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In the Light of What We See
Brighton, 1938: Grace Kemp is pushed away by the family she has shamed. Rejected and afraid, she begins a new life as a nurse. But danger stalks the hospital too, and she’ll need to be on her guard to avoid falling into familiar traps. And then there are the things she sees…Strange portents that have a way of becoming real.
Eighty years later, Mina Morgan is brought to the same hospital after a near-fatal car crash. She is in terrible pain but recalls nothing. She’s not even sure whom to trust. Mina too sees things that others cannot, but now, in hospital, her visions are clearer than ever…
Two women, separated by decades, are drawn together by a shared space and a common need to salvage their lives.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2016
533 people are currently reading
1918 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Painter
54 books893 followersSarah Painter is the author of the bestselling magical novel, The Language of Spells, and its follow-up, The Secrets of Ghosts.
She has written 'book club' fiction with atmospheric settings and historical elements (In The Light of What We See and Beneath The Water), and a 'wonderfully dark and twisty' supernatural thriller, The Lost Girls.
Sarah's latest venture is an exciting new urban fantasy series, Crow Investigations. Yes, she finds it hard to stick to one genre!
Before writing books, Sarah Painter worked as a freelance magazine journalist, blogger and editor, combining this 'career' with amateur child-wrangling (AKA motherhood).
Sarah lives in rural Scotland with her husband and children. She drinks too much tea, loves the work of Joss Whedon, and is the proud owner of a writing shed.
She has written 'book club' fiction with atmospheric settings and historical elements (In The Light of What We See and Beneath The Water), and a 'wonderfully dark and twisty' supernatural thriller, The Lost Girls.
Sarah's latest venture is an exciting new urban fantasy series, Crow Investigations. Yes, she finds it hard to stick to one genre!
Before writing books, Sarah Painter worked as a freelance magazine journalist, blogger and editor, combining this 'career' with amateur child-wrangling (AKA motherhood).
Sarah lives in rural Scotland with her husband and children. She drinks too much tea, loves the work of Joss Whedon, and is the proud owner of a writing shed.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 209 reviews
March 3, 2016
This is a read set in the Royal Sussex Hospital in Brighton and is the story of two different women, set 80 years apart. In 1938, Grace enters the hospital as a student nurse and in the present day Mina is recovering from a serious car accident. It soon becomes apparent that the two women have an awful lot in common, not least the fact that they are both estranged from their families. There are so many more coincidences that just pop out at you during the read, but to mention any of them would really spoil it for someone else. Although I will say that both women are in danger and neither of them know it.
It is a very difficult book to pigeonhole. It is part psychological chiller and I loved the way the author built the tension, especially in the case of Mina. I almost felt like shouting at her at times to warn her because I could see where the danger was coming from. There is a huge dose of the supernatural in here which is very cleverly done and ties both stories together. I did find that Grace’s story sometimes read like a friendship saga type book, especially as we learned about the daily grind of a group of student nurses, considered to be the lowest of the low in the nursing hierarchy. Take all these elements, together with a dash of romance and it may seem to be a bit of a mish-mash of a read when you hear about it, but all these parts really do work together well and the end result is an extremely entertaining cleverly plotted story. I have already mentioned the coincidences between Grace and Mina and I really loved how these were woven into the story.
It is a book that I made extra time to read and when I got to the end I breathed a large sigh of satisfaction and I was especially pleased with how the author rounded off Grace’s story. I loved the final “Grace” chapter.
It is a very difficult book to pigeonhole. It is part psychological chiller and I loved the way the author built the tension, especially in the case of Mina. I almost felt like shouting at her at times to warn her because I could see where the danger was coming from. There is a huge dose of the supernatural in here which is very cleverly done and ties both stories together. I did find that Grace’s story sometimes read like a friendship saga type book, especially as we learned about the daily grind of a group of student nurses, considered to be the lowest of the low in the nursing hierarchy. Take all these elements, together with a dash of romance and it may seem to be a bit of a mish-mash of a read when you hear about it, but all these parts really do work together well and the end result is an extremely entertaining cleverly plotted story. I have already mentioned the coincidences between Grace and Mina and I really loved how these were woven into the story.
It is a book that I made extra time to read and when I got to the end I breathed a large sigh of satisfaction and I was especially pleased with how the author rounded off Grace’s story. I loved the final “Grace” chapter.
September 16, 2017
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
This book was a little disappointing to me. In my opinion, this book would have been better as 2 separate books, one for Mina and one for Grace. I kept waiting for the connection between the 2 women and why Grace would reach out to Mina, but unless I missed something, there wasn't any connection. It was 2 stories that happened to happen in the same hospital.
I did enjoy both of the women's stories and I was interested in what happened to each of them, but the fact that their stories did not intersect in any way just left me feeling like "that's it?" by the end.
This book was a little disappointing to me. In my opinion, this book would have been better as 2 separate books, one for Mina and one for Grace. I kept waiting for the connection between the 2 women and why Grace would reach out to Mina, but unless I missed something, there wasn't any connection. It was 2 stories that happened to happen in the same hospital.
I did enjoy both of the women's stories and I was interested in what happened to each of them, but the fact that their stories did not intersect in any way just left me feeling like "that's it?" by the end.
August 1, 2023
Not a bad read 🤔
Happy Reading 📙📚📘📒📓📓📘📔📗📚📙📚📓📗📖📕📙📚📓📒📘📒📓📗📘📒📚📙📖
Happy Reading 📙📚📘📒📓📓📘📔📗📚📙📚📓📗📖📕📙📚📓📒📘📒📓📗📘📒📚📙📖
January 7, 2020
In the Light of What We See by Sarah Painter, was a spell-binding read, at least for me. Told through the perspectives of two women, Mina and Grace, who are separated by decades, yet share a strange special connection.
"Brighton, 1938: Grace Kemp is pushed away by the family she has shamed. Rejected and afraid, she begins a new life as a nurse. But danger stalks the hospital too, and she’ll need to be on her guard to avoid falling into familiar traps. And then there are the things she sees…Strange portents that have a way of becoming real.
