial is not just a river in Egypt, as they say, but through much of this 372 page book we get constant refusal by the sisters to acknowledge what's plainly happening to them. It got wearying to me. I get it already.
I also agreed with the German officer: It's barely conceivable that the British would take one of their few talented clairvoyants and parachute her into France, where the lifespan of an agent was usually measured in days or a few weeks. I know why it was essential to the plot, but I agreed with his logic.
I also thought the savior-of-Paris episode was a bit much. Without spoiling anything, you'll know it when you see it. As if Dietrich von Choltitz wasn't already thinking about how to survive the war while avoiding the inevitable retribution, as all the Nazis probably were thinking towards the end.
Anyhow, your mileage may vary. This hits all the right notes of a story about a tight family of sisters with powers, instrumental in WWII history, with the art of the Louvre and the Bayeux Tapestry at stake. You may love it more than I did.
May 11, 2025
2025 Aurora Awards Nominee
The Tapestry of Time is not the story of the two Sharpe sisters, but all four.
World War II has broken out - Kit, an archivist, did not flee Pairs before it fell; Ivy, a dreamer, fled Paris but has been invited to train as a spy; Rose, the quiet one, codebreaking in Bletchley Park; and Helen, the practical one, working in the Land Army while she awaits her fiancé's return. Each of the women are unapologetic as they present their full selves on the page, social expectations of the day be damned. Together, the four sisters tell the story of World War II from the perspective of the extraordinary ordinary women they are.
Yes, the Sharpe family has the Second Sight - a curse, a blessing, a gift, and a liability - but each of the sisters is an ordinary woman in the battles they face. What distinguishes each of the Sharpe sisters is not the uncanny knowledge they have, but their determination to get through each day making life as difficult as possible for the Nazis. It's been a long time since I've read For Freedom: The Story of a French Spy, but the Tapestry of Time reminds me of the same perseverance of women that built the foundations of our freedom today.
Heartfield continues to tell our collective history from the perspective of the women that made it happen, adding a layer of understanding and courage much needed in these times.
The Tapestry of Time is not the story of the two Sharpe sisters, but all four.
World War II has broken out - Kit, an archivist, did not flee Pairs before it fell; Ivy, a dreamer, fled Paris but has been invited to train as a spy; Rose, the quiet one, codebreaking in Bletchley Park; and Helen, the practical one, working in the Land Army while she awaits her fiancé's return. Each of the women are unapologetic as they present their full selves on the page, social expectations of the day be damned. Together, the four sisters tell the story of World War II from the perspective of the extraordinary ordinary women they are.
Yes, the Sharpe family has the Second Sight - a curse, a blessing, a gift, and a liability - but each of the sisters is an ordinary woman in the battles they face. What distinguishes each of the Sharpe sisters is not the uncanny knowledge they have, but their determination to get through each day making life as difficult as possible for the Nazis. It's been a long time since I've read For Freedom: The Story of a French Spy, but the Tapestry of Time reminds me of the same perseverance of women that built the foundations of our freedom today.
Heartfield continues to tell our collective history from the perspective of the women that made it happen, adding a layer of understanding and courage much needed in these times.
December 21, 2024
Loved it. Great storyline.
December 22, 2024
Too drawn out—the four sisters fighting their second sight
June 6, 2025
This book had an interesting premise but it was so wordy and slow I couldn't finish reading. I thought the characters were lackluster and the magical realism was kind of unbelievable.
July 29, 2025
un-put-downable
Clairvoyant sisters turn the tide of war against the Nazis. Read this in one great gulp. Gripping and beautifully written.
Clairvoyant sisters turn the tide of war against the Nazis. Read this in one great gulp. Gripping and beautifully written.
February 9, 2025
The Tapestry of Time is a historical fantasy, set during WWII.
The story is multi-POV and follows the Sharp sisters, who possess the Second Sight. I absolutely enjoyed how the story explored the concept of using prediction and foresight to aid the War efforts. It was a unique concept and I love that the story discussed the ramifications of how information obtained through the Second Sight needed to be fed to those in charge, without raising alarm bells.
