What do you think?
Rate this book
The Time Between Us
'Haunting and enchanting by turns. This book will stay with me for a long time. Utterly magnificent' Jenni Keer ?
Can the truth about her family's past unlock her future?
Normandy, 1937 . Sixteen-year-old Elise embarks on a whirlwind romance with a young American man, which transports her from the drudgery of her everyday life caring for her mother. But neither she nor William is prepared for the war that will threaten to tear them apart...
Boston, 2009 . Lucy has been left reeling by the death of her beloved grandfather. They had always planned to visit France together after her college graduation; now, still aching from his loss, Lucy decides to take the trip alone. As Lucy traces the steps of her grandfather through the French countryside where he once served as a GI, a powerful story of love, loss and destiny emerges – but can the truth about her family's past unlock her future? Or are some scars too deep to heal?
Readers love The Time Between Us :
' Poignant , haunting story took my breath away. A simply stunning debut ' Clare Marchant
' Emotional story of love and loss, beautifully woven ' Liz Fenwick
' Left me breathless . My emotions were crushed and revived and tangled ... I cried and felt heartbreak for the characters. Time stood still and supper cooled while I finished living it... Unmissable... I cannot stop thinking about it ' Goodreads 5* Review
' Emotional rollercoaster of love and loss... An excellent read which kept my interest right through to the last page' Jo Lambert
' Fabulous , emotional ... This is a beautifully written story of war, love and loss... Pulled me in from the first page and I loved the story of Elise' NetGalley 5* Review
' Emotional and heart-breaking ... If you like WWII books then you will love this one' NetGalley 5* Review
' Fantastic ... Hooked me and kept me invested ... McCarron was able to capture the sights, smells, sounds, touch and tastes to the extent that I felt I was in the soldier's boots . It was phenomenal! ... I was emotionally wrung out by the end of the book ... This is the best book out there ... Spectacular ... Magnificently written, five-star historical fiction must be on your radar' NetGalley 5* Review
' Very beautiful read . I highly recommend this one . I really like the writer's style and look forward to her future books' @IslaRoseReads , 5* Review
' Heart-breaking dual timeline story of love, loss and the reality of life' NetGalley Reviewer
'Historical fiction is one of my favourite genres and this one did not disappoint... I recommend this book if you like to read historical fiction' NetGalley Reviewer
' Poignant and emotionally complex . Loved it ' NetGalley Reviewer
Can the truth about her family's past unlock her future?
Normandy, 1937 . Sixteen-year-old Elise embarks on a whirlwind romance with a young American man, which transports her from the drudgery of her everyday life caring for her mother. But neither she nor William is prepared for the war that will threaten to tear them apart...
Boston, 2009 . Lucy has been left reeling by the death of her beloved grandfather. They had always planned to visit France together after her college graduation; now, still aching from his loss, Lucy decides to take the trip alone. As Lucy traces the steps of her grandfather through the French countryside where he once served as a GI, a powerful story of love, loss and destiny emerges – but can the truth about her family's past unlock her future? Or are some scars too deep to heal?
Readers love The Time Between Us :
' Poignant , haunting story took my breath away. A simply stunning debut ' Clare Marchant
' Emotional story of love and loss, beautifully woven ' Liz Fenwick
' Left me breathless . My emotions were crushed and revived and tangled ... I cried and felt heartbreak for the characters. Time stood still and supper cooled while I finished living it... Unmissable... I cannot stop thinking about it ' Goodreads 5* Review
' Emotional rollercoaster of love and loss... An excellent read which kept my interest right through to the last page' Jo Lambert
' Fabulous , emotional ... This is a beautifully written story of war, love and loss... Pulled me in from the first page and I loved the story of Elise' NetGalley 5* Review
' Emotional and heart-breaking ... If you like WWII books then you will love this one' NetGalley 5* Review
' Fantastic ... Hooked me and kept me invested ... McCarron was able to capture the sights, smells, sounds, touch and tastes to the extent that I felt I was in the soldier's boots . It was phenomenal! ... I was emotionally wrung out by the end of the book ... This is the best book out there ... Spectacular ... Magnificently written, five-star historical fiction must be on your radar' NetGalley 5* Review
' Very beautiful read . I highly recommend this one . I really like the writer's style and look forward to her future books' @IslaRoseReads , 5* Review
' Heart-breaking dual timeline story of love, loss and the reality of life' NetGalley Reviewer
'Historical fiction is one of my favourite genres and this one did not disappoint... I recommend this book if you like to read historical fiction' NetGalley Reviewer
' Poignant and emotionally complex . Loved it ' NetGalley Reviewer
385 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2021
147 people are currently reading
2729 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
November 7, 2021
Boston, 2009. Lucy has been left reeling by the death of her beloved grandfather. They had always planned to visit France together after her college graduation. Now, still aching from his loss, Lucy decides to take the trip alone.
Normandy, 1937. Sixteen year old Elsie embarks on a whirlwind romance with a young American man, which transports her from the drudgery of her everyday life caring for her mother. But neither she, or William, is prepared for the war that will threaten to tear them apart.
The story is told from the perspectives of Elsie, Hank and Lucy. A coming of age story about two young women in different time periods. Both stories in the dual timeline are separate to begin with then they join together seamlessly. A story of the war that's well written. I was hooked from the first few pages. It's very good for a debut novel.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AriaAries and the author #MarinaMcCarron for my ARC of #TheTimeBetweenUs in exchange for an honest review.
Normandy, 1937. Sixteen year old Elsie embarks on a whirlwind romance with a young American man, which transports her from the drudgery of her everyday life caring for her mother. But neither she, or William, is prepared for the war that will threaten to tear them apart.
The story is told from the perspectives of Elsie, Hank and Lucy. A coming of age story about two young women in different time periods. Both stories in the dual timeline are separate to begin with then they join together seamlessly. A story of the war that's well written. I was hooked from the first few pages. It's very good for a debut novel.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #AriaAries and the author #MarinaMcCarron for my ARC of #TheTimeBetweenUs in exchange for an honest review.
