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Bear No Malice
Beaten and left for dead in the English countryside, clergyman and reformer Tom Cross is rescued and nursed back to health by Miranda and Simon Thorne, reclusive siblings who seem to have as many secrets as he does. Tom has spent years helping the downtrodden in London while lying to everyone he meets, but now he’s forced to slow down and confront his unexamined life.
Miranda, a skilled artist, is haunted by her painful past and unable to imagine a future. Tom is a welcome distraction from her troubles, but she’s determined to relegate him to her fantasy world, sensing that any real relationship with him would be more trouble than it’s worth. Besides, she has sworn to remain devoted to someone she’s left behind.
When Tom returns to London, his life begins to unravel as he faces the consequences of both his affair with a married woman and his abusive childhood. When his secrets catch up with him and his reputation is destroyed, he realizes that Miranda is the only person he trusts with the truth. What he doesn’t realize is that even if she believes him and returns his feelings, he can’t free her from the shackles of her past.
Miranda, a skilled artist, is haunted by her painful past and unable to imagine a future. Tom is a welcome distraction from her troubles, but she’s determined to relegate him to her fantasy world, sensing that any real relationship with him would be more trouble than it’s worth. Besides, she has sworn to remain devoted to someone she’s left behind.
When Tom returns to London, his life begins to unravel as he faces the consequences of both his affair with a married woman and his abusive childhood. When his secrets catch up with him and his reputation is destroyed, he realizes that Miranda is the only person he trusts with the truth. What he doesn’t realize is that even if she believes him and returns his feelings, he can’t free her from the shackles of her past.
368 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 2019
7 people are currently reading
615 people want to read
About the author
Clarissa Harwood
4 books168 followersClarissa Harwood is the author of three historical novels. Publishers Weekly called her first novel, Impossible Saints, "a rich debut. . . . With insight and sensitivity, Harwood explores century-old social mores and challenges that still echo loudly today." Her second novel, Bear No Malice, won the Editor's Choice award from the Historical Novel Society and was called "a smart and highly civilized tale about love, temptation, and second chances" by Kirkus Reviews.
Clarissa holds a PhD in English Literature with a specialization in nineteenth-century British Literature and has taught university literature and writing courses for more than twenty years.
Her own writing pays homage to her favourite Victorian authors: the Brontë sisters, George Eliot, Thomas Hardy, and Frances Hodgson Burnett. Her favourite living authors include Diane Setterfield, Kate Morton, A.S. Byatt, and Susanna Kearsley.
In addition to being a novelist, university professor, and proud member of the Historical Novel Society, Clarissa is a grammar nerd who loves to explain the difference between restrictive and nonrestrictive clauses. Born and raised on the Canadian prairies, she currently lives in Ontario with her husband and three neurotic cats.
Clarissa is represented by Laura Crockett of TriadaUS Literary Agency.
Clarissa holds a PhD in English Literature with a specialization in nineteenth-century British Literature and has taught university literature and writing courses for more than twenty years.
Her own writing pays homage to her favourite Victorian authors: the Brontë sisters, George Eliot, Thomas Hardy, and Frances Hodgson Burnett. Her favourite living authors include Diane Setterfield, Kate Morton, A.S. Byatt, and Susanna Kearsley.
In addition to being a novelist, university professor, and proud member of the Historical Novel Society, Clarissa is a grammar nerd who loves to explain the difference between restrictive and nonrestrictive clauses. Born and raised on the Canadian prairies, she currently lives in Ontario with her husband and three neurotic cats.
Clarissa is represented by Laura Crockett of TriadaUS Literary Agency.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
April 30, 2020
5 STARS
After some contemplation on how to describe this book, the best word I could come up with was captivating. I was completely drawn into the story from the beginning, and had trouble laying it aside. What rich, complex characters. I can't even explain it. Such involved and complicated relationships and events, that it felt as if it were a true story. There were a few coincidences that would make that unlikely, but still, Ms Harwood has crafted a story worthy of Thomas Hardy, but with a much better ending. I will definitely be looking into more books from this author.
Also, I thought it noteworthy to mention that I read this by audiobook. It was narrated by Jennifer M. Dixon who did an exceptional job with the characters. I highly recommend it.
She wore her beauty as if it were a medal she had won for fighting in a war she didn’t remember—it was her duty to display it, yet she seemed vaguely puzzled by its existence.
After some contemplation on how to describe this book, the best word I could come up with was captivating. I was completely drawn into the story from the beginning, and had trouble laying it aside. What rich, complex characters. I can't even explain it. Such involved and complicated relationships and events, that it felt as if it were a true story. There were a few coincidences that would make that unlikely, but still, Ms Harwood has crafted a story worthy of Thomas Hardy, but with a much better ending. I will definitely be looking into more books from this author.
Also, I thought it noteworthy to mention that I read this by audiobook. It was narrated by Jennifer M. Dixon who did an exceptional job with the characters. I highly recommend it.
April 22, 2020
I stayed up far too long finishing this book last night. I literally could not put it down. Set in the Edwardian era, Bear No Malice is a deeply moving story of hardship, love, and redemption. Clarissa Harwood writes with elegance and emotion. Her prose is absolutely beautiful. I found myself thoroughly invested in the lives of Thomas Cross and Miranda Thorne. There was a poignancy to both of them—two people who had truly been challenged and nearly broken by the tragic experiences of their lives. There’s so much that’s relatable. Themes of reconciliation, acceptance, and forgiveness. Of faith in the most difficult circumstances. I won’t spoil it, except to say that the ending is hopeful, believable, and intensely satisfying. One of the best books I’ve read this year.
June 21, 2018
If you loved Clarissa's debut, Impossible Saints, you will love this companion novel, following Paul Harris's "nemesis," Tom Cross. This is Great Expectations meets Grantchester, with deliciously nitty gritty dark material and a slow burn romance.
NOTE: You can read BNM and IS in any order––they work as standalones as well! But I highly suggest you do read both ;)
*proud agent*
NOTE: You can read BNM and IS in any order––they work as standalones as well! But I highly suggest you do read both ;)
*proud agent*
January 21, 2019
4.5 Stars
In the acknowledgments at the end of Bear No Malice, author Clarissa Harwood tells us that she wrote this book as a writing exercise; to see if she could take the villain of her novel Impossible Saints and make him into a hero. To say she’s been successful is putting it mildly. This is a fantastic story.
Tom Cross, a clergyman at a cathedral in London, isn’t living his life in a manner that his Bishop and parishioners would approve of. Although he works very hard helping those in need and demonstrates compassion and understanding when dealing with those in his care, he’s ambitious, dishonest about his background, and having an affair with a married woman. When his taxi is hijacked out to the countryside, he’s beaten and left for dead in a wood. Rescued by a sister and brother, Miranda and Simon Thorne, he stays at their cottage while his wounds heal.
As the friendship grows between Tom and the Thornes, it becomes clear that all three of them are keeping secrets.
Why is Simon, and educated man, working as a farm laborer? Why is Miranda, a talented artist, not studying art in London? Who is behind the beating Tom received? What are Tom’s true origins?