Eighty years later, Mina Morgan is brought to the same hospital after a near-fatal car crash. She is in terrible pain but recalls nothing. She’s not even sure whom to trust. Mina too sees things that others cannot, but now, in hospital, her visions are clearer than ever…Two women, separated by decades, are drawn together by a shared space and a common need to salvage their lives." -Book Blurb
The story was amazingly written, and I fell in love with the authors style. It was completely captivating and filled with beautiful prose. I was hooked from the first page. I really enjoyed this book, the story, the backstory, the characters, the language, the flow, everything really. I loved both Grace and Mina. I cared for Evie, Parveen, Geraint, Barnes and even Pat. They all felt so alive.
My only complaint was the lack of answers and closure in a few areas. There were a few crucial things that were left to the imagination. I felt the connection between Grace and Mina to be too vague by the ending. I would have liked a little more understanding and detail on the topic, as I felt it was important. Also, I never fully understood, beyond the obvious, what truly happened with Geraint. I would have liked more details.
These few complaints did not alter my overall positive impression of the novel, however. I am a new fan of this author after this venture and will probably read more by her in the future. While In the Light of What We See was painful to read at times, it was an unforgettable read. I’m so glad to have given this book an honest chance.
I can’t say I have many high praises for the cover, however. It doesn’t really suit the tone of the novel.
[OFFICIAL RATING: 5 STARS]
"Brighton, 1938: Grace Kemp is pushed away by the family she has shamed. Rejected and afraid, she begins a new life as a nurse. But danger stalks the hospital too, and she’ll need to be on her guard to avoid falling into familiar traps. And then there are the things she sees…Strange portents that have a way of becoming real.
Eighty years later, Mina Morgan is brought to the same hospital after a near-fatal car crash. She is in terrible pain but recalls nothing. She’s not even sure whom to trust. Mina too sees things that others cannot, but now, in hospital, her visions are clearer than ever…Two women, separated by decades, are drawn together by a shared space and a common need to salvage their lives." -Book Blurb
The story was amazingly written, and I fell in love with the authors style. It was completely captivating and filled with beautiful prose. I was hooked from the first page. I really enjoyed this book, the story, the backstory, the characters, the language, the flow, everything really. I loved both Grace and Mina. I cared for Evie, Parveen, Geraint, Barnes and even Pat. They all felt so alive.
My only complaint was the lack of answers and closure in a few areas. There were a few crucial things that were left to the imagination. I felt the connection between Grace and Mina to be too vague by the ending. I would have liked a little more understanding and detail on the topic, as I felt it was important. Also, I never fully understood, beyond the obvious, what truly happened with Geraint. I would have liked more details.
These few complaints did not alter my overall positive impression of the novel, however. I am a new fan of this author after this venture and will probably read more by her in the future. While In the Light of What We See was painful to read at times, it was an unforgettable read. I’m so glad to have given this book an honest chance.
I can’t say I have many high praises for the cover, however. It doesn’t really suit the tone of the novel.
[OFFICIAL RATING: 5 STARS]
April 27, 2018
This was a really quite strange story told by two different women, one in the present day and another in the late thirties. I enjoyed the historical aspect of the story much more than the modern one. The book stalled several times for me and I didn’t enjoy it as much as I had anticipated. That being said, if the entire book had followed Grace and her story as a trainee nurse I would have probably given this a higher rating.
The author has plentiful ideas but struggles to connect the dots between her leading ladies. At times it felt as if I was reading two separate books entirely. I’m not sure I could truthfully recommend this book to fiction fans but I do acknowledge this peculiar style of writing might be just what some people are looking for.
The author has plentiful ideas but struggles to connect the dots between her leading ladies. At times it felt as if I was reading two separate books entirely. I’m not sure I could truthfully recommend this book to fiction fans but I do acknowledge this peculiar style of writing might be just what some people are looking for.
March 1, 2016
In the Light of What We See is a delightful, slightly magical and haunting read. A story of two women working as nurses in a Brighton hospital connected across time. Mina and Grace both have regrets from the past that have caused family issues and both have some difficult experiences with men. Their stories are touching and sometimes frightening, but author Sarah Painter writes engaging storylines and this is an easy read, hard to put down and with a twist of the magical.
Current day Mina finds herself as a patient in the hospital where she works, with memory loss, after a car accident. Initially, in a coma her story is revealed as she slowly recovers and begins to recall her missing memories.
In 1938, Grace has escaped home to become a nurse, running from disgrace after falling pregnant and losing a child. She becomes close friends with roommate Evie and we discover her life at the hospital where the nurses work desperate hours and some doctors try to take advantage of their higher position.
Mina and Grace both have a gift for seeing things that others do not and they are both wary and bemused by it. Mina comes to see what she believes to be an imaginary nurse in her hospital room and like her other strange sightings she feels it is a sign or a warning that she should expect something significant to occur. Mina’s boyfriend Mark has been a constant visitor during her recovery and he has future plans for their life together after nearly losing her. But Mina isn’t quite so sure and she can’t quite make up her mind how she feels about it all.
This is enjoyable and satisfying, it explores relationships and is about two women looking for love and calm in their lives. It’s a memorable read with some moving scenes and a little bit of the supernatural to add an air of mystery.
April 16, 2016
Special thanks to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the free electronic ARC of this novel, granted in exchange for an honest review.
“In the Light of What We See” is a surprisingly delightful story by novelist Sarah Painter. This story is told in two time periods, present day and 1938, with the stories of our two protagonists charmingly intertwined. First in 1938, Grace Kemp is sent away from a family she has disgraced to become a nurse, where she desperately wishes to start over with a clean slate, and put all the secrets of her past behind her. In present day, Mina Morgan is the victim of a horrible car crash and is sent to the same hospital where Grace used to work. Mina, plagued by memory loss, struggles to hold on to any memories of her past, including that of the man named Mark, who claims to be her beloved. Both Mina and Grace have always been able to see things that others cannot and when Mina starts to see the ghost of a nurse in her hospital room, she struggles to make sense of it while desperately trying to make sense of the life she lost.