November 14, 2021
I loved this book, it was so interesting as well as sad at times. I loved the historical references. The descriptions of Omaha beach were incredible. What a wonderful book. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
October 25, 2021
Journey to France
A heartbreaking dual timeline story of love, loss and the reality of life. A coming of age story of two different young women at two different time periods in history.
Sixteen year old Elise in Normandy, 1937, meets her brother Philippe's American friend William for the first time. As the war progresses and William goes to war Elise and William fall in love with each other. Their story is told within the pages of this story.
Lucy, raised by her Grandfather after the death of her parents, never knew her grandmother. Her grandfather never talks about her and his time during the war. One time he mentioned taking a trip to France and wanted her to go, but she was too busy with her studies and her boyfriend at the time. It is a decision she will regret.
After her grandfather passes, she decides to go alone on the trip to Normandy and trace the steps of her grandfather during the war hoping to find out something about her past.
I enjoyed this story, Elise's story is sad and heartbreaking, Lucy's story is filled with love for her grandfather and regrets she did not spend more time with him while he was alive.
I like the characters and it was a well written story. I felt for all the families impacted by the war, and especially Hank. Lucy was a fun character and brought some spark into the story. It was a good read and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Marina McCarron, Aria & Aries, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy of the book for my honest review.
A heartbreaking dual timeline story of love, loss and the reality of life. A coming of age story of two different young women at two different time periods in history.
Sixteen year old Elise in Normandy, 1937, meets her brother Philippe's American friend William for the first time. As the war progresses and William goes to war Elise and William fall in love with each other. Their story is told within the pages of this story.
Lucy, raised by her Grandfather after the death of her parents, never knew her grandmother. Her grandfather never talks about her and his time during the war. One time he mentioned taking a trip to France and wanted her to go, but she was too busy with her studies and her boyfriend at the time. It is a decision she will regret.
After her grandfather passes, she decides to go alone on the trip to Normandy and trace the steps of her grandfather during the war hoping to find out something about her past.
I enjoyed this story, Elise's story is sad and heartbreaking, Lucy's story is filled with love for her grandfather and regrets she did not spend more time with him while he was alive.
I like the characters and it was a well written story. I felt for all the families impacted by the war, and especially Hank. Lucy was a fun character and brought some spark into the story. It was a good read and I would recommend it.
Thanks to Marina McCarron, Aria & Aries, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy of the book for my honest review.
August 8, 2022
This is a dual timeline story about 16 yo Elise in 1937 France. Her brother Pierre brings home a friend, William. William is from New England and is in France to fight As Elise and William spend more time together, they fall in love. As time goes by, Elise finds out that William has died in action. She is visited by William's close friend Hank. Elise and Hank's story is told in alternating chapters. Elise is doomed to live in the past.
In 2009, Lucy who is Hank's granddaughter goes to France to find out more about the past that Hank never spoke of. It is bittersweet for her as Hank had often talked about taking Lucy with him to see the battlefields one last time. Unfortunately, he didn't live long enough. Lucy was raised by her grandfather as her parents died in a car crash, she was the only survivor.
While in France, Lucy meets Rob, an American who is a tour guide and tours the beaches from the battles. He is a good guide for her, with his help she is able to learn more about her grandfather and who Elise was, and her short relationship with William.
The story progresses swiftly, we learn about Elise and her troubled relationship with her mother and brother. Hank, promised William that he would look after Elise, even going as far as to marry her and move her to the US. They have a child, who never really gets to know his mother as she can't escape her past. Hank as a single parent raises his son, but still never talks about the war years which has frustrated Lucy.
This novel was so good and so much of a tear-jerker, I have not cried over a book in a long time. I always believe that an author has done a great job when it reduces me to tears. Such a bittersweet story and the intertwined lives of William, Elise, Hank, and Lucy. The descriptions of the war years were spot on and how the people on both sides of the ocean managed to continue with their lives.
I give this book 5 stars, which I don't often do, but I loved it!
In 2009, Lucy who is Hank's granddaughter goes to France to find out more about the past that Hank never spoke of. It is bittersweet for her as Hank had often talked about taking Lucy with him to see the battlefields one last time. Unfortunately, he didn't live long enough. Lucy was raised by her grandfather as her parents died in a car crash, she was the only survivor.
While in France, Lucy meets Rob, an American who is a tour guide and tours the beaches from the battles. He is a good guide for her, with his help she is able to learn more about her grandfather and who Elise was, and her short relationship with William.
The story progresses swiftly, we learn about Elise and her troubled relationship with her mother and brother. Hank, promised William that he would look after Elise, even going as far as to marry her and move her to the US. They have a child, who never really gets to know his mother as she can't escape her past. Hank as a single parent raises his son, but still never talks about the war years which has frustrated Lucy.
This novel was so good and so much of a tear-jerker, I have not cried over a book in a long time. I always believe that an author has done a great job when it reduces me to tears. Such a bittersweet story and the intertwined lives of William, Elise, Hank, and Lucy. The descriptions of the war years were spot on and how the people on both sides of the ocean managed to continue with their lives.
I give this book 5 stars, which I don't often do, but I loved it!
October 13, 2021
“Bullets sing. He never knew that. If he listens closely he can hear every single one of them.”
I had to go back and double-check that this amazing story was written by a debut author! Seriously, this is a fantastic book - my interest was held from page one to the final page. I think what initially hooked me and kept me invested was the incredible visceral narrative and the inclusion of the five senses in her writing. Never before have I read an account of a soldier storming the beach at Normandy. McCarron was able to capture the sights, smells, sounds, touch and tastes to the extent that I felt I was in the soldier’s boots. It was phenomenal! This style was carried through the narrative.
Told in a dual timeline, this story alternates between France 1936 and Boston 2009. The author engages readers in a historical family saga that explores how the war affected both those fighting and those left behind. In a rarely written perspective, readers are pulled into Operation Overlord through the eyes of a soldier as well as a young woman in Normandy. One experiences June 6, 1944, from Omaha Beach and one one the same day from the village of Esperance. Both cope with the lasting effects of this 1944 campaign for the invasion of Europe. The protagonist in the second timeline also experiences Omaha Beach, but as a tourist trying to find her grandfather’s best friend’s marker.