This is a story of redemption, of overcoming your past and learning to forgive those who have harmed you. It touches on the unfairness of judging women and the poor more harshly than men who are in positions of power or wealth.
What made this book for me was Miranda. She’s complex, imaginative, loving and driven by the need to to what is right and to act in a way that doesn’t go against her conscience. I was rooting for her from the first moment we’re introduced to her. In fact, although Tom is an interesting character, it’s Miranda who got to me on an emotional level.
I can’t wait to read what the author writes next.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for a copy of the book.
In the acknowledgments at the end of Bear No Malice, author Clarissa Harwood tells us that she wrote this book as a writing exercise; to see if she could take the villain of her novel Impossible Saints and make him into a hero. To say she’s been successful is putting it mildly. This is a fantastic story.
Tom Cross, a clergyman at a cathedral in London, isn’t living his life in a manner that his Bishop and parishioners would approve of. Although he works very hard helping those in need and demonstrates compassion and understanding when dealing with those in his care, he’s ambitious, dishonest about his background, and having an affair with a married woman. When his taxi is hijacked out to the countryside, he’s beaten and left for dead in a wood. Rescued by a sister and brother, Miranda and Simon Thorne, he stays at their cottage while his wounds heal.
As the friendship grows between Tom and the Thornes, it becomes clear that all three of them are keeping secrets.
Why is Simon, and educated man, working as a farm laborer? Why is Miranda, a talented artist, not studying art in London? Who is behind the beating Tom received? What are Tom’s true origins?
This is a story of redemption, of overcoming your past and learning to forgive those who have harmed you. It touches on the unfairness of judging women and the poor more harshly than men who are in positions of power or wealth.
What made this book for me was Miranda. She’s complex, imaginative, loving and driven by the need to to what is right and to act in a way that doesn’t go against her conscience. I was rooting for her from the first moment we’re introduced to her. In fact, although Tom is an interesting character, it’s Miranda who got to me on an emotional level.
I can’t wait to read what the author writes next.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for a copy of the book.
October 30, 2022
4.3 ⭐️
Tom Cross е свещеник, който се появява като герой още в първата книга на Clarissa Harwood “ Impossible Saints” и там е в ролята на конкурент за лидерска духовническа позиция наравно с главния герой Пол. При все че двете книги не са част от поредица, нито пък са свързани като история една с друга, в “ Bear no malice” авторката развива характера на Том и го показва в различна светлина от това, което бях открила в предишната й книга.
Беше ми интересно да видя Том от друга перспектива, да прочета подробности за неговия живот и това, което го е формирало като личност. Ако преди не ми беше толкова приятен като присъствие, тук определено печели симпатиите ми.
Clarissa Harwood изгражда интересни персонажи, които се открояват със своята комплексност. И тази книга е интригуваща и много хубаво написана. Личи си градацията в стила на писане. Нямам търпение да прочета и последната книга на Clarissa Harwood, чиято анотация звучи много обещаващо.
Tom Cross е свещеник, който се появява като герой още в първата книга на Clarissa Harwood “ Impossible Saints” и там е в ролята на конкурент за лидерска духовническа позиция наравно с главния герой Пол. При все че двете книги не са част от поредица, нито пък са свързани като история една с друга, в “ Bear no malice” авторката развива характера на Том и го показва в различна светлина от това, което бях открила в предишната й книга.
Беше ми интересно да видя Том от друга перспектива, да прочета подробности за неговия живот и това, което го е формирало като личност. Ако преди не ми беше толкова приятен като присъствие, тук определено печели симпатиите ми.
Clarissa Harwood изгражда интересни персонажи, които се открояват със своята комплексност. И тази книга е интригуваща и много хубаво написана. Личи си градацията в стила на писане. Нямам търпение да прочета и последната книга на Clarissa Harwood, чиято анотация звучи много обещаващо.
January 23, 2019
Really enjoyed this, though the hero was a total mess for most of the book and the heroine was almost equally messed up. But I trusted Miss Bates when she said it all came together, with a very good ending.and she spoke the truth.
My rating may go up after I think about this some more.
My rating may go up after I think about this some more.
February 6, 2019
Bear No Malice>/i> is a sequel to Impossible Saints, but is more like a companion novel whose timeline matches events of book 1. It focuses on a formerly-minor character whose role was nearly that of a villain. I really loved this shift in perspective and how it introduces the idea that we all have unique perceptions of our actions and of others.
Bear No Malice is literary fiction at its best, with a vivid historical setting and a story that unfolds with a delicate complexity. Its Dickens-like intricacy takes the reader on a journey right alongside Tom and Miranda as they grow through friendship and exhibit unconditional love (not just in romance but with friends, with family) through mistakes, forgiveness, and reconciliation.
At times, it made me laugh with its tiny bits of humor (the fish fork!) then wrenched my heart out, all in one chapter. Mostly it wrenched my heart out and put it back together one tiny piece at a time. The telling of the story is a TREAT with its brilliant pacing (just slow enough to leave you wanting more of Tom's, and especially Miranda's, backstories) and sloooow building romance. But oh, how it pays off and is exquisite! Sometimes, though, I would forget I was reading historical fiction because the characters are so relatable and the emotions raw.
Tom and Miranda are good for each other because he's magnetic and opinionated and she's quiet and steady, yet just as stubborn and steadfast. Their personalities complement and spur each other to grow beyond themselves. Part of the brilliance of Tom and Miranda is that I saw myself in their humanity. I am like Miranda in several ways, not that I have experienced anything like her journey, but that her character was so real on the page I could identify with her longings. Her sometimes-reserved, sometimes opinionated ways. And even Tom and his ultimate need for reconciliation, his desire to serve others. They exemplify flawed and grace-covered people.
Another wonderful thread of this novel is its message of grace. It is subtle yet still a beacon for the perceptive reader. The message of the Gospel is portrayed as inherent to the characters, a refreshing and beautiful inclusion for the general fiction market. Tom and Miranda experience things and make choices rarely found in the inspirational genre. This freedom and space to candidly explore such situations makes the story all the more powerful because this novel has such a message of grace and forgiveness, of peace and homecoming, at its heart. **now is a good time for me to mention the content of this novel. It's clean, with very few mild expletives (I could count them on one hand)**
Beyond the character journey, this novel also draws attention to social issues of the era, such as poverty, penitentiary conditions (kinda like halfway houses of the time), and the evolving roles of women. All of this functions to shine a light on our modern ideas, standards, and complacency, in a positive manner. I believe its intent is for the reader to look around and take note of his or her own community and opportunities. :) For me, it was encouraging.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the review copy. This is my honest review.
Bear No Malice is literary fiction at its best, with a vivid historical setting and a story that unfolds with a delicate complexity. Its Dickens-like intricacy takes the reader on a journey right alongside Tom and Miranda as they grow through friendship and exhibit unconditional love (not just in romance but with friends, with family) through mistakes, forgiveness, and reconciliation.
