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The Clearing: A Bittersweet YA Romance About Teens Finding Love and Courage Across Time
In this bittersweet romance, two teens living decades apart form a bond that will change their lives forever.
Amy is drawn to the misty, mysterious clearing behind her Aunt Mae’s place because it looks like the perfect place to hide from life. A place to block out the pain of her last relationship, to avoid the kids in her new town, to stop dwelling on what her future holds after high school.
Then, she meets a boy lurking in the mist—Henry. Henry is different from any other guy Amy has ever known. And after several meetings in the clearing, she’s starting to fall for him.
But Amy is stunned when she finds out just how different Henry really is. Because on his side of the clearing, it’s still 1944. By some miracle, Henry and his family are stuck in the past, staving off the tragedy that will strike them in the future. Amy’s crossing over to Henry’s side brings him more happiness than he’s ever known—but her presence also threatens to destroy his safe existence.
In The Clearing, author Heather Davis crafts a tender and poignant tale about falling in love, finding strength, and having the courage to make your own destiny—a perfect book to slip into and hide away for awhile.
Amy is drawn to the misty, mysterious clearing behind her Aunt Mae’s place because it looks like the perfect place to hide from life. A place to block out the pain of her last relationship, to avoid the kids in her new town, to stop dwelling on what her future holds after high school.
Then, she meets a boy lurking in the mist—Henry. Henry is different from any other guy Amy has ever known. And after several meetings in the clearing, she’s starting to fall for him.
But Amy is stunned when she finds out just how different Henry really is. Because on his side of the clearing, it’s still 1944. By some miracle, Henry and his family are stuck in the past, staving off the tragedy that will strike them in the future. Amy’s crossing over to Henry’s side brings him more happiness than he’s ever known—but her presence also threatens to destroy his safe existence.
In The Clearing, author Heather Davis crafts a tender and poignant tale about falling in love, finding strength, and having the courage to make your own destiny—a perfect book to slip into and hide away for awhile.
228 pages, Paperback
First published April 12, 2010
28 people are currently reading
2740 people want to read
About the author
Heather Davis
85 books448 followersHeather Davis is the author of A Curse So Dark, the first book of the new Young Adult Paranormal Romance series Pioneer Falls.
Her previous books include Never Cry Werewolf and its two novella sequels, Sometimes by Moonlight and Always in Shadow. She is also the author of Wherever You Go, and the RITA Award finalist for Best Young Adult Romance, The Clearing.
Heather loves writing about strong, smart heroines and the dark heroes that challenge them. In every book you'll find suspense, a touch of humor, and tons of heartfelt romance.
She lives and writes in the Pacific Northwest, where she is obsessed with coffee, books, indie bands, and perfect chocolate chip cookies.
Her previous books include Never Cry Werewolf and its two novella sequels, Sometimes by Moonlight and Always in Shadow. She is also the author of Wherever You Go, and the RITA Award finalist for Best Young Adult Romance, The Clearing.
Heather loves writing about strong, smart heroines and the dark heroes that challenge them. In every book you'll find suspense, a touch of humor, and tons of heartfelt romance.
She lives and writes in the Pacific Northwest, where she is obsessed with coffee, books, indie bands, and perfect chocolate chip cookies.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 401 reviews
March 17, 2011
‘The Clearing’ hooked me from the first page and wouldn’t let me go until the last. A far cry from the usual vampire-infested YA that seems to be most of what’s on offer today, it chronicles the relationship that develops across the ages between Amy, spending her senior year in her great aunt Mae’s small town to escape the memory of an abusive relationship, and Henry, living with his family in their farmhouse where it’s always the summer of 1944.
I liked the very neutral, understated cover; I think it gave just enough of a hint of the story without imposing too much of an idea of the characters on me, therefore letting me form my own images in my mind. I always appreciate that opportunity; there’s nothing worse than having your created images warped by the cover model, especially when the cover model looks nothing like the character in the book!
The pace was perfect, giving Amy and Henry just enough time apart to make me anxious for more interaction before rewarding my patience. The narrative never dragged, and I liked how the main plot, detailing Amy and Henry’s relationship, and the subplot, featuring Amy in her own time, were radically different. It really helped solidify the idea of her experiencing two very different times.
I really felt a connection for the two main characters; despite what she’d been through, Amy was never too dramatic or cautious. Her behavior was always reasonable and I think that made her feel very real to me. Her relationship with her great aunt Mae was also well balanced and realistic, and Mae was a character I really liked; always supportive, but not overly so in a way that would make her seem fake. Amy’s friends in the ‘real world’, Lori and Jackson, were also likable and fun. Jackson in particular earned a high opinion from me for being a genuinely nice guy.
On Henry: there’s not a lot I can say apart from the fact that he was just perfect—always a gentleman, hopelessly sweet, and the 1940’s stream of consciousness that ran through his mind was just the right mixture of quaint and cute. His mother had the occasional very funny moment, and I really respected his grandfather; he might be old, but as the story went on you realized that he was pretty sharp for his age.
Without giving too much away, I can say that the ending to this story was wholly satisfying, even if you’d rooted for a different one. Like most things about the story, it made a lot of sense—a welcome feeling when most of what you’ve been reading is fantastical and paranormal. In conclusion: Congratulations to Heather Davis for a job well done. 'The Clearing' is a beautiful love story that will keep a smile on your face for a long time!
Read more reviews at Lale on Lit
I liked the very neutral, understated cover; I think it gave just enough of a hint of the story without imposing too much of an idea of the characters on me, therefore letting me form my own images in my mind. I always appreciate that opportunity; there’s nothing worse than having your created images warped by the cover model, especially when the cover model looks nothing like the character in the book!
The pace was perfect, giving Amy and Henry just enough time apart to make me anxious for more interaction before rewarding my patience. The narrative never dragged, and I liked how the main plot, detailing Amy and Henry’s relationship, and the subplot, featuring Amy in her own time, were radically different. It really helped solidify the idea of her experiencing two very different times.
I really felt a connection for the two main characters; despite what she’d been through, Amy was never too dramatic or cautious. Her behavior was always reasonable and I think that made her feel very real to me. Her relationship with her great aunt Mae was also well balanced and realistic, and Mae was a character I really liked; always supportive, but not overly so in a way that would make her seem fake. Amy’s friends in the ‘real world’, Lori and Jackson, were also likable and fun. Jackson in particular earned a high opinion from me for being a genuinely nice guy.
On Henry: there’s not a lot I can say apart from the fact that he was just perfect—always a gentleman, hopelessly sweet, and the 1940’s stream of consciousness that ran through his mind was just the right mixture of quaint and cute. His mother had the occasional very funny moment, and I really respected his grandfather; he might be old, but as the story went on you realized that he was pretty sharp for his age.
Without giving too much away, I can say that the ending to this story was wholly satisfying, even if you’d rooted for a different one. Like most things about the story, it made a lot of sense—a welcome feeling when most of what you’ve been reading is fantastical and paranormal. In conclusion: Congratulations to Heather Davis for a job well done. 'The Clearing' is a beautiful love story that will keep a smile on your face for a long time!
Read more reviews at Lale on Lit
July 10, 2012
Noooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo :C
Cómo puede la autora hacer esto????? :C
El libro me encantó, me creó unas ansias por seguir leyendo, y Henry me enamoró desde el primer momento <3. Fue un libro que logró ponerme la piel de gallina con las situaciones que pasaron y con cáda página con la que me acercaba al final, sabía que lo que este contendría sería inevitable, pero eso no me impidió conservar la esperanza de un talvez...
Un libro hermoso que nos enseña que el amor es tanto hermoso como doloroso, y aún así, vale la pena experimentarlo :'(
Cómo puede la autora hacer esto????? :C
El libro me encantó, me creó unas ansias por seguir leyendo, y Henry me enamoró desde el primer momento <3. Fue un libro que logró ponerme la piel de gallina con las situaciones que pasaron y con cáda página con la que me acercaba al final, sabía que lo que este contendría sería inevitable, pero eso no me impidió conservar la esperanza de un talvez...
Un libro hermoso que nos enseña que el amor es tanto hermoso como doloroso, y aún así, vale la pena experimentarlo :'(
October 29, 2010
Now before I write anything else I should mention that though I didn't really enjoy this book I know there are other readers who would. It just isn't my kind of book. Too much tragedy for my liking.
Amy has just gotten out of an abusive relationship and to get away from it all she moves away from Seattle to a small town with her great-aunt Mae. She finds one true friend, named Henry, out in the clearing. The place is odd though. It always has some kind of mist around it and it's hard to go through the mist. There is this whirring sound that just isn't right. Despite all of the weirdness Amy grows to love Henry, and Henry her. Amy finds out soon enough that he is stuck in the summer of 1944 and she knows why, but there is a piece of information that she knows that could change that. That would mean losing Henry forever and him moving on with his life. Should she tell him or would things only get worse?
Now the premise is quite interesting. Time travel is tricky, but the author actually doesn't make the whole thing too complicated. I guess I expected a different story. I wanted something funny, seeing the clashes of the time periods, and though they do mention the differences it definitely isn't funny. The romance between Amy and Henry is sweet but doesn't get enough time to really build. Amy is a bit bland except for her problems and I need something more than problems to make up a person. Her life outside of the clearing isn't well drawn out either and I predicted a lot of what was going to happen. Seriously, I rolled my eyes a lot of times with some of the scenes. The story is sweet and the ending was probably the right one, but it left a bad taste in my mouth. I felt like one of the characters was kind of jipped of a good ending.