I was emotionally wrung out by the end of the book. McCarron magnificently taps into her readers’ emotions as the war plays out in the LaCroix and Hardwick and Corrigan families. I think this is the best book out there that gives readers a glimpse into the ‘keep calm and carry on’ wartime attitude and allows them to draw their own conclusions as to whether this sentiment was a healthy one or not.
“Fate is what happens when you abdicate responsibility for your life. Destiny is when you get to a good end by making good decisions.”
How ironic that Elise LaCroix was born and lived in a little village in Normandy named Esperance - the French word origin for the English derivative of ‘hope.’ You’ll have to read this spectacular book to discover if Elise was a victim of fate or destiny. The poignancy of the publication date was not lost on me!
This magnificently written, five-star historical fiction must be on your radar come November 11, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Marina McCarron, Aria & Aries, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I had to go back and double-check that this amazing story was written by a debut author! Seriously, this is a fantastic book - my interest was held from page one to the final page. I think what initially hooked me and kept me invested was the incredible visceral narrative and the inclusion of the five senses in her writing. Never before have I read an account of a soldier storming the beach at Normandy. McCarron was able to capture the sights, smells, sounds, touch and tastes to the extent that I felt I was in the soldier’s boots. It was phenomenal! This style was carried through the narrative.
Told in a dual timeline, this story alternates between France 1936 and Boston 2009. The author engages readers in a historical family saga that explores how the war affected both those fighting and those left behind. In a rarely written perspective, readers are pulled into Operation Overlord through the eyes of a soldier as well as a young woman in Normandy. One experiences June 6, 1944, from Omaha Beach and one one the same day from the village of Esperance. Both cope with the lasting effects of this 1944 campaign for the invasion of Europe. The protagonist in the second timeline also experiences Omaha Beach, but as a tourist trying to find her grandfather’s best friend’s marker.
I was emotionally wrung out by the end of the book. McCarron magnificently taps into her readers’ emotions as the war plays out in the LaCroix and Hardwick and Corrigan families. I think this is the best book out there that gives readers a glimpse into the ‘keep calm and carry on’ wartime attitude and allows them to draw their own conclusions as to whether this sentiment was a healthy one or not.
“Fate is what happens when you abdicate responsibility for your life. Destiny is when you get to a good end by making good decisions.”
How ironic that Elise LaCroix was born and lived in a little village in Normandy named Esperance - the French word origin for the English derivative of ‘hope.’ You’ll have to read this spectacular book to discover if Elise was a victim of fate or destiny. The poignancy of the publication date was not lost on me!
This magnificently written, five-star historical fiction must be on your radar come November 11, 2021.
I was gifted this advance copy by Marina McCarron, Aria & Aries, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
March 9, 2024
I really enjoyed this dual timeline book, set in France and America. The story follows Elise and William in pre-war Normandy as they fall in love through letters sent across the Atlantic and a few too short visits. The book also has parts from 2009 when Lucy, a young American, decides to visit the beaches where her grandfather took part in the D-Day landings. He has recently passed and she wishes she had taken the time to do the trip with him when he had asked her. I tore through this book in just two settings as I was eager to hear more of Elise’s story, and if Lucy can find out more about her grandad’s past.
February 23, 2022
Reading about war time is never easy, the emotions seem more raw and the pain more heartbreaking. It’s not only for all the people that lost their lives during the war but all the broken families that also left; a pain that will never be repaired.
This is a bittersweet story, told between two different timelines; the past Normandy 1937; the life of a young woman, Elise, who seems to meet a very charming man but then war starts… And Boston 2009, where Lucy wants to discover her grandfather’s past after he passed away.
As you can imagine, these two stories will progress parallel during the book; you’ll discover Elise’s story while you’ll meet Lucy’s present and her eagerness to know more about her past.
I’ll have to say that I am a little biased about this story; I loved all the story and how well written it is, but in the end I felt like there was something missing. You discovered all their secrets, yes, but what’s waiting on Lucy’s future? What really happened to Elise’s family? Some questions are not really answered, making me wonder if there’s a chance that we have another book with the other side of the story, the one with Elise’s brother, her troubles and why he disappeared from Elise’s life…
I really enjoyed this read, but I was so invested in the story that it felt short and with so many questions left unanswered that I would love to know more about all of the characters!
If you are looking for an absorbing read, believe me, “The Time Between Us” is what you need. Ready?
This is a bittersweet story, told between two different timelines; the past Normandy 1937; the life of a young woman, Elise, who seems to meet a very charming man but then war starts… And Boston 2009, where Lucy wants to discover her grandfather’s past after he passed away.
As you can imagine, these two stories will progress parallel during the book; you’ll discover Elise’s story while you’ll meet Lucy’s present and her eagerness to know more about her past.
I’ll have to say that I am a little biased about this story; I loved all the story and how well written it is, but in the end I felt like there was something missing. You discovered all their secrets, yes, but what’s waiting on Lucy’s future? What really happened to Elise’s family? Some questions are not really answered, making me wonder if there’s a chance that we have another book with the other side of the story, the one with Elise’s brother, her troubles and why he disappeared from Elise’s life…
I really enjoyed this read, but I was so invested in the story that it felt short and with so many questions left unanswered that I would love to know more about all of the characters!
If you are looking for an absorbing read, believe me, “The Time Between Us” is what you need. Ready?
January 3, 2022
Such a beautiful yet heartbreaking story of loss and grief. Could not put this one down, needed to know what came next in each chapter.
August 28, 2022
In way, I wish this book was written a little differently in the sense of stylistic terms. The prologue was so devastatingly, painstakingly sorrow-filled and so beautifully written; but it also let us know as a reader what to expect- part one of the book had already been written. At times, it also seemed like each of the three parts did not intertwine with one another until things tied together at the end.
Hank's character bothered me in the sense that he did not seem to try and love Elise. Sure, she was very broken and probably wouldn't have let him in anyways, but he was with her in a way that no man ever had before and had the potential to be with her in the future in a way that no man had been before. He could have helped her heal maybe even in the slightest way and he could have finally been someone in her life that she loved that didn't die so soon.