At times, it made me laugh with its tiny bits of humor (the fish fork!) then wrenched my heart out, all in one chapter. Mostly it wrenched my heart out and put it back together one tiny piece at a time. The telling of the story is a TREAT with its brilliant pacing (just slow enough to leave you wanting more of Tom's, and especially Miranda's, backstories) and sloooow building romance. But oh, how it pays off and is exquisite! Sometimes, though, I would forget I was reading historical fiction because the characters are so relatable and the emotions raw.
Tom and Miranda are good for each other because he's magnetic and opinionated and she's quiet and steady, yet just as stubborn and steadfast. Their personalities complement and spur each other to grow beyond themselves. Part of the brilliance of Tom and Miranda is that I saw myself in their humanity. I am like Miranda in several ways, not that I have experienced anything like her journey, but that her character was so real on the page I could identify with her longings. Her sometimes-reserved, sometimes opinionated ways. And even Tom and his ultimate need for reconciliation, his desire to serve others. They exemplify flawed and grace-covered people.
Another wonderful thread of this novel is its message of grace. It is subtle yet still a beacon for the perceptive reader. The message of the Gospel is portrayed as inherent to the characters, a refreshing and beautiful inclusion for the general fiction market. Tom and Miranda experience things and make choices rarely found in the inspirational genre. This freedom and space to candidly explore such situations makes the story all the more powerful because this novel has such a message of grace and forgiveness, of peace and homecoming, at its heart. **now is a good time for me to mention the content of this novel. It's clean, with very few mild expletives (I could count them on one hand)**
Beyond the character journey, this novel also draws attention to social issues of the era, such as poverty, penitentiary conditions (kinda like halfway houses of the time), and the evolving roles of women. All of this functions to shine a light on our modern ideas, standards, and complacency, in a positive manner. I believe its intent is for the reader to look around and take note of his or her own community and opportunities. :) For me, it was encouraging.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the review copy. This is my honest review.
May 22, 2019
I like it a lot when I read books from relatively unknown writers and I find them to be excellent, I feel like discovering a rare treasure that few had an opportunity to appreciate. That's exactly what I did with her books, which I first got to know her with her extraordinary debut, the impossible Saints, which made me very positive impressions. The book that I write a few words about is directly related to this, containing a story that takes place over the same period of time and shares some of the same situations and above all one of the key characters.
Tom, the "villain" of the impossible, a very active and ambitious clergyman who also has a hidden life, incompatible with his profession, gets in trouble and ends up in the care of Miranda, a young and sensitive woman living alone with him her brother and seems to hide her own secrets and so all begin. Although they live completely different lives, their paths are crossed much more and so their relationship becomes closer. Through this intimacy, the secrets of their past come to the surface and they are forced to face them again, reviewing the decisions they have taken to find a way of life that suits them most. These secrets, however, concern issues that in the conservative Edwardian era were taboo and the attitude of society to them was particularly rigorous, with their gradual revelation making things more complicated in their relationship but at the same time made it even more robust.
In other words, as in the author's previous book, we have a book in front of us that his core is the relationship of two lovely persons that begins under strange conditions to come to something deeper, a story of love that is gradually built and characterised by calm passion with a background a time when things were quite different. This latter is perhaps what makes her books stand out, at least in my eyes. The author does an excellent job bringing to life the Edwardian era in the best possible way, with the conservative views that still prevailed, but also with the need to progress and break the stereotypes that was so strongly expressed. Of course, unlike her first book, the social situation does not play such a big role in history, although there are several references to women's position and social inequalities, alcoholism and domestic violence, but this lack the author's replaces it with more personal issues. Issues such as remorse, inner change that brings improvement, seeking of strength to cure our wounds and to continue our lives, courage to choose the right road are a matter of great concern to us, but also add a note of optimism. So in the end I can say that it is an equally beautiful and well-written book, particularly touching but also deep, so I will close this review in the same way with the top rate and the hope more readers will get to know this remarkable writer.
Μου αρέσει πολύ όταν διαβάζω βιβλία από σχετικά άγνωστους συγγραφείς και τα βρίσκω εξαιρετικά, νιώθω σαν να ανακαλύπτω έναν σπάνιο θησαυρό που λίγοι είχαν την ευκαιρία να τον εκτιμήσουν. Αυτό ακριβώς γί��εται με τα βιβλία της, την οποία γνώρισα με το εξαιρετικό ντεμπούτο της, το impossible, που μου είχε προκαλέσει πάρα πολύ θετικές εντυπώσεις. Το βιβλίο για το οποίο γράφω λίγα λόγια συνδέεται άμεσα με αυτό, περιέχοντας μία ιστορία που διαδραματίζεται την ίδια χρονική περίοδο και μοιράζεται κάποιες από τις ίδιες καταστάσεις και πάνω από όλα έναν από τους βασικούς χαρακτήρες.
Ο Τομ, ο "κακός" του impossible, ένας ιδιαίτερα δραστήριος και φιλόδοξος κληρικός, που όμως έχει και μία κρυφή ζωή, ασυμβίβαστη με το επάγγελμα του, μπλέκεται σε περιπέτειες και καταλήγει στη φροντίδα της Miranda, μιας ευαίσθητης νεαρής γυναίκας που ζει απομονωμένη μαζί με τον αδερφό της και φαίνεται ότι κρύβει τα δικά της μυστικά και έτσι αρχίζουν όλα. Αν και ζουν εντελώς διαφορετικές ζωές τελικά οι δρόμοι τους διασταυρώνονται πολύ περισσότερο και έτσι η σχέση τους γίνεται όλο και πιο στενή. Μέσα από αυτή την οικειότητα τα μυστικά του παρελθόντος τους έρχονται στην επιφάνεια και αναγκάζονται να τα αντιμετωπίσουν ξανά, αναθεωρώντας στην πορεία εκείνες τις αποφάσεις που έχουν πάρει για να αναζητήσουν έναν τρόπο ζωής που τους ταιριάζει περισσότερο. Αυτά τα μυστικά, όμως, αφορούν θέματα που στην συντηρητική Εδουαρδιανή εποχή ήταν ταμπού και η αντιμετώπισή τους από την κοινωνία ήταν ιδιαίτερα αυστηρή με αποτέλεσμα η σταδιακή αποκάλυψη τους να κάνει τα πράγματα περισσότερο περίπλοκα στη σχέση τους αλλά παράλληλα να την κάνει και πιο γερή.
Με άλλα λόγια, όπως και στο προηγούμενο βιβλίο της συγγραφέως, έχουμε μπροστά μας ένα βιβλίο που ο βασικός του κορμός είναι η σχέση δύο υπέροχων ανθρώπων που ξεκινάει κάτω από περίεργες συνθήκες για να καταλήξει σε κάτι βαθύτερο, μία ιστορία αγάπης που χτίζεται σταδιακά και χαρακτηρίζεται από ένα ήρεμο πάθος με φόντο μία εποχή όπου τα πράγματα ήταν αρκετά διαφορετικά. Αυτό το τελευταίο είναι ίσως αυτό που κάνει τα βιβλία της να ξεχωρίζουν, τουλάχιστον στα δικά μου μάτια. Η συγγραφέας κάνει εξαιρετική δουλειά ζωντανεύοντας με τον καλύτερο τρόπο την Εδουαρδιανή εποχή, με τις συντηρητικές απόψεις που ακόμα επικρατούσαν αλλά και την ανάγκη για πρόοδο και σπάσιμο των στερεοτύπων που εκφράζονταν το ίδιο έντονα. Βέβαια σε αντίθεση με το πρώτο της βιβλίο η κοινωνική κατάσταση δεν παίζει τόσο μεγάλο ρόλο στην ιστορία, αν και υπάρχουν αρκετές αναφορές για την θέση των γυναικών και τις κοινωνικές ανισότητες, τον αλκοολισμό και την ενδοοικογενειακή βία, αυτή την έλλειψη, όμως, η συγγραφέας την αντικαθιστά με περισσότερο προσωπικά ζητήματα. Θέματα όπως η μεταμέλεια, η εσωτερική αλλαγή που φέρνει τη βελτίωση, η αναζήτηση της δύναμης που για να γιατρέψουμε τις πληγές μας και να συνεχίσουμε τις ζωές μας, η τόλμη για την επιλογή του σωστού δρόμου μας απασχολούν έντονα και μας προβληματίζουν αλλά προσθέτουν και μία νότα αισιοδοξίας. Έτσι στο τέλος μπορώ να πω ότι πρόκειται για ένα εξίσου όμορφο και καλογραμμένο βιβλίο, ιδιαίτερα συγκινητικό αλλά και ιδιαίτερα βαθύ, για αυτό θα κλείσω αυτή την κριτική με τον ίδιο τρόπο, με μία άριστη βαθμολογία και την ελπίδα περισσότεροι αναγνώστες να γνωρίσουν αυτήν την αξιοσημείωτη συγγραφέα.
Tom, the "villain" of the impossible, a very active and ambitious clergyman who also has a hidden life, incompatible with his profession, gets in trouble and ends up in the care of Miranda, a young and sensitive woman living alone with him her brother and seems to hide her own secrets and so all begin. Although they live completely different lives, their paths are crossed much more and so their relationship becomes closer. Through this intimacy, the secrets of their past come to the surface and they are forced to face them again, reviewing the decisions they have taken to find a way of life that suits them most. These secrets, however, concern issues that in the conservative Edwardian era were taboo and the attitude of society to them was particularly rigorous, with their gradual revelation making things more complicated in their relationship but at the same time made it even more robust.
In other words, as in the author's previous book, we have a book in front of us that his core is the relationship of two lovely persons that begins under strange conditions to come to something deeper, a story of love that is gradually built and characterised by calm passion with a background a time when things were quite different. This latter is perhaps what makes her books stand out, at least in my eyes. The author does an excellent job bringing to life the Edwardian era in the best possible way, with the conservative views that still prevailed, but also with the need to progress and break the stereotypes that was so strongly expressed. Of course, unlike her first book, the social situation does not play such a big role in history, although there are several references to women's position and social inequalities, alcoholism and domestic violence, but this lack the author's replaces it with more personal issues. Issues such as remorse, inner change that brings improvement, seeking of strength to cure our wounds and to continue our lives, courage to choose the right road are a matter of great concern to us, but also add a note of optimism. So in the end I can say that it is an equally beautiful and well-written book, particularly touching but also deep, so I will close this review in the same way with the top rate and the hope more readers will get to know this remarkable writer.
Μου αρέσει πολύ όταν διαβάζω βιβλία από σχετικά άγνωστους συγγραφείς και τα βρίσκω εξαιρετικά, νιώθω σαν να ανακαλύπτω έναν σπάνιο θησαυρό που λίγοι είχαν την ευκαιρία να τον εκτιμήσουν. Αυτό ακριβώς γί��εται με τα βιβλία της, την οποία γνώρισα με το εξαιρετικό ντεμπούτο της, το impossible, που μου είχε προκαλέσει πάρα πολύ θετικές εντυπώσεις. Το βιβλίο για το οποίο γράφω λίγα λόγια συνδέεται άμεσα με αυτό, περιέχοντας μία ιστορία που διαδραματίζεται την ίδια χρονική περίοδο και μοιράζεται κάποιες από τις ίδιες καταστάσεις και πάνω από όλα έναν από τους βασικούς χαρακτήρες.
Ο Τομ, ο "κακός" του impossible, ένας ιδιαίτερα δραστήριος και φιλόδοξος κληρικός, που όμως έχει και μία κρυφή ζωή, ασυμβίβαστη με το επάγγελμα του, μπλέκεται σε περιπέτειες και καταλήγει στη φροντίδα της Miranda, μιας ευαίσθητης νεαρής γυναίκας που ζει απομονωμένη μαζί με τον αδερφό της και φαίνεται ότι κρύβει τα δικά της μυστικά και έτσι αρχίζουν όλα. Αν και ζουν εντελώς διαφορετικές ζωές τελικά οι δρόμοι τους διασταυρώνονται πολύ περισσότερο και έτσι η σχέση τους γίνεται όλο και πιο στενή. Μέσα από αυτή την οικειότητα τα μυστικά του παρελθόντος τους έρχονται στην επιφάνεια και αναγκάζονται να τα αντιμετωπίσουν ξανά, αναθεωρώντας στην πορεία εκείνες τις αποφάσεις που έχουν πάρει για να αναζητήσουν έναν τρόπο ζωής που τους ταιριάζει περισσότερο. Αυτά τα μυστικά, όμως, αφορούν θέματα που στην συντηρητική Εδουαρδιανή εποχή ήταν ταμπού και η αντιμετώπισή τους από την κοινωνία ήταν ιδιαίτερα αυστηρή με αποτέλεσμα η σταδιακή αποκάλυψη τους να κάνει τα πράγματα περισσότερο περίπλοκα στη σχέση τους αλλά παράλληλα να την κάνει και πιο γερή.
Με άλλα λόγια, όπως και στο προηγούμενο βιβλίο της συγγραφέως, έχουμε μπροστά μας ένα βιβλίο που ο βασικός του κορμός είναι η σχέση δύο υπέροχων ανθρώπων που ξεκινάει κάτω από περίεργες συνθήκες για να καταλήξει σε κάτι βαθύτερο, μία ιστορία αγάπης που χτίζεται σταδιακά και χαρακτηρίζεται από ένα ήρεμο πάθος με φόντο μία εποχή όπου τα πράγματα ήταν αρκετά διαφορετικά. Αυτό το τελευταίο είναι ίσως αυτό που κάνει τα βιβλία της να ξεχωρίζουν, τουλάχιστον στα δικά μου μάτια. Η συγγραφέας κάνει εξαιρετική δουλειά ζωντανεύοντας με τον καλύτερο τρόπο την Εδουαρδιανή εποχή, με τις συντηρητικές απόψεις που ακόμα επικρατούσαν αλλά και την ανάγκη για πρόοδο και σπάσιμο των στερεοτύπων που εκφράζονταν το ίδιο έντονα. Βέβαια σε αντίθεση με το πρώτο της βιβλίο η κοινωνική κατάσταση δεν παίζει τόσο μεγάλο ρόλο στην ιστορία, αν και υπάρχουν αρκετές αναφορές για την θέση των γυναικών και τις κοινωνικές ανισότητες, τον αλκοολισμό και την ενδοοικογενειακή βία, αυτή την έλλειψη, όμως, η συγγραφέας την αντικαθιστά με περισσότερο προσωπικά ζητήματα. Θέματα όπως η μεταμέλεια, η εσωτερική αλλαγή που φέρνει τη βελτίωση, η αναζήτηση της δύναμης που για να γιατρέψουμε τις πληγές μας και να συνεχίσουμε τις ζωές μας, η τόλμη για την επιλογή του σωστού δρόμου μας απασχολούν έντονα και μας προβληματίζουν αλλά προσθέτουν και μία νότα αισιοδοξίας. Έτσι στο τέλος μπορώ να πω ότι πρόκειται για ένα εξίσου όμορφο και καλογραμμένο βιβλίο, ιδιαίτερα συγκινητικό αλλά και ιδιαίτερα βαθύ, για αυτό θα κλείσω αυτή την κριτική με τον ίδιο τρόπο, με μία άριστη βαθμολογία και την ελπίδα περισσότεροι αναγνώστες να γνωρίσουν αυτήν την αξιοσημείωτη συγγραφέα.
March 12, 2019
Tom Cross was introduced as Canon Cross in Clarissa Harwood's debut, Impossible Saints. In it, he's portrayed as the villain and rightly so.
Bear No Malice introduces Simon and Miranda Thorne, a brother and sister living in the country who find him badly beaten in the countryside. They take him into their home to nurse him back to health.
The story mainly follows the lives of Tom and Miranda and (those in their lives), who both have secrets and pasts in which they need to reconcile themselves with. I enjoyed this book, but it was on a different scale than her previous novel, Impossible Saints.
Tom's story came at slower progress, and I didn't experience the heady rush that I did with her previous work. This is isn't meant to mean that one was better than the other, but that I am still reviewing who the characters were in this book. I guess this reading was more of a book which required a solitude of reading, but it was very much like Miranda's character who wasn't in a rush to make decisions, even though she did make decisions which didn't have the wisdom of hindsight. Rather she made decisions out of the pain that she didn't believe there was a way out of.
Tom was forced to look at his past, even though he had easily avoided dealing with it in the past, but as time passed, he became more open to giving and receiving forgiveness and reaching out to others that he could identify with. He was able to discover and use his desire(and gifts) to help men get out bad living situations and live a better life than they were experiencing.
This was a novel that dealt with relationships, a touch of romance, and a pleasing finish for this reader.
Bear No Malice introduces Simon and Miranda Thorne, a brother and sister living in the country who find him badly beaten in the countryside. They take him into their home to nurse him back to health.
The story mainly follows the lives of Tom and Miranda and (those in their lives), who both have secrets and pasts in which they need to reconcile themselves with. I enjoyed this book, but it was on a different scale than her previous novel, Impossible Saints.
Tom's story came at slower progress, and I didn't experience the heady rush that I did with her previous work. This is isn't meant to mean that one was better than the other, but that I am still reviewing who the characters were in this book. I guess this reading was more of a book which required a solitude of reading, but it was very much like Miranda's character who wasn't in a rush to make decisions, even though she did make decisions which didn't have the wisdom of hindsight. Rather she made decisions out of the pain that she didn't believe there was a way out of.
Tom was forced to look at his past, even though he had easily avoided dealing with it in the past, but as time passed, he became more open to giving and receiving forgiveness and reaching out to others that he could identify with. He was able to discover and use his desire(and gifts) to help men get out bad living situations and live a better life than they were experiencing.
This was a novel that dealt with relationships, a touch of romance, and a pleasing finish for this reader.
November 18, 2018
Clergyman Tom Cross is living a lie and running from his past. After being driven out to the countryside, beaten, and left for dead, Tom is taken in by the reclusive Thorne siblings while he recovers. Miranda Thorne is an artist who seems to have as many secrets as Tom does. The two forge a friendship that continues after he returns to his reform and church work in London. Tom’s life slowly begins to unravel as his past comes back to haunt him. Forced to face the past, Tom begins to see a different future than he imagined – a future that has Miranda in it. What Tom doesn’t realize is that Miranda has to face her own past so that she can move on with her future.
BEAR NO MALICE is a great companion novel to IMPOSSIBLE SAINTS – though both novels can be read separately. Personally, I enjoyed IMPOSSIBLE SAINTS a bit more because of the suffragette storyline. That being said, BEAR NO MALICE is a beautifully written, enthralling novel about two people who have to confront their pasts so that they can move on with their futures. Clarissa Harwood parcels out the details of both Tom’s and Miranda’s pasts throughout the novel, developing and changing them as they shape their futures. Their individual journeys and their mutual romance
Clarissa Harwood once again brings to life the Edwardian Era and England through the fashions, customs, society, politics, and everyday life. Tom Cross’s passion for prison reform as well as helping the poor makes a compelling storyline throughout the novel.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
BEAR NO MALICE is a great companion novel to IMPOSSIBLE SAINTS – though both novels can be read separately. Personally, I enjoyed IMPOSSIBLE SAINTS a bit more because of the suffragette storyline. That being said, BEAR NO MALICE is a beautifully written, enthralling novel about two people who have to confront their pasts so that they can move on with their futures. Clarissa Harwood parcels out the details of both Tom’s and Miranda’s pasts throughout the novel, developing and changing them as they shape their futures. Their individual journeys and their mutual romance
Clarissa Harwood once again brings to life the Edwardian Era and England through the fashions, customs, society, politics, and everyday life. Tom Cross’s passion for prison reform as well as helping the poor makes a compelling storyline throughout the novel.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
January 1, 2019
I’ve been eagerly awaiting this book and Harwood did not disappoint. I love historical fiction that takes me right into the era through the lives of the characters, and Bear No Malice does just that. Tom Cross and Miranda Thorne are both battling demons from their past. When Tom is beaten and left for dead near the Thorne’s cottage, Miranda nurses him during his recovery. Without revealing their pasts, they each find a champion in the other and when Tom returns to London they maintain their friendship.
Bit by bit, we learn more of Tom and Miranda’s pasts as it catches up with them. In Tom’s case it destroys his reputation and frees him from his lies. Miranda stands by him, but when she is given a chance to reunite with someone she’s left behind, she has to choose between her past and future with Tom. This book pulled me in from the beginning and kept me captivated right through to the end.
Bit by bit, we learn more of Tom and Miranda’s pasts as it catches up with them. In Tom’s case it destroys his reputation and frees him from his lies. Miranda stands by him, but when she is given a chance to reunite with someone she’s left behind, she has to choose between her past and future with Tom. This book pulled me in from the beginning and kept me captivated right through to the end.