Mina’s story is a little reminiscent of “Before I Go to Sleep” by SJ Watson, where the protagonist loses her memory every night before going to bed, and must set up small reminders for herself to make sense of her life, soon discovering that the man she is involved with is not at all who he claims. That is where the similarities end of course. Mina’s visions (of birds) that signify trouble, and her conversations with her “ghost nurse”, connect her deeply to Grace, who saw dark shadows on people that would indicate sickness or tragedy.
The connection between the two women endears the reader to both of them, and both Mina and Grace are passionate and charming in their own right. Painter’s plot is well developed and entertaining, and the novel itself is an addictive read.
This novel is surprising and enjoyable, with just the right amount of spunk and creativity. I am not familiar with Painter’s previous novels (although I hope I soon will be) so I cannot compare this one to its predecessors but as a stand-alone novel, this one is definitely one I would recommend.
“In the Light of What We See” is a surprisingly delightful story by novelist Sarah Painter. This story is told in two time periods, present day and 1938, with the stories of our two protagonists charmingly intertwined. First in 1938, Grace Kemp is sent away from a family she has disgraced to become a nurse, where she desperately wishes to start over with a clean slate, and put all the secrets of her past behind her. In present day, Mina Morgan is the victim of a horrible car crash and is sent to the same hospital where Grace used to work. Mina, plagued by memory loss, struggles to hold on to any memories of her past, including that of the man named Mark, who claims to be her beloved. Both Mina and Grace have always been able to see things that others cannot and when Mina starts to see the ghost of a nurse in her hospital room, she struggles to make sense of it while desperately trying to make sense of the life she lost.
Mina’s story is a little reminiscent of “Before I Go to Sleep” by SJ Watson, where the protagonist loses her memory every night before going to bed, and must set up small reminders for herself to make sense of her life, soon discovering that the man she is involved with is not at all who he claims. That is where the similarities end of course. Mina’s visions (of birds) that signify trouble, and her conversations with her “ghost nurse”, connect her deeply to Grace, who saw dark shadows on people that would indicate sickness or tragedy.
The connection between the two women endears the reader to both of them, and both Mina and Grace are passionate and charming in their own right. Painter’s plot is well developed and entertaining, and the novel itself is an addictive read.
This novel is surprising and enjoyable, with just the right amount of spunk and creativity. I am not familiar with Painter’s previous novels (although I hope I soon will be) so I cannot compare this one to its predecessors but as a stand-alone novel, this one is definitely one I would recommend.
December 3, 2019
Well done, Sarah!!
November 1, 2017
A great read about two women separated by time but not in spirit. They both have difficulties to overcome and need to find their power within to stand up to the men in their lives.
A page turner that I found hard to put down. Sarah Painter has a gift for story telling.
A page turner that I found hard to put down. Sarah Painter has a gift for story telling.
June 21, 2017
You can read all of my reviews on my blog -> Cover2CoverMom Blog
I admit it. I requested this one based purely off the stunning cover. I have no shame, but do I have regret? Maybe a little. Unfortunately, as much as I wanted to love this book for superficial reasons, it did not come through for me...
I contemplated DNFing this book a few different times, but since I was given a copy for review, I felt I needed to press on. While I think the writing was decent and the concepts within this book had potential, the execution of the story was a bit of a mess.
What didn’t work for me…
The two separate storylines did not particularly work well together, making this book feel disjointed. Why did they not work together? There was no connection between the two storylines except an insignificant one… the fact that both stories take place years apart in the same hospital. The end. I kept waiting for the big reveal of how Mina and Grace would be connected, but the end of the book came without any type of link between them. What was the reasoning behind the dual storylines if there was no significant connection between the characters? Did I miss something?
I strongly disliked the main character in the present timeline, Mina. She did get slightly better as the book progressed, but only slightly. My aversion to her in the beginning actually made it really hard for me to want to pick this book up. I know that authors will often write characters who are more self absorbed or egocentric characters in the beginning to then develop that character to show a tremendous amount of personal growth, but that doesn’t really happen here. Mina sort of realizes she was a horrible person pre-accident, but aside from befriending a coworker the had previously ignored, Mina didn’t go through any real personal development. Was the author was attempting to write an “unreliable narrator” here? I didn’t get that vibe… Whatever the case, Mina didn’t really have any redeemable qualities.
Despite the unlikeable main character in the story taking place in the present, I preferred this story to the one taking place in the past. Actually, I think Mina’s story would have worked quite well as a thriller in and of itself without Grace’s story…. This was probably my favorite aspect to this book, the “thriller elements” occurring in Mina’s story. I really liked how the reader knows the big mystery surrounding Mina’s accident in the beginning while watching Mina try and sort things out. It really added to the tension as I often felt compelled to warn Mina.
Grace, the main character in the past timeline, is a more likeable character than Mina, however she wasn’t exactly developed which made her feel flat. Grace’s story overall felt a little busy and underdeveloped. It felt like one bad thing after the other. I think this is mainly due to the fact that Mina’s story takes up a good chunk of the book, so there was not enough attention given to Grace’s plotline.
Another aspect that didn’t work for me in this one was the paranormal/supernatural elements. Could they have worked? Yes, BUT there was no point to them… they didn’t really enhance the story in any way. The randomness of these elements made the story feel a bit odd to me. I am all for some magic realism, but it has to be well done and make sense within the story.
To sum up what didn’t work for me:
• no distinct connection between the two storylines/characters
• paranormal/supernatural elements felt odd and didn’t work well within the context of the story
• Mina was hard to connect with and didn’t have any redeeming qualities
• Needed more development in Grace’s storyline
*Big thanks to Lake Union Publishing for providing me with a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I admit it. I requested this one based purely off the stunning cover. I have no shame, but do I have regret? Maybe a little. Unfortunately, as much as I wanted to love this book for superficial reasons, it did not come through for me...
I contemplated DNFing this book a few different times, but since I was given a copy for review, I felt I needed to press on. While I think the writing was decent and the concepts within this book had potential, the execution of the story was a bit of a mess.
What didn’t work for me…
The two separate storylines did not particularly work well together, making this book feel disjointed. Why did they not work together? There was no connection between the two storylines except an insignificant one… the fact that both stories take place years apart in the same hospital. The end. I kept waiting for the big reveal of how Mina and Grace would be connected, but the end of the book came without any type of link between them. What was the reasoning behind the dual storylines if there was no significant connection between the characters? Did I miss something?