The ending of this book made my mouth open in shock. I could not believe the bombshell that is dropped at the end and how everything finally comes together. It also hit me that the house where Rob lived was the house that Elise lived in in France. Once I knew that, the way the story was laid out made so much more sense.
The ending begins like the book started- so bold and proud and full of promise, yet only leaves what happens next up to the imagination of the reader.
Hank's character bothered me in the sense that he did not seem to try and love Elise. Sure, she was very broken and probably wouldn't have let him in anyways, but he was with her in a way that no man ever had before and had the potential to be with her in the future in a way that no man had been before. He could have helped her heal maybe even in the slightest way and he could have finally been someone in her life that she loved that didn't die so soon.
The ending of this book made my mouth open in shock. I could not believe the bombshell that is dropped at the end and how everything finally comes together. It also hit me that the house where Rob lived was the house that Elise lived in in France. Once I knew that, the way the story was laid out made so much more sense.
The ending begins like the book started- so bold and proud and full of promise, yet only leaves what happens next up to the imagination of the reader.
November 21, 2021
A interesting story sharing the consequences of D-Day on a family.
The story covers two centuries, 1937-2009.
At times a very heartbreaking read of love and loss.
The authors description of D-Day invasion was phenomenal and incredible. The historical information was amazing, just so much to take in and visualize.
Overall, a well written story that will make you feel so many emotions.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
The story covers two centuries, 1937-2009.
At times a very heartbreaking read of love and loss.
The authors description of D-Day invasion was phenomenal and incredible. The historical information was amazing, just so much to take in and visualize.
Overall, a well written story that will make you feel so many emotions.
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 24, 2022
An emotional dual time-line novel from a talented new voice in the genre, Marina McCarron’s The Time Between Us is sure to tug at the heartstrings and have readers reaching for their tissues.
Normandy, 1937 and sixteen year old Elise’s life is one of duty, sacrifice and drudgery. Looking after her mother does not leave Elise with much time to dream – until she meets a young American man called William who makes her feel alive for the first time in a very long while. Elise thinks that in William she has found her Prince Charming and somebody she will spend the rest of her life with, but the gathering clouds of war are fast approaching leaving her future with William in jeopardy…
Boston, 2009 and Lucy is heartbroken about the death of her beloved grandfather. Lucy had been looking forward to going to France with her granddad after her college graduation and she is devastated that she will have to go to this beautiful part of the world alone. Determined to honour her grandfather and his legacy, her trip to France will help her to feel closer to him. But as she retraces the steps he had taken through the French countryside while serving as a GI, Lucy unearths a story of love, loss and bravery that will help heal her broken heart and unlock her future.
It’s hard to believe that The Time Between Us is Marina McCarron’s first novel. She is a very gifted and talented writer who has written an emotional, captivating and heartfelt novel readers cannot help but be invested in. The Time Between Us is a tale of secrets, redemption, healing and hope that is so brilliantly written readers will feel every single emotion the characters in this book go through.
Heart-wrenching, enthralling and wonderfully satisfying, Marina McCarron’s The Time Between Us will go down a treat with fans of Lorna Cook and Suzanne Fortin.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Normandy, 1937 and sixteen year old Elise’s life is one of duty, sacrifice and drudgery. Looking after her mother does not leave Elise with much time to dream – until she meets a young American man called William who makes her feel alive for the first time in a very long while. Elise thinks that in William she has found her Prince Charming and somebody she will spend the rest of her life with, but the gathering clouds of war are fast approaching leaving her future with William in jeopardy…
Boston, 2009 and Lucy is heartbroken about the death of her beloved grandfather. Lucy had been looking forward to going to France with her granddad after her college graduation and she is devastated that she will have to go to this beautiful part of the world alone. Determined to honour her grandfather and his legacy, her trip to France will help her to feel closer to him. But as she retraces the steps he had taken through the French countryside while serving as a GI, Lucy unearths a story of love, loss and bravery that will help heal her broken heart and unlock her future.
It’s hard to believe that The Time Between Us is Marina McCarron’s first novel. She is a very gifted and talented writer who has written an emotional, captivating and heartfelt novel readers cannot help but be invested in. The Time Between Us is a tale of secrets, redemption, healing and hope that is so brilliantly written readers will feel every single emotion the characters in this book go through.
Heart-wrenching, enthralling and wonderfully satisfying, Marina McCarron’s The Time Between Us will go down a treat with fans of Lorna Cook and Suzanne Fortin.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 17, 2024
I received this book through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Copy provided by Aria & Aries.
This was a debut novel spanning decades from 2937 to 2009. This book was told in three voices Elise, a troubled Frenchwoman destined to live in the past, William, an American World War II soldier whose life is shaped by a promise and Lucy, their granddaughter who while searching out her grandparents’ history, finds her own way forward.
In Normandy, 1937, sixteen-year-old Elise embarks on a whirlwind romance with a young American man, which transports her from the drudgery of her everyday life caring for her mother. Before the outbreak of World War II, is introduced to her brother’s American friend William. As war is declared and he becomes involved in the fighting, they fall in love.
In Boston, 2009, Lucy has been left reeling by the death of her beloved grandfather. They had always planned to visit France together after her college graduation; now, still aching from his loss, Lucy decides to take the trip alone to Normandy , hoping to trace down some of his grandfather's past life.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read. Although I do think it could of been shorter and writing could be more simplistic at times. I loved learning about the character development of each character. If you are a historical fiction fan, I highly recommend reading this book.
Rating 3.5/5
This was a debut novel spanning decades from 2937 to 2009. This book was told in three voices Elise, a troubled Frenchwoman destined to live in the past, William, an American World War II soldier whose life is shaped by a promise and Lucy, their granddaughter who while searching out her grandparents’ history, finds her own way forward.
In Normandy, 1937, sixteen-year-old Elise embarks on a whirlwind romance with a young American man, which transports her from the drudgery of her everyday life caring for her mother. Before the outbreak of World War II, is introduced to her brother’s American friend William. As war is declared and he becomes involved in the fighting, they fall in love.