January 20, 2019
Marvelous Edwardian histfic and enough romance to satisfy the rom-reader. IMHO, an even better book than Harwood's excellent début, Impossible Saints. What really made this for me (and I know it's good when I'm eager to get home from work just to read it!) were the hero and heroine. They were complex, believable in their erratic, changeable moods, decisions, reasoning ... I loved Tom and Miranda. They were flawed, yet sympathetic: and their HEA is hard-won and well-deserved. Harwood doesn't stint on the secondary characters either: taking some stereotypical figures, like the dissatisfied society wife, the vapid up-coming social wife, and making them nuanced and likeable. Harwood's not interested in redeeming her characters' flaws (an error found too often in romance, in particular), but she makes you like them despite their flaws, even because of their flaws, by going for depth rather than sensation. If you'd like read a more extensive review, you may find it on my blog by following the link:
https://missbatesreadsromance.com/201...
Please note that the author and I are acquainted. And that I received a e-galley of the novel from Pegasus Books, via Edelweiss+.
https://missbatesreadsromance.com/201...
Please note that the author and I are acquainted. And that I received a e-galley of the novel from Pegasus Books, via Edelweiss+.
January 10, 2019
Two gifted people harboring secrets and pain are brought together by circumstance.
The man we're first introduced to as Tom Cross (he'll have several more names before the story is done) is an Anglican cleric. Tom has just broken off an affair with an aristocratic married woman when he is kidnapped and viciously beaten by unknown assailants.
He's found and nursed back to health by Miranda Thorne, an artist living in reclusive isolation with her brother Simon. Miranda is also haunted by experiences in her past, which make it difficult for her to trust others and, in particular, clergy. Tom conceals his identity and profession from his rescuers, a factor which will soon add to his feelings of guilt.
The relationship between Tom and Miranda grows slowly. At one point he muses that he doesn't find her particularly attractive and "...in any circumstance but the one that had brought her into his life, he wouldn't have given her a second thought." Miranda also doesn't see Tom as other than a friend initially. But, as their friendship grows and they get to know one another that attitude changes for both.
Then, just as we see love bloom, circumstance intervenes again. Tom's reputation is shattered by allegations against his character and the man responsible for Miranda's travail throws her another curve. Can love overcome such obstacles?
You'll need to read the book to find out.
The story is told, in turn, from the viewpoints of Tom and Miranda so that we learn gradually their backstories. In between the reader is treated with insight into the politics of the Anglican church, the art world of the period and the stifling conformity of the Edwardian era--an intriguing mix of historical fiction, romance and mystery. Highly recommended.
The man we're first introduced to as Tom Cross (he'll have several more names before the story is done) is an Anglican cleric. Tom has just broken off an affair with an aristocratic married woman when he is kidnapped and viciously beaten by unknown assailants.
He's found and nursed back to health by Miranda Thorne, an artist living in reclusive isolation with her brother Simon. Miranda is also haunted by experiences in her past, which make it difficult for her to trust others and, in particular, clergy. Tom conceals his identity and profession from his rescuers, a factor which will soon add to his feelings of guilt.
The relationship between Tom and Miranda grows slowly. At one point he muses that he doesn't find her particularly attractive and "...in any circumstance but the one that had brought her into his life, he wouldn't have given her a second thought." Miranda also doesn't see Tom as other than a friend initially. But, as their friendship grows and they get to know one another that attitude changes for both.
Then, just as we see love bloom, circumstance intervenes again. Tom's reputation is shattered by allegations against his character and the man responsible for Miranda's travail throws her another curve. Can love overcome such obstacles?
You'll need to read the book to find out.
The story is told, in turn, from the viewpoints of Tom and Miranda so that we learn gradually their backstories. In between the reader is treated with insight into the politics of the Anglican church, the art world of the period and the stifling conformity of the Edwardian era--an intriguing mix of historical fiction, romance and mystery. Highly recommended.
July 5, 2020
4.5 stars This book was intriguing from beginning to end and the characters were very well written. I think I perhaps should have read Impossible Saints first, although something tells me I may have had a difficult time liking the hero had I done so. I deducted a half star because of the ending. I wanted an epilogue. No, it needed an epilogue.
August 28, 2018
Thoroughly delightful companion novel to IMPOSSIBLE SAINTS, which I adored. (That said, you don't need to have read IMPOSSIBLE SAINTS to enjoy BEAR NO MALICE—it's a standalone.) BEAR NO MALICE intimately and sensitively explores the many ways past regrets can undermine lives in the present, and what it takes to free oneself from them. I especially loved the character of Miranda, whose characters bears similarities to the Lady of Shalott, only updated for the Edwardian Age. Oh and Grantchester meets GREAT EXPECTATIONS is the perfect description for this novel!
More to come closer to publication, and many thanks to the author and Pegasus Books for the advance reader copy!
More to come closer to publication, and many thanks to the author and Pegasus Books for the advance reader copy!
June 26, 2019
Appreciating this Canadian author's historical research providing insights into the era's influences on members of society and actions of clergy.
Unique story, well told. Interesting characters whose stories I cared about.
Anticipating more of Clarissa Harwood's writing!
2nd on the library's hold reserves - woot yes !
Unique story, well told. Interesting characters whose stories I cared about.
Anticipating more of Clarissa Harwood's writing!
2nd on the library's hold reserves - woot yes !
June 14, 2019
Before I even began this book, I was highly curious about it as I had read this author’s first novel, Impossible Saints, and I knew that Bear No Malice was centered around the “villain” of Impossible Saints, Tom Cross. I find it so interesting when authors explore characters from one angle in one book, and then those same characters show up in subsequent books, shown from an entirely different angle. I think I love this so much because that’s always what happens in real life for me with people. I’ll make judgments about someone and feel pretty solid in that judgment, and then new information comes to light down the road that makes me change my mind and see them as a totally different person. And that’s exactly what happened for me with this novel, too. All of my assumptions about Tom Cross were upended and turned inside out, in the most delicious way.
In Impossible Saints, we see Tom Cross as a brooding, stubborn man with a forceful nature who can be kind of jerk sometimes. What’s wonderful (and also shows such skill on the part of the author, in my opinion) is that in Bear No Malice Tom Cross is very definitely STILL a brooding, stubborn man with a forceful nature who can be kind of jerk sometimes. It’s just that we learn so much more about his past, his severely dysfunctional childhood and family, and him as a person, that his temperament and motivations make so much more sense. Again, this was a great reminder for me that we oftentimes think we know what is going on with someone and why they act the way they do, but really we have no idea. Everyone’s motivations make sense to them in the moment because everyone is operating from a unique perspective, and it is so important to try to get all the details and understand someone’s perspective before you judge them. Anyway, suffice to say, that in Impossible Saints I was intrigued by Tom Cross but also just plain irritated by his actions. In Bear No Malice he turned out to be my favorite character out of BOTH books. Once I learned about his past, I found him highly relatable and realized we would probably be great friends with each other if he was a real-life person. I ended up having a lot of respect for him and loving his story.