I strongly disliked the main character in the present timeline, Mina. She did get slightly better as the book progressed, but only slightly. My aversion to her in the beginning actually made it really hard for me to want to pick this book up. I know that authors will often write characters who are more self absorbed or egocentric characters in the beginning to then develop that character to show a tremendous amount of personal growth, but that doesn’t really happen here. Mina sort of realizes she was a horrible person pre-accident, but aside from befriending a coworker the had previously ignored, Mina didn’t go through any real personal development. Was the author was attempting to write an “unreliable narrator” here? I didn’t get that vibe… Whatever the case, Mina didn’t really have any redeemable qualities.
Despite the unlikeable main character in the story taking place in the present, I preferred this story to the one taking place in the past. Actually, I think Mina’s story would have worked quite well as a thriller in and of itself without Grace’s story…. This was probably my favorite aspect to this book, the “thriller elements” occurring in Mina’s story. I really liked how the reader knows the big mystery surrounding Mina’s accident in the beginning while watching Mina try and sort things out. It really added to the tension as I often felt compelled to warn Mina.
Grace, the main character in the past timeline, is a more likeable character than Mina, however she wasn’t exactly developed which made her feel flat. Grace’s story overall felt a little busy and underdeveloped. It felt like one bad thing after the other. I think this is mainly due to the fact that Mina’s story takes up a good chunk of the book, so there was not enough attention given to Grace’s plotline.
Another aspect that didn’t work for me in this one was the paranormal/supernatural elements. Could they have worked? Yes, BUT there was no point to them… they didn’t really enhance the story in any way. The randomness of these elements made the story feel a bit odd to me. I am all for some magic realism, but it has to be well done and make sense within the story.
To sum up what didn’t work for me:
• no distinct connection between the two storylines/characters
• paranormal/supernatural elements felt odd and didn’t work well within the context of the story
• Mina was hard to connect with and didn’t have any redeeming qualities
• Needed more development in Grace’s storyline
*Big thanks to Lake Union Publishing for providing me with a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 1, 2016
Finally I can share my thoughts on this book with you! I actually read this last month, but reviews were embargoed until today's book release date.
I enjoyed this book and would like to thank the author, Sarah, and NetGalley for giving me a copy to review in advance. I thought the writing was lovely and the characters of Mina and Grace were very engaging. Of the two stories I found Grace's to be the more interesting one. I found I was more engaged with what she was doing than with Mina. On reflection I think this is to do with the setting of the book all being in the same place - a hospital. While Grace had her work and friends, socialising and encounters with other staff and men; Mina by contrast was pretty much confined to a hospital bed. By the end I felt this setting was a little too restrictive as it greatly limited the experiences than Mina could have.
Overall this was a good book. The similarities between Mina and Grace were very well drawn and I have to say I enjoyed the storyline too. I'll definitely look out for other books by this author.
This review was originally posted on Babs' Bookshelf
I enjoyed this book and would like to thank the author, Sarah, and NetGalley for giving me a copy to review in advance. I thought the writing was lovely and the characters of Mina and Grace were very engaging. Of the two stories I found Grace's to be the more interesting one. I found I was more engaged with what she was doing than with Mina. On reflection I think this is to do with the setting of the book all being in the same place - a hospital. While Grace had her work and friends, socialising and encounters with other staff and men; Mina by contrast was pretty much confined to a hospital bed. By the end I felt this setting was a little too restrictive as it greatly limited the experiences than Mina could have.
Overall this was a good book. The similarities between Mina and Grace were very well drawn and I have to say I enjoyed the storyline too. I'll definitely look out for other books by this author.
This review was originally posted on Babs' Bookshelf
May 9, 2016
I thoroughly enjoyed this and read it in a couple of sittings. I'm a big fan of time-slip type stories, and this one worked really well, with the connection between front and back story believable, and not at all contrived (as it has been in a few I've read recently). I liked that the author was brave enough to make her front story heroine 'unlikeable' in the sense of having a really difficult character, and brave enough to make the reader work a bit at understanding her. There were some really quite emotional issues in her background that weren't glossed over or shied away from - and they easily could have been - and by and large I felt that her resolution was pretty believable too - not trite, not a simple HEA but a start.
In terms of the back story, I thought the nurse, Grace, was an excellent complementary foil, and one with a distinct personality as opposed to a character simply created to act as a reflector of the main front story protagonist (hope this makes sense). I did feel that more of this could have been explored, but I guess then that would have meant a whole separate book. One thing I did particularly like was the 'explanation' of Grace's presence in the front story, which didn't rely on the reader believing in ghosts - but on the other hand, didn't preclude it.
I've read one other of Ms Painter's books, a complete contrast to this one, and I must admit I was very surprised by this - in a nice way. Looking forward to more from her.
In terms of the back story, I thought the nurse, Grace, was an excellent complementary foil, and one with a distinct personality as opposed to a character simply created to act as a reflector of the main front story protagonist (hope this makes sense). I did feel that more of this could have been explored, but I guess then that would have meant a whole separate book. One thing I did particularly like was the 'explanation' of Grace's presence in the front story, which didn't rely on the reader believing in ghosts - but on the other hand, didn't preclude it.
I've read one other of Ms Painter's books, a complete contrast to this one, and I must admit I was very surprised by this - in a nice way. Looking forward to more from her.
February 4, 2017
I received this from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I picked this for the cover and the blurb. I've never read or heard anything about this author. This has a dual point of view- contemporary and set before the war. I enjoyed the more historical portion for the straight forward narration. The contemporary portion had mild swearing which put me off and the narrator was a bit unreliable initially. However once I got into the story, about 20% it was more gripping storyline in both. The two stories do mesh but not quite how I expected. Both of the females struggle with guilt for varying reasons. There was a element of magical realism but not quite sure how I feel about it in terms of the plot. Overall, a good book but seems to be lacking something to give it that extra edge. Maybe the resolution was too neat. Great story for women.