In Boston, 2009, Lucy has been left reeling by the death of her beloved grandfather. They had always planned to visit France together after her college graduation; now, still aching from his loss, Lucy decides to take the trip alone to Normandy , hoping to trace down some of his grandfather's past life.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read. Although I do think it could of been shorter and writing could be more simplistic at times. I loved learning about the character development of each character. If you are a historical fiction fan, I highly recommend reading this book.
Rating 3.5/5
October 14, 2021
This is a poignant story of war, love and family. Told with a dual timeline and in two parts it spans 65 years. I know I am supposed to like And have great sympathy for Elise but I could only like her for the first quarter of the book. After that I found her selfish and cold, even with the way the author described her I just couldn’t like her. On the other hand, Hank is a wonderful character as is Lucy.
The historical parts of the book were emotional and heartbreaking. Hank was such an admirable man and such an amazing parent and grandfather. He is somebody I would have liked to known if he was real. The storyline was great and the author wrote it in a wonderful manner. The relationship between Lucy and Hank was magical. The ending was disappointing though and left me hoping there is going to be another book in this series. I was looking forward to a somewhat predictable ending but alas it didn’t happen. It would have been a perfect book had it ended differently.
If you like WWII books then you will love this one. Thank you to Aria Books for the invitation to read the excellent book via NetGalley
The historical parts of the book were emotional and heartbreaking. Hank was such an admirable man and such an amazing parent and grandfather. He is somebody I would have liked to known if he was real. The storyline was great and the author wrote it in a wonderful manner. The relationship between Lucy and Hank was magical. The ending was disappointing though and left me hoping there is going to be another book in this series. I was looking forward to a somewhat predictable ending but alas it didn’t happen. It would have been a perfect book had it ended differently.
If you like WWII books then you will love this one. Thank you to Aria Books for the invitation to read the excellent book via NetGalley
November 10, 2021
The Time Between Us - Marina McCarron
The Time Between Us is an absolute must-read, an emotional and utterly heart wrenching page-turner. I’m having trouble finding the exact words to express just how much I loved this book. A remarkable coming of age story of two young women from two very different periods in time - 1937 Normandy and 2009 America. I loved the dual timelines and how they were so seamlessly woven together. McCarron takes us on an incredible journey across generations with Elise, Lucy and Hank and as a reader we experience the lasting impact the war has, all the joy and hope, tragedy and loss. This is a poignant and complex story that stays with you long after the last page has been read. Highly recommend to historical fiction readers and look forward to more from Marina McCarron in the future!
Thank you to @Aria_Fiction and @Netgalley for the eARC of #TheTimeBetweenUs. Available November 11 2021.
The Time Between Us is an absolute must-read, an emotional and utterly heart wrenching page-turner. I’m having trouble finding the exact words to express just how much I loved this book. A remarkable coming of age story of two young women from two very different periods in time - 1937 Normandy and 2009 America. I loved the dual timelines and how they were so seamlessly woven together. McCarron takes us on an incredible journey across generations with Elise, Lucy and Hank and as a reader we experience the lasting impact the war has, all the joy and hope, tragedy and loss. This is a poignant and complex story that stays with you long after the last page has been read. Highly recommend to historical fiction readers and look forward to more from Marina McCarron in the future!
Thank you to @Aria_Fiction and @Netgalley for the eARC of #TheTimeBetweenUs. Available November 11 2021.
April 3, 2023
The story is told through three main voices in two timelines.
In the 1940s, we have Elise & William.
• Elise is a French woman who has a brief affair with a young American serviceman named William. They are torn apart by the war, and when she hears of his death, Elise marries his friend Hank and goes on to have a life that is always dominated by a sadness for the love she’d lost.
• William, an American World War II soldier whose life is shaped by a promise
In 2009, 18yr old Lucy, Elise’s granddaughter, is struggling after the death of her beloved grandfather. Lucy was raised by her Grandfather after the death of her parents, but never knew her grandmother. Lucy & her grandfather were very close & had always planned to visit France together after her college graduation to visit some of the places relevant to both her grandfather & her grandmother’s pasts. Following his untimely death, Lucy decides to make their long planned journey to France, where she hopes to find some glimpses of her heritage.
As Lucy travels in France, a story emerges of love & loss, growing up and of the impact of war on multiple lives.
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator kept the story moving at a good pace, though the narrative was a bit slow in places. I had worried that a male voice might not work for a story told predominantly by women but he did a good job & his French background gave an authenticity to some of the French narrative, placenames etc.
What didn’t work so well for me
I felt that the book was a bit long, and dragged in places.
Recommendation
The book is an emotional read with some excellent detail, particularly about D-Day/Omaha beach. I would recommend it for people who enjoy historical fiction.
In the 1940s, we have Elise & William.
• Elise is a French woman who has a brief affair with a young American serviceman named William. They are torn apart by the war, and when she hears of his death, Elise marries his friend Hank and goes on to have a life that is always dominated by a sadness for the love she’d lost.
• William, an American World War II soldier whose life is shaped by a promise
In 2009, 18yr old Lucy, Elise’s granddaughter, is struggling after the death of her beloved grandfather. Lucy was raised by her Grandfather after the death of her parents, but never knew her grandmother. Lucy & her grandfather were very close & had always planned to visit France together after her college graduation to visit some of the places relevant to both her grandfather & her grandmother’s pasts. Following his untimely death, Lucy decides to make their long planned journey to France, where she hopes to find some glimpses of her heritage.
As Lucy travels in France, a story emerges of love & loss, growing up and of the impact of war on multiple lives.
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator kept the story moving at a good pace, though the narrative was a bit slow in places. I had worried that a male voice might not work for a story told predominantly by women but he did a good job & his French background gave an authenticity to some of the French narrative, placenames etc.
What didn’t work so well for me
I felt that the book was a bit long, and dragged in places.
Recommendation
The book is an emotional read with some excellent detail, particularly about D-Day/Omaha beach. I would recommend it for people who enjoy historical fiction.