Being a multi-POV story, I felt like each character was given time to flesh out there part of the story arc. We often spent multi chapters within one characters perspective and I didn’t feel like I wasn’t favouring one perspective over the other. The story was well structured.
This was an extremely interesting and enjoyable read.
Thank you to HarperCollins Australia and HarperVoyager Australia for gifting me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story is multi-POV and follows the Sharp sisters, who possess the Second Sight. I absolutely enjoyed how the story explored the concept of using prediction and foresight to aid the War efforts. It was a unique concept and I love that the story discussed the ramifications of how information obtained through the Second Sight needed to be fed to those in charge, without raising alarm bells.
Being a multi-POV story, I felt like each character was given time to flesh out there part of the story arc. We often spent multi chapters within one characters perspective and I didn’t feel like I wasn’t favouring one perspective over the other. The story was well structured.
This was an extremely interesting and enjoyable read.
Thank you to HarperCollins Australia and HarperVoyager Australia for gifting me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2025
Brilliant! One that should be a bestseller.
January 25, 2025
Thank you Netgalley and HarperVoyager for granting me an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, all opinion are my own.
I had some troubles with this book, first things first I believe that the genre used to describe this book - the fantasy one, has been in fact misused, or to be precise, it was incorrectly placed there. More than fantasy, this is undoubtedly a historical book with hints of paranormal. There were no magical elements or even a whiff of fantasy, and had this been tagged under there paranormal genre it would have probably made at times people less confused as in where would have the fantasy come out.
Taking that out Kate Heartfield has woven a sophisticated storyline involving the Bayeux Tapestry, four English sisters fighting each in their own way the nazis during WW2, all with a special gift, all scared or unsure on how to use this second sight of their.
The first sister we meet is Kit, currently staying in occupied Paris, soon followed by Ivy, the only sister who's been seriously trained the second sight, now agent for the SOE and dropped in the middle of France to try and liberate prisoners of the resistance captured by the Germans. Rose and Helen (the other two sisters) barely make an appearance, especially Rose, which by me had soo much more potential in the story and more POVS during her life would have made the book so much better.
The most interesting this in this book was the actual connection between the Tapestry and those who possessed the second sight. How the Teller used it to help the Reicht and how Ivy and Kit both figured out ways to communicate with each other during their imprisonment was the best part of the book. Taking that out the book felt flat, but if I'm not saying the writing of there author is lacking, in someway I believe that if the plot of the tapestry had been ampliated and some secondary character like Grady or Father had more screen time the book would have been more dynamic.
3.2⭐️
I had some troubles with this book, first things first I believe that the genre used to describe this book - the fantasy one, has been in fact misused, or to be precise, it was incorrectly placed there. More than fantasy, this is undoubtedly a historical book with hints of paranormal. There were no magical elements or even a whiff of fantasy, and had this been tagged under there paranormal genre it would have probably made at times people less confused as in where would have the fantasy come out.
Taking that out Kate Heartfield has woven a sophisticated storyline involving the Bayeux Tapestry, four English sisters fighting each in their own way the nazis during WW2, all with a special gift, all scared or unsure on how to use this second sight of their.
The first sister we meet is Kit, currently staying in occupied Paris, soon followed by Ivy, the only sister who's been seriously trained the second sight, now agent for the SOE and dropped in the middle of France to try and liberate prisoners of the resistance captured by the Germans. Rose and Helen (the other two sisters) barely make an appearance, especially Rose, which by me had soo much more potential in the story and more POVS during her life would have made the book so much better.
The most interesting this in this book was the actual connection between the Tapestry and those who possessed the second sight. How the Teller used it to help the Reicht and how Ivy and Kit both figured out ways to communicate with each other during their imprisonment was the best part of the book. Taking that out the book felt flat, but if I'm not saying the writing of there author is lacking, in someway I believe that if the plot of the tapestry had been ampliated and some secondary character like Grady or Father had more screen time the book would have been more dynamic.