January 26, 2023
An easy read, thought it was going to be better than it was, disappointed with the ending. A good concept but poorly executed in my view
March 4, 2017
What a delicious book this is. The dual-time narrative drew me in immediately - but the beautiful writing, and the unusual supernatural elements, truly hooked me.
Grace and Mina are separated by seven decades yet are inextricably linked, despite the yawn of time between them. It's not simply that their lives revolve around the same Sussex hospital - the hospital where present-day Mina finds herself in after a devastating accident, and where Grace nursed in the 1930s after being sent in disgrace from her family home. As this lovely story progresses, the interweaving of their lives - and the reasons for it - becomes clear.
In The Light Of What We See recalls Kate Morton and Barbara Erskine, but what sets is apart from other dual-time tales is the subtle yet beautiful psychic elements; I was sceptical at first when I discovered that this was a feature of the story and I admit, wondered whether it would be just another supernatural thriller of the type so ubiquitous right now. Gladly, I needn't have worried. The womens' visions - talismans, if you will - are woven deftly into the narrative and supply a fresh take on this type of tale; the result is hauntingly beautiful and makes for a truly memorable story.
Part friendship saga, part psychological thriller (albeit gently so - no huge twisty shocks here, more subtle reveals which keep you guessing nonetheless), Sarah Painter has crafted a delightfully different novel which fair skips by - I devoured it in a couple of afternoons. The 1930s thread is impeccably researched as to the mores of the time, and the vintage detail is superb. Likewise, Mina is a thoroughly modern heroine whose struggles resonate with the reader. This is the ideal book for a spot of indulgent escapism - if you've a holiday planned, or just a spot of me-time, you won't go far wrong with this. A satisfying, memorable story which haunts long after the last page is turned, and highly recommended.
My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the free copy given in exchange for an honest review.
Grace and Mina are separated by seven decades yet are inextricably linked, despite the yawn of time between them. It's not simply that their lives revolve around the same Sussex hospital - the hospital where present-day Mina finds herself in after a devastating accident, and where Grace nursed in the 1930s after being sent in disgrace from her family home. As this lovely story progresses, the interweaving of their lives - and the reasons for it - becomes clear.
In The Light Of What We See recalls Kate Morton and Barbara Erskine, but what sets is apart from other dual-time tales is the subtle yet beautiful psychic elements; I was sceptical at first when I discovered that this was a feature of the story and I admit, wondered whether it would be just another supernatural thriller of the type so ubiquitous right now. Gladly, I needn't have worried. The womens' visions - talismans, if you will - are woven deftly into the narrative and supply a fresh take on this type of tale; the result is hauntingly beautiful and makes for a truly memorable story.
Part friendship saga, part psychological thriller (albeit gently so - no huge twisty shocks here, more subtle reveals which keep you guessing nonetheless), Sarah Painter has crafted a delightfully different novel which fair skips by - I devoured it in a couple of afternoons. The 1930s thread is impeccably researched as to the mores of the time, and the vintage detail is superb. Likewise, Mina is a thoroughly modern heroine whose struggles resonate with the reader. This is the ideal book for a spot of indulgent escapism - if you've a holiday planned, or just a spot of me-time, you won't go far wrong with this. A satisfying, memorable story which haunts long after the last page is turned, and highly recommended.
My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the free copy given in exchange for an honest review.
May 10, 2017
I really enjoyed this book a lot. It's one of those set in 2 different eras and I always like this style of story-telling. I've never read anything by this author before and I'm not sure how I stumbled across this, actually, AND I paid for it, which is rare for an unknown author to me !! And no mistakes-whoop, whoop....what a rarity these days !!
It's what I'd refer to as a "nice" book and I always enjoy one of those in-between my usual tales of murder 'n' mayhem. Sometimes it's really nice to have something a lot more gentle and easy-going. This was such a good choice. I enjoyed how clues were given about things that had happened and then we learn it was something totally different to what we had assumed. Caught me out more than a couple of times.
We have Grace in the 1930s and Mina in present time and all the way through I was wondering at their connection. I did like Mina's little portents she gets to see. When I read up on this author magic was referred to which isn't for me at all but I do enjoy this type of paranormal'ish story as long as it isn't too "out there". I'd have glazed over and shut down if it was !! You had to feel sorry for Grace....those nurses were worked like dogs, poor girls. Even down to polishing bed casters. I bet that isn't done these days. I was a little baffled as to why Pat would be shocked that Mina works in the hospital she was taken to after her accident, though.
There were some very funny remarks in it dotted around that made me laugh aloud, especially the king from a stick mention. If I was Mina I'd be rightfully cheesed off at someone shortening my name, too, when it's only 4 letters !! That's just lazy. Another mention that made me smile were the gingham curtains a lady had under her kitchen sink. I remembered my grandmother had curtains under hers too !! They had shelves as we have now but for some reason didn't put cupboard doors on but curtained them off instead. Something I'd totally forgotten about so that was a nice little memory for me.
I'll definitely be reading more by this author and I do recommend this one for sure.
It's what I'd refer to as a "nice" book and I always enjoy one of those in-between my usual tales of murder 'n' mayhem. Sometimes it's really nice to have something a lot more gentle and easy-going. This was such a good choice. I enjoyed how clues were given about things that had happened and then we learn it was something totally different to what we had assumed. Caught me out more than a couple of times.
We have Grace in the 1930s and Mina in present time and all the way through I was wondering at their connection. I did like Mina's little portents she gets to see. When I read up on this author magic was referred to which isn't for me at all but I do enjoy this type of paranormal'ish story as long as it isn't too "out there". I'd have glazed over and shut down if it was !! You had to feel sorry for Grace....those nurses were worked like dogs, poor girls. Even down to polishing bed casters. I bet that isn't done these days. I was a little baffled as to why Pat would be shocked that Mina works in the hospital she was taken to after her accident, though.
There were some very funny remarks in it dotted around that made me laugh aloud, especially the king from a stick mention. If I was Mina I'd be rightfully cheesed off at someone shortening my name, too, when it's only 4 letters !! That's just lazy. Another mention that made me smile were the gingham curtains a lady had under her kitchen sink. I remembered my grandmother had curtains under hers too !! They had shelves as we have now but for some reason didn't put cupboard doors on but curtained them off instead. Something I'd totally forgotten about so that was a nice little memory for me.