November 10, 2021
The Time Between Us by Marina McCarron is a charming story about the lasting effects of war, often on generations down the line. Lucy is in France, visiting the town from which her grandmother came and the Normandy beach on which her grandfather had lost his best friend. She meets Rob, an American who is working as a tour guide to the beaches and becomes her friend. She doesn't even know her grandmother's last name, but she is hoping intuition will kick in and she will learn more about her as she explores. She also didn't know the name of her grandfather's friend and there were so many graves . . .
This is a book based solely on coincidences, and probably would never happen, but all the pieces could and it sends a message about how long things can have an influence on other things. Lucy was a terrific character and her back-story was totally believable and heart-wrenching. Her grandmother was a broken person and that affected her grandfather and his parents, as well as her own father. It was such a shame when modern medicine could probably have helped if it had happened today. Rob was a nice guy, but not a well-rounded character, really. The story of WWII reaches out and touches every family in Europe and a great many in America. It is an amazing concept. This was a good book. Poignant and beautiful in many ways.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Time Between Us by Aria, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #aria #marinamccarron #thetimebetweenus
This is a book based solely on coincidences, and probably would never happen, but all the pieces could and it sends a message about how long things can have an influence on other things. Lucy was a terrific character and her back-story was totally believable and heart-wrenching. Her grandmother was a broken person and that affected her grandfather and his parents, as well as her own father. It was such a shame when modern medicine could probably have helped if it had happened today. Rob was a nice guy, but not a well-rounded character, really. The story of WWII reaches out and touches every family in Europe and a great many in America. It is an amazing concept. This was a good book. Poignant and beautiful in many ways.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Time Between Us by Aria, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #aria #marinamccarron #thetimebetweenus
October 21, 2021
The time between us by Marina McCarron is a fabulous, emotional historical story set in two timelines. Elise living in Esperance, France in 1936 and Lucy living in America in 2009.
The story starts with William dying on the beaches in Normandy and his friend Hank promises him that he will keep his word and look after Elise.
Elise lives with her mother Marianne and works in the local bakery. She lives a sheltered life until she meets William the love of her life.
Way forward to 2009 tells us about Lucy who is getting over her grandfather’s death by going to France to see where her great grandfather walked and died all of them years ago.
Although each story is separate at the beginning, they become intertwined through the years that go by.
This is a beautiful written story or war; love and loss and it is well written for a debut novel. It pulled me in from the first page and I loved the story of Elise, her working in the bakery and her spending time in the library in the first part of the book. But than thought she got a bit self-centred. She wasn’t the only one that suffered loss in the time of war. I was also expecting a bit more at the ending. Don’t get me wrong it was okay but the rest of the book was amazing, but I thought the ending was a bit flat. 4.5 stars from me.
The story starts with William dying on the beaches in Normandy and his friend Hank promises him that he will keep his word and look after Elise.
Elise lives with her mother Marianne and works in the local bakery. She lives a sheltered life until she meets William the love of her life.
Way forward to 2009 tells us about Lucy who is getting over her grandfather’s death by going to France to see where her great grandfather walked and died all of them years ago.
Although each story is separate at the beginning, they become intertwined through the years that go by.
This is a beautiful written story or war; love and loss and it is well written for a debut novel. It pulled me in from the first page and I loved the story of Elise, her working in the bakery and her spending time in the library in the first part of the book. But than thought she got a bit self-centred. She wasn’t the only one that suffered loss in the time of war. I was also expecting a bit more at the ending. Don’t get me wrong it was okay but the rest of the book was amazing, but I thought the ending was a bit flat. 4.5 stars from me.
October 31, 2021
A wonderful story covering two separate centuries. A coming of age tale of two different young women at two different time periods in history. An emotional rollercoaster of love and loss.
Sixteen year old Elise in Normandy, just before the outbreak of World War II, is introduced to her brother’s American friend William. As war is declared and he becomes involved in the fighting, they fall in love.
In present day we meet Lucy. She has been raised by her grandfather, following the death of her parents. She never knew her grandmother. Her grandfather never talks about her or his time during the war. Lucy had the chance to go to France with him, but her studies and romance made it difficult.
Following the death of her grandfather, she realises what she should have done while he was alive and decides on a trip to Normandy, hoping to trace something of his past life.
A well balanced and enjoyable read. I enjoy dual timelines, and this was an excellent read which kept my interest right through to the last page. While Elise's story takes place in war torn Europe, Lucy's tells of the close bond shared between her and her grandfather. Her journey to France will open up a new chapter of her life, discovering secrets previously unknown to her.
Thanks to Marina McCarron, Aria & Aries, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy of the book for my honest review.
Sixteen year old Elise in Normandy, just before the outbreak of World War II, is introduced to her brother’s American friend William. As war is declared and he becomes involved in the fighting, they fall in love.
In present day we meet Lucy. She has been raised by her grandfather, following the death of her parents. She never knew her grandmother. Her grandfather never talks about her or his time during the war. Lucy had the chance to go to France with him, but her studies and romance made it difficult.
Following the death of her grandfather, she realises what she should have done while he was alive and decides on a trip to Normandy, hoping to trace something of his past life.
A well balanced and enjoyable read. I enjoy dual timelines, and this was an excellent read which kept my interest right through to the last page. While Elise's story takes place in war torn Europe, Lucy's tells of the close bond shared between her and her grandfather. Her journey to France will open up a new chapter of her life, discovering secrets previously unknown to her.
Thanks to Marina McCarron, Aria & Aries, and NetGalley for allowing me to read a complimentary copy of the book for my honest review.
November 11, 2021
After the devastating loss of her grandfather…the man who raised her, her hero…Lucy takes a pilgrimage to Normandy, France to stand where he once stood during WWII. Normandy is also the home of her grandmother, who died when her father was just a little boy. Who was her grandmother? Will this trip help her find the answers to her own life questions? In WWII Normandy, Elise has fallen in love with a young American. It’s her love for him that helps her survive the occupation and it’s her love for him that takes a hold of her and won’t let go as she grieves his death on D-Day. While one finds strength in her grief, the other slips further into darkness in this coming of age story with dual timelines.