3.2⭐️
January 2, 2025
Just finished reading Ottawa author Kate Heartfield's new novel, The Tapestry of Time, aloud to my wife. (It took a few weeks but we both looked forward to it daily.) Set in WW2, the tale focuses on the four Sharp sisters and their emerging skills as clairvoyants. Their rare talent helps them protect the Bayeux Tapestry, a 1,000-year-old relic depicting the Norman Conquest of Britain in 1066. Prominent Nazis believe the tapestry has mystical powers that will help them win the war. There are echoes of Raiders of the Lost Ark as two of the Sharp sisters, Kit and Ivy, face off against a Nazi villain who shares their clairvoyant powers. Kate does a terrific job of recreating life in wartime Britain and occupied France. The story features courage, love, betrayal and characters to care about, including some who grapple with taboos of the times, including lesbianism and unwed pregnancy. It's a gripping read from start to finish. Highly recommended.
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April 27, 2025For those who enjoy historical fiction, they will certainly find much to like within the pages of THE TAPESTRY OF TIME. There have been countless historical fiction works revolving around the Second World War, and there have been a few that have had elements of the supernatural blended in quite nicely. While this is not a horror novel per se, the elements of something unusual, certainly add that heightened dimension to the story.
The book revolves around the Sharp sisters, Ivy, Kit, Rose, and Helen. Ivy and Kit are the ones that seem to be the more predominant throughout the book, with the others Rose and Helen, sort of supporting characters. The sisters have the gift of second sight, the ability to see events that may come to pass. Ivy and Kit are in Paris as the Second World War rages around them, while the remaining two sisters are elsewhere. Kit is an archivist, and has a special man in her life, Evelyn Larsen. Ivy is parachuted into the area, and she promptly goes missing, adding great drama in the search for her.
Their father has a similar aspect of the gift of second sight, and he is obsessed with the Bayeux Tapestry. While the other two sisters are located elsewhere they add color to the story, with worries of their own, including a pregnancy, and the hope that Ivy and Kit will survive their own traumas. The Bayeux Tapestry was created in 1066, and there may be supernatural qualities associated with it, such as the ability to predict future events. Because this item is in such high demand, the Germans also want to find the Tapestry for their own evil gains and benefits.
The chapters are all relate to the characters, and there is danger at many a turn, as the Germans are not about to give up in their quest for the Tapestry, and will not hesitate to eliminate anyone who stands in their way.
The author gives us a strong feel for the Second World War, and what everyone experienced as the war destroyed lives and countries. The adding of the supernatural added just the right touch to an already thrilling story of family and danger, during a most perilous time in the history of the world.
The book revolves around the Sharp sisters, Ivy, Kit, Rose, and Helen. Ivy and Kit are the ones that seem to be the more predominant throughout the book, with the others Rose and Helen, sort of supporting characters. The sisters have the gift of second sight, the ability to see events that may come to pass. Ivy and Kit are in Paris as the Second World War rages around them, while the remaining two sisters are elsewhere. Kit is an archivist, and has a special man in her life, Evelyn Larsen. Ivy is parachuted into the area, and she promptly goes missing, adding great drama in the search for her.
Their father has a similar aspect of the gift of second sight, and he is obsessed with the Bayeux Tapestry. While the other two sisters are located elsewhere they add color to the story, with worries of their own, including a pregnancy, and the hope that Ivy and Kit will survive their own traumas. The Bayeux Tapestry was created in 1066, and there may be supernatural qualities associated with it, such as the ability to predict future events. Because this item is in such high demand, the Germans also want to find the Tapestry for their own evil gains and benefits.
The chapters are all relate to the characters, and there is danger at many a turn, as the Germans are not about to give up in their quest for the Tapestry, and will not hesitate to eliminate anyone who stands in their way.
The author gives us a strong feel for the Second World War, and what everyone experienced as the war destroyed lives and countries. The adding of the supernatural added just the right touch to an already thrilling story of family and danger, during a most perilous time in the history of the world.
October 3, 2024
I received an advanced e-book copy of this book from HarperCollins Canada and NetGalley, all opinions are my own.