I'll definitely be reading more by this author and I do recommend this one for sure.
May 25, 2016
This is a tale of two extraordinary women separated by eighty years but both bound together by the Royal Sussex Hospital in Brighton.
In 1938 Grace Kemp starts at the hospital as a trainee nurse. Abused by her father’s friend she found herself pregnant and disgraced. A brutal beating from her father sorted out the pregnancy problem but now she is alone and trying to find her place in the world and get a good career. The hospital isn’t without its own threats in the form of lecherous doctors and there are further complications when Grace begins to realise that she can sense illness before it manifests itself.
Mina Morgan is brought to the same hospital eighty years later. Although she works in the hospital as a therapeutic radiographer she has been involved in a terrible car accident that left her in a coma for a week and has extensive head, back and limb injuries. Suffering from amnesia she starts to piece together the person that she was before the crash and begins to realise that everything is not as it would seem. Lapsing in and out of consciousness she starts to see her own apparitions of a nurse in an ancient looking uniform.
Like with her previous books The Language of Spells and the Secrets of Ghosts, Sarah Painter has the most exquisite touch when merging a modern story with a touch of the supernatural. This is one of those books that you just don’t want to put down. A gripping and suspenseful thriller combined with beautifully crafted characters that feel like friends.
Supplied by Net Galley and the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
In 1938 Grace Kemp starts at the hospital as a trainee nurse. Abused by her father’s friend she found herself pregnant and disgraced. A brutal beating from her father sorted out the pregnancy problem but now she is alone and trying to find her place in the world and get a good career. The hospital isn’t without its own threats in the form of lecherous doctors and there are further complications when Grace begins to realise that she can sense illness before it manifests itself.
Mina Morgan is brought to the same hospital eighty years later. Although she works in the hospital as a therapeutic radiographer she has been involved in a terrible car accident that left her in a coma for a week and has extensive head, back and limb injuries. Suffering from amnesia she starts to piece together the person that she was before the crash and begins to realise that everything is not as it would seem. Lapsing in and out of consciousness she starts to see her own apparitions of a nurse in an ancient looking uniform.
Like with her previous books The Language of Spells and the Secrets of Ghosts, Sarah Painter has the most exquisite touch when merging a modern story with a touch of the supernatural. This is one of those books that you just don’t want to put down. A gripping and suspenseful thriller combined with beautifully crafted characters that feel like friends.
Supplied by Net Galley and the Publisher in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2021
Gripping but somewhat unfulfilling
The story really got me and I was interested in the lives of the two separate women till the end. However, I didn't quite get how their lives converged at the end of it all, and it just all seemed so unrelated that I wondered what was the point of telling the two different life stories of these women. One woman (Grace) wanted to warn the other(Mina). I understand that but why Mina in particular? How did Grace end up there in the first place? I guess the relation was the hospital? Maybe they were related in their abilities to sense danger? As I said, good book but the failure to bring everything together in my mind, makes me unable to give that one extra star.
The story really got me and I was interested in the lives of the two separate women till the end. However, I didn't quite get how their lives converged at the end of it all, and it just all seemed so unrelated that I wondered what was the point of telling the two different life stories of these women. One woman (Grace) wanted to warn the other(Mina). I understand that but why Mina in particular? How did Grace end up there in the first place? I guess the relation was the hospital? Maybe they were related in their abilities to sense danger? As I said, good book but the failure to bring everything together in my mind, makes me unable to give that one extra star.
June 3, 2016
2.5
A pleasant read which does not bore you. The setting and dual narrative about two characters from decades apart is interesting but the writer could not establish the basis of connection the two women. Why is one trying to reach out to the other one?. The book's paranormal 'activity' (sort of) does not scare you, it rather amuses you but I feel there wasn't any authentic reason given behind the proceedings. In addition, I wish the writer should have given us a final shown down between the Mina and Mark. Still a no-fuss light reading.
A pleasant read which does not bore you. The setting and dual narrative about two characters from decades apart is interesting but the writer could not establish the basis of connection the two women. Why is one trying to reach out to the other one?. The book's paranormal 'activity' (sort of) does not scare you, it rather amuses you but I feel there wasn't any authentic reason given behind the proceedings. In addition, I wish the writer should have given us a final shown down between the Mina and Mark. Still a no-fuss light reading.
July 26, 2016
This was a good novel on the whole, but I am not a fan of time slips. I thought I would enjoy more than I had, hence it has taken me a little longer than usual in reading this book. Incidentally I have been in Brighton hospital on a few occasions. I never write what a story is about for not only the fear of spoiling for others, but I would be repeating what others have written. This novel would not stop me from giving other books by this author a try.
I received this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 5, 2016
This was a dual narrative unlike any other story I've read in recent years. The setting is largely restricted to the hospital where Grace was once a nurse in the 1930's and Mina is a patient in the 2000's . Both women have good stories, but I just cannot help feeling a little unsatisfied with the story in general.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing an e-galley of this book for my reading pleasure.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing an e-galley of this book for my reading pleasure.
November 20, 2016
Couldn't put it down! Had to keep reading to see when she'd remember about Mark!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 12, 2021
This book is strangely addictive and scary yet definitely gets so much better the more I read.
May 2, 2022
Чудесная ❤️
December 9, 2019
Two women living in the different timelines are connected by the signals pointing to danger. Can they find their voice?
This novel has started as richly layered human drama, but unfortunately it has ended like a feminist coming-of-age manifesto of sorts. I have eagerly read the first chapters full of complicated characters (why the girls are seeing the signs? What has happened to Mina´s brother? etc.), but the most interesting questions simply went unanswered. Instead of the answers we got the just punishments for the wrong men and the happy ending for those of men who look not catchy at the first look, but are respectful and sensitive - and while there is nothing wrong with that (good men should prevail), they also look just like well-programmed props without any character growth.
Having said all that, the first half of the book is interesting and I have enjoyed it much.