I loved this story. I love how the characters are beautiful interwoven. Your heart breaks for both leading ladies but in different ways. It also touches on grief and how everyone copes with it differently. You can feel the emotion flow from page to page. I gave four stars because I was left with a few questions that I didn’t feel the story addressed or tied up the loose ends.
Thank you to NetGalley, Aria & Aries and Marina McCarron for early access to this wonderful story.
I loved this story. I love how the characters are beautiful interwoven. Your heart breaks for both leading ladies but in different ways. It also touches on grief and how everyone copes with it differently. You can feel the emotion flow from page to page. I gave four stars because I was left with a few questions that I didn’t feel the story addressed or tied up the loose ends.
Thank you to NetGalley, Aria & Aries and Marina McCarron for early access to this wonderful story.
August 11, 2022
The Time Between Us pulled me in from the first page. The novel was narrated by Elsie, Lucy and Hank and moved from 1937 to 2009, and their stories gradually converged, coming to a touching conclusion. This book explores how the second world war affected not only those fighting for freedom but also those who were left behind. The author's historical detail was excellent, especially the descriptions of a soldier storming the beach at Normandy which were compelling and visceral. I felt I was right beside him.
Elise's story was extremely sad but I enjoyed journeying with her as she worked in the bakery and visited the library. Later, I thought she became very self-centred and I hated the way she treated Hank, who showed her nothing but kindness. Lucy's story was heart-breaking and full of regret after the death of her beloved grandfather.
The Time Between Us was a beautiful story of war, family, love and loss. I felt many emotions as I read this poignant novel and was surprised to discover it was a debut novel for Marina McCarron. I will definitely be looking for future books by her.
Elise's story was extremely sad but I enjoyed journeying with her as she worked in the bakery and visited the library. Later, I thought she became very self-centred and I hated the way she treated Hank, who showed her nothing but kindness. Lucy's story was heart-breaking and full of regret after the death of her beloved grandfather.
The Time Between Us was a beautiful story of war, family, love and loss. I felt many emotions as I read this poignant novel and was surprised to discover it was a debut novel for Marina McCarron. I will definitely be looking for future books by her.
October 31, 2021
This was a good debut spanning decades (1937-2009) and locales (Normandy, Mass., RI, FL) centering around how the events of D-Day impacted and shaped a family’s generations. While the story is fictitious, I enjoyed the in-depth historical details.
Told in three voices, Elise, a troubled Frenchwoman destined to live in the past, Hank, an American WW2 soldier whose life is shaped by a promise and Lucy, their granddaughter who while searching out her grandparents’ history, finds her own way forward.
While I do think it could have been a bit shorter and the writing could be a little simplistic at times, I did enjoy the character development (especially Elise’s and Hank’s), and watching the progression of the choices they made at a young age. It speaks to how life and its events seems at times to be so arbitrarily put into motion.
All in all, a solidly good read.
My sincere thanks to #NetGalley and #Aria for providing me the free early arc for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
Told in three voices, Elise, a troubled Frenchwoman destined to live in the past, Hank, an American WW2 soldier whose life is shaped by a promise and Lucy, their granddaughter who while searching out her grandparents’ history, finds her own way forward.
While I do think it could have been a bit shorter and the writing could be a little simplistic at times, I did enjoy the character development (especially Elise’s and Hank’s), and watching the progression of the choices they made at a young age. It speaks to how life and its events seems at times to be so arbitrarily put into motion.
All in all, a solidly good read.
My sincere thanks to #NetGalley and #Aria for providing me the free early arc for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
January 19, 2022
3.5
It loses points for just stopping. It’s purposely obvious what will happen after this ending, but after spending the last 1/3 or more of the book in tears... I WANNA READ THE HEA! There’s not even an epilogue!
Aside from that tiny issue. It’s pretty good. A tear jerker and the guy just keeps getting kicked, while the original girl left me hating just about everything about her. Harsh considering she has some kind of major depressive disorder, but she watched and hated her mum go through it and ‘do’ that to her and then didn’t even try to not follow the same path, at multiple turning points. She may not have succeeded in a better path given what those kind of disorders can do to a person, but that she didn’t even spare a THOUGHT to addressing or changing, and seemed to drag the guy in and not give one damn about him.
I’m trying to remember the time frame and that there was no diagnosis or treatment... but on the page, she’s just... I can’t even.
It loses points for just stopping. It’s purposely obvious what will happen after this ending, but after spending the last 1/3 or more of the book in tears... I WANNA READ THE HEA! There’s not even an epilogue!
Aside from that tiny issue. It’s pretty good. A tear jerker and the guy just keeps getting kicked, while the original girl left me hating just about everything about her. Harsh considering she has some kind of major depressive disorder, but she watched and hated her mum go through it and ‘do’ that to her and then didn’t even try to not follow the same path, at multiple turning points. She may not have succeeded in a better path given what those kind of disorders can do to a person, but that she didn’t even spare a THOUGHT to addressing or changing, and seemed to drag the guy in and not give one damn about him.
I’m trying to remember the time frame and that there was no diagnosis or treatment... but on the page, she’s just... I can’t even.
May 2, 2024
Boston, 2009. Lucy has been left reeling by the death of her beloved grandfather. They had always planned to visit France together after her college graduation. Now, still aching from his loss, Lucy decides to take the trip alone.
Normandy, 1937. Sixteen year old Elsie embarks on a whirlwind romance with a young American man, which transports her from the drudgery of her everyday life caring for her mother. She is not prepared for the war that will tear them apart.
The story is told from the perspectives of Elsie, Hank and Lucy. A coming of age story about two young women in different time periods. Both stories in the dual timeline are separate to begin with then they join together seamlessly. I was hooked from the first few pages.
Normandy, 1937. Sixteen year old Elsie embarks on a whirlwind romance with a young American man, which transports her from the drudgery of her everyday life caring for her mother. She is not prepared for the war that will tear them apart.
The story is told from the perspectives of Elsie, Hank and Lucy. A coming of age story about two young women in different time periods. Both stories in the dual timeline are separate to begin with then they join together seamlessly. I was hooked from the first few pages.
November 16, 2021
The Time Between Us by Marina McCarron is one of the saddest books I've read in a long time.