This book surprised me! I wasn't completely sure what to expect with this book when I started, but it won me over by the end!
This book centres on the Sharp family, who have a family history of having Second Sight, an ability to see into the future. Each of the sisters in this family, Kit, Ivy, Rose and Helen, have grown up with this family story and with their father's research into the Bayeux Tapestry, which he believes was created by clairvoyants and is a prophecy. As World War II progresses, the sisters all volunteer for the British war effort, and Ivy ends up with the Special Operations Executive (SOE), and ends up going to France on her own mission. Kit, also in France, is working as an archivist and received a ghostly message from Ivy, and she senses her sister is in danger. While this search is happening, the rest of sisters are in England, dealing with their increasing visions in their own way. Throughout their separate visions, it becomes more clear that the tapestry has some effect on their visions.
I enjoyed this book quite a lot, though I did find that it had a bit of a slow start for me. The book jumps around a bit between the sisters, and while their individual stories were deeply engaging, it did slow down the plot a bit for me. Kit and Ivy are very deep characters, with richly developed backstories that are teased out throughout the book, while Rose and Helen are developed a bit less, but I'd love to see another story where these two are featured more. The journey Kit goes through to find Ivy is very engaging, and their story through France has them dodging German soldiers and French spies. Throughout the book, the family ties keep these sisters together, and ends on a very satisfying end.
This book surprised me! I wasn't completely sure what to expect with this book when I started, but it won me over by the end!
This book centres on the Sharp family, who have a family history of having Second Sight, an ability to see into the future. Each of the sisters in this family, Kit, Ivy, Rose and Helen, have grown up with this family story and with their father's research into the Bayeux Tapestry, which he believes was created by clairvoyants and is a prophecy. As World War II progresses, the sisters all volunteer for the British war effort, and Ivy ends up with the Special Operations Executive (SOE), and ends up going to France on her own mission. Kit, also in France, is working as an archivist and received a ghostly message from Ivy, and she senses her sister is in danger. While this search is happening, the rest of sisters are in England, dealing with their increasing visions in their own way. Throughout their separate visions, it becomes more clear that the tapestry has some effect on their visions.
I enjoyed this book quite a lot, though I did find that it had a bit of a slow start for me. The book jumps around a bit between the sisters, and while their individual stories were deeply engaging, it did slow down the plot a bit for me. Kit and Ivy are very deep characters, with richly developed backstories that are teased out throughout the book, while Rose and Helen are developed a bit less, but I'd love to see another story where these two are featured more. The journey Kit goes through to find Ivy is very engaging, and their story through France has them dodging German soldiers and French spies. Throughout the book, the family ties keep these sisters together, and ends on a very satisfying end.
July 21, 2024
The Sharp sisters - Kit, Ivy, Rose and Helen possess the Second Sight - the ability to glimpse past and future events and fragments of other people's lives. They share it with their father, a recluse scholar obsessed with the theory that the Bayeux Tapestry is not a record of historical events but a prophesy.
The sisters' extraordinary powers come to light as WW2 breaks out. Kit, working as an archivist in Paris, sees a ghostly image of Ivy and finds out that she was dropped into France on a special mission and promptly vanished. As Ivy and Kit struggle to survive in the war-torn France, and the rest of the family in England gets plagued by the strange visions and premonitions, it becomes clear that their destiny - and their visions - are connected with the tapestry. Unfortunately, the Nazis are aware of its power and believe it could aid them in the invasion of Britain.
What follows is a very adventurous and immersive war story that occasionally reminded me of Kate Atkinson's books. It is filled with beautiful, incredibly well-researched historical details, fascinating tidbits about WW2, solid, three-dimensional characters and just a touch of the uncanny - enough to pull the story threads together without making them implausible.
I am a fan of Heartfield's writing, so I wasn't surprised by her skilful blending of history and fantasy, but it was a pleasure to see that she can do it equally well in the 18th cenury France and Italy, the 5th century Burgundian kingdom and the WW2 France and England.
A highly immersive story with amazing historical details and assured writing.
Thanks to the author and the publisher for the ARC.
The sisters' extraordinary powers come to light as WW2 breaks out. Kit, working as an archivist in Paris, sees a ghostly image of Ivy and finds out that she was dropped into France on a special mission and promptly vanished. As Ivy and Kit struggle to survive in the war-torn France, and the rest of the family in England gets plagued by the strange visions and premonitions, it becomes clear that their destiny - and their visions - are connected with the tapestry. Unfortunately, the Nazis are aware of its power and believe it could aid them in the invasion of Britain.
What follows is a very adventurous and immersive war story that occasionally reminded me of Kate Atkinson's books. It is filled with beautiful, incredibly well-researched historical details, fascinating tidbits about WW2, solid, three-dimensional characters and just a touch of the uncanny - enough to pull the story threads together without making them implausible.
I am a fan of Heartfield's writing, so I wasn't surprised by her skilful blending of history and fantasy, but it was a pleasure to see that she can do it equally well in the 18th cenury France and Italy, the 5th century Burgundian kingdom and the WW2 France and England.
A highly immersive story with amazing historical details and assured writing.
Thanks to the author and the publisher for the ARC.
April 6, 2025
"The Sharp Sisters and the Bayeux Tapestry" is a thrilling tale that explores the idea of psychic powers and their potential role in history.
The author skillfully weaves together elements of romance, suspense, and mystery to create an engrossing narrative.
The story follows two sisters, Kit and Ivy Sharp, who are both involved in the war effort. Kit is in Paris, caught up in a passionate affair and working as an archivist, while Ivy is a member of the Special Operations Executive (SOE), using her extraordinary powers of perception for espionage. Their shared family tradition of possessing the Second Sight adds an intriguing layer to their characters and the overall plot.
The author does an excellent job of building tension as the story progresses. The Nazis' obsession with the Bayeux Tapestry and their belief that it can predict the outcome of battles adds a chilling element to the story. The stakes are high, and the sisters face grave danger at every turn.
The historical setting is vividly portrayed, and the author's research is evident in the detailed descriptions of the Bayeux Tapestry and its significance. The novel also offers insight into the workings of the SOE, which was a secret organization during World War II. Overall, "The Sharp Sisters and the Bayeux Tapestry" is a captivating read that will keep you guessing until the very end. It's a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a supernatural twist.
The author skillfully weaves together elements of romance, suspense, and mystery to create an engrossing narrative.
The story follows two sisters, Kit and Ivy Sharp, who are both involved in the war effort. Kit is in Paris, caught up in a passionate affair and working as an archivist, while Ivy is a member of the Special Operations Executive (SOE), using her extraordinary powers of perception for espionage. Their shared family tradition of possessing the Second Sight adds an intriguing layer to their characters and the overall plot.
The author does an excellent job of building tension as the story progresses. The Nazis' obsession with the Bayeux Tapestry and their belief that it can predict the outcome of battles adds a chilling element to the story. The stakes are high, and the sisters face grave danger at every turn.
The historical setting is vividly portrayed, and the author's research is evident in the detailed descriptions of the Bayeux Tapestry and its significance. The novel also offers insight into the workings of the SOE, which was a secret organization during World War II. Overall, "The Sharp Sisters and the Bayeux Tapestry" is a captivating read that will keep you guessing until the very end. It's a must-read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction with a supernatural twist.
July 23, 2025
This engaging historical fiction novel set during WWII revolves around four sisters: Kit, Ivy, Rose, and Helen. Their father, a passionate historian, had always been convinced that the Bayeux Tapestry holds prophetic secrets. Unfortunately, the Nazis are equally as captivated by the tapestry...
With elements of magical realism, the story draws readers into the sisters' journeys as they navigate their unique roles in the fight against the Germans. Along the way, we witness their hesitation to embrace their clairvoyant abilities.
While I do enjoy multiple points of view, I’ll admit that keeping track of all four sisters sometimes made my head spin! But honestly, that probably comes from juggling so much else in my life right now that has nothing to do with the book😩.
I was fascinated to learn more about The Bayeux Tapestry - something I'd never even heard of before, and I was certainly impressed with @kateheartfield 's thorough research!
Check out more of my reviews on my blog at www.mamasgottaread.blogspot.com or follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/mamasgottaread!
With elements of magical realism, the story draws readers into the sisters' journeys as they navigate their unique roles in the fight against the Germans. Along the way, we witness their hesitation to embrace their clairvoyant abilities.
While I do enjoy multiple points of view, I’ll admit that keeping track of all four sisters sometimes made my head spin! But honestly, that probably comes from juggling so much else in my life right now that has nothing to do with the book😩.
I was fascinated to learn more about The Bayeux Tapestry - something I'd never even heard of before, and I was certainly impressed with @kateheartfield 's thorough research!
Check out more of my reviews on my blog at www.mamasgottaread.blogspot.com or follow me on Instagram at www.instagram.com/mamasgottaread!
November 9, 2024
Holy moly, this was BEAUTIFULLY written.
Kit and Ivy Sharp are both clairvoyants, though the particulars of their gifts are very different. Together, the sisters must prevent the Nazis from utilizing the Bayeux Tapestry, or Queen Matilda’s Tapestry, which their father has long believed to be a prediction device. Their paths will cross with the frightening Oberführer Teller, who may just have an agenda of his own.
This was right up my alley. As I said, the prose sings—but more importantly, the details are wonderfully vivid, from the women in occupied Paris painting their legs to look like stockings, to the tricolor flags home-made out of dyed sheets. This is literature, folks. You're right there, on the war-torn streets.
You can also tell an enormous amount of research went into this book; even the author’s notes are a joy to read.
The novel is imbued with the same old magic that made The Last Crusade work so well, and comes highly recommended.
Kit and Ivy Sharp are both clairvoyants, though the particulars of their gifts are very different. Together, the sisters must prevent the Nazis from utilizing the Bayeux Tapestry, or Queen Matilda’s Tapestry, which their father has long believed to be a prediction device. Their paths will cross with the frightening Oberführer Teller, who may just have an agenda of his own.
This was right up my alley. As I said, the prose sings—but more importantly, the details are wonderfully vivid, from the women in occupied Paris painting their legs to look like stockings, to the tricolor flags home-made out of dyed sheets. This is literature, folks. You're right there, on the war-torn streets.
You can also tell an enormous amount of research went into this book; even the author’s notes are a joy to read.
The novel is imbued with the same old magic that made The Last Crusade work so well, and comes highly recommended.
June 30, 2025
The Tapestry of Time took me back to my high school modern history WWII studies and the authors highly detailed depiction of daily life in the UK & Paris completely engulfed me in the era. There are a number of highly taboo topics (I.e psychics, clairvoyants working for the government, lesbians (taboo at the time), women’s empowerment, life being cheap and disposable, genocide,etc) which adds depth to the way the author cleverly immerses readers in this period.
I did find it slowish at first, as she developed the story and characters, yet so many twists and revelations in the plot unfolded, I soon could not wait to revisit the mysterious journey of the tapestry again. It did remind me of the Da Vinci Code at one point, which I highly enjoyed. The Tapestry of Time delivers a strong message of the power of stories, humans gathering to connect over story, the Divine, and the strength of human spirit committed to preserving both sacred history and human life. An excellent read.
I did find it slowish at first, as she developed the story and characters, yet so many twists and revelations in the plot unfolded, I soon could not wait to revisit the mysterious journey of the tapestry again. It did remind me of the Da Vinci Code at one point, which I highly enjoyed. The Tapestry of Time delivers a strong message of the power of stories, humans gathering to connect over story, the Divine, and the strength of human spirit committed to preserving both sacred history and human life. An excellent read.
October 16, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins UK for this eCopy to review
The Tapestry of Time is set during World War II and follows the Sharp family, who possess the Second Sight, a supposed psychic ability. Kit, an archivist in Paris, is involved in a love affair and is fascinated by the Bayeux Tapestry, which the Nazis believe holds predictive powers. Ivy is part of the Special Operations Executive, working on espionage and sabotage. The plot weaves together love, heroism, and the supernatural against the backdrop of war.