This novel has started as richly layered human drama, but unfortunately it has ended like a feminist coming-of-age manifesto of sorts. I have eagerly read the first chapters full of complicated characters (why the girls are seeing the signs? What has happened to Mina´s brother? etc.), but the most interesting questions simply went unanswered. Instead of the answers we got the just punishments for the wrong men and the happy ending for those of men who look not catchy at the first look, but are respectful and sensitive - and while there is nothing wrong with that (good men should prevail), they also look just like well-programmed props without any character growth.
Having said all that, the first half of the book is interesting and I have enjoyed it much.
October 4, 2016
Having recently finished this book I really don’t know what I feel or even how these two stories were related to each other. I thought the end was rather rushed and did not tie the two stories together as far as I was concerned. This is really a book of two halves; one a psychological thriller and the other a historical novel (to a point). The element that ties the two stories together is the supernatural element that is spooky and certainly well done being an integral part of the story as it is shared by both the women in the book.
That said I will deal with each part separately. In the psychological part the tension was built gradually. As the reader is aware of the larger picture we see the larger picture and often want to yell at the Mina just to warn her of the impending danger.
The historical part of the novel could be said to be a friendship saga. We are also told about the daily grind of a student nurse (Grace), the lowest rung on the medical hierarchy.
Mina is a surprisingly strong character but still vulnerable and from part of her back story she is not the most likeable person, yet after the accident see sees people, things and herself in a different light. In contrast, Grace is naïve and also vulnerable but she grows the most throughout the book and gains both strength and determination.
But detailed characterisation is not just reserved for the main characters but is also given to the supporting characters such a Grace’s best friend and roomie Evie and to Mina’s Aunt Pat thereby enriching the main characters and giving the story more depth.
The one element that joins these two women together is they are able to see things that others cannot – a sort of second sight. This is also where the two stories sort of come together. Mina is hospitalised and starts to see Grace. It just so happens that the hospital that Mina is in was where Grace worked many years ago. Never once did Mina cross into Grace’s timeline.
As far as this reader was concerned there were quite a few unresolved issues. Why did Grace go into nursing? Why did Grace reach out to Mina? Why was there no other obvious connection between the two women?
Perhaps the two stories should have been dealt with as two separate novels and thereby each story could have received better treatment, the back story (of which I am sure there is a great deal in each case) could have been told, and some of the unresolved issues could have been cleared up.
Take all this together and add an element of romance and you have novel that is difficult to pigeon-hole with is clearly written, well plotted yet entertaining and annoying in equal measure. But the ending did leave this reader rather flat but that is just my opinion. Form your own by reading this strangely haunting book.
Thank you Netgalley and the publishers for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
That said I will deal with each part separately. In the psychological part the tension was built gradually. As the reader is aware of the larger picture we see the larger picture and often want to yell at the Mina just to warn her of the impending danger.
The historical part of the novel could be said to be a friendship saga. We are also told about the daily grind of a student nurse (Grace), the lowest rung on the medical hierarchy.
Mina is a surprisingly strong character but still vulnerable and from part of her back story she is not the most likeable person, yet after the accident see sees people, things and herself in a different light. In contrast, Grace is naïve and also vulnerable but she grows the most throughout the book and gains both strength and determination.
But detailed characterisation is not just reserved for the main characters but is also given to the supporting characters such a Grace’s best friend and roomie Evie and to Mina’s Aunt Pat thereby enriching the main characters and giving the story more depth.
The one element that joins these two women together is they are able to see things that others cannot – a sort of second sight. This is also where the two stories sort of come together. Mina is hospitalised and starts to see Grace. It just so happens that the hospital that Mina is in was where Grace worked many years ago. Never once did Mina cross into Grace’s timeline.
As far as this reader was concerned there were quite a few unresolved issues. Why did Grace go into nursing? Why did Grace reach out to Mina? Why was there no other obvious connection between the two women?
Perhaps the two stories should have been dealt with as two separate novels and thereby each story could have received better treatment, the back story (of which I am sure there is a great deal in each case) could have been told, and some of the unresolved issues could have been cleared up.
Take all this together and add an element of romance and you have novel that is difficult to pigeon-hole with is clearly written, well plotted yet entertaining and annoying in equal measure. But the ending did leave this reader rather flat but that is just my opinion. Form your own by reading this strangely haunting book.
Thank you Netgalley and the publishers for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2018
Part of me really enjoyed this book and wanted to not pick so many flaws in it. But I can't help but finish it feeling slightly underwhelmed and I cannot rate it higher than a 3.
As a Nurse, I tend to love anything revolving around nursing in the past particularly from the 1920s to 1950s. This played somewhat of a pivotal role in the book which was the accounts of two different women - a young nurse in the 1930s and a young Doctor in present day times.
But could I understand the connection? Could I heck! Yes there was some sort of psychic link but there was sweet F.A between the two other than this. The stories of the two women weren't even similar with the exception of a controlling man presence.
In the story we are met with a controlling manipulative present day man - this comes to a head towards the end of the book. He loses it. But then just as quickly appears to chill out, calm down and what could have been a shocking dramatic ending was such a ridiculous let down that Mina wanders away from the whole situation which set the premise of the book without so much as a concern.
What happened in Minas childhood to make her despise her family and her aunt so much? Well nothing really. She was a bit of a control freak.
What happened to Minas brother when a chapter was dedicated to his growing paranoia? Well again no one knows.
There are so so many more unanswered questions I was
Left asking after the end of this book, and it wasn't a 'good' ending that left me inquisitive. It was genuinely 'what the hell actually just happened?'
The positives are the way the book was written, I loved he two accounts and the way the story went from Grace to Mina. But they should have tied together better.
Overall, a 3 because the premise was good and the lay out good and it kept me reading, but there were major holes in the plot, and problems that mean it just fell short.
As a Nurse, I tend to love anything revolving around nursing in the past particularly from the 1920s to 1950s. This played somewhat of a pivotal role in the book which was the accounts of two different women - a young nurse in the 1930s and a young Doctor in present day times.
But could I understand the connection? Could I heck! Yes there was some sort of psychic link but there was sweet F.A between the two other than this. The stories of the two women weren't even similar with the exception of a controlling man presence.
In the story we are met with a controlling manipulative present day man - this comes to a head towards the end of the book. He loses it. But then just as quickly appears to chill out, calm down and what could have been a shocking dramatic ending was such a ridiculous let down that Mina wanders away from the whole situation which set the premise of the book without so much as a concern.