Though I was a bit disappointed, people who like the idea of a love that can transcend through time, this book will deliver. The cover is wonderful as well, but for me the story could have been more fleshed out.
Amy has just gotten out of an abusive relationship and to get away from it all she moves away from Seattle to a small town with her great-aunt Mae. She finds one true friend, named Henry, out in the clearing. The place is odd though. It always has some kind of mist around it and it's hard to go through the mist. There is this whirring sound that just isn't right. Despite all of the weirdness Amy grows to love Henry, and Henry her. Amy finds out soon enough that he is stuck in the summer of 1944 and she knows why, but there is a piece of information that she knows that could change that. That would mean losing Henry forever and him moving on with his life. Should she tell him or would things only get worse?
Now the premise is quite interesting. Time travel is tricky, but the author actually doesn't make the whole thing too complicated. I guess I expected a different story. I wanted something funny, seeing the clashes of the time periods, and though they do mention the differences it definitely isn't funny. The romance between Amy and Henry is sweet but doesn't get enough time to really build. Amy is a bit bland except for her problems and I need something more than problems to make up a person. Her life outside of the clearing isn't well drawn out either and I predicted a lot of what was going to happen. Seriously, I rolled my eyes a lot of times with some of the scenes. The story is sweet and the ending was probably the right one, but it left a bad taste in my mouth. I felt like one of the characters was kind of jipped of a good ending.
Though I was a bit disappointed, people who like the idea of a love that can transcend through time, this book will deliver. The cover is wonderful as well, but for me the story could have been more fleshed out.
November 7, 2010
There’s something so magical and so romantic about time travel especially if it involves two people in love but are separated in two different times and two different worlds. This was what reeled me in to reading this book. In starting this book, I have envisioned it turning similarly alike to the movies such as Lakehouse or Tuck Everlasting. Unfortunately, I might have had my expectations too high because the conclusion of this book was confusing and just did not make sense to me. I wish that the story had a stronger resolution in the end.
Needless to say, I was compelled to keep reading because the plot intrigued me and I was so curious and tinkled pink every time Henry and Amy met in the clearing.
Amy, the 16-year old teen and the voice of this book, came to live with her Aunt Mae in a rural part of Washington to escape an abusive relationship from her ex-boyfriend and hoping to start fresh in a town where nobody knew of her. In the clearing behind her Aunt’s trailer, she finds a thick mist that happened to be the boundary and the entrance to another time, 1944. This bubble of time suspension was a result of Henry’s prayer for time to turn back but stood still, with the summer of 1944 cycling over and over again.
Amy was not my most favored character in this book. I wasn’t too fond of how her character’s painted with gloom and doom attitude. It makes sense that she is this way, paranoid and doubtful, after coming out of an abusive relationship and not having any emotional support from her mother. But she came off as being rude and unfriendly. I for one would not have wanted to be her friend if she bit my head off every chance she got especially if I didn’t know the reason for her being so. I would just have thought of her as a big bitch. Instead of feeling sorry for her, I was infuriated with her in this book. I just found her character depressing. It didn’t help that it was always rainy and cold where she lived. But, if Heather Davis did this on purpose to create a sharp contrast from Henry’s world of perpetual sunshine in the summer of 1944, then she succeeded. Henry was a ball of sunshine while Amy was dark and cloudy. It still baffles me how Amy was able to attract and have 3 guys like her when there’s this constant dark cloud hanging over her head. She must be really beautiful to be so attractive to these boys despite her aloofness. From Heather Davis’ descriptions of her though, I didn’t find Amy that beautiful. Rather, I found her flat, alongside Jackson, the other guy of the love triangle.
As for Henry, the 18-year old protagonist of this story, and the quintessential gentleman, I found him to be the life of the book! Who could not fall for a gentleman! I like the old-fashioned courting. I love that his character is from the 40s, back when men were more respectful and courteous. (I’m sure it’s the same reason why I was drawn to Edward in Twilight). If you’re an old soul like me, I think you’d like Henry Briggs too. There’s also something more masculine and admirable about men getting their hands dirty and doing hard, manual farm work. I never thought farming could be so sexy. Well, Henry made it sexy. His cheery nature, his idealism, and his laid back attitude was just so attractive to me. He gave this book an injection of life and color. Everyone else but Aunt Mae felt flat and insignificant.
And then there was Jackson, the nice guy that was head over heels Amy, and supposedly the third participant of the love triangle. Truly, there’s no triangle here. Amy never liked him from the very beginning and she made it clear to Jackson that she didn’t like him that way. But, Jackson, the dreamer that he is, still hoped and pined. This is the reason why the ending of this story didn’t make any sense to me. It just makes me crazy! Yeah, I know Jackson’s dependable and kind but it doesn’t work if Amy doesn’t love him! Anyways, back to the review.
As for the cover, I felt that the boy in the cover is nothing like Henry. He looked like he was in middle school rather than a senior in high school. He looked puny and nothing like the masculine Henry that was described in the book. As for Amy, I still can’t envision how she looks like and it doesn’t help that only her back is presented in the cover. Nevertheless, this person does not imbue beautiful to me.
I still give it a solid 3 stars. It was really Henry and the idea of love spanning between two time periods that still got me hooked from beginning to end. If you want to give it a go, I say go for it. Perhaps you might enjoy it more than I did.
Needless to say, I was compelled to keep reading because the plot intrigued me and I was so curious and tinkled pink every time Henry and Amy met in the clearing.
Amy, the 16-year old teen and the voice of this book, came to live with her Aunt Mae in a rural part of Washington to escape an abusive relationship from her ex-boyfriend and hoping to start fresh in a town where nobody knew of her. In the clearing behind her Aunt’s trailer, she finds a thick mist that happened to be the boundary and the entrance to another time, 1944. This bubble of time suspension was a result of Henry’s prayer for time to turn back but stood still, with the summer of 1944 cycling over and over again.
Amy was not my most favored character in this book. I wasn’t too fond of how her character’s painted with gloom and doom attitude. It makes sense that she is this way, paranoid and doubtful, after coming out of an abusive relationship and not having any emotional support from her mother. But she came off as being rude and unfriendly. I for one would not have wanted to be her friend if she bit my head off every chance she got especially if I didn’t know the reason for her being so. I would just have thought of her as a big bitch. Instead of feeling sorry for her, I was infuriated with her in this book. I just found her character depressing. It didn’t help that it was always rainy and cold where she lived. But, if Heather Davis did this on purpose to create a sharp contrast from Henry’s world of perpetual sunshine in the summer of 1944, then she succeeded. Henry was a ball of sunshine while Amy was dark and cloudy. It still baffles me how Amy was able to attract and have 3 guys like her when there’s this constant dark cloud hanging over her head. She must be really beautiful to be so attractive to these boys despite her aloofness. From Heather Davis’ descriptions of her though, I didn’t find Amy that beautiful. Rather, I found her flat, alongside Jackson, the other guy of the love triangle.
As for Henry, the 18-year old protagonist of this story, and the quintessential gentleman, I found him to be the life of the book! Who could not fall for a gentleman! I like the old-fashioned courting. I love that his character is from the 40s, back when men were more respectful and courteous. (I’m sure it’s the same reason why I was drawn to Edward in Twilight). If you’re an old soul like me, I think you’d like Henry Briggs too. There’s also something more masculine and admirable about men getting their hands dirty and doing hard, manual farm work. I never thought farming could be so sexy. Well, Henry made it sexy. His cheery nature, his idealism, and his laid back attitude was just so attractive to me. He gave this book an injection of life and color. Everyone else but Aunt Mae felt flat and insignificant.
And then there was Jackson, the nice guy that was head over heels Amy, and supposedly the third participant of the love triangle. Truly, there’s no triangle here. Amy never liked him from the very beginning and she made it clear to Jackson that she didn’t like him that way. But, Jackson, the dreamer that he is, still hoped and pined. This is the reason why the ending of this story didn’t make any sense to me. It just makes me crazy! Yeah, I know Jackson’s dependable and kind but it doesn’t work if Amy doesn’t love him! Anyways, back to the review.
As for the cover, I felt that the boy in the cover is nothing like Henry. He looked like he was in middle school rather than a senior in high school. He looked puny and nothing like the masculine Henry that was described in the book. As for Amy, I still can’t envision how she looks like and it doesn’t help that only her back is presented in the cover. Nevertheless, this person does not imbue beautiful to me.
I still give it a solid 3 stars. It was really Henry and the idea of love spanning between two time periods that still got me hooked from beginning to end. If you want to give it a go, I say go for it. Perhaps you might enjoy it more than I did.
February 20, 2010
I liked this one (probably a 4, but not a 5) right up until the end. The story was well paced, the characters were likable and had some depth, and I liked the family relationships that were featured alongside the central romance. And I'm sucker for time travel books in general, so there was that too.
But the last 3 pages killed it for me - not the ending itself, which I don't want to spoil, because that made sense and I even liked the way it tied back into the new present. But when Davis tried to end the book and leave us with an idea of what Amy's life was like now, the exposition was awful. And I cannot abide awkward exposition. Minus a full star.