In Normandy in 1937 Elise meets William, a friend of her brother's, who takes her out of the ho=hum existence of her life caring for her widowed mother. In Boston, In 2009 Lucy is grieving over the death of her grandfather, William's best friend. She is sad they never travelled to France to see where he fought on D-Day and where her grandmother was born. After graduation from college, Lucy goes to see the places her grandfather wanted to see. Can she overcome her losses and face the future with hope? I was able to read this on #NetGalley.
In Normandy in 1937 Elise meets William, a friend of her brother's, who takes her out of the ho=hum existence of her life caring for her widowed mother. In Boston, In 2009 Lucy is grieving over the death of her grandfather, William's best friend. She is sad they never travelled to France to see where he fought on D-Day and where her grandmother was born. After graduation from college, Lucy goes to see the places her grandfather wanted to see. Can she overcome her losses and face the future with hope? I was able to read this on #NetGalley.
December 3, 2021
This is a knock-out debut of a novel. The duel timeline was very well done, not every author can pull it off. The descriptions of D-Day, one of the most senseless wastes of human life, was very well described. It will rip you apart. And as you become invested in the characters from BOTH timelines you will continue to feel all of it. devastation, loneliness, a little hope, and maybe eventually some closure.
I look forward to seeing if this author keeps writing historical fiction, my favorite. If you love the novels of Sarah Jio you will love Marina McCarron
I look forward to seeing if this author keeps writing historical fiction, my favorite. If you love the novels of Sarah Jio you will love Marina McCarron
February 12, 2023
A ‘time & generation spanning’ book across 3 generations . Revolving around the emotional & turbulent lives of 2 women who transpire during the storyline to be grandmother & daughter. Although it was a slow burn to start with due to the need to build the scene & characters, the storyline won through highly charged with emotions that had me weeping on more than one occasion. The end of the book was not a finale in my mind & has left an option to continue the progress of Lucy & the connection to her grandmother so we shall see.
August 31, 2022
SPOILER ALERT Lovely book. Beautiful writing. Just a coincidence too far. A couple meet and her grandma fell in love with her boyfriend's grandfather's brother at the beginning of the book, and when it ends, they still don't know. Also he is living in an abandoned house which just happens to belong to her Grandma, and they don't know that either. What are the chances. Will definately look for more titles from this author though. Stunning book that stays with you, long after finishing it
November 18, 2021
From the cover to the gorgeous writing and stupendous descriptions, this stunning book left me breathless. My emotions were crushed and revived and tangled. Marina McCarron writes with such clarity, skill and talent which really caused the story to enmesh itself deeply into my heart, so much so that I cried and felt heartbreak for the characters. Time stood still and supper cooled while I finished living it.
Told in three perspectives, this multi-timeline story mostly takes place in 1937 Normandy (and subsequent years) and 2009 Boston. In 1937 sixteen-year-old Elise who lives with her mother meets William, a friend of her brother's. Their friendship grows and strengthens as war ramps up and rages. War details and consequences are horrifying including dreadful PTSD. Relationships, honour and loyalty are crucial. One of my favourite relationships of many is between Elise and Monsieur Allard.
In 2009, Lucy is unsure whether to study medicine or not. She was to travel to Normandy with her beloved grandfather to learn about his war connections but he has died. She goes on her own and discovers far more than she had ever dreamed, including a kind tour guide, Rob.
The third perspective is that of Hank who was a soldier in the war and a friend of William's. His promises to William lead him to unexpected places.
The words are written with an electric raw quality and the historical details are captured with such intelligence and knowledge it is as though the author had endured the war herself! The physical and mental journeys of the characters reveal so much about human nature, painful and lovely simultaneously. In spite of everything, there is always hope.
This unmissable book is so good I feel like pleading for Historical Fiction, Women's Fiction and General Fiction fans to read it. I cannot stop thinking about it.
My sincere thank you to Aria & Aries and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this immersive book; far beyond entertaining, it was an experience.
Told in three perspectives, this multi-timeline story mostly takes place in 1937 Normandy (and subsequent years) and 2009 Boston. In 1937 sixteen-year-old Elise who lives with her mother meets William, a friend of her brother's. Their friendship grows and strengthens as war ramps up and rages. War details and consequences are horrifying including dreadful PTSD. Relationships, honour and loyalty are crucial. One of my favourite relationships of many is between Elise and Monsieur Allard.
In 2009, Lucy is unsure whether to study medicine or not. She was to travel to Normandy with her beloved grandfather to learn about his war connections but he has died. She goes on her own and discovers far more than she had ever dreamed, including a kind tour guide, Rob.
The third perspective is that of Hank who was a soldier in the war and a friend of William's. His promises to William lead him to unexpected places.
The words are written with an electric raw quality and the historical details are captured with such intelligence and knowledge it is as though the author had endured the war herself! The physical and mental journeys of the characters reveal so much about human nature, painful and lovely simultaneously. In spite of everything, there is always hope.
This unmissable book is so good I feel like pleading for Historical Fiction, Women's Fiction and General Fiction fans to read it. I cannot stop thinking about it.
My sincere thank you to Aria & Aries and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this immersive book; far beyond entertaining, it was an experience.
March 6, 2024
An interesting but rather sad story. I was hoping all along that Lucy and Rob would eventually find how their family histories were intertwined. Too bad Hank didn’t get to go back to Esperance with Lucy!
I couldn’t find the Esperance in Normandy on any map, although I found two in southwest France !?
I couldn’t find the Esperance in Normandy on any map, although I found two in southwest France !?
August 2, 2024
3.5 stars.
There is a lot I enjoyed and appreciated about this book. Whilst it took me a while to be drawn in, once I was, I felt the storytelling was captivating. The different perspectives, the use of different points in time, the changes in character, the historical components - it was all there. There was some things left unfinished but for this book, I didn't mind.
There is a lot I enjoyed and appreciated about this book. Whilst it took me a while to be drawn in, once I was, I felt the storytelling was captivating. The different perspectives, the use of different points in time, the changes in character, the historical components - it was all there. There was some things left unfinished but for this book, I didn't mind.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews