The Harbinger: A Triquetra Chronicle

by Sarah Heximer

What if your past life helped you discover your future, in the present?

Journey through the past and present as they collide in this dual timeline tale of past lives, present challenges and future potential.

Sophia Aitken is a University professor who has been troubled by the same dream since she was a child. Never having come to a conclusion, and always waking up before she can know how it ends, she forges ahead in present day with her new found professional calling. Encircled by two friends who couldn’t be more different from each other if they tried, they bring peace to each other’s lives in unexpected ways, not knowing how their friendship is one for the ages.

Ann Hughes is a young girl in her prime in 16th century England, with a secret to keep in an otherwise mundane village. Her and her friends are as thick as thieves and help support each other through life’s challenges in this day in age; but they don’t realize a dark future hangs over them that could affect the course of their individual paths forever.

The Harbinger, A Triquetra Chronicle, a dual-timeline historical mystery, is meant to be the first installment in a series focused on learning about the mysticism in life while exploring female friendships and chosen families.

413 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 19, 2025

Reviews

[Lee]

RTC!

[Sarah Ravellen · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Harbinger is described as historical fiction, mystery, and magical realism, though it reads more naturally as romantic fantasy. Set partly in 1563 and partly in the present day, it follows three women whose lives are mysteriously intertwined across time. The idea is engaging, and there is a mystery element running through the narrative, though it remains light and secondary to the romance.

The historical backdrop feels only lightly researched, with dialogue and attitudes that often sound modern. The tone leans toward youthful romantic fantasy, focusing on attraction and idealised love more than period realism or suspense. A villain portrayed with a hooked nose, dark clothes, and acrid smell relies on dated visual clichés, and mature female characters sometimes behave like much younger ones.

Despite these weaknesses, there are flashes of genuine feeling. A later chapter told from a ghost’s point of view offers emotional depth and shows what the author might achieve with a tighter focus and more nuanced characterisation. The final chapters reiterate rather than develop the core idea—that the three women’s lives are linked across centuries—and several threads are left open, suggesting this may be the start of a series.

Readers drawn to gentle romance and mystical themes may find The Harbinger appealing, but those seeking a richly detailed historical mystery may find it less convincing. An imaginative debut with moments of sincerity, even if the execution doesn’t quite match its ambition.
I received a free copy of this book via The Niche Reader.

[Debs Legge · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the concept of the close friendship of three women in two different times, the 16th century and the present day. The influence that a recurring, shared nightmare from the 16th century had in the present day. The book was full of interesting facts and depictions of the way of life for ordinary people in the 16th century. I was especially interested in the herbal remedies which were discussed. It was a cleverly woven story with lots of historical interest and fascinating characters that kept me interested throughout and wanting to know what happened next. I can thoroughly recommend this book to history lovers and I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I received a free copy of this book from Niche Reader.

[Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this light read with its intriguing concept. The two running timelines were really well executed and it didn’t feel at all choppy as chapters switched from the past to the present. The descriptions of 16th century beliefs, potions and the power of magic were quite interesting and draw you in.
This book is not a true historical novel but more historical fantasy with some romance added in and for this reason I felt the book it is aimed at a younger audience.
The novel definitely leads you to want to find out more about how the whole story intertwines. I can imagine a number of sequels following the descendants through the years and look forward to reading the next book in the series.

I received a free copy of this book via The Niche Reader

[Ted · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was a delight to read. The dual timelines are very well done and not clunky like some can be. The multiple points of view give extra insight to the main character stories. I like that the two timelines have different points of interest to keep the reader engaged. The chapters don't end with cliffhangers (which can get tiresome for every chapter), but they maintained that spark of interest that kept me wanting to know what is coming next. I really liked the insight about tarot and beginning a spiritual adventure. I actually read this in four days because I did not want to put it down. I can't wait to see where the series goes in the next book!

[Oluwatimilehin David · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Harbinger pulled me right into its dual-timeline mystery. Sarah Heximer weaves together 16th-century England and modern-day academia with a voice that’s both rich and immersive. Sophia’s recurring dream was such a clever hook, and Ann’s story in the village gave the book a haunting yet heartfelt weight. Female friendship and chosen family are beautifully highlighted, while the underlying mysticism kept me turning pages. A compelling start to what feels like a series with real staying power.

[Megan Collick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sarah Heximer spins a spellbinding tale across multiple POVs and lives. As you read, the parallels between the characters are incredibly well written. The details the author gives paints an excellent picture and It's easy to get immersed in this world. The characters have depth and their stories feel important. It's thought-provoking, insightful, and riveting. Thank you Sarah Heximer and Early Ink Society for the read!

[Barrett Sellers]

Review to follow soon.