The characters are intriguing, especially Kit and Ivy. Their personal struggles and the supernatural elements add depth to the story. However, I felt the supernatural elements sometimes felt a bit forced and detracted from the historical aspects of the story.
Overall, it is a good historical novel
The Tapestry of Time is set during World War II and follows the Sharp family, who possess the Second Sight, a supposed psychic ability. Kit, an archivist in Paris, is involved in a love affair and is fascinated by the Bayeux Tapestry, which the Nazis believe holds predictive powers. Ivy is part of the Special Operations Executive, working on espionage and sabotage. The plot weaves together love, heroism, and the supernatural against the backdrop of war.
The characters are intriguing, especially Kit and Ivy. Their personal struggles and the supernatural elements add depth to the story. However, I felt the supernatural elements sometimes felt a bit forced and detracted from the historical aspects of the story.
Overall, it is a good historical novel
February 18, 2025
I do love it when two of my favourite genres collide and create a historical fantasy book! WWII is one of my favourite times in history to explore and I was so excited to be getting another WWII fiction book! This certainly wasn’t a light and quick read, as there was lots happening, multi POV, and paranormal themes! I really enjoyed the development of each of the Sharp sisters, and the paths they took whilst a war was raging. The idea of combining future reading/mind reading and trying to end a way was quite unique and an awesome way to incorporate some fantasy aspects into a historical fiction book. I also loved that it wasn’t too lighthearted, there were some dark themes explored like lying, betrayals, making one’s first kill during war, getting shot and tortured, etc. Overall, I really enjoyed this one, but definitely had to have my thinking cap on!
Thank you Harper Voyager / Harper Collins for sending me a physical copy to read and review!
March 15, 2025
Kate Heartfield once again masterfully blends historical fiction with magical realism in The Tapestry of Time. Set primarily in WWII France and England, the novel follows four sisters, with a particular focus on Kit, an archivist in Paris, and Ivy, who joins the SOE. The narrative revolves around the Bayeux Tapestry - reimagined here as more than just a historical artifact, but a possible tool for prophecy, drawing everyone into its mystery, including the Nazis.
It took me a moment to keep track of the sisters, but once I settled in, the story truly thrummed in the middle, building into a compelling and immersive read. Heartfield’s ability to weave together espionage, history, and the uncanny makes this another standout in her body of work. I continue to love how she crosses genres, creating something both rich and thought-provoking.
It took me a moment to keep track of the sisters, but once I settled in, the story truly thrummed in the middle, building into a compelling and immersive read. Heartfield’s ability to weave together espionage, history, and the uncanny makes this another standout in her body of work. I continue to love how she crosses genres, creating something both rich and thought-provoking.
May 30, 2025
I had a love/hate relationship with this book. First I read as especially excited to read this book as the Bayeux Tapestry was part of the story and having seen this marvelous tapestry, this book really had extra appeal for me. While mentioned in the book, it’s a marginal reference and really could have been excluded from the story. I found this disappointing. The Sharpe sisters ability to see past and present events was the most intriguing part of the story as well as the events to elude the Nazis, the capture and escape of Kit and Ivy, and the betrayal (which you will have to read the book to find out). I think the author tried to include too much making the story bog down from time to time. However, I do give the author high marks for her writing. Thank you to Book Browse for connecting me to Harper Collins for this ARC.
July 31, 2025
The Tapestry of Time is historical fiction set in Paris during WWII. It's a story that mixes war, art, mystery, family, and a little bit of magic. It's inspired by the Bayeux Tapestry, a real tapestry that was hidden during the war so that it would not be stolen by the Nazis.
It has 4 POV. The Sharp Sisters who have a slight gift of clairvoyance, a thing they share with the Tapestry, which is said to be able to give prophecies.
The sisters use their gift to work as spies and in the resistance. It's a different premise from other books set in the same era. It is interesting, It's a bit slow, which keeps the mystery alive and draws you into the story. I also love the description of Paris and the museums. The sisters are smart and brave.There is tension and a unique blend of the paranormal, art, and war.