What happened in Minas childhood to make her despise her family and her aunt so much? Well nothing really. She was a bit of a control freak.
What happened to Minas brother when a chapter was dedicated to his growing paranoia? Well again no one knows.
There are so so many more unanswered questions I was
Left asking after the end of this book, and it wasn't a 'good' ending that left me inquisitive. It was genuinely 'what the hell actually just happened?'
The positives are the way the book was written, I loved he two accounts and the way the story went from Grace to Mina. But they should have tied together better.
Overall, a 3 because the premise was good and the lay out good and it kept me reading, but there were major holes in the plot, and problems that mean it just fell short.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 9, 2016
In the Light of What We See combines so many of my favorite book topics: paranormal elements, England between the world wars, and both historical and modern nursing/healthcare. I also often enjoy books that connect different characters from different time periods together in some way, as it's always fun to watch the web be woven through time.
The characters in this book are connected through a hospital where one worked as a nurse in the 1930s and the other is hospitalized after a mysterious motor vehicle accident in present time, of which she remembers nothing). Both girls seem to have psychic abilities (one sees dark shadows on the dying and the other sees birds before something significant occurs). The chapters alternate between both very different women and time periods, and the feeling of impending doom increases steadily for both of them.
This is certainly "my kind of book" in theory, but I didn't like the characters very much. The 1930s nurse was a little too passive, whereas the present day character was too abrasive and unlikable. Also, one of my biggest reasons for being interested in this book was that most of it took place in the hospital setting; however, it was very obvious that Painter probably doesn't know much about nursing and/or healthcare. I knew we were in a hospital because the author told us so, but that setting was never really brought to life for me in neither the historical nor modern time periods.
I also wonder if I'm not just comparing this to the always incredible Simone St. James, who absolutely nails this kind of book. Maybe that's not fair, but regardless of any biases or preconceived notions,, this book was good, but not great.
☆☆☆
The characters in this book are connected through a hospital where one worked as a nurse in the 1930s and the other is hospitalized after a mysterious motor vehicle accident in present time, of which she remembers nothing). Both girls seem to have psychic abilities (one sees dark shadows on the dying and the other sees birds before something significant occurs). The chapters alternate between both very different women and time periods, and the feeling of impending doom increases steadily for both of them.
This is certainly "my kind of book" in theory, but I didn't like the characters very much. The 1930s nurse was a little too passive, whereas the present day character was too abrasive and unlikable. Also, one of my biggest reasons for being interested in this book was that most of it took place in the hospital setting; however, it was very obvious that Painter probably doesn't know much about nursing and/or healthcare. I knew we were in a hospital because the author told us so, but that setting was never really brought to life for me in neither the historical nor modern time periods.
I also wonder if I'm not just comparing this to the always incredible Simone St. James, who absolutely nails this kind of book. Maybe that's not fair, but regardless of any biases or preconceived notions,, this book was good, but not great.
☆☆☆
September 9, 2020
Really enjoyed this one, Sarah Painter's writing is a cut above most of the Prime Reading fodder. Two stories are woven around each other, using the setting of Brighton Hospital as a backdrop; Grace, training to be a nurse in the run up to WW2, and Mina who works as a radiographer but ends up recovering from a severe accident. Mina stood out for me as a character, being a lot fiercer and harder than we're normally given.
It's hard to categorise the book - there's elements of the supernatural, magical realism, history, hospital drama, psychological thriller and romance. It somehow blends together into a coherent read.
Some of the ends didn't quite tie together; the storyline about Mina's twin, Ger, seemed to belong to a different genre altogether, and I was left unconvinced by what happened to him and Mina's part in it - his story was told in a sudden spurt rather than us seeing his gradual decline. It felt like there needed to be more between Grace and Mina at the end, that Grace needed to be present to help save Mina, rather than a vague warning. And there didn't seem to be any consequences for Mark and what he'd done. Otherwise it would have been a five star read - it was very absorbing.
It's hard to categorise the book - there's elements of the supernatural, magical realism, history, hospital drama, psychological thriller and romance. It somehow blends together into a coherent read.
Some of the ends didn't quite tie together; the storyline about Mina's twin, Ger, seemed to belong to a different genre altogether, and I was left unconvinced by what happened to him and Mina's part in it - his story was told in a sudden spurt rather than us seeing his gradual decline. It felt like there needed to be more between Grace and Mina at the end, that Grace needed to be present to help save Mina, rather than a vague warning. And there didn't seem to be any consequences for Mark and what he'd done. Otherwise it would have been a five star read - it was very absorbing.
April 30, 2016
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book for the most part. I do think that the jacket description lead me to think it was going to be al little different than it actually was but it was still a good story. I thought there would be more direct interaction between the two main characters (this is told from the point of view of a nurse in 1938 and a woman that ends up in a car accident in the 2000s) through some sci-fi element or fantasy element. However, its more like their lives kind of mirror each other's in certain ways. Not necessarily a bad thing, just not what I was expecting.
I thought the characters were fairly believable and even though I think I saw most of the plot twists coming I still enjoyed watching them unfold. Personally, I struggle with books sometimes when there is a character that is clearly bad and the other characters aren't seeing it or aren't doing something about it. Although I do think that I probably had the reaction towards a few of the characters that the author was hoping for!
All in all it was worth reading!
I enjoyed this book for the most part. I do think that the jacket description lead me to think it was going to be al little different than it actually was but it was still a good story. I thought there would be more direct interaction between the two main characters (this is told from the point of view of a nurse in 1938 and a woman that ends up in a car accident in the 2000s) through some sci-fi element or fantasy element. However, its more like their lives kind of mirror each other's in certain ways. Not necessarily a bad thing, just not what I was expecting.
I thought the characters were fairly believable and even though I think I saw most of the plot twists coming I still enjoyed watching them unfold. Personally, I struggle with books sometimes when there is a character that is clearly bad and the other characters aren't seeing it or aren't doing something about it. Although I do think that I probably had the reaction towards a few of the characters that the author was hoping for!
All in all it was worth reading!
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