That said, for teens (and parents) who appreciated the fade-to-black aspect of Twilight and it's sequels, this one will work nicely.
But the last 3 pages killed it for me - not the ending itself, which I don't want to spoil, because that made sense and I even liked the way it tied back into the new present. But when Davis tried to end the book and leave us with an idea of what Amy's life was like now, the exposition was awful. And I cannot abide awkward exposition. Minus a full star.
That said, for teens (and parents) who appreciated the fade-to-black aspect of Twilight and it's sequels, this one will work nicely.
July 24, 2010
I gave this novel a three star rating however, a two and half star rating would better reflect my feelings.
This story just didn't have much going for it. The Clearing was beautifully told and the Amy and Henry's relationship was particularly compelling, unfortunately those were the only aspects that the story that made a lasting impression.
Amy & Henry's relationship is the one thing that 'made' this story for me. Watching their relationship grow and evolve, the choices they ultimately had to make for each other, that was powerful. It wasn't a head over heels, crazy obsessive love..... it was delicate and thoughtful. The kind of love that can be everlasting.
Unfortunately the aspect of love wasn't enough to carry the whole novel. The plot itself was semi-predictable as well as painfully slow. There just wasn't enough intrigue or explanation to keep me hooked in to story. I was also disappointed in in Amy's decision to run away from her situation. (An abusive relationship.) Not that I am implying in any way that Amy should have stayed in the relationship with her abuser, but running away isn't the answer. As someone who went through an experience like Amy's, I wish this issue would have been handled differently.
The characters all seemed flat and overdone. Amy a girl with no real defining characteristics... we learn nothing about who she is, or what she likes, only that she doesn't trust anyone. Yet despite her elusive nature every male she encounters throws himself at her. Why exactly? I have yet to understand. And poor Jackson, although I didn't comprehend why he was even in the novel, I did feel some sort of empathy toward him, so that must count for something.....
Perhaps I'm just disappointed because I had high expectations. That is something that I try to refrain from doing... but alas.... I couldn't help it.
The ending was perhaps the most disappointing thing of all. I don't want to be spoilery so I won't say too much. It just seemed that some things ended all too quickly while leaving almost everything else unresolved. The ending... in lack for a better word was just awkward.
This story just didn't have much going for it. The Clearing was beautifully told and the Amy and Henry's relationship was particularly compelling, unfortunately those were the only aspects that the story that made a lasting impression.
Amy & Henry's relationship is the one thing that 'made' this story for me. Watching their relationship grow and evolve, the choices they ultimately had to make for each other, that was powerful. It wasn't a head over heels, crazy obsessive love..... it was delicate and thoughtful. The kind of love that can be everlasting.
Unfortunately the aspect of love wasn't enough to carry the whole novel. The plot itself was semi-predictable as well as painfully slow. There just wasn't enough intrigue or explanation to keep me hooked in to story. I was also disappointed in in Amy's decision to run away from her situation. (An abusive relationship.) Not that I am implying in any way that Amy should have stayed in the relationship with her abuser, but running away isn't the answer. As someone who went through an experience like Amy's, I wish this issue would have been handled differently.
The characters all seemed flat and overdone. Amy a girl with no real defining characteristics... we learn nothing about who she is, or what she likes, only that she doesn't trust anyone. Yet despite her elusive nature every male she encounters throws himself at her. Why exactly? I have yet to understand. And poor Jackson, although I didn't comprehend why he was even in the novel, I did feel some sort of empathy toward him, so that must count for something.....
Perhaps I'm just disappointed because I had high expectations. That is something that I try to refrain from doing... but alas.... I couldn't help it.
The ending was perhaps the most disappointing thing of all. I don't want to be spoilery so I won't say too much. It just seemed that some things ended all too quickly while leaving almost everything else unresolved. The ending... in lack for a better word was just awkward.
May 1, 2016
I absolutely love this book even the second time around.
December 26, 2014
I opened this book with high hopes. I tend to be a sucker for YA romances, particularly those with a paranormal slant. However, given the supersaturation of the YA market with paranormal romances right now, I ought to have read this with more realistic expectations.
You have probably read this book before. A first-person heroine with very few distinctive character traits, talents, or goals. A new start in a new town at a new school. A feeling of detachment from her classmates and a failure to find mere mortals romantically viable. A young woman with irresponsible/emotionally unavailable parents. This is a highly derivative read, one that will likely draw comparisons with "Twilight" and "The Time Traveler's Wife" (which I have not read, but even the bare plot elements strike me as similar). It bears mentioning that the book actually makes a tongue-in-cheek allusion to "Twilight."
Amy is, on many levels, Bella Swan--albeit, with a much darker past. Like Bella, she is a rather nondescript brunette with no real goals. Like Bella, she lives in northern Washington state while her mother lives in Phoenix with her stepfather. Like Bella, she attracts every eligible male who crosses her path (including Matt, Henry, Jackson, and Quinn). And, like Bella, she spurns the advances of perfectly eligible mortals in favor of the supernatural boy who strikes her fancy (not to denigrate Henry, who is quite likable despite the sometimes excessive '40s-speak). Though Amy is aloof with even her most well-meaning classmates, she is told that these people "need a friend like you" (179). So much of Amy's characterization is done through telling rather than showing.
Amy has a Seattle-sized chip on her shoulder. Her ex-boyfriend, Matt, was physically abusive, and her somewhat vacuous mother did little to help her. Unfortunately, the story doesn't explore the relationship violence angle in sufficient depth. Countless young women are going to read this book, and many of them may have had direct or indirect experience with this harrowing issue. YA escapist fiction doesn't need to be a narrative public service announcement, but it should give due narrative attention to such a serious issue.
Without spoiling the ending, I will say that the story leaves much unresolved. Other elements are resolved with a lightning-fast stroke of the pen. Though I tend to enjoy stories with ambiguous, unpredictable, or bittersweet endings (I detest "big red bow" endings), there were certain plot elements that dropped off the map too quickly.
I tend to be very critical (perhaps even picky) when it comes to love stories, so take my words with a grain of salt. The romance between Henry and Amy is certainly compelling, and not without some suspense as the two struggle with the time issue. If you don't mind a story reminiscent of books you have read in the past, or if you are looking for a book like "Twilight" or "The Time Traveler's Wife," you will likely enjoy this.
(Disclaimer: I received the galley proofs of this book from Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for review.)
You have probably read this book before. A first-person heroine with very few distinctive character traits, talents, or goals. A new start in a new town at a new school. A feeling of detachment from her classmates and a failure to find mere mortals romantically viable. A young woman with irresponsible/emotionally unavailable parents. This is a highly derivative read, one that will likely draw comparisons with "Twilight" and "The Time Traveler's Wife" (which I have not read, but even the bare plot elements strike me as similar). It bears mentioning that the book actually makes a tongue-in-cheek allusion to "Twilight."
Amy is, on many levels, Bella Swan--albeit, with a much darker past. Like Bella, she is a rather nondescript brunette with no real goals. Like Bella, she lives in northern Washington state while her mother lives in Phoenix with her stepfather. Like Bella, she attracts every eligible male who crosses her path (including Matt, Henry, Jackson, and Quinn). And, like Bella, she spurns the advances of perfectly eligible mortals in favor of the supernatural boy who strikes her fancy (not to denigrate Henry, who is quite likable despite the sometimes excessive '40s-speak). Though Amy is aloof with even her most well-meaning classmates, she is told that these people "need a friend like you" (179). So much of Amy's characterization is done through telling rather than showing.
Amy has a Seattle-sized chip on her shoulder. Her ex-boyfriend, Matt, was physically abusive, and her somewhat vacuous mother did little to help her. Unfortunately, the story doesn't explore the relationship violence angle in sufficient depth. Countless young women are going to read this book, and many of them may have had direct or indirect experience with this harrowing issue. YA escapist fiction doesn't need to be a narrative public service announcement, but it should give due narrative attention to such a serious issue.
Without spoiling the ending, I will say that the story leaves much unresolved. Other elements are resolved with a lightning-fast stroke of the pen. Though I tend to enjoy stories with ambiguous, unpredictable, or bittersweet endings (I detest "big red bow" endings), there were certain plot elements that dropped off the map too quickly.
I tend to be very critical (perhaps even picky) when it comes to love stories, so take my words with a grain of salt. The romance between Henry and Amy is certainly compelling, and not without some suspense as the two struggle with the time issue. If you don't mind a story reminiscent of books you have read in the past, or if you are looking for a book like "Twilight" or "The Time Traveler's Wife," you will likely enjoy this.
(Disclaimer: I received the galley proofs of this book from Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for review.)
December 4, 2014
3.5/5 Este es un romance agridulce, donde dos adolescentes viven en décadas muy aparte con un vínculo que cambiará sus vidas para siempre. Amy es atraída a la niebla misteriosa que se encuentra de atrás de la casa de su Tia Mae, ya que para ella es el lugar perfecto para esconderse de la vida. Un lugar donde podrá bloquear el dolor de su última relación, para evitar los adolescentes de su nueva ciudad, para poner un paro y pensar en lo qué futuro le puede deparar luego de la secundaria. Entonces, conoce a Henry. Él es diferente a cualquier muchacho que Amy haya conocido. Y luego de varias reuniones en la niebla o claro. Amy se da cuenta que está empezando a enamorarse de él. Pero Amy se siente aturdida cuando se entera de que Henry, pertenece a otra época, después del claro donde vive este es el ano de 1944. Por algún milagro, Henry y su familia están atrapados en el pasado, para tratar de evitar la tragedia que les caerá en el futuro. Con el cruce de Amy al lado de Henry esta le trae mucha felicidad — pero su presencia también amenaza con destruir su existencia segura.