It has 4 POV. The Sharp Sisters who have a slight gift of clairvoyance, a thing they share with the Tapestry, which is said to be able to give prophecies.
The sisters use their gift to work as spies and in the resistance. It's a different premise from other books set in the same era. It is interesting, It's a bit slow, which keeps the mystery alive and draws you into the story. I also love the description of Paris and the museums. The sisters are smart and brave.There is tension and a unique blend of the paranormal, art, and war.
October 24, 2025
The first half of the book dragged a bit for me as the author spent (IMO) too much time trying and not really succeeding to flesh out and differentiate the characters. I say "not really succeeding," because I had to keep referring to my notes to differentiate Rose from Ivy. But that changes dramatically as the action picks up in the second half of this book. Yes, it requires the reader to suspend belief on the clairvoyance of the main characters. Yes, Rose's story seems so critical early on but is largely overshadowed by Ivy and Kit later. But the story is engaging as the tension amps up. A good, quick read with a fair amount of history and some engaging characters. And now I'm off to find some non-fiction books on the Bayeaux tapestry itself, a masterpiece about which I know only the very basics.
November 18, 2024
The Tapestry of Time is a historical novel set during World War II that follows the Sharp family, who possess a psychic ability. Kit, an archivist in Paris, is involved in a romantic entanglement and is fascinated by the Bayeux Tapestry, which the Nazis believe holds predictive powers. Ivy is a member of the Special Operations Executive, where she engages in espionage and sabotage.
The plot themes of love, heroism, and the supernatural against the backdrop of war.The characters are intriguing, particularly Kit and Ivy. Their personal struggles and the supernatural elements add depth. However, I found that the supernatural elements occasionally felt somewhat forced and detracted from the historical aspects of the story.
Overall, it is a good historical novel.
The plot themes of love, heroism, and the supernatural against the backdrop of war.The characters are intriguing, particularly Kit and Ivy. Their personal struggles and the supernatural elements add depth. However, I found that the supernatural elements occasionally felt somewhat forced and detracted from the historical aspects of the story.
Overall, it is a good historical novel.
January 26, 2025
An enjoyable and solid historical fantasy read.
A WWII epic set in occupied Paris and in the UK the book is focused on the Sharpe sisters, a set of sisters whose father believes they have second sight and how they eventually use that to help the war effort. If you're interested in deep emotions and the complexities of war this isn't really the book for you. What it is is a well told tale of resistance with a little fantasy.
I was able to see Heartfield at a talk pre-reading the book and she mentioned she was loosely inspired by Little Women. This isn't spoilery at all since the inspiration is VERY loose but I thought it's a cute factoid to have and there are some sweet nods to that book here and there.
A WWII epic set in occupied Paris and in the UK the book is focused on the Sharpe sisters, a set of sisters whose father believes they have second sight and how they eventually use that to help the war effort. If you're interested in deep emotions and the complexities of war this isn't really the book for you. What it is is a well told tale of resistance with a little fantasy.
I was able to see Heartfield at a talk pre-reading the book and she mentioned she was loosely inspired by Little Women. This isn't spoilery at all since the inspiration is VERY loose but I thought it's a cute factoid to have and there are some sweet nods to that book here and there.
April 30, 2025
2.75 ⭐ WWII historical fiction is what got me back into reading as an adult and historical fantasy is my favorite genre blend, so I figured this was going to be an easy win. While there are portions of the story that I found interesting, I felt disconnected from the story and characters throughout the book. Based on both the title and the synopsis, I assumed going in that the Bayeux Tapestry was going to be a greater part of the narrative but it really didn't come up as a plot point until 60% into the story; prior to that, we were following two of the four Sharp sisters the majority of the time and the narrative was jumping around so much that I stopped trying to understand what year we were in.
Unfortunately, The Tapestry of Time was a bit of a miss for me.
Unfortunately, The Tapestry of Time was a bit of a miss for me.
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