The other character I fell in love with was Tom’s love interest, Miranda. Now HERE is a woman who I felt an instant connection with—a sensitive artistic introvert who is also strong-willed, passionate, and an independent thinker. Miranda is described as wearing very plain clothing much of the time, gray and black dresses and artist’s smocks, and at one point it’s mentioned that even though her clothing is very plain, she has put as much thought into choosing it as a lady of high fashion puts into choosing a fancy dress. This resonated with me to the core and was such an astute little observation about those of us who are more introverted and prefer that the attention land on our creative works, rather than on ourselves. Overall, the portrayal of women in this novel was just superb. In fact, one of the best lines about female beauty EVER is used to describe another of my favorite characters, Lady Carrington:
“She wore her beauty as if it were a medal she had won for fighting in a war she didn’t remember—it was her duty to display it, yet she seemed vaguely puzzled by its existence.”
Spectacular.
No matter what kind of fiction you like, I think you’ll find something interesting in Bear No Malice, but I do highly recommend it to anyone who loves historical fiction, literary fiction, fiction with strong female protagonists, fiction that takes place pre-WWI, and of course, as it takes place in Great Britain, all anglophiles are sure to love it as well.
In Impossible Saints, we see Tom Cross as a brooding, stubborn man with a forceful nature who can be kind of jerk sometimes. What’s wonderful (and also shows such skill on the part of the author, in my opinion) is that in Bear No Malice Tom Cross is very definitely STILL a brooding, stubborn man with a forceful nature who can be kind of jerk sometimes. It’s just that we learn so much more about his past, his severely dysfunctional childhood and family, and him as a person, that his temperament and motivations make so much more sense. Again, this was a great reminder for me that we oftentimes think we know what is going on with someone and why they act the way they do, but really we have no idea. Everyone’s motivations make sense to them in the moment because everyone is operating from a unique perspective, and it is so important to try to get all the details and understand someone’s perspective before you judge them. Anyway, suffice to say, that in Impossible Saints I was intrigued by Tom Cross but also just plain irritated by his actions. In Bear No Malice he turned out to be my favorite character out of BOTH books. Once I learned about his past, I found him highly relatable and realized we would probably be great friends with each other if he was a real-life person. I ended up having a lot of respect for him and loving his story.
The other character I fell in love with was Tom’s love interest, Miranda. Now HERE is a woman who I felt an instant connection with—a sensitive artistic introvert who is also strong-willed, passionate, and an independent thinker. Miranda is described as wearing very plain clothing much of the time, gray and black dresses and artist’s smocks, and at one point it’s mentioned that even though her clothing is very plain, she has put as much thought into choosing it as a lady of high fashion puts into choosing a fancy dress. This resonated with me to the core and was such an astute little observation about those of us who are more introverted and prefer that the attention land on our creative works, rather than on ourselves. Overall, the portrayal of women in this novel was just superb. In fact, one of the best lines about female beauty EVER is used to describe another of my favorite characters, Lady Carrington:
“She wore her beauty as if it were a medal she had won for fighting in a war she didn’t remember—it was her duty to display it, yet she seemed vaguely puzzled by its existence.”
Spectacular.
No matter what kind of fiction you like, I think you’ll find something interesting in Bear No Malice, but I do highly recommend it to anyone who loves historical fiction, literary fiction, fiction with strong female protagonists, fiction that takes place pre-WWI, and of course, as it takes place in Great Britain, all anglophiles are sure to love it as well.
January 15, 2019
In 1907 England, clergyman Tom Cross has a handsome face and a litany of secrets. He's guilt-ridden over his sins, but can't seem to keep the lies from piling up. Until some mysterious thugs beat him to the point of death, and a reclusive pair of siblings rescues him from the forest where he was left to die. Tom, Miranda, and Simon develop in fascinating ways, and this novel follows their efforts to come to terms with their difficult pasts.
This book was a delight. I read it in a day, I was so invested in Tom and Miranda's world. Harwood has crafted complex characters who never succumb to stereotype. They struggle with generosity but find ways to forgive, they harbor secrets but don't hold on to them too tightly. This is page-turning character study, and you'll stay up late wanting to find out how Tom and Miranda will escape the traps laid by their own pasts.
This book was a delight. I read it in a day, I was so invested in Tom and Miranda's world. Harwood has crafted complex characters who never succumb to stereotype. They struggle with generosity but find ways to forgive, they harbor secrets but don't hold on to them too tightly. This is page-turning character study, and you'll stay up late wanting to find out how Tom and Miranda will escape the traps laid by their own pasts.
October 24, 2021
I cannot believe I never left a review of this. I've now read it SEVERAL times! It is a quiet, gripping love story at the intersection of faith and doubt with the same intelligent romance, quiet, unfurling setting and deeper philosophical nudges that made me fall deeply in love with Impossible Saints.
I call it Great Expectations meets Grantchester.
I am hosting the author for a chat this week so was re-visiting it and cannot believe I hadn't come here to tell you to read Miranda's story yet!! (But I prob have on another social platform!)
I call it Great Expectations meets Grantchester.
I am hosting the author for a chat this week so was re-visiting it and cannot believe I hadn't come here to tell you to read Miranda's story yet!! (But I prob have on another social platform!)
April 13, 2020
A lovely tale of redemption. Write has a nice, strong, clear voice.
June 3, 2019
My review of this book appears in Historical Novels Review Issue 87, February 2019:
Harwood has followed up her much-praised debut, Impossible Saints, with a companion novel in which the antagonist of the first book has become the protagonist of Bear No Malice. The result is an intriguing study of a flawed man, Thomas Cross, who finds new meaning in his life when he meets Miranda, a sensitive, talented young woman as damaged by grief and guilt as he is. Both characters struggle with painful pasts and chafe against the rigid Edwardian social restrictions that have forced them to keep secret their deepest fears and regrets. In spite of this, their basic decency and undeniable affection for one another move them slowly but inexorably into a plot that is both a romance and a critique of the snobbery and misogyny of the time. Miranda in particular is an unforgettable character, and a rare example of a heroine who battles anxiety and mental illness but is not defined by it, nor in need of rescue.
All the characters in this novel, even the minor ones, are complex and surprising, and Harwood deftly blends social realism with fairytale lyricism in a way that is moving without being sentimental. The dialogue is a bit stilted—the characters tend to make speeches rather than banter—but the patient reader will overlook that after the first few chapters as the powerful emotional journey Thomas and Miranda experience, both together and apart, takes over.
Harwood has followed up her much-praised debut, Impossible Saints, with a companion novel in which the antagonist of the first book has become the protagonist of Bear No Malice. The result is an intriguing study of a flawed man, Thomas Cross, who finds new meaning in his life when he meets Miranda, a sensitive, talented young woman as damaged by grief and guilt as he is. Both characters struggle with painful pasts and chafe against the rigid Edwardian social restrictions that have forced them to keep secret their deepest fears and regrets. In spite of this, their basic decency and undeniable affection for one another move them slowly but inexorably into a plot that is both a romance and a critique of the snobbery and misogyny of the time. Miranda in particular is an unforgettable character, and a rare example of a heroine who battles anxiety and mental illness but is not defined by it, nor in need of rescue.