La narrativa esta intercalada entre los puntos de vista de Henry y Amy, donde de forma sencilla y simple la autora nos hace entrar en la cabeza de estos personajes y como estos van enfrentando el nacimiento de sus sentimientos por el otro. Que es lo dificultoso? Es encontrar que este amor que buscas se encuentra en otro tiempo y aunque sea bendito, también es irremediablemente imposible.
La narrativa esta intercalada entre los puntos de vista de Henry y Amy, donde de forma sencilla y simple la autora nos hace entrar en la cabeza de estos personajes y como estos van enfrentando el nacimiento de sus sentimientos por el otro. Que es lo dificultoso? Es encontrar que este amor que buscas se encuentra en otro tiempo y aunque sea bendito, también es irremediablemente imposible.
November 8, 2012
Reviewed by Lesley for TeensReadToo.com
Amy has moved in with her Great Aunt to get away from her abusive relationship with her ex-boyfriend, Matt. Now living in the middle of nowhere, Amy is having to make new friends and start over at a new high school. She finds it difficult leaving the past behind and letting her guard down with her new friends.
Seeking comfort from everything that's going on around her, she sees a misty clearing behind her Aunt's house. When she crosses the other side she meets Henry, a boy unlike the others who actually makes her feel safe.
Henry is stuck in the year 1944 with his mother and Grandfather. Nothing changes, nothing grows old; he seeks solace alone in the books he's read dozens of times. When he meets Amy, everything he knows begins to change. His mother suddenly begins to ask questions, and his grandfather begins to remember things he never had before.
Was it a mistake for Henry to bring Amy to the other side? Once Amy realizes what is going on, will she run or decide to stay with the only person who makes her feel alive?
THE CLEARING is an incredibly emotional love story. Filled with mystery, sorrow, loneliness, and heartache, be prepared to grab a box of tissues - it's a tearjerker.
Amy has moved in with her Great Aunt to get away from her abusive relationship with her ex-boyfriend, Matt. Now living in the middle of nowhere, Amy is having to make new friends and start over at a new high school. She finds it difficult leaving the past behind and letting her guard down with her new friends.
Seeking comfort from everything that's going on around her, she sees a misty clearing behind her Aunt's house. When she crosses the other side she meets Henry, a boy unlike the others who actually makes her feel safe.
Henry is stuck in the year 1944 with his mother and Grandfather. Nothing changes, nothing grows old; he seeks solace alone in the books he's read dozens of times. When he meets Amy, everything he knows begins to change. His mother suddenly begins to ask questions, and his grandfather begins to remember things he never had before.
Was it a mistake for Henry to bring Amy to the other side? Once Amy realizes what is going on, will she run or decide to stay with the only person who makes her feel alive?
THE CLEARING is an incredibly emotional love story. Filled with mystery, sorrow, loneliness, and heartache, be prepared to grab a box of tissues - it's a tearjerker.
May 16, 2014
I began this book and feel in love with the story. However, the ending quite frankly (excuse my language) sucked. It ended on a very, very bleak note that was told to you as if it was the best thing that could have ever happened. Don't bother reading this book it is disappointing and you are better off reading something that will enhance your analytical mind anyway.
July 11, 2011
In this bittersweet romance, two teens living decades apart form a bond that will change their lives forever.
Amy is drawn to the misty, mysterious clearing behind her Aunt Mae’s place because it looks like the perfect place to hide from life. A place to block out the pain of her last relationship, to avoid the kids in her new town, to stop dwelling on what her future holds after high school.
Then, she meets a boy lurking in the mist—Henry. Henry is different from any other guy Amy has ever known. And after several meetings in the clearing, she’s starting to fall for him.
But Amy is stunned when she finds out just how different Henry really is. Because on his side of the clearing, it’s still 1944. By some miracle, Henry and his family are stuck in the past, staving off the tragedy that will strike them in the future. Amy’s crossing over to Henry’s side brings him more happiness than he’s ever known—but her presence also threatens to destroy his safe existence.
In The Clearing, author Heather Davis crafts a tender and poignant tale about falling in love, finding strength, and having the courage to make your own destiny—a perfect book to slip into and hide away for awhile.
I had randomly come across this book in the library and was immediately drawn to it. Perhaps is was the cover, which I thought was really pretty, or the True Love is Timeless stamped on the front. I'm a sucker for these kind of stories, I'll admit. But whatever the reason, I picked it up and checked it out. I didn't know at the time that this would become perhaps my favorite book.
I loved this book from page one. Davis did a great job with telling the story. I liked how she didn't spoil Amy's past right away. She gave subtle hints suggesting she was a victim of an abusive relationship, but never actually confirming it until later on. I also loved how it was told from both Henry and Amy's perspectives. The plot never got dull and I was always anxious to see what would happen next.
Amy was a very likable main character. Sometimes in novels like this, the leading ladies are irritating and overdramatic, however, despite the hardships she went through, Amy held her ground. Sure there were times when she broke down, but that's understandable considering her situation. She had a realistic relationship with her Aunt Mae; Mae was not overly protective, but she did care deeply for Amy, she just didn't want to be so controlling. They had a trusting relationship, more like a friendship which I thought was sweet.
Henry-what is there to say about Henry? He's the perfect boy. Always a gentleman and extremely sweet. The fact he was from the 40s just gave him this cute, likable quality and made me want a Henry of my own lol
The end was pretty good. I would have liked it to end a different way, of course, but this was a nice alternative. So, if you're into the whole paranormal romance twilight thing but are tired of vampires/werewolves like me (love them but vampires are being seriously overplayed and its kinda annoying, but i'll continue reading them anyway :)) then this book is perfect for you. Enjoy!
Amy is drawn to the misty, mysterious clearing behind her Aunt Mae’s place because it looks like the perfect place to hide from life. A place to block out the pain of her last relationship, to avoid the kids in her new town, to stop dwelling on what her future holds after high school.
Then, she meets a boy lurking in the mist—Henry. Henry is different from any other guy Amy has ever known. And after several meetings in the clearing, she’s starting to fall for him.
But Amy is stunned when she finds out just how different Henry really is. Because on his side of the clearing, it’s still 1944. By some miracle, Henry and his family are stuck in the past, staving off the tragedy that will strike them in the future. Amy’s crossing over to Henry’s side brings him more happiness than he’s ever known—but her presence also threatens to destroy his safe existence.
In The Clearing, author Heather Davis crafts a tender and poignant tale about falling in love, finding strength, and having the courage to make your own destiny—a perfect book to slip into and hide away for awhile.
I had randomly come across this book in the library and was immediately drawn to it. Perhaps is was the cover, which I thought was really pretty, or the True Love is Timeless stamped on the front. I'm a sucker for these kind of stories, I'll admit. But whatever the reason, I picked it up and checked it out. I didn't know at the time that this would become perhaps my favorite book.
I loved this book from page one. Davis did a great job with telling the story. I liked how she didn't spoil Amy's past right away. She gave subtle hints suggesting she was a victim of an abusive relationship, but never actually confirming it until later on. I also loved how it was told from both Henry and Amy's perspectives. The plot never got dull and I was always anxious to see what would happen next.
Amy was a very likable main character. Sometimes in novels like this, the leading ladies are irritating and overdramatic, however, despite the hardships she went through, Amy held her ground. Sure there were times when she broke down, but that's understandable considering her situation. She had a realistic relationship with her Aunt Mae; Mae was not overly protective, but she did care deeply for Amy, she just didn't want to be so controlling. They had a trusting relationship, more like a friendship which I thought was sweet.
Henry-what is there to say about Henry? He's the perfect boy. Always a gentleman and extremely sweet. The fact he was from the 40s just gave him this cute, likable quality and made me want a Henry of my own lol
The end was pretty good. I would have liked it to end a different way, of course, but this was a nice alternative. So, if you're into the whole paranormal romance twilight thing but are tired of vampires/werewolves like me (love them but vampires are being seriously overplayed and its kinda annoying, but i'll continue reading them anyway :)) then this book is perfect for you. Enjoy!
March 26, 2013
The Clearing is a love story between a couple in two different ages. Amy moves in with her Great Aunt Mae to get away and forget about the abusive relationship she had with her ex. While staying with Mae she goes to a clearing which takes her to 1944 where she meets Henry. Perfect, country boy, gentlmenly, Henry. Mmm. I think I fell for him. The moment he called her sweetheart I was just..done. My heart exploded. I need me a man like that. :P Anyways, as they start to fall inlove the time pocket complicates things between them. Honestly, I was going to give this 3 stars but..the feeling in my heart just screams 4. The plot was beautiful. Timeless love is something that I am new to reading and I actually enjoy it a lot. Only thing I didn't like is that it randomly switched to third person, I think only when it came to Henry either way, I wish it was told in first person with him. Amy was an alright character. I felt like other than Her, Henry, Mae and Henry's family, everyone else in this book were just..fillers. No connections or really anything intriguing happening between her and anyone else. Even the ones that were supposed to be friends. I understand shes afraid and distant because of Matt but her relationship with Lori, Jackson, and any one else in this were bland. "Kay." "Oh uhm." "Sure." A lot of her dialog with them consisted of that. But the relationship she had with her aunt was adorable. The relationship she had with Henry's family was sweet. The connection she has with Henry...OISHDISHFHJA. I wanted that. Those two together were just heart melting. I will admit though, I feel like the "love" was rushed. It was nice at first, slow and paced. Common, I am not the only one who dislikes rushed relationships between characters. But as the story went on I felt like it got more rushed. I still felt that connection between them but I feel like more could have happened to bring them closer. The ending in her room..when ya know. Those who have read it, I felt like that was kinda stupid. The ending confused me at first. I had to read the authors note on it to kinda get it a bit more. Not sure if I approve of the ending yet but it was different than most endings. All in love I did enjoy this a lot. I was very close to tearing up reading the end.
October 7, 2010
16-year-old Amy is trying to escape from an abusive relationship. She goes to live with her Aunt May in the country, and while throwing sticks for her German Shepherd, Katie, she discovers a clearing shrouded in fog. When Amy teps through the fog, she is in an endless summer of 1944, and there she meets Henry, an 18 year old, very sweet boy.
I found this book fun to read, but some apects of it were kind of flat. The romance that does, of course, develop between Amy and Henry happens a little bit too fast for my liking. I didn't really notice much of a friendship before, suddenly, they were falling in love. The characters were a bit flat, I found I couldn't really get close to them at all. Also, I found the ending, which I won't go into for fear of spoiling it for you guys, was too quickly thrown together. It was like the author was trying to force the character to explain what changes had occurred in Amy's life. Too awkward and forced for my liking.
But, on the positive side, the book was sweet, and I did enjoy reading it. Henry was an absolute sweetheart, and I found myself smiling from time to time at some of his old fashioned ways. I'm also a sucker for time travel, so I really enjoyed that aspect of it. Aunt May was a great character, also. I loved her way of trying to relate to Amy, and you could really tell, I felt, how much she cared for Amy and wanted her to be happy.
Read this book on a hot summer afternoon, sitting in a hammock or on a rocking chair out on your front porch. You'll find it will certainly bring you back and bring a smile to your face.
I found this book fun to read, but some apects of it were kind of flat. The romance that does, of course, develop between Amy and Henry happens a little bit too fast for my liking. I didn't really notice much of a friendship before, suddenly, they were falling in love. The characters were a bit flat, I found I couldn't really get close to them at all. Also, I found the ending, which I won't go into for fear of spoiling it for you guys, was too quickly thrown together. It was like the author was trying to force the character to explain what changes had occurred in Amy's life. Too awkward and forced for my liking.
But, on the positive side, the book was sweet, and I did enjoy reading it. Henry was an absolute sweetheart, and I found myself smiling from time to time at some of his old fashioned ways. I'm also a sucker for time travel, so I really enjoyed that aspect of it. Aunt May was a great character, also. I loved her way of trying to relate to Amy, and you could really tell, I felt, how much she cared for Amy and wanted her to be happy.
Read this book on a hot summer afternoon, sitting in a hammock or on a rocking chair out on your front porch. You'll find it will certainly bring you back and bring a smile to your face.
November 6, 2011
This book was one of the best that I have read. Though quite short this book deals with a girl's life in the present and a boy's life from the past. A teenage girl who wishes for a different life, and a guy from the year of 1944 who is stuck in that time. Unless he goes through The Clearing. The clearing that seperates the past from the present, although the boy can't leave his timeline. The girl who eventually meets the boy becomes friendly with him but doesn't know about what time he is from, and the moment she finds out, things change completely. And their lives are never going to be the same, while the boy and girl never knew just how different their lives would be. And all of those differences are caused by them walking through The Clearing.
A book that shows a story of a girl who is average, and has a plain life, until she meets the boy who walks her through the clearing. Heather Davis' wonderful novel that would make you think more of wanting your life to change. Although it's not like a fairytale life, if you ask for change, then it's going to be much bigger than you think. Enjoy! :)
A book that shows a story of a girl who is average, and has a plain life, until she meets the boy who walks her through the clearing. Heather Davis' wonderful novel that would make you think more of wanting your life to change. Although it's not like a fairytale life, if you ask for change, then it's going to be much bigger than you think. Enjoy! :)
September 21, 2018
How would you feel if the person who was your ride or die lived during a different time and you could not spend the rest of your life with them? It’s crazy how one day everything can be going perfectly and then the next you can lose someone you loved.
Two characters experience tons of emotions from sadness, to anger, to joy when they go through this experience. The author Heather Davis, creates compelling characters that make the story more enjoyable to read. Amy is a teenage girl who wants to start over in a place where no one knows her or her past. She moves out of her town and goes stays with her Aunt Mae to get away. While living there, she visits a misty clearing and while exploring what lies on the other side, she meets a young boy her age named Henry. As they get to know each other, they realize that each of them are different than any other boy/girl they’ve met before and they start to fall in love with one another. There is just one problem though. Henry lives in the year 1944 and their lives are decades apart.
A theme of love strongly comes across throughout this book. Whether it is self love or love between two people, this is the main emotion portrayed by each character in this piece of literature. Overtime Amy begins to appreciate herself more and comes to learn that she needs to stand up for herself when necessary to protect herself and her emotions. Amy learns to take chances and to speak her mind so that others know exactly how she feels about them so that they don’t walk out of her life. They learn that even though they love each other more than anything in the world, they must give up the love that they’ve grown for eachother.
A clear message of taking risks and shaping your own destiny shows while reading this book. Amy has to put herself out there by transferring to a new school and living in a new town, not knowing anyone except her aunt. She then risks everything each time she crosses the clearing and traveling back in time just to visit Henry. When her ex boyfriend comes to catch up with her, he pushes her to be something she’s not and she has to find within herself the strength to stand up to him. Amy has to explain to Henry how she truly feels about him because he has already spoken his mind and he’s not sure if she wants to be with him. Doing this, Amy shapes her own destiny because she is not hiding from who she is or how she feels.
Dialogue throughout the novel plays a huge role in the characters expressing themselves and getting the message across to the reader. The characters speak informally because they are teenagers and they don‘t speak properly because the book takes place in the country. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the conversations between these characters and I truly felt bad for them when something went wrong just as much as when I felt overjoyed when something great happened.
I appreciated how the author gave points of view from multiple characters when writing this book. As a reader, you really get to see more into how the story develops because the author writes from the perspective of Amy as well as Henry. I feel that this novel is directed towards young adults specifically kids my age(14) or a year older. I very much recommend this book because it was very interesting to experience a drama like this. I felt as though I made a connection to the characters and like I had experienced something similar. This book made me realize that I must capitalize on opportunities that come my way and that I must appreciate every good thing and person in my life. Therefore, I highly recommend this exceptional novel to others.
Two characters experience tons of emotions from sadness, to anger, to joy when they go through this experience. The author Heather Davis, creates compelling characters that make the story more enjoyable to read. Amy is a teenage girl who wants to start over in a place where no one knows her or her past. She moves out of her town and goes stays with her Aunt Mae to get away. While living there, she visits a misty clearing and while exploring what lies on the other side, she meets a young boy her age named Henry. As they get to know each other, they realize that each of them are different than any other boy/girl they’ve met before and they start to fall in love with one another. There is just one problem though. Henry lives in the year 1944 and their lives are decades apart.
A theme of love strongly comes across throughout this book. Whether it is self love or love between two people, this is the main emotion portrayed by each character in this piece of literature. Overtime Amy begins to appreciate herself more and comes to learn that she needs to stand up for herself when necessary to protect herself and her emotions. Amy learns to take chances and to speak her mind so that others know exactly how she feels about them so that they don’t walk out of her life. They learn that even though they love each other more than anything in the world, they must give up the love that they’ve grown for eachother.
A clear message of taking risks and shaping your own destiny shows while reading this book. Amy has to put herself out there by transferring to a new school and living in a new town, not knowing anyone except her aunt. She then risks everything each time she crosses the clearing and traveling back in time just to visit Henry. When her ex boyfriend comes to catch up with her, he pushes her to be something she’s not and she has to find within herself the strength to stand up to him. Amy has to explain to Henry how she truly feels about him because he has already spoken his mind and he’s not sure if she wants to be with him. Doing this, Amy shapes her own destiny because she is not hiding from who she is or how she feels.
Dialogue throughout the novel plays a huge role in the characters expressing themselves and getting the message across to the reader. The characters speak informally because they are teenagers and they don‘t speak properly because the book takes place in the country. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the conversations between these characters and I truly felt bad for them when something went wrong just as much as when I felt overjoyed when something great happened.
I appreciated how the author gave points of view from multiple characters when writing this book. As a reader, you really get to see more into how the story develops because the author writes from the perspective of Amy as well as Henry. I feel that this novel is directed towards young adults specifically kids my age(14) or a year older. I very much recommend this book because it was very interesting to experience a drama like this. I felt as though I made a connection to the characters and like I had experienced something similar. This book made me realize that I must capitalize on opportunities that come my way and that I must appreciate every good thing and person in my life. Therefore, I highly recommend this exceptional novel to others.
July 10, 2018
Amy moves into her aunt’s trailer in a small town in Washington in order to escape. Her past, her abusive ex-boyfriend, and her less than supportive mother.
But teenagers are still teenagers. High school is still high school. And Amy isn’t exactly emotionally prepared to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. The only place she feels safe is a perpetually mist-covered clearing on the edge of her aunt’s property.
Where Amy meets Henry.
Henry is trapped. Reliving the same summer in 1945 over and over and over again. Because he can’t get to the end of that summer. The events that unfolded then—the first time he lived through them—convinced him that he never wanted to experience life after that point.
Until he meets Amy.
Heather Davis’s The Clearing is a time travel romance. I appreciated the depth of Henry’s dilemma, the uncovering of realistic challenges for a family on the homefront during World War II, and how the author ultimately unravels her story.
But teenagers are still teenagers. High school is still high school. And Amy isn’t exactly emotionally prepared to give everyone the benefit of the doubt. The only place she feels safe is a perpetually mist-covered clearing on the edge of her aunt’s property.
Where Amy meets Henry.
Henry is trapped. Reliving the same summer in 1945 over and over and over again. Because he can’t get to the end of that summer. The events that unfolded then—the first time he lived through them—convinced him that he never wanted to experience life after that point.
Until he meets Amy.
Heather Davis’s The Clearing is a time travel romance. I appreciated the depth of Henry’s dilemma, the uncovering of realistic challenges for a family on the homefront during World War II, and how the author ultimately unravels her story.
December 12, 2021
Seemed childish but fun to read. Great story.
June 28, 2010
Amy doesn't have a whole lot going for her in Seattle. She's just come out of a disastrous relationship and her friends don't believe her when she tells them how bad it was for her. She decides to try to get a fresh start by moving in with her great-aunt Mae in a little town called Rockville. Amy's been hurt so badly that it's hard for her to open up enough to even make friends. When she's out throwing sticks for the dog one day, Amy notices a band of fog at the back of the property that never goes away. She goes through the fog and meets Henry, a strangely-dressed boy who she immediately feels comfortable with. He becomes her only good friend in this little town, but no one seems to have ever even heard of him.
I just loved this, and in a way I'm surprised. There are some fantasy elements here, but this is more of a love story and that is usually not my thing at all.
No, now that I think about it, the romance wasn't even entirely the point. It's more about Amy getting past this huge hurt in her past and learning to take care of herself first. That is the kind of thing I like, and that's what the appeal was. Whew! I was afraid I was getting soft there for a minute!
I obviously read my share of YA books, but I tend to stick to fantasy. In that genre, there are tons of "bad boys" that the heroines fall all over. Now, I like me a bad boy or two, but they can't be all bad, and some of these guys I've come across are all bad. You won't really find me bashing Edward, but I found Patch from Hush, Hush to be an abusive jacka** and it bothers me that teen readers just love him. (Finally tying this in now) I'm glad to read a book that shows that abuse happens and it leaves you devastated. These themes might show up in contemporary YA books, but this is the first time I've found it in the YA I read. It is never okay for your boyfriend to slam you into a wall or to bust your lip or to pressure you into "doing it" and this book showed that without getting preachy at all. We get to see the wreckage of Amy's life in the wake of her abuse and we get to see her ex-boyfriend's behavior compared to that of Henry, an almost perfect gentleman that I couldn't help but love. I wanted to cheer when Amy says something like, "I'm looking out for myself now."
There is a very sweet romance between Amy and Henry and I liked it. It mostly left me smiling. I'm not sure how I feel about the ending. There's a bit about how each of our lives affect other peoples' lives, which is something I really don't get tired of reading about, but I'm afraid that a perfectly nice character is going to get hurt and I don't know how I feel about that. It's ambiguous though, so if I think about it long enough, maybe I'll come up with a way for everyone to be happy.
If you're in the mood for a sweet love story that has quite a bit about teen girls learning to love themselves first, pick this up. I enjoyed every minute of it.
I just loved this, and in a way I'm surprised. There are some fantasy elements here, but this is more of a love story and that is usually not my thing at all.
No, now that I think about it, the romance wasn't even entirely the point. It's more about Amy getting past this huge hurt in her past and learning to take care of herself first. That is the kind of thing I like, and that's what the appeal was. Whew! I was afraid I was getting soft there for a minute!
I obviously read my share of YA books, but I tend to stick to fantasy. In that genre, there are tons of "bad boys" that the heroines fall all over. Now, I like me a bad boy or two, but they can't be all bad, and some of these guys I've come across are all bad. You won't really find me bashing Edward, but I found Patch from Hush, Hush to be an abusive jacka** and it bothers me that teen readers just love him. (Finally tying this in now) I'm glad to read a book that shows that abuse happens and it leaves you devastated. These themes might show up in contemporary YA books, but this is the first time I've found it in the YA I read. It is never okay for your boyfriend to slam you into a wall or to bust your lip or to pressure you into "doing it" and this book showed that without getting preachy at all. We get to see the wreckage of Amy's life in the wake of her abuse and we get to see her ex-boyfriend's behavior compared to that of Henry, an almost perfect gentleman that I couldn't help but love. I wanted to cheer when Amy says something like, "I'm looking out for myself now."
There is a very sweet romance between Amy and Henry and I liked it. It mostly left me smiling. I'm not sure how I feel about the ending. There's a bit about how each of our lives affect other peoples' lives, which is something I really don't get tired of reading about, but I'm afraid that a perfectly nice character is going to get hurt and I don't know how I feel about that. It's ambiguous though, so if I think about it long enough, maybe I'll come up with a way for everyone to be happy.
If you're in the mood for a sweet love story that has quite a bit about teen girls learning to love themselves first, pick this up. I enjoyed every minute of it.
May 30, 2011
Poignant YA romance
Escaping from the aftermath of a bad relationship in which her boyfriend Matt verbally and physically abused her, teenager Amy chooses to start her senior year at a country school and live with her great aunt in a single-wide trailer. Even though it is Amy's idea to move there, she is hurt that her mother and stepfather don't put up much of a fuss about it, and she's depressed that she's left behind all her friends. In her new town, she feels alienated and unwilling to be open enough to make new friends. Until the day she discovers an eerie mist enshrouding a clearing in the forest edging her aunt's property. She passes through it and encounters Henry, an attractive 18-year-old boy who is nothing like any boy she's ever known before. He speaks and dresses in an old-fashioned way and treats her with a gallantry that is balm to her emotional wounds. Amy finds herself having feelings for Henry that she never imagined she could after what she went through with Matt. But not only is Henry a very unusual guy, his situation has a fantastical element to it that may keep the two of them from being together long term.
The blurb on the back of this book is full of spoilers. It basically gives away the main surprise of the book, which involves the fantasy element of the story surrounding Henry's situation. I will leave it up to the publisher to post that spoiler information from that blurb here as it chooses. I will only say that I agree with the blurb's statement that this is a "bittersweet romance." Other than the heroine's angst over her terrible relationship with her ex-boyfriend, and her struggles to have anything to do with the kids at her new school, three-fourths of the book is her relationship with Henry. If you like romance as I do, that will be a plus for you.
Some people who like a very clear, obvious, happily ever after in the romances they read may have a problem with the ending of the book because, in my opinion, it is a bit too ambiguous. I couldn't tell from the way it is written if this is intended to be a stand-alone book or if there will be a sequel.
Overall, the author's writing is excellent, and she employed a writing strategy that I find particularly enjoyable of alternating points of view of Amy and Henry. Amy's is in first person ("I") and Henry's is in third person ("he"). The story is also written in past tense, which I very much appreciate since I find present tense draws annoying attention to itself, distracting from the story.
Finally, for parents who like to be careful about what their teens read, there is one scene involving teen drinking, though the heroine doesn't participate. And there is one scene involving sex with no details described.
Escaping from the aftermath of a bad relationship in which her boyfriend Matt verbally and physically abused her, teenager Amy chooses to start her senior year at a country school and live with her great aunt in a single-wide trailer. Even though it is Amy's idea to move there, she is hurt that her mother and stepfather don't put up much of a fuss about it, and she's depressed that she's left behind all her friends. In her new town, she feels alienated and unwilling to be open enough to make new friends. Until the day she discovers an eerie mist enshrouding a clearing in the forest edging her aunt's property. She passes through it and encounters Henry, an attractive 18-year-old boy who is nothing like any boy she's ever known before. He speaks and dresses in an old-fashioned way and treats her with a gallantry that is balm to her emotional wounds. Amy finds herself having feelings for Henry that she never imagined she could after what she went through with Matt. But not only is Henry a very unusual guy, his situation has a fantastical element to it that may keep the two of them from being together long term.
The blurb on the back of this book is full of spoilers. It basically gives away the main surprise of the book, which involves the fantasy element of the story surrounding Henry's situation. I will leave it up to the publisher to post that spoiler information from that blurb here as it chooses. I will only say that I agree with the blurb's statement that this is a "bittersweet romance." Other than the heroine's angst over her terrible relationship with her ex-boyfriend, and her struggles to have anything to do with the kids at her new school, three-fourths of the book is her relationship with Henry. If you like romance as I do, that will be a plus for you.
Some people who like a very clear, obvious, happily ever after in the romances they read may have a problem with the ending of the book because, in my opinion, it is a bit too ambiguous. I couldn't tell from the way it is written if this is intended to be a stand-alone book or if there will be a sequel.
Overall, the author's writing is excellent, and she employed a writing strategy that I find particularly enjoyable of alternating points of view of Amy and Henry. Amy's is in first person ("I") and Henry's is in third person ("he"). The story is also written in past tense, which I very much appreciate since I find present tense draws annoying attention to itself, distracting from the story.
Finally, for parents who like to be careful about what their teens read, there is one scene involving teen drinking, though the heroine doesn't participate. And there is one scene involving sex with no details described.
February 3, 2013
Oh god, this book was great! All 228 pages of it (or well 100% on my Kindle but it sounded weird that way). I began skeptical because already a couple of pages in I was bored and I had long ago decided that I need to enjoy a book from the beginning to not put myself through a book that will turn out boring. I WAS WRONGGG. Okay, yes the beginning was a tad boring but you start catching little details (none of what I'll say because I want other people to see the foreshadowing for themselves) and then one word, it happens: mist. From the moment she stepped into the mist, be prepared to enjoy every sentence (well okay most.)
And this may be a huge spoiler, but call me a sucker for 1940s boys. Yet another thing to put other perfect boys which consists of fictional characters such as Henry. I sorta started pining for some boys who didn't think about one thing only when laying down a blanket.
Also warning, you're going to cry.
A lot.
Well, maybe just me...
But I read this book last night (or this morning whatevs) from 2 to 4 am. Yeah, uh-huh. I didn't stop once.
And this may be a huge spoiler, but call me a sucker for 1940s boys. Yet another thing to put other perfect boys which consists of fictional characters such as Henry. I sorta started pining for some boys who didn't think about one thing only when laying down a blanket.
Also warning, you're going to cry.
A lot.
Well, maybe just me...
But I read this book last night (or this morning whatevs) from 2 to 4 am. Yeah, uh-huh. I didn't stop once.
September 3, 2016
I did enjoy this book and there were a number of parts compelled me to read further when I knew I should be revising, but overall there was something a little flat about it.
I have given this book 2.5 stars for the premise and for Henry. With Henry I could see exactly why he wanted to stay within a certain time: his fear for his mum and the fear of being carted off to war. He had a number of sides and depth.
However, then there was Amy. Whilst she was likeable enough, I felt like she had no depth at all. Her whole character was manufactured from the abusive relationship she had recently endured, and her main trait was a feeling of mistrust and coldness with everyone she met. I think these would have been good and realistic traits to have if only they had been paired with a little kindness and humour. Everyone I've met has a sense of humour, whether good nor bad, apart from Amy it seems. She seemed to constantly be crying and filled with confusion. I was glad she decided to join the Homecoming committee and go to Lori's party though, as it shows she was actually trying.
I honestly don't understand why rather than a love triangle, we had three guys who seemed to be completely in love with Amy. (Update: I just remembered there was a fourth that flirted with her) That is NOT realistic, Heather Davis!
i just feel like the romance developed too quickly and there wasnt enough plot, even in the short space of 200 pages.
Anyway, I liked the premise and it was fairly well executed but I just feel like it could have been done a lot better. I guess I set my expectations too high! An enjoyable read, particularly for summer, but was lacking in content, character development and the prose I so adore. If you're thinking of reading this then go ahead but I wouldn't put it at the top of my reading pile :)
I have given this book 2.5 stars for the premise and for Henry. With Henry I could see exactly why he wanted to stay within a certain time: his fear for his mum and the fear of being carted off to war. He had a number of sides and depth.
However, then there was Amy. Whilst she was likeable enough, I felt like she had no depth at all. Her whole character was manufactured from the abusive relationship she had recently endured, and her main trait was a feeling of mistrust and coldness with everyone she met. I think these would have been good and realistic traits to have if only they had been paired with a little kindness and humour. Everyone I've met has a sense of humour, whether good nor bad, apart from Amy it seems. She seemed to constantly be crying and filled with confusion. I was glad she decided to join the Homecoming committee and go to Lori's party though, as it shows she was actually trying.
I honestly don't understand why rather than a love triangle, we had three guys who seemed to be completely in love with Amy. (Update: I just remembered there was a fourth that flirted with her) That is NOT realistic, Heather Davis!
i just feel like the romance developed too quickly and there wasnt enough plot, even in the short space of 200 pages.
Anyway, I liked the premise and it was fairly well executed but I just feel like it could have been done a lot better. I guess I set my expectations too high! An enjoyable read, particularly for summer, but was lacking in content, character development and the prose I so adore. If you're thinking of reading this then go ahead but I wouldn't put it at the top of my reading pile :)
May 2, 2011
Summary: Amy is recovering from an abusive relationship and has just moved in with her Aunt Mae, who lives in the middle of nowhere.
Henry prayed one horrible night for things to stay the way they were, and now he and his family are stuck in a time loop, unable to walk beyond the mist that surrounds their property.
When Amy and Henry meet, they find comfort in each other. Will comfort turn into something more…?
My thoughts: The Clearing is a sweet little love story with a creative time-bending twist. Though from the blurb one might assume it’s all light and fluffy, Heather Davis incorporates some more serious topics as well—abusive relationships and escapism are prime examples. Everything is put together in such a way that no theme is overly prominent. The Clearing is subtle in its messages and its romance, which makes for a quick yet savory read.
The Clearing’s supernatural aspect was very creative, but it wasn’t overplayed (a breath of fresh air). Henry’s direct involvement in the creation of the time loop built up his character and his flaws fantastically—plus, it’s always nice to have a back story on a supernatural occurrence, rather than it just appearing.
The romance between Henry and Amy is really the highlight of The Clearing. It develops in the best way—slowly and sweetly. Henry’s 1940’s gentleman shtick is endearing, and while it takes Amy a bit to warm up to him due to her bad history with men, their love eventually blossoms into something beautiful.
The Clearing is a great read for fans of star-crossed lovers and slow, sweet romance. It’s a fairly quick read, but the book is still meaningful and leaves a bittersweet taste in your mouth.
Henry prayed one horrible night for things to stay the way they were, and now he and his family are stuck in a time loop, unable to walk beyond the mist that surrounds their property.
When Amy and Henry meet, they find comfort in each other. Will comfort turn into something more…?
My thoughts: The Clearing is a sweet little love story with a creative time-bending twist. Though from the blurb one might assume it’s all light and fluffy, Heather Davis incorporates some more serious topics as well—abusive relationships and escapism are prime examples. Everything is put together in such a way that no theme is overly prominent. The Clearing is subtle in its messages and its romance, which makes for a quick yet savory read.
The Clearing’s supernatural aspect was very creative, but it wasn’t overplayed (a breath of fresh air). Henry’s direct involvement in the creation of the time loop built up his character and his flaws fantastically—plus, it’s always nice to have a back story on a supernatural occurrence, rather than it just appearing.
The romance between Henry and Amy is really the highlight of The Clearing. It develops in the best way—slowly and sweetly. Henry’s 1940’s gentleman shtick is endearing, and while it takes Amy a bit to warm up to him due to her bad history with men, their love eventually blossoms into something beautiful.
The Clearing is a great read for fans of star-crossed lovers and slow, sweet romance. It’s a fairly quick read, but the book is still meaningful and leaves a bittersweet taste in your mouth.
June 28, 2012
I can't even finish reading this one. I'm giving it 2 stars because the concept is a thought-provoking one with a lot of potential, but the story itself didn't live up to any of that. The characters were, as many others have said, flat and one-dimensional. Amy is particularly boring and her use of the word "freaking" really irritated me, especially since she used it in such an ignorant way in regards to Henry and his old-fashioned way of life.
As far as her experience with her ex-boyfriend, it was never really touched upon. From the start we knew that it was her reason for moving, but the pain and emotion were nowhere to be found. The only time the book really addressed how Amy's personality was impacted by the abuse was when she was scared of the boy at school and even that whole scene was done in an emotionally detached, tacky way.
Henry's world, while more interesting and enjoyable, was lacking spirit & personality too. I couldn't feel for him or his family, because he never did seem real. Then again, neither did Amy.
And as some other people mentioned, their love story wasn't engaging either, because it happened immediately and for no real reason. It just felt as though they fell in love out of convenience, out of loneliness, which took away any connection I could have felt to the characters and their romance.
Also, the constant references to her "boyish" clothing seemed overdone and lazy. Obviously we know these two are from different times; there could have been more mention of the things that made them different beyond clothing and the use of words like "freaking" and "sucks".
Wish I could finish it, but my attention span will only tolerate so much.
As far as her experience with her ex-boyfriend, it was never really touched upon. From the start we knew that it was her reason for moving, but the pain and emotion were nowhere to be found. The only time the book really addressed how Amy's personality was impacted by the abuse was when she was scared of the boy at school and even that whole scene was done in an emotionally detached, tacky way.
Henry's world, while more interesting and enjoyable, was lacking spirit & personality too. I couldn't feel for him or his family, because he never did seem real. Then again, neither did Amy.
And as some other people mentioned, their love story wasn't engaging either, because it happened immediately and for no real reason. It just felt as though they fell in love out of convenience, out of loneliness, which took away any connection I could have felt to the characters and their romance.
Also, the constant references to her "boyish" clothing seemed overdone and lazy. Obviously we know these two are from different times; there could have been more mention of the things that made them different beyond clothing and the use of words like "freaking" and "sucks".
Wish I could finish it, but my attention span will only tolerate so much.
August 20, 2011
I was surprised by this one. I bought it on impulse because I thought the cover was simple and pretty. I read it in one sitting. It was a quick read but oh how I loved it.
It had all the important things. Interesting plot, originality, likeable character you care about and good writing.
It was a haunting, strange story. It was about a girl who meets a boy. She really likes him, he really likes her. But he isn't from her time. He is from the past. When she goes into a clearing close to her house, she steps back into time.
It sounds weird and it is, I guess. But it's really sweet and different as well. I thought it was interesting as well as adorable. I love when someone thinks of something that is different. This impressed me.
The main character has just gotten out of an abusive relationship, as well. That adds a bit more depth to her character and to the story in general.
This book was a sweet story and made me sigh a few times. Sometimes, that's all you can ask from a book. I recommend it.
It had all the important things. Interesting plot, originality, likeable character you care about and good writing.
It was a haunting, strange story. It was about a girl who meets a boy. She really likes him, he really likes her. But he isn't from her time. He is from the past. When she goes into a clearing close to her house, she steps back into time.
It sounds weird and it is, I guess. But it's really sweet and different as well. I thought it was interesting as well as adorable. I love when someone thinks of something that is different. This impressed me.
The main character has just gotten out of an abusive relationship, as well. That adds a bit more depth to her character and to the story in general.
This book was a sweet story and made me sigh a few times. Sometimes, that's all you can ask from a book. I recommend it.
March 29, 2010
I enjoyed reading this YA book.It had a different twist to it....told in alternating first and third person by chapter.It is a combination of time travel fantasy, old fashion courting and modern day high relationships and extra-curicular activities.I liked the main character Amy and her willingness to go out of her comfort zone to try and improve herself and her willingness to be open to a new living situation and new high school.
June 6, 2011
Again.....not a YA reader. Bought this one, because it's haunting storyline captured me at a book signing. And I wasn't disappointed. Heather has a bright future as an author. She is poigniant and emotional and is capable of making you believe in things that don't really exist.
July 19, 2012
So beautifully written, and such a lovely romance.
February 8, 2019
3.5/5 stars
Author: Heather Davis
Genre: YA romance
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Year of Publication: 2010
Main Character: Amy (I don’t recall her having a last name, actually.)
Secondary Characters: I liked the secondary characters well enough. They were all distinct and nicely developed.
Pacing: Average. It took a bit for the book to pull me in, but most are like that anyway.
Accuracy of Publisher’s Synopsis: Very accurate, except that the blurb on the copyright page states that Amy is sixteen, which is not very likely, as she’s in her senior year.
Resolution: I suppose that what happened was what was supposed to happen, but I still cried anyway. I’ve only cried over a couple of other books, so I wasn’t expecting that from this one. I only wish there had been a tad bit more to the last couple of pages. I wanted more closure, especially on Henry’s end.
The Good: This was such an unassuming book. I picked it up at a dollar store, and so I didn’t expect much. Once I got into the main action, I found myself pleasantly surprised. Davis started with a unique premise and created two compellingly real characters. Normally, I find the problems of main characters in YA to be trifling and their reactions to be dramatic, but this plot was much deeper. A story like Henry and Amy’s transcends time and place; they could have been any two people anywhere. There was just something so magical and special about this book. Henry’s family and their little pocket of summer were charming, even against the backdrop of World War II. I especially liked that the historical aspect enhanced, rather than overwhelmed, the main plotline. Davis didn’t overstep or try to make this book something it wasn’t meant to be. It is nearly perfect the way she wrote it. Amy’s experiences are realistic and relatable, while the lessons she learns have gravity. Henry’s struggle between family and fate is heartrending, but his ultimate decision offers him freedom from his guilt.
The Not-So Good: I didn’t care much for some of Amy’s friends in town, and I had no respect for her mother and Pete. What kind of parent moves states without their child, who is still a minor? *Spoiler Alert* I was so hoping that Henry would just beat the tar out of Matt when he showed up. That would have been satisfying. And Amy’s lack of memory about Henry in the last few pages broke my heart.* End Spoilers*
Overall Impression: This book is a succinct coming-of-age story with enough depth for readers of any age to enjoy. The burdens Amy and Henry bear are onerous, yet universal in nature. This book encourages strength of character and emphasizes the importance of pushing onward in spite of our misgivings and fears.
Would I recommend it? I would absolutely recommend this book. It is brimming with important topics such as recovering from abusive relationships, coping with moving on, accepting your fate, and allowing yourself to make the right choice despite the pain that comes with it.
Author: Heather Davis
Genre: YA romance
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Year of Publication: 2010
Main Character: Amy (I don’t recall her having a last name, actually.)
Secondary Characters: I liked the secondary characters well enough. They were all distinct and nicely developed.
Pacing: Average. It took a bit for the book to pull me in, but most are like that anyway.
Accuracy of Publisher’s Synopsis: Very accurate, except that the blurb on the copyright page states that Amy is sixteen, which is not very likely, as she’s in her senior year.
Resolution: I suppose that what happened was what was supposed to happen, but I still cried anyway. I’ve only cried over a couple of other books, so I wasn’t expecting that from this one. I only wish there had been a tad bit more to the last couple of pages. I wanted more closure, especially on Henry’s end.
The Good: This was such an unassuming book. I picked it up at a dollar store, and so I didn’t expect much. Once I got into the main action, I found myself pleasantly surprised. Davis started with a unique premise and created two compellingly real characters. Normally, I find the problems of main characters in YA to be trifling and their reactions to be dramatic, but this plot was much deeper. A story like Henry and Amy’s transcends time and place; they could have been any two people anywhere. There was just something so magical and special about this book. Henry’s family and their little pocket of summer were charming, even against the backdrop of World War II. I especially liked that the historical aspect enhanced, rather than overwhelmed, the main plotline. Davis didn’t overstep or try to make this book something it wasn’t meant to be. It is nearly perfect the way she wrote it. Amy’s experiences are realistic and relatable, while the lessons she learns have gravity. Henry’s struggle between family and fate is heartrending, but his ultimate decision offers him freedom from his guilt.
The Not-So Good: I didn’t care much for some of Amy’s friends in town, and I had no respect for her mother and Pete. What kind of parent moves states without their child, who is still a minor? *Spoiler Alert* I was so hoping that Henry would just beat the tar out of Matt when he showed up. That would have been satisfying. And Amy’s lack of memory about Henry in the last few pages broke my heart.* End Spoilers*
Overall Impression: This book is a succinct coming-of-age story with enough depth for readers of any age to enjoy. The burdens Amy and Henry bear are onerous, yet universal in nature. This book encourages strength of character and emphasizes the importance of pushing onward in spite of our misgivings and fears.
Would I recommend it? I would absolutely recommend this book. It is brimming with important topics such as recovering from abusive relationships, coping with moving on, accepting your fate, and allowing yourself to make the right choice despite the pain that comes with it.
Read
December 31, 2020Cross-posted from my blog where there's more information on where I got my copy and links and everything.
Eh, this was okay. It wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t awful either. I feel like if this had been longer it would have been really good, because a lot of the book does feel kind of underdeveloped. The characters are okay, but I had trouble with the romance because it’s so fast paced that I couldn’t really get that invested in it.
I did honestly really like the premise. It’s got a bit of a Tuck Everlasting thing and I’ve always enjoyed time travel books, romance or othewise. There’s just nothing that really made this stand out for me. However, I do think if you know anyone who really likes romance and wants to try YA, they might enjoy this. It’s got a lot of a genre romance feel to it.
It just didn’t do it for me, and there was enough stuff that was an issue (aromisia, misogyny/girl hate, a kind of bad message about abuse victims needing to confront their abusers alone like that isn’t dangerous, a bit of abuse victim blaming, ableism, and a couple lack of diversity of any kind, although the book did find the time to use the word queer in reference to something being strange) that I’m not really satisfied with it. I’m going to be passing this one along.
Content notes for physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, suicide, death from war, a bit of victim-blaming tbh, and some weird sex morality stuff.
Eh, this was okay. It wasn’t terrible, but it wasn’t awful either. I feel like if this had been longer it would have been really good, because a lot of the book does feel kind of underdeveloped. The characters are okay, but I had trouble with the romance because it’s so fast paced that I couldn’t really get that invested in it.
I did honestly really like the premise. It’s got a bit of a Tuck Everlasting thing and I’ve always enjoyed time travel books, romance or othewise. There’s just nothing that really made this stand out for me. However, I do think if you know anyone who really likes romance and wants to try YA, they might enjoy this. It’s got a lot of a genre romance feel to it.
It just didn’t do it for me, and there was enough stuff that was an issue (aromisia, misogyny/girl hate, a kind of bad message about abuse victims needing to confront their abusers alone like that isn’t dangerous, a bit of abuse victim blaming, ableism, and a couple lack of diversity of any kind, although the book did find the time to use the word queer in reference to something being strange) that I’m not really satisfied with it. I’m going to be passing this one along.
Content notes for physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, suicide, death from war, a bit of victim-blaming tbh, and some weird sex morality stuff.
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