All the characters in this novel, even the minor ones, are complex and surprising, and Harwood deftly blends social realism with fairytale lyricism in a way that is moving without being sentimental. The dialogue is a bit stilted—the characters tend to make speeches rather than banter—but the patient reader will overlook that after the first few chapters as the powerful emotional journey Thomas and Miranda experience, both together and apart, takes over.
October 12, 2018
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for sending me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Bear No Malice was a really nice and refreshing read, not exactly what historical fiction/romance usually offers, and that was a very pleasant surprise. It felt quite rooted in reality, it wasn't just about the main couple being swept away by their emotions. There was Miranda's backstory and there was Tom's, and both were sad and heartbreaking. They both had their faults and pasts and "skeletons in their cupboards", it was very interesting to see them navigate around those, and change and grow as characters and finally finding a way to be together, despite everything around them that may be wrong.
The writing, as such, was not that thrilling but I guess that's also part of the charm as it gave me this vivid image of the scenery and felt so calm and... Victorian, I should say? One thing that kind of threw me off was, there were so many Christian themes and not being Christian, I was very lost in those instances but I don't think it hindered my understanding of the whole picture, really. All in all, I enjoyed this book very much, finished it in a day, and I hope I get to read more from the author!
Bear No Malice was a really nice and refreshing read, not exactly what historical fiction/romance usually offers, and that was a very pleasant surprise. It felt quite rooted in reality, it wasn't just about the main couple being swept away by their emotions. There was Miranda's backstory and there was Tom's, and both were sad and heartbreaking. They both had their faults and pasts and "skeletons in their cupboards", it was very interesting to see them navigate around those, and change and grow as characters and finally finding a way to be together, despite everything around them that may be wrong.
The writing, as such, was not that thrilling but I guess that's also part of the charm as it gave me this vivid image of the scenery and felt so calm and... Victorian, I should say? One thing that kind of threw me off was, there were so many Christian themes and not being Christian, I was very lost in those instances but I don't think it hindered my understanding of the whole picture, really. All in all, I enjoyed this book very much, finished it in a day, and I hope I get to read more from the author!
July 12, 2019
I've read very little (any?) historical fiction in my time, but this one really engaged me. I loved the sense of place the author created, whether it was the time period as a whole (very early twentieth-century London(ish), or specific locations, language choices, or discussions about social, cultural and religious values.
I was drawn to the main characters and the personal and emotional struggles they had to fight to overcome, and in some cases be shown how to overcome by each other. Tom and Miranda make for a great pair of leads, and the obstacles that bar them from having a romantic relationship make for a great case of will they/won't they, should they/shouldn't they?
I don't get into a lot of specifics in my reviews, but suffice to say I really enjoyed this one and whipped through it rather quickly (for me anyway). I'm excited to read Harwood's other novel as well!
I was drawn to the main characters and the personal and emotional struggles they had to fight to overcome, and in some cases be shown how to overcome by each other. Tom and Miranda make for a great pair of leads, and the obstacles that bar them from having a romantic relationship make for a great case of will they/won't they, should they/shouldn't they?
I don't get into a lot of specifics in my reviews, but suffice to say I really enjoyed this one and whipped through it rather quickly (for me anyway). I'm excited to read Harwood's other novel as well!
January 31, 2019
Bear No Malice is a good historical fiction story. It's centred around Tom and Miranda. These are interesting characters because they are flawed and their personalities don't try to hide this. It makes them more relatable and likeable. The story is set during the Edwardian era which was a time of social rules and standards etc. The story moves at a good pace and unfolds with enough intrigue to keep the pages turning. It's a good read overall. Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
February 18, 2019
This finely-tuned historical novel transports the reader to early 20th Century England, where a young female artist with a secret and painful past rescues an injured Anglican priest with secrets of his own. From the Surry countryside to the churches and drawing rooms of London, and on into England's illicit boxing dens and penitentiaries, Harwood pulls the reader into the Edwardian era as though she could actually transport us there to witness history with our own eyes. Harwood practices a delicate steadiness in drawing her characters and painting a time when supporting women's voices and protecting the vulnerable among us was beginning to transform institutions. Bear No Malice balances mystery and discovery from the first page to the last, making for a delightful reading experience. With expert pacing and intricately woven backstories, Harwood has crafted a rich story of heartbreak, redemption, grace, and love.
July 17, 2022
This was my first read with this author and I would read her again for sure. I thought the narrartor was great. The characters were flawed, layered and wonderful. The story was layered and had real life nuiance. I enjoyed going on the path of healing, growth and reconcilliation with their indvidual pasts with the the h and H. I am horrible with rembering names but the lady the h painted a portrait of and her husband had their good side but at the end of the day still selfish. They tried to use the h for their own selfish purposes. I had read this book just after reading a book where the h and H had an arrainged marriage but choose each other and choose love. This lady certainly did not and I could see the difference. I thought the plot was unique and the story very engaging. The book had good flow and I enjoyed every minute listening to it.
July 14, 2021
Well… This book took me a very long time to finish but was well worth it. I read it because another author whose novels I enjoy recommended it, Mimi Matthews. However, I started off with the audio version and after renewing it from the library at least four times I finally got the print edition. What a difference! I just could not enjoy the audio narrator and once I started reading it on my own it was much better.
This novel was immensely satisfying! Interesting characters, with interesting back stories, and great character development. I loved how there were all sorts of little mysteries that you received clues about but didn’t learn the full story until later in the book. Lots of trails throughout that all tied up neatly at the end. I’m looking forward to reading other novels by this author.
This novel was immensely satisfying! Interesting characters, with interesting back stories, and great character development. I loved how there were all sorts of little mysteries that you received clues about but didn’t learn the full story until later in the book. Lots of trails throughout that all tied up neatly at the end. I’m looking forward to reading other novels by this author.
May 27, 2020
Started off a little slow with character building but I really liked this book! Got is as a cheap audio book and couldn't stop listening. Loved the down to earth, real people and dealing with real sin and healing and still moving forward in discovering who you are, healing and serving God.
Loved the reader too.
Loved the reader too.
April 29, 2024
Was not expecting this to be a romance based on the synopsis, A man is discovered badly beaten and left for dead by a woman who lives in a remote country house with her brother. Both the woman and the victim have many secrets from their past.
May 16, 2020
A nice story of flawed people and how they overcome their problems with the help of others. Set in Victorian-Edwardian times it is obvious that the author is well read in this time period. Each chapter begins with a quote from English writers- George Eliot, Dickens, Elizabeth B Browning, etc. I can’t believe the reviewer of the book read the book who said it is a cross between Downton Abbey and Grantchester. More likely Trollope’s Barchester series and Lark Rise to Candleford with a little Dickens thrown